I'm not gonna sugar coat it for ya. Getting a group going can be really tough.....or it can be really easy. Sometimes there are things out of your control fixing it to be easy or hard.
Location: You'll have better chance if your community has a large amount of stay at home moms. This could be effected by many other things, but you can always research the area, and see what statistics there are.
How you advertise: If you know me, I would say word of mouth is your best method. Carren Joye's Book, A Stay At Home Mom's Complete Guide To Playgroups, explains that the Internet will not get you many playgroup members. That may have been true when the book was first published (over ten years ago), but with places like meetup.com, or cafemom, I've had the most luck with them. My second source is Craigslist. So there you go. Majority of my members (90 or so) have come from the Internet.
Time of year: Meetup.com's CEO Scott Hieferman once wrote that people flock to social groups the most often after labor day. This is true. In my opinion the best time to start a playgroup is in the Fall, or Spring. Summer is taken away with vacations, and outdoor activities and school ages being home. Winter is overtaken by the holidays.
In my personal experience, it takes about two- three months to be satisfied with how successful your playgroup is going. The routine of getting out the house has to become routine. Once it does, it will feel successful.
How long did it take before you felt your group was "going"?
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Should Snacks be allowed at playgroups?
Nothing brings together groups of people like food. It's something we all need, want, and can enjoy it too!!! Does that mean we should include a snack in a playgroup?
It can depend on several things:
Time: Is it a natural part of the day where snack would be offered? It's recommended that children about 1 yr have two snacks a day; one in the morning and one in the afternoon. But if it is too close to lunch time, you may want to consider offering lunch instead.
Place: Is the place you are visiting snack friendly? Parks are snack friendly, but you may not be allowed to bring snacks into the zoo.
Cost: Snacks don't have to be costly. One mom can supply crackers and juice, or muffins and milk, etc. Sometimes hosts will serve a more elaborate spread, but it doesn't have to be the case.
Snacks are perfect when you are trying to gather everyone up to end a playdate, or transition to a table activity; or just refill the children with some energy. When have you had snacks at a playgroup? How has it gone over? Anything you would do differently?
It can depend on several things:
Time: Is it a natural part of the day where snack would be offered? It's recommended that children about 1 yr have two snacks a day; one in the morning and one in the afternoon. But if it is too close to lunch time, you may want to consider offering lunch instead.
Place: Is the place you are visiting snack friendly? Parks are snack friendly, but you may not be allowed to bring snacks into the zoo.
Cost: Snacks don't have to be costly. One mom can supply crackers and juice, or muffins and milk, etc. Sometimes hosts will serve a more elaborate spread, but it doesn't have to be the case.
Snacks are perfect when you are trying to gather everyone up to end a playdate, or transition to a table activity; or just refill the children with some energy. When have you had snacks at a playgroup? How has it gone over? Anything you would do differently?
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Introducing Your Leadership Team
The start of MOPs have come and gone for this year, and unfortunetly I missed our first formal event because my daughter decided to test my motherhood by getting the flu. I was really dissappoint to miss it, but as any mother would, I do what is needed of me.
This past event we introduced the Sterring Team. When we first talked about this, my coordinator asked for ideas on how to do this. We had several suggestions, and because I didn't attend the actual event I can't tell you which one the team choose, or how it went. But here is what we considered:
1. Match Baby Photos game
2. Unusual Fact Match
3. Featured sterring team member of the month
My suggestion was we play blindfolded musical chairs and every time someone is out they introduce themselves.
I wouldn't say it was well received, but I thought I would pass the idea along. Like I always say every group is different: What doesn't work for one may work well for another!
This past event we introduced the Sterring Team. When we first talked about this, my coordinator asked for ideas on how to do this. We had several suggestions, and because I didn't attend the actual event I can't tell you which one the team choose, or how it went. But here is what we considered:
1. Match Baby Photos game
2. Unusual Fact Match
3. Featured sterring team member of the month
My suggestion was we play blindfolded musical chairs and every time someone is out they introduce themselves.
I wouldn't say it was well received, but I thought I would pass the idea along. Like I always say every group is different: What doesn't work for one may work well for another!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Team Building
My favorite animated movie of all time released for the first time on DVD this month: Beauty and the Beast. My husband knows how much I relish in watching behind the scenes clips, and seeing extras you don't see at the cinemas. For me they are more entertaining than the actual movie; provided I like the movie.
In one the clips, the team talks about the difficulty script writers and the animation supervisor continue to but heads at meetings. It led their supervisor to make one crucial decision; put them both in the same room, everyday.
It worked. They might have not been the best of friends, but they became in tune with working together to achieve their goal; creating a great movie.
Everyone knows, that in order to accomplish more you need a good team. Next month, my team will meeting for the fourth official meeting; which is kind of sad for a group that has been around for three years. But I've been inspired! I want a Disney team. I want to produce an award winning animated film........*heh*......I mean, mom's group.
Making a team is hard, but coming up with team builders is easier than I once thought. All you have to do is come up with a short activity that will make everyone work together to achieve a goal. Not only does it build a team, but it's motivating.
So here I am. I'm treading new territory and don't know where to start......anyone know how to build a good team?
In one the clips, the team talks about the difficulty script writers and the animation supervisor continue to but heads at meetings. It led their supervisor to make one crucial decision; put them both in the same room, everyday.
It worked. They might have not been the best of friends, but they became in tune with working together to achieve their goal; creating a great movie.
Everyone knows, that in order to accomplish more you need a good team. Next month, my team will meeting for the fourth official meeting; which is kind of sad for a group that has been around for three years. But I've been inspired! I want a Disney team. I want to produce an award winning animated film........*heh*......I mean, mom's group.
Making a team is hard, but coming up with team builders is easier than I once thought. All you have to do is come up with a short activity that will make everyone work together to achieve a goal. Not only does it build a team, but it's motivating.
So here I am. I'm treading new territory and don't know where to start......anyone know how to build a good team?
Monday, October 25, 2010
WOM: take two
So I made a promise that I would cover word of mouth how to, and here it is!
Basically word of mouth is a game of telephone, mixed with a drama mama gossip queen, but hopefully word of mouth will be a positive thing for your group.
Be Passionate: First thing to do is to get it started yourself. But you have to make sure you are passionate about it. Make sure what you are talking about means something; to you, and to your member.
Make it Personal: When talking about word of mouth for playgroups I focus on promoting group events. Events are your life source; they are like your company's product, or money line. If your members like your events, they will eventually talk about them to people outside of the group; leading new members to you! When I look at starting a new event I focus finding one or two members interested enough to commit to attending an event before it's scheduled. I schedule it around their schedule, and voila! Two members are already coming. They are personally invested in their event; it's theirs!
Give out Invites: I cannot stress this enough; sending an email or e-vite is not enough; why? Because your members know it was not 'for them'. The best attended events that I have had was when I verbally invited members to the event; Our RSVPs double. Not Kidding.
It's not About YOU: Make sure that it's not just your group, or your events that you are promoting. You have to invest your time and energy in finding other gems of information to recommend around the area too. If you do not, your members will get this turned off attitude to your promotions and it will make you seem as though you think it's all about you. I even make it a habit to recommend other mom's groups to new members if I think a different one will suit them better. You know what they usually tell me? They are still interested in joining mine? (Hehehe, I'm an evil reverse physcologist aren't I?)
Basically word of mouth is a game of telephone, mixed with a drama mama gossip queen, but hopefully word of mouth will be a positive thing for your group.
Be Passionate: First thing to do is to get it started yourself. But you have to make sure you are passionate about it. Make sure what you are talking about means something; to you, and to your member.
Make it Personal: When talking about word of mouth for playgroups I focus on promoting group events. Events are your life source; they are like your company's product, or money line. If your members like your events, they will eventually talk about them to people outside of the group; leading new members to you! When I look at starting a new event I focus finding one or two members interested enough to commit to attending an event before it's scheduled. I schedule it around their schedule, and voila! Two members are already coming. They are personally invested in their event; it's theirs!
Give out Invites: I cannot stress this enough; sending an email or e-vite is not enough; why? Because your members know it was not 'for them'. The best attended events that I have had was when I verbally invited members to the event; Our RSVPs double. Not Kidding.
It's not About YOU: Make sure that it's not just your group, or your events that you are promoting. You have to invest your time and energy in finding other gems of information to recommend around the area too. If you do not, your members will get this turned off attitude to your promotions and it will make you seem as though you think it's all about you. I even make it a habit to recommend other mom's groups to new members if I think a different one will suit them better. You know what they usually tell me? They are still interested in joining mine? (Hehehe, I'm an evil reverse physcologist aren't I?)
Friday, October 22, 2010
Handprint Plates
I have to just give praise to something I stumbled upon. I am currently researching local pottery studios in my area for prices on platters, and possibly mobile paint visits. I hope that we will be doing handprint turkeys on plates--perfect for Thanksgiving turkey to be served on.
So today I did a search for examples for the group to see what I am talking about. I stumbled upon a descent example and when I clicked on the link I found it is a paint yourself pottery shop called All Fired Up in New Jersey.
I am inspired to run down to my local pottery paint shop and go crazy....hmm....maybe I could get a sponsor for this?
So today I did a search for examples for the group to see what I am talking about. I stumbled upon a descent example and when I clicked on the link I found it is a paint yourself pottery shop called All Fired Up in New Jersey.
The artists here are incredible turning handprints into works of art. I know this is not a 'new' idea, but I thought it was really cute.
I am inspired to run down to my local pottery paint shop and go crazy....hmm....maybe I could get a sponsor for this?
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Where to find other Playgroup Leaders
Many playgroup leaders come from national organizations like MOMS, MOPS, or Moms of Multiples. In this case, we have resources around us to find those who go through the same thing.
One day I hope this blog will become an outstanding resource for Mom's group organizers, but for now, I'm just as content writing out to a void about my passion.
Nevertheless, incase someone is reading this post, and finds themselves needing other support, here is how to find it.
Cafemom- cafemom has a group of organizers that participates regularly on a message board. They offer tips, share resources and exchange ideas. The only downfall is, if you don't organize a group on cafemom some of the lingo they speak and website issues they talk about might be confusing.
Not Just Moms- Another message board, but this one is on meetup.com. It's open to playgroup organizers outside of NJM, but again, some lingo applies to meetup.com groups only.
Big Tent- I haven't actually seen an actual group for organizers, but there is plenty of support if you organizer on Big Tent. There are many playgroups on Big Tent, so maybe there is. I'll let you know if I ever hear of one!
Where else do you find support?
One day I hope this blog will become an outstanding resource for Mom's group organizers, but for now, I'm just as content writing out to a void about my passion.
Nevertheless, incase someone is reading this post, and finds themselves needing other support, here is how to find it.
Cafemom- cafemom has a group of organizers that participates regularly on a message board. They offer tips, share resources and exchange ideas. The only downfall is, if you don't organize a group on cafemom some of the lingo they speak and website issues they talk about might be confusing.
Not Just Moms- Another message board, but this one is on meetup.com. It's open to playgroup organizers outside of NJM, but again, some lingo applies to meetup.com groups only.
Big Tent- I haven't actually seen an actual group for organizers, but there is plenty of support if you organizer on Big Tent. There are many playgroups on Big Tent, so maybe there is. I'll let you know if I ever hear of one!
Where else do you find support?
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Nothing to do? Try GoCityKids!
I come from a small town. I know what it is like to have 'nothing going on'. When I married my husband we lived in a metroarea, and it is extremely frustrating to me to hear these city folk complain that there is never anything to do.....
Alright, I've been living in metro areas for almost seven years now, and yes, sometimes it is difficult. If you look though, you'll find something. Whether you want to do the searching or not, is up to you.
If you are lucky enough to live in a metro area there should be plenty of sources online to find activites. One of these is http://www.gocitykids.com/ I'm very jealous that my current city is not listed here, but it does cover larger cities, so if you are lucky enough to live in one of these cities, you'll find plenty of stuff to do!
What is your favorite site for finding local events?
Alright, I've been living in metro areas for almost seven years now, and yes, sometimes it is difficult. If you look though, you'll find something. Whether you want to do the searching or not, is up to you.
If you are lucky enough to live in a metro area there should be plenty of sources online to find activites. One of these is http://www.gocitykids.com/ I'm very jealous that my current city is not listed here, but it does cover larger cities, so if you are lucky enough to live in one of these cities, you'll find plenty of stuff to do!
What is your favorite site for finding local events?
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
The Playgroup Handbook
One of the books I purchased when I first started running playgroups is The Playgroup Handbook by Laura Peabody Broad, and Nancy Towner Butterworth. My first impression of this book was very unsatisfied. The book focused mainly on activities for the children between the ages of 2-6. I suppose had I looked at the cover I would have relized this, but because this book is not usually in surplus in book stores, I purchased it online. I suppose I was just lazy cuase I didn't notice.
When I firt bought the book, I had one child; still crawling. The activites did not suit her at all. So this book got lost in the sea of books I own.
But I gave it a second chance, and I'm glad I did. I have recieved plenty of advice for activities from this book. It is formatted for seasons, so it's handy when you are coming up with new activites that need to be weather-friendly.
My favorite is still Carren's Book. I have used this book more now my children are older. Trust me, as the old saying goes; Children grow up fast. You'll want this book in now time.
When I firt bought the book, I had one child; still crawling. The activites did not suit her at all. So this book got lost in the sea of books I own.
But I gave it a second chance, and I'm glad I did. I have recieved plenty of advice for activities from this book. It is formatted for seasons, so it's handy when you are coming up with new activites that need to be weather-friendly.
My favorite is still Carren's Book. I have used this book more now my children are older. Trust me, as the old saying goes; Children grow up fast. You'll want this book in now time.
Monday, October 18, 2010
WOM: your best friend
So organizers are always questioning how to get good active members in their group. I have tried every which way; walking in parades, holding a booth, passing out business cards, advertising online; etc. I cannot tell you how much money I have wasted on advertising.
The best way is word of mouth. More on this later this month.
For now let me tell you what has not worked.
It is safe to say, that since I like to keep my posts short and sweet, that I am withholding information that could make or break this type of promoting your group, like how many fliers I posted and where, how many business cards I passed out, to who and where, etc. But what I can say is for me, the investment was not worth it.
Word of Mouth (WOM) has been the most powerful. I am not just talking about for new members, but also for finding resources, and getting members more active. If I publicize an event by inviting members verbally, I get more attendees. It seems to get them excited! I think being that my group is online we seem to have a false security of connection that we forget we need to connect face to face too!!!!!
Either way, look it up. Check out some books from your local library on word of mouth, and do a search for word of mouth strategies. Soon enough your playgroup will explode into an active and growing group!
The best way is word of mouth. More on this later this month.
For now let me tell you what has not worked.
- community events- we did a face painting booth this past month and have yet to receive a request to join. Turn over for about $100. zero. zip. nada. granted they could still join, but I was hoping for a more immediate reaction.
- business cards, fliers- Out of the past three years...I got one member from this. I have come to find now, however, that is it the way I present them.
- professional ads- I bought an ad in our local directory- it cost me $230. Four months of the ad being displayed got me one member who joined and never responded to my emails.
- direct mail- it didn't work. plain and simple.
It is safe to say, that since I like to keep my posts short and sweet, that I am withholding information that could make or break this type of promoting your group, like how many fliers I posted and where, how many business cards I passed out, to who and where, etc. But what I can say is for me, the investment was not worth it.
Word of Mouth (WOM) has been the most powerful. I am not just talking about for new members, but also for finding resources, and getting members more active. If I publicize an event by inviting members verbally, I get more attendees. It seems to get them excited! I think being that my group is online we seem to have a false security of connection that we forget we need to connect face to face too!!!!!
Either way, look it up. Check out some books from your local library on word of mouth, and do a search for word of mouth strategies. Soon enough your playgroup will explode into an active and growing group!
Friday, October 15, 2010
Project Outreach
Here is a basic run down of outreach programs you can implement into your group:
Birthday: Celebrating members birthdays is a small way to show you care. Collect this information when they register and you can choose to include them in a newsletter; send out birthday cards, or hold a monthly birthday party (we do this for the kids), small gifts, etc.
Dinner Fairy: The basic idea is to help out families in need; perhaps they just had a baby, or family member in the hospital, etc. Members sign up to take a meal to the family; so at least they don't have to worry about dinner. Check out take them a meal website for help and ideas.
Mentor Moms: This is something my MOPS group does; Mentor moms are moms who have graduated from 'preschool mothering' and can offer help and advice to current members. They might do outreach calls to moms who have a check-in or gather local resources, etc.
Congsinment and sales: Grouping together to mutually benefit financaily is a common idea. Hosting a multi-family yard sales or consigning to share a booth for those crafty mamas who sell bows, and sew nursing covers, etc.
Mom's Day Off: Gathering volunteers to watch the children while mom has a few hours to herself! Oh glorisous day! A word of caution: If you find yourself tempted to do this it is a daunting task. I would suggest you contact a lawyer to give to legal advice on the service, background check the child care providers and have all emergency contact information for all the children available! Safety is numer one in terms of our children!
The basic idea of outreach is to coordinate programs that make the members feel like they are one of the family. My goals for having a group is just that; I'm looking for family I can count on. Being a military wife away from family, my playgroup is my family. I want them to feel that way too.
Birthday: Celebrating members birthdays is a small way to show you care. Collect this information when they register and you can choose to include them in a newsletter; send out birthday cards, or hold a monthly birthday party (we do this for the kids), small gifts, etc.
Dinner Fairy: The basic idea is to help out families in need; perhaps they just had a baby, or family member in the hospital, etc. Members sign up to take a meal to the family; so at least they don't have to worry about dinner. Check out take them a meal website for help and ideas.
Mentor Moms: This is something my MOPS group does; Mentor moms are moms who have graduated from 'preschool mothering' and can offer help and advice to current members. They might do outreach calls to moms who have a check-in or gather local resources, etc.
Congsinment and sales: Grouping together to mutually benefit financaily is a common idea. Hosting a multi-family yard sales or consigning to share a booth for those crafty mamas who sell bows, and sew nursing covers, etc.
Mom's Day Off: Gathering volunteers to watch the children while mom has a few hours to herself! Oh glorisous day! A word of caution: If you find yourself tempted to do this it is a daunting task. I would suggest you contact a lawyer to give to legal advice on the service, background check the child care providers and have all emergency contact information for all the children available! Safety is numer one in terms of our children!
The basic idea of outreach is to coordinate programs that make the members feel like they are one of the family. My goals for having a group is just that; I'm looking for family I can count on. Being a military wife away from family, my playgroup is my family. I want them to feel that way too.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Charity: Adopt a family
One things that I love to see is how a group of people's lives. You can see it all the time: extreme home makeover (T.V.) , newcasts, habitat for humanity, salvation army, etc. What touches me the most is seeing the individuals gratefulness.
Adopting a family may not be the way to 'spread the love' as widely as possible. But I believe it is the most uplifting, and inspirational. This year I hope to adopt family for Christmas. Next I hope to adopt a family for Thanksgiving, and Easter as well.
Each member in your group can donate a small item or group together to buy larger items. I know one playgroup that donated a Christmas feast, two gifts for each child, a 'mom's care basket' (spa items), and a dad's vacation (recreational items for fishing). They also donated some basic supplies, like toilet paper, baby wipes, diapers, and and Albertson's gift card.
I can't imagine what a wonderful Christmas this must have been for this family. I can guarantee you one thing; they will never forget that playgroup.
So the question remains how to find a suitable family to adopt. Start with your church's officiant. Many of them are already hearing the cries for help as people seek out help from God. If you can't find one from there, you can contact the salvation army, or other safe harbor shelters for a referral. I make it a point not to pick moms from within the group simply for the fact that I continue to think of this project as a community outreach program.
I would be extremely happy if this year we could provide a simple gift for our family; anything else would just be a plus. I can't wait to see the looks on their faces!
Adopting a family may not be the way to 'spread the love' as widely as possible. But I believe it is the most uplifting, and inspirational. This year I hope to adopt family for Christmas. Next I hope to adopt a family for Thanksgiving, and Easter as well.
Each member in your group can donate a small item or group together to buy larger items. I know one playgroup that donated a Christmas feast, two gifts for each child, a 'mom's care basket' (spa items), and a dad's vacation (recreational items for fishing). They also donated some basic supplies, like toilet paper, baby wipes, diapers, and and Albertson's gift card.
I can't imagine what a wonderful Christmas this must have been for this family. I can guarantee you one thing; they will never forget that playgroup.
So the question remains how to find a suitable family to adopt. Start with your church's officiant. Many of them are already hearing the cries for help as people seek out help from God. If you can't find one from there, you can contact the salvation army, or other safe harbor shelters for a referral. I make it a point not to pick moms from within the group simply for the fact that I continue to think of this project as a community outreach program.
I would be extremely happy if this year we could provide a simple gift for our family; anything else would just be a plus. I can't wait to see the looks on their faces!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Big vrs. Small
My first groups grew like a wildfire on a dry day. Soon our home playdates started attracting 12-14 moms (which is 18-28 kids as well!). Needless to say, some members of the group felt that we should limit the number of members we carry.
The current group I run has a open-door policy, but we do not host many in home playdates. When we do, there is only about 6-8 moms that attend (it yields about 10-19 children). Come this Fall, I expect more enrollment, and we may limit attentdees.
There are several advantages and disadvantages for different sized groups. There are so many infact, it's hard to really explain it in one shot. So instead I've made a chart!
The current group I run has a open-door policy, but we do not host many in home playdates. When we do, there is only about 6-8 moms that attend (it yields about 10-19 children). Come this Fall, I expect more enrollment, and we may limit attentdees.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Granting Playgroup Leaders Membership?
I belong to three (Techinically five, but who's counting) mommy groups. Two out of the three I help organize. One I am just a member and plan to keep it that way. I enjoy coming to a group where I didn't plan, don't have responsibilities, and can just.....ahhhhhhhh........
I'm lucky to have a group without responsibilities of organizing. For some organizers, having other organizers; even assistants; feels intrusive. I have found that it usually happens when you have clusters of playgroups on the same website. It can happen in other ways, but for some reason the 'nieghborhood rivals' flare up for reasons of jealously, competition, and who knows what.
It's valid. Sometimes leaders join for malicious reasons. But sometimes they join for reasons like mine. A break from being the organizer!
Whether you decide to include other playgroup leaders from nearby groups; it is your decision. What you have to decide is what is in danger by them joining in on your group? Taking your event ideas? Taking your members? Dragging down your momentum?
What you really should ask yourself is how can I benefit from this? Connecting with local organizers allows you bond with someone similular to your position. Expand your resources, your ideas, your enthusaims, and strategies.
Or you might just wind up in a tornado of mama drama. So, without judgement, I will ask you this: Are you willing to stay home when the weather man says the hurricane is coming? Or are you running for the hills? Do you allow organizers in your group? (OK, maybe that was three questions).
I'm lucky to have a group without responsibilities of organizing. For some organizers, having other organizers; even assistants; feels intrusive. I have found that it usually happens when you have clusters of playgroups on the same website. It can happen in other ways, but for some reason the 'nieghborhood rivals' flare up for reasons of jealously, competition, and who knows what.
It's valid. Sometimes leaders join for malicious reasons. But sometimes they join for reasons like mine. A break from being the organizer!
Whether you decide to include other playgroup leaders from nearby groups; it is your decision. What you have to decide is what is in danger by them joining in on your group? Taking your event ideas? Taking your members? Dragging down your momentum?
What you really should ask yourself is how can I benefit from this? Connecting with local organizers allows you bond with someone similular to your position. Expand your resources, your ideas, your enthusaims, and strategies.
Or you might just wind up in a tornado of mama drama. So, without judgement, I will ask you this: Are you willing to stay home when the weather man says the hurricane is coming? Or are you running for the hills? Do you allow organizers in your group? (OK, maybe that was three questions).
Monday, October 11, 2010
Registering Members
So you have your playgroup set up. You've got a date, time, place. You've got moms and kids coming. You probably already have the mother's name, and phone number (If you don't; it might come in handy.....just FYI).
But do you need more information?
Perhaps. Your style of group, and what it does determines what information you need from your members. Sometimes if you don't have that information, you can mess up; big time. Here's some information you may want to consider collecting:
Do you have any other infomation you collect from your members? What do you use it for?
But do you need more information?
Perhaps. Your style of group, and what it does determines what information you need from your members. Sometimes if you don't have that information, you can mess up; big time. Here's some information you may want to consider collecting:
- Mother's Full Name
- Mother's Birthday
- Children's Names and birthdays
- Home/Cell Phone
- Address
- How they heard about the group (helps you find what to invest your promoting in)
- Husband's name and contact
- What they are most interested in (helps you determine what to put on your calendar)
- Children's allergies
Do you have any other infomation you collect from your members? What do you use it for?
Friday, October 8, 2010
How to run a clothing swap
Everything that clothed my daughter when she was a baby was usually brand new. Now with three kids, new is not normally the option. Thankfully between consignment sales, yard sales, and thrift shops I clothe my children (and myself) affordabley. Gosh they grow quick!
But if your town is so small that you do not have a local sale or shop, playgroups can still save the dollar by having a clothing swap! Here is a how to:
But if your town is so small that you do not have a local sale or shop, playgroups can still save the dollar by having a clothing swap! Here is a how to:
- Let you members know as you would traditionally. They need to know what they can bring (or can't), how they should seperate it, and when and where to bring it. Be sure to let them know if they can or cannot take home their belongings if no one takes them (my suggestion is that you have a donation pick up after the swap; if they were willing to give them away to someone in the playgroup, then they should be willing to give them away otherwise. It makes it easier on you this way--you'll find out why below.)
- Determine how much space you need and what areas will be for what colthes. Should there be divisions of girls and boys? Should infant colthing be seperated by months?
- Have clear markings the day of where items should be placed. Have enough room for each pile--twice. A space to hold the items, and a place to put them as moms dig through the pile.
- Make sure to have garbage bags on hand- the moms will probably bring bags for their items, but it's good to have some just incase they wind up getting more.
- If there are concerns about keeping the swap fair, each memeber can take only the amount of item they bring in. Most of the time, moms wind up taking much less.
- Decide who gets what turn. In cookie swaps I've been too, we take turns looking in the pile by drawings. The first drawing (in order of birthdates) everyone picks one item. The second drawing (in order of oldest child) everyone picks two items. etc......
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Just a thought...
Last night I finished watching the latest episode of Survivor. Jimmy T is the fourth voted out. What got him in the end was his puny-kid insecure attitude of "Put me in coach" syndrome. Whining about not being used to his fullest potential etched on half of the tribe; if not more.
Regardless of whether Jimmy T would have lead the tribe to a win; we'll never know. But I learned something valuable about leadership through Jimmy T and for that, I thank him (or perhaps I should thank survivor directors for editing in this part of the story). I'm going to share this lesson with you.
How can your team feel secure in your leadership when:
1. You don't feel secure about yourself
2. You can't make yourself a trusted follower.
It's not a complicated thing to understand, and I won't go into details about this episode or previous ones save for this: Jimmy T obviously did not feel secure in his place and it did not make him a trusted follower. All leaders as one point were trusted followers. If you can't trust yourself, others will not trust you either. It's a vicious cycle.
So if you are wondering why you're shouting "Right! Right! Right!" and your kayak team steers left, maybe it's not your team that is the problem. Are you shouting with insecurities? Do you trust yourself? Can you step back and be a follower first?
Regardless of whether Jimmy T would have lead the tribe to a win; we'll never know. But I learned something valuable about leadership through Jimmy T and for that, I thank him (or perhaps I should thank survivor directors for editing in this part of the story). I'm going to share this lesson with you.
How can your team feel secure in your leadership when:
1. You don't feel secure about yourself
2. You can't make yourself a trusted follower.
It's not a complicated thing to understand, and I won't go into details about this episode or previous ones save for this: Jimmy T obviously did not feel secure in his place and it did not make him a trusted follower. All leaders as one point were trusted followers. If you can't trust yourself, others will not trust you either. It's a vicious cycle.
So if you are wondering why you're shouting "Right! Right! Right!" and your kayak team steers left, maybe it's not your team that is the problem. Are you shouting with insecurities? Do you trust yourself? Can you step back and be a follower first?
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Creating a Facebook Fan Page!
OK, I'm usually rambling on and on about different playgroup related issues, but today I'm gonna make this post short n' sweet. If you haven't already, make yourself a fan page on Facebook for your group. It's just a no-brainer. Quite frankly, many of your moms already have a facebook page, and log onto facebook more than the group's website.
I used my status updates for promoting things like drawings, events, and participation, but really it can be about anything related to your 'fans' at all. Keep them thinking about your playgroup means momentum will keep up..and that's a good thing.
I used my status updates for promoting things like drawings, events, and participation, but really it can be about anything related to your 'fans' at all. Keep them thinking about your playgroup means momentum will keep up..and that's a good thing.
Note I am NOT talking about registering ANOTHER email to create a separate profile (although it can be useful in ways too). You can create your own fan page from your existing profile; it's almost like an extension. It has it's own wall, and an information page and can have other options if you choose.
You can access your own facebook page from your profile once you create it. It is located just above your friends list under the category "Ads and Pages" (you may have to click the see more link if you use alot of applications.).
Normally I say happy organizing.....but today.......Happy Facebooking!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Venue Catastrophe!
Venue Catastrophe!!! How to avoid it, and why it’s important.
“Sorry, Closed due to crop rot from the rain” The sign reads the day of our event.Many members said it wasn’t my fault; the venue should have called me (they knew we were coming), but it was partly my fault. Had I followed the advice below, I would have avoided the whole problem………Sometimes organizers become so focused on our members that we tend to forget to maintain contact with our venues; or worse, never make contact to begin with. Venue relationships are important. Take these steps to ensure you carry good relationships with your venues, and your group will benefit.
1. Check it out! Visit during business hours and ask yourself these questions: Is it clean, friendly, and inviting? How is the service/staff? Is it easy to find? Does it have enough space (parking and seating)? Can members pay individually the day of?
2. Call them! Introduce your group, explain what day you plan to use the facility, and double check all their information. Don’t trust websites. One time my venue’s business hours changed, and their snack bar was out of business! Turns out, their website’s last update was two years ago! Write down the name of the person you spoke with: many times when this information has become handy.
3. Remind them! About two days before the event call them. This could have prevented the ‘crop rot disappointment’ I referred to earlier. Give them your head count, and remind them what day and time, especially for smaller places like coffee shops or libraries. I know one coffee shop owner was a little upset when we planned an event at her facility and never told her. A bike group also met up there that day; The shop wound up understaffed and out of space. As a result some bikers were upset because they had no place to sit.
4. Arrive early. Make sure everything is set for your group. Make small talk with the owner: doesn’t have to be much; after all they are working. It may even land you a sponsor.
5. Send your thank you card. It doesn’t reallly have to be a card; it can be an email, a couple pictures, or whatever! It will make your group stand out; Keep in mind the more memorable your group is; the more flexible the venue will be with you.
6. Keep in Touch. I try to update my venue information quarterly. I do this because there may be seasonal venues or venues we haven’t used in a longtime, and touching base solidifies your relationship. Again you don’t want the venue to forget your group!
One other thing that I’ve also found to be handy: Have a backup of list. Thankfully, our pumpkin patch catastrophe wasn’t a complete disaster because of this. If you maintain a good venue relationship with your backup list, they may even allow you to just show up last minute!
“Sorry, Closed due to crop rot from the rain” The sign reads the day of our event.Many members said it wasn’t my fault; the venue should have called me (they knew we were coming), but it was partly my fault. Had I followed the advice below, I would have avoided the whole problem………Sometimes organizers become so focused on our members that we tend to forget to maintain contact with our venues; or worse, never make contact to begin with. Venue relationships are important. Take these steps to ensure you carry good relationships with your venues, and your group will benefit.
1. Check it out! Visit during business hours and ask yourself these questions: Is it clean, friendly, and inviting? How is the service/staff? Is it easy to find? Does it have enough space (parking and seating)? Can members pay individually the day of?
2. Call them! Introduce your group, explain what day you plan to use the facility, and double check all their information. Don’t trust websites. One time my venue’s business hours changed, and their snack bar was out of business! Turns out, their website’s last update was two years ago! Write down the name of the person you spoke with: many times when this information has become handy.
3. Remind them! About two days before the event call them. This could have prevented the ‘crop rot disappointment’ I referred to earlier. Give them your head count, and remind them what day and time, especially for smaller places like coffee shops or libraries. I know one coffee shop owner was a little upset when we planned an event at her facility and never told her. A bike group also met up there that day; The shop wound up understaffed and out of space. As a result some bikers were upset because they had no place to sit.
4. Arrive early. Make sure everything is set for your group. Make small talk with the owner: doesn’t have to be much; after all they are working. It may even land you a sponsor.
5. Send your thank you card. It doesn’t reallly have to be a card; it can be an email, a couple pictures, or whatever! It will make your group stand out; Keep in mind the more memorable your group is; the more flexible the venue will be with you.
6. Keep in Touch. I try to update my venue information quarterly. I do this because there may be seasonal venues or venues we haven’t used in a longtime, and touching base solidifies your relationship. Again you don’t want the venue to forget your group!
One other thing that I’ve also found to be handy: Have a backup of list. Thankfully, our pumpkin patch catastrophe wasn’t a complete disaster because of this. If you maintain a good venue relationship with your backup list, they may even allow you to just show up last minute!
Monday, October 4, 2010
More than a mom's phone
One of the most valuable items I use for my group is my android phone. I'm particularly partial to verizon wireless, so unfortunetly I'm only familair with those apps, but iphones also have simular apps too. I thought that I would list the type of apps I use for my group as helpful resources to your playgroups as well!
EMAIL I use to check my email like 12 times a day. Seriously. I had this constant fear that I would miss an important email. I love how my phone bleeps everytime I have an email.
CALENDAR The calendar app I use is Jorte, and although I'm not completely happy with it ( I would really like to color code my events by grouping, i.e. mom's group, drs. appointments, etc) it is the best calendar app with options. It links with my google calendar, which links directly to my group site as well! It's a win win as far as that goes.
TO DO LIST. My friend has the iphone and uses todoodle, I use Astrid. I love dividing everything into categories, and the reminders, and repeating tasks. It's wonderful for all those little tasks I forget about like calling the venue two days before. I can even use the GPS reminder bells to remind me to drop off deposits for reservations when I'm close to that area.
SOCIAL MEDIA There are plenty of apps out there that are for websites like Facebook, Twitter or the like. For playgroups facebook is a portal for everyday run of the mill contact. It's wonderful.
Finally I had to put this one in here, because I run my group on Meetup.com. It's called Socializer, and it is strictly for those who are members of meetup.com: organizers and members. It makes quick access to the calendar, updates, etc on the website. I can check the RSVPs from my phone, look up directions to my event, etc. It has been a valueable resource when running my group.
So there you have it! The basic apps for running a group on your smartphone! Happy Organizing!
EMAIL I use to check my email like 12 times a day. Seriously. I had this constant fear that I would miss an important email. I love how my phone bleeps everytime I have an email.
CALENDAR The calendar app I use is Jorte, and although I'm not completely happy with it ( I would really like to color code my events by grouping, i.e. mom's group, drs. appointments, etc) it is the best calendar app with options. It links with my google calendar, which links directly to my group site as well! It's a win win as far as that goes.
TO DO LIST. My friend has the iphone and uses todoodle, I use Astrid. I love dividing everything into categories, and the reminders, and repeating tasks. It's wonderful for all those little tasks I forget about like calling the venue two days before. I can even use the GPS reminder bells to remind me to drop off deposits for reservations when I'm close to that area.
SOCIAL MEDIA There are plenty of apps out there that are for websites like Facebook, Twitter or the like. For playgroups facebook is a portal for everyday run of the mill contact. It's wonderful.
Finally I had to put this one in here, because I run my group on Meetup.com. It's called Socializer, and it is strictly for those who are members of meetup.com: organizers and members. It makes quick access to the calendar, updates, etc on the website. I can check the RSVPs from my phone, look up directions to my event, etc. It has been a valueable resource when running my group.
So there you have it! The basic apps for running a group on your smartphone! Happy Organizing!
Friday, October 1, 2010
Moms Group vrs Playgroup
I use the terms Mom's group and Playgroup as interchangeable words. Sometimes it is fitting, but for the most part, they are two different types of groups. Do you know what yours is?
A playgroup is a group of children that come together to play. Usually supervised by a parent or many parents, the playtime can be unstructured or structured or a combination. Play groups are often small, meet at parks, homes, and other public places appealing to children. Most playgroups are designed for preschool age children for social interaction until they reach kindergarten.
A Mother's group is focused on the mother. They do not need to meet with children in tow, but can. Some moms groups provide childcare. I joined a mother's group that called themselves a 'playgroup' and I found it quite silly really. These mothers (most of them with babies) would meet at places like coffee shops, or go for walks in the strollers, or meet for lunch with children in tow or moms night out. Notice there isn't much playing involved.
I tried to argue this with the organizer once, and she insisted her group is a playgroup. I still maintain my argument---a playgroup involves play for the children. On the other hand, I do not believe that a playgroup that offers a moms night out is a mother's group.
Granted you can have a combination. Many national mother's groups are also playgroups or have sub-groups which are playgroups. My group is mostly playgroup, but we do stroller walks, and have mom's night out. We focusing on bring in child care to start a regular mom's morning off.
Because moms groups and playgroups are closely related I am not going to 'forbid' any one of you from calling your playgroup from what you wish. When I first started my playgroup I did NOT want a playgroup. I wanted a mother's group. My first true assistant wanted a playgroup. Playgroups are easier to manage and still cultivate friendships for the parent as well. However, my point is that you need to be clear what you are offering your potential members.
Is it a playgroup?
Is a moms group?
Does your member know the difference?
A playgroup is a group of children that come together to play. Usually supervised by a parent or many parents, the playtime can be unstructured or structured or a combination. Play groups are often small, meet at parks, homes, and other public places appealing to children. Most playgroups are designed for preschool age children for social interaction until they reach kindergarten.
A Mother's group is focused on the mother. They do not need to meet with children in tow, but can. Some moms groups provide childcare. I joined a mother's group that called themselves a 'playgroup' and I found it quite silly really. These mothers (most of them with babies) would meet at places like coffee shops, or go for walks in the strollers, or meet for lunch with children in tow or moms night out. Notice there isn't much playing involved.
I tried to argue this with the organizer once, and she insisted her group is a playgroup. I still maintain my argument---a playgroup involves play for the children. On the other hand, I do not believe that a playgroup that offers a moms night out is a mother's group.
Granted you can have a combination. Many national mother's groups are also playgroups or have sub-groups which are playgroups. My group is mostly playgroup, but we do stroller walks, and have mom's night out. We focusing on bring in child care to start a regular mom's morning off.
Because moms groups and playgroups are closely related I am not going to 'forbid' any one of you from calling your playgroup from what you wish. When I first started my playgroup I did NOT want a playgroup. I wanted a mother's group. My first true assistant wanted a playgroup. Playgroups are easier to manage and still cultivate friendships for the parent as well. However, my point is that you need to be clear what you are offering your potential members.
Is it a playgroup?
Is a moms group?
Does your member know the difference?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)