New Mum’s and Bub’s group brings musical fun to local parents and little ones
A new ‘Musical Munchkins’ Mum’s and Bub’s group is proving to be a huge hit with parents and little ones here in Calderwood Valley! We spoke with founder, Diane Allison about how and why she started the group here in Calderwood Valley and what parents can expect from her fun, musical play sessions!
When did the Musical Munchkins group start, and why did you create it?
Musical Munchkins started in Calderwood Sprout Hub on 3 November 2022. The idea of Musical Munchkins came from my love of music and children, and was inspired by seeing another similar group being run in Canberra on Instagram. Past experiences in being a part of playgroup, mothers' groups, and becoming a grandmother, have led me to want to provide an alternative local activity for young parents and their children.
The music is provided by friend Christine and I. We are trained Drum Circle facilitators and enjoy singing lessons and are in a fun ukulele group. My daughter Rachel helps with social media and keeping track of attendance.
What kind of activities are on offer?
An informal music session is offered where myself and a friend play ukulele and invite the participants to join in singing, dancing and playing percussion instruments. Equipment is provided and sometimes we may read a story or enjoy an African drumming session!
Who is welcome to join?
Anyone is welcome, parents, grandparents, carers and their children. We run two separate sessions – 0-1 years and 1-5 years. We are currently running the sessions once a month, usually on the third Thursday of each month.
Why should Calderwood Valley parents consider bringing their children along to a Musical Munchkins session?
This is a very relaxed and intimate ‘free’ music and song session, where the community can connect and babies and toddlers benefit from making music, movement and creative play.
There are many benefits of attending these music, song and movement sessions such as improving language acquisition, calming the nervous system, assisting memory and improving overall mood and increasing endorphins! It is fun for everyone!
Benefits for parents can include:
- Becoming part of an instant support network
- Learning from each other and discovering different ways of parenting
- Taking time out from home life
- Connecting and making new friends in your local area
- Talking to other parents and finding out about childcare options or activities for young ones
- Sharing the parenthood journey with others in a fun and safe environment
How did you find out about the Sprout Hub and what made you choose this as the location to host the group?
I first became aware of the Sprout Hub when looking through the Calderwood Valley display homes and enjoying a coffee at the Bean Roasted Cafe with my family. I chose this location as it is close to local residents and convenient to the Café for a catch up with friends after each event.
My daughter and her family have lived in Calderwood since 2019, and I am a frequent visitor. I live in the Kiama Municipality but work in Albion Park at a local school. Calderwood Valley is close to many schools, a new tavern, lovely parks and walkways and a future shopping centre, and there are many young families here who can come along to the group.
How can people contact you to find out how to get involved?
They can contact me through Instagram, @musicalmunchkins or by email at dianeallison64@gmail.com
A connected community at Calderwood Valley
Community spirit is at the heart of Calderwood Valley. From fun family events, to hobby groups and workshops, there are plenty of ways to connect with neighbours and enjoy life within our community.
Located in the heart of the Illawarra, homes at Calderwood Valley feature sweeping views of the iconic Illawarra escarpment. Upon completion, the community will have everything you may need - schools, childcare centres, parks, playgrounds, sportsgrounds, a village centre and town centre, as well as an extensive network of bike and walking trails.
Learn more about life at Calderwood Valley here.