Do you remember your days at playgroup or preschool, and do you still have friends you made then?

Ipswich Star: Children from Lavenham playgroup at their new home in February 1983Children from Lavenham playgroup at their new home in February 1983 (Image: Archant)

Today we are looking back at playgroup sessions around the area, with photos of youngsters enjoying a wide range of activities.

Ipswich Star: Chiildren from Brook Farm playgroup at Saxmundham Primary school in 2002Chiildren from Brook Farm playgroup at Saxmundham Primary school in 2002 (Image: Archant)

Some of the pictures from our archives featured here were taken between the 1960s and 1990s, while others are more recent.

Ipswich Star: Youngsters showing off their artistic skills at Woolverstone Playschool in March 1965Youngsters showing off their artistic skills at Woolverstone Playschool in March 1965 (Image: Archant)

Can you spot yourself or a friend or family member in any of the photos?

Ipswich Star: Children having fun in the sand at a playschool in Hadleigh in September 1990Children having fun in the sand at a playschool in Hadleigh in September 1990 (Image: Archant)

During the past year, all children's groups and activities have seen many changes due to coronavirus, with a host of safety measures introduced. Some play activities have gone virtual, including online fitness sessions with personal trainer Joe Wicks.

Ipswich Star: A new safety play area at Knodishall playgroup centre in February 1996A new safety play area at Knodishall playgroup centre in February 1996 (Image: Archant)

However, the importance of child's play has constantly been emphasised - both for learning and to help build early friendships.

Ipswich Star: Children at St John's Pre-Time Playschool, Ipswich, on the group's 25th anniversary in 2005Children at St John's Pre-Time Playschool, Ipswich, on the group's 25th anniversary in 2005 (Image: Archant)

Do these photos bring back memories? Email judy.rimmer@archant.co.uk Order photos via our website or call Diane Townsend on 01603 772449.

Ipswich Star: Bridges Playgroup party in Ipswich in April 1987Bridges Playgroup party in Ipswich in April 1987 (Image: Archant)

Ipswich Star: Children at Southgate playgroup in Bury St Edmunds in May 1984Children at Southgate playgroup in Bury St Edmunds in May 1984 (Image: Archant)