San Jose, California – Hope Services, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive services and support for individuals with developmental disabilities, is thrilled to announce the expansion of its Grow Together playgroups. Thanks to a generous grant from the Department of Developmental Services (DDS), Hope Services will now offer weekly integrated, parent-participation playgroup sessions for children of all abilities, ranging from 3 to 7 years of age.

The Grow Together playgroup has been a cherished monthly opportunity for Homestart families to connect with other families, fostering facilitated play and peer interactions, effective communication, and active exploration. With the support of DDS, this invaluable resource will now be available on a weekly basis, enabling children and families to learn and grow together in a supportive environment.

Serving families residing in Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey Counties, the Grow Together playgroup is led by a team of dedicated professionals from Hope Services’ Homestart (Early Intervention) staff. This team includes developmental specialists, a social worker, and often occupational, physical, and speech therapists. Together, they facilitate a range of enriching activities designed to stimulate children’s development and promote meaningful connections among participants.

Activities within the playgroup may feature circle time songs, sensory-motor exercises, storytelling, engagement with peers, and opportunities for parents to discuss parenting and developmental concerns. The sessions take place at various community locations, including parks and libraries, with occasional outings to popular destinations like Happy Hollow, Children’s Discovery Museum, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and Primetime Martial Arts. Most importantly, the Grow Together playgroup emphasizes the power of collective learning and growth, all while ensuring a fun-filled experience for everyone involved.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Department of Developmental Services for their generous grant, enabling us to expand our Grow Together playgroup,” said Vickey Perkins, Director of Children and Family Services at Hope Services. “The more frequent meetings will allow children to advance even faster in their development, while providing a valuable network of support for their families. We are excited to continue fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can learn and grow together.”

The enhanced Grow Together playgroup sessions will commence immediately, offering families a more frequent opportunity to engage in a supportive community and promote their children’s overall development. Hope Services remains committed to its mission of empowering individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, and this expansion is a significant step forward in achieving that goal.

For more information about the Grow Together playgroups or to inquire about participation, please contact Hope Services’ Homestart team at www.hopeservices.org/how-we-help/childrens-services