Play Matters Australia is excited to announce that we have been selected as one of seven partner agencies in Australia to deliver the MyTime program. MyTime groups are for parents and carers of children aged under 18 years who need a higher level of care than other children. This may be because of disability, developmental delay, or chronic medical conditions.
MyTime is a place to connect with others who are raising children with additional needs. It can be a great opportunity to find out about new services and supports and talk to other parents about their experiences with services, therapies, and medications. MyTime is an opportunity for parents and carers to take care of their own wellbeing, with guest speakers, fun activities, and morning tea provided.
Play Matters Australia CEO Kirsty Dixon said, “The MyTime program offers parents with children with a disability valuable social and emotional support, and the opportunity to share their experiences with peers in a safe and supportive environment. Play Matters Australia is honoured to be selected to deliver the program alongside other high-quality delivery agencies.”More than 12,000 parents have attended MyTime since it was established in 2007. Parent feedback is positive with members reporting:
- 90% are highly satisfied with how their groups are run
- 80% agreed resources provided in groups are useful
- 79% felt that groups help them feel supported in their caring role
- 77% developed relationships with other parents and carers of children with disability or chronic medical conditions as a result of MyTime.
Anecdotally, past participants of the MyTime program in Queensland have made glowing testimonials of the program:
“For parents like me, MyTime is a place where I feel I can get support and understanding from like-minded people, who can also share their struggles and triumphs in a safe and caring environment.”
“It has been such a relief to find this group. As a person who just recently came to be caring for a child with a disability, the support has been invaluable. It’s great to have a group where I can share with people who understand my unique experience as a carer. MyTime is a place to just relax and be me without worrying about judgement, a place where I can ask advice from others who might have similar experiences. I really enjoy the company of the other ladies and the activities are a great way to unwind. Knowing that MyTime is coming up helps me keep from getting stressed during the week because I know I will have that time out for myself soon.”
“MyTime has been my sanity for the last few years now, the one and only respite for me, the place to connect with adults, a time to socialise and be myself. It's been the one thing to look forward to every week.”
Play Matters Australia looks forward to supporting more families through the MyTime program.
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