Playgroup reimagined: Elders and children connect at ACS's Aboriginal aged care home

A unique playgroup at Adelaide’s only First Nations aged care home is fostering meaningful connection between Elders and local children, celebrating the world’s oldest continuous culture in a setting filled with laughter, language and cultural learning.

More than just play, the Marra Elders Playgroup is where Dreaming stories are passed on, language is heard, and the deep role of Elders in teaching and guiding is honoured.

Every fortnight, Elders from the Aboriginal Elders Village, operated by Aboriginal Community Services (ACS) in Davoren Park, are joined by local children aged 0 to five-years-old and their carers.

It’s the only playgroup in South Australia hosted in a First Nations-specific aged care home and offers a rare opportunity for children to learn directly from cultural custodians, fostering respect, identity and belonging from an early age.

The Marra Elders Playgroup was established as part of an intergenerational collaboration between ACS, Playgroup SA and Marra Dreaming - a cultural community centre in Salisbury.

Launched during Reconciliation Week, the playgroup includes a program of painting, cooking damper, storytelling, singing in Aboriginal languages, and weaving.

ACS CEO Graham Aitken said the unique program fostered cultural continuation, storytelling, connection to Country, and keeping traditions alive through the voices of Elders.

“For our Elders, this exciting new program brings joy, purpose and connection, reducing isolation and celebrating their vital role in raising strong, culturally connected children. “This is a true community approach – where young and old come together to support one another, learn from each other and build strong, inclusive communities.

“We hope this model inspires more culturally rich, intergenerational programs across South Australia and beyond.”

Playgroup SA CEO Craig Bradbrook said Playgroup SA was honoured to partner with Marra Dreaming and ACS to help connect community through the Marra Elders Playgroup, which reflected the true spirit of Intergenerational playgroups.

“At Marra Elders playgroup, cultural identity, intergenerational connection, and belonging are nurtured through shared experience,” Mr Bradbook said.

“Children and families benefit deeply from the presence of Elders, whose wisdom, stories, and language are central to every gathering.”

Marra Dreaming Manager and founding member Raylene Snow said the Marra Elders Playgroup was a special space where culture, care and connection thrived across generations.

“Through this program, the children can gain a deep sense of identity and belonging when they engage directly with Elders, and their parents and carers can also connect and share stories with the broader community,” Mrs Snow said.

“The Elders take on the valued role of passing down culture, language, and stories, creating meaningful everyday connections with younger generations and a sense of belonging and inclusion through shared tradition.”

For more information on the Marra Elders Playgroup, visit the Aboriginal Community Services Facebook page.