For rainbow families on the Gold Coast, finding a playgroup where you don't have to explain your family can be tricky, that's why coordinator Alice, started the Nerang Rainbow Families playgroup last year.

What began as a small group has grown into a welcoming space for many families. Alice shares what makes the group work and what a typical session looks like.

Why do spaces like this playgroup matter for rainbow families in the Nerang and Gold Coast area?

On the Gold Coast, there really isn't much else like this. There are very limited places and events for rainbow families to come together. When I had my baby and started looking for things to do, there was just nothing that felt like it was for us.

I did go to other playgroups and they were ok, but then the the awkward questions start. 'So what does your husband do?' etc and when you're a new mum, the last thing you want is to explain your whole story and wonder if you're going to get judged, or prayed for, or met with a thousand curious questions.

Here, we already understand each other's families. It's a safe space where we can just be ourselves without having to explain or defend who we are.

What kind of support or connection have you seen families find through the group?

The families really enjoy coming together and sharing their stories. A lot of people say it's important for their kids to see other families like theirs, which is something they don't always get in other spaces.

The group has also created connections that continue outside of playgroup. People stay in touch, meet up, and support each other beyond palygroups, which is really great

How long has the playgroup been running?

We started last year. My baby is 19 months now, and he would have been around six to ten months old when we began. It feels like it's gone really quickly.

What does a typical playgroup session look like?

We meet at 9:30am. I usually plan some kind of theme for the session and set up activities around that.

For younger babies who aren't crawling or walking yet, we have a soft mat set up with pillows. Parents sit in a circle with their babies lying in front of them, playing with rattles and other baby toys while they chat.

For older babies and toddlers, we put out bigger toys like soft play blocks, and I try to set up a messy or sensory tray at least once a fortnight.

Towards the last 15 to 20 minutes, we start packing up some of the activities. Everyone comes together where the babies are, we sit in a circle, and do a few songs. After that, I share any upcoming events through Rainbow Families or anything else I know that might interest the group. We finish up at about 11:00am.

How many families usually come along?

It really varies. There are about three or four families who are regulars, and there are two women who are there every single week without fail. On busier days we might have eight or nine families. So it can range from a small, cosy group to a bigger one.

What would you say to a family who's curious about coming but feels a bit shy or unsure what to expect?

I'd really encourage them to come along. Everyone is very friendly, and it's a relaxed, calm morning with absolutely no pressure.

You don't have to be there exactly at 9:30am, you can come and go as you need to. It's a welcoming, safe place to meet other rainbow families, and you'll be met with warmly. Most people find that once they've come once, it's much easier to come back again.

Is there anything families need to bring, or can they just turn up?

They can just turn up. There's nothing special they need to bring.

Around 10:00 to 10:30am, most of the kids stop for a snack. Parents usually have food with them anyway, that seems to be universal for anyone with children. It often turns into a bit of a buffet because the kids like to "share" from each other's lunchboxes.

What ages is the playgroup for?

It's really flexible, not just for babies.

So far we've had the youngest baby at about two weeks old, kids right up to nearly five years old including one who's starting prep next year, and occasionally older children as well if they're home from school for some reason. Even my own nine year old has come along.

We try to have activities and toys that suit different ages, so any child from newborn up to early primary years is welcome.

When and where does the playgroup meet?

We meet at the Nerang Neighbourhood and Community Centre (Benevolent Society) from 9:30am to 11:00am every Tuesday during school term.

We take a break over the school holidays.

Is there anything else you'd like people to know?

Mainly that it's easy going and flexible. We're not weighed down by lots of rules. The aim is to create a warm, supportive space where rainbow families can feel completely comfortable, kids can play, and everyone can connect with others who understand their experiences.

Anyone who feels this might be the right space for their family is very welcome to come along, we'd love you to join us.