Diversity!!

One thing that I love about playgroups is the opportunity to teach our children to be accepting of diversity. I've had trouble with acceptance in the past. When I was young, I had trouble being friendly to dark races; especially black. I still have problems knowing how to act around people with special needs.

I've been fortunate enough to meet mothers of different heritages. I met a mom whom came from the Netherlands, a couple originally from England, some from Canada. I've met blacks, Hispanics, Indian, and orientals. I've met mothers of special needs children.

One of my assistants has a sister with autism. I admit the first time I met her, I was uncomfortable (almost three years ago now!). I did my best to set the example for my children. Several months ago, we had a family of a special needs child join the playgroup. Although this is not the first time we had a special needs child join the group; this family stood out. This mother is super-mom. This child is no different that any other child in our playgroup.

I am happy to say that I am now overcoming my uncertainty of diversity. I have found that these special people; mothers, fathers, children; can teach us so much more than just acceptance. They teach us about life. They teach us about happiness. They teach about love. My heart is connected to all of them, and I hope I pass my love for them onto my children.

Participating in playgroups gives a family multiple advantages. Teaching children (and even ourselves) about acceptance of differences is a great one. If you ever have the opportunity, embrace the chance with open arms. Believe me, you'll be glad you did.

Why moms groups are so important

Nothing can make me happier than being a mom. I believe it is the most glamorous job in the world. OK. maybe not glamorous, but definitely happy. If anyone were to ask me what being a mother is like, I look back over the years and  remember;

My babies laying in my arms asleep so peaceful. Caressing their soft skin and watching their breath...in and out. Laughing. My oldest on our first trip to Disneyland: She was mostly fascinated by the trees; because at the time we lived in Tucson were trees where scarce. She kept tilting her head back to look up at all the leaves.....

My two year old right now is jumping up and down holding her shoe, exclaiming "My boots! My Boots!" Who knew shoes could be so exciting?!  I foresee quite a bit of girl-bonding shoe-shopping coming in about a decade.

When I think about being a mother, I only remember positive things. I know why; it is because I don't have to worry about where to send my complaints to.  My mommy friends may not always have the answers my mom, the doctors, or those experts have. There is a different feeling when you know you are in the presence of someone going through the same exact thing you are at exactly the same time. There is no replacement for it.

You know you are not alone...as a result, I can vent out all my frustration and all I have left is the happy memories. 

These are the things I will remember because I have all the support and advice I need in parenting. That is what my mommy groups have brought to me. And when someone asks me What it is like being a mother...I will tell them....you'll never forget it...and always cherish it. There is nothing better than being a mom.

A good reason why playgroups are benefical

My eldest daughter is a very picky eater. Not too long ago, she would not eat any condiment at all. I could not even get her to try ketchup; something I thought is a childhood staple.

Last Fall we had a play date with a friend from the playgroup. For lunch, we made a picnic spread on a blanket on the living room floor. Chicken nuggets (a staple in our house) made it's way onto the blanket. My daughter's friend looked on over the food with disappointment.

"There is no ketchup." She pouted.

Of course! Just because my child does not eat ketchup does not mean that other children don't. So I happily brought out the container of the ketchup and made a smiley face with it on a plate.

"Where is my ketchup?!" demanded my own four year old. I could not believe my own ears. Not one to argue, I put some ketchup near her reach, and all the kids ate happily.

Now my daughter reminds me "Don't forget the ketchup."

As if I would.

But I think it's safe to point out, that if your child is a picky eater like my own, one way to encourage them to try new foods is to invite a friend over that already likes it. Having a playgroup is even better.

Try a picnic at a park, and each child is to bring one thing they like to eat (that is somewhat healthy) and one thing they do not want to try. You never know they might try it if other children are eating it, and sharing the new foods may introduce yourself to food you have never thought to give to you child in the first place.


Just 'food' for thought.