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For the past two Cat Thomas’ van with equipment and toys has entertained children at Dookie, Merrigum, Mooroopna, Murchison, Shepparton and Tatura.

‘‘The only thing we don’t have is a toilet,’’ she said.

‘‘The aim is to provide activities that families can do, so simple activities.

‘‘It’s also . . . to show parents there are lots of things children do. Playing is a learning process.’’

Toolamba mother Monica Kinnane said her daughter Chelsea, 2, had become more confident since joining the Mooroopna playgroup last year.

Chelsea happily painted yesterday and her mother said she also enjoyed water activities.

‘‘She was shy at first, but now she talks to Cate and interacts with Cate,’’ Ms Kinnane said.

‘‘There is always variety and parents can interact with their children.’’

Ms Thomas has worked with children for 30 years.

She said the mobile playgroup offered an inclusive learning environment.

‘‘We see families attending our playgroups that have never used one before because they haven’t felt confident or don’t have transport,’’ she said.

‘‘When we have our playgroups outside, people feel comfortable to just walk in.

‘‘Kids can come and play on the playground, parents can sit over there and they don’t feel judged.’’

Save the Children has operated mobile playgroups since 1983, with the first ones starting at Queensland caravan parks.

National Playgroups Week started on Sunday and Save the Children has been nominated for a national settlement innovation award.

The Shepparton mobile playgroup will be at the All Abilities Playground on Tom Collins Dve, Shepparton, from 10 am to noon on Friday.

All parents and their children are invited to attend.