May I introduce you to

There are plenty of times I will refer to one playgroup or an other. I belong to several playgroups. Usually the one I write about is http://www.spokanemamas.org/. I have been running this playgroup for over two years. It's gone through quite a bit, but I have to say I'm proud of it.

Right now, we have over 60 moms and over 100 kids. Not everyone is active, but we have a core of members that come at least once a month, some even come weekly. The group does not have a membership fee, as I am not ready to take on that responsibility just yet. We typically meet four-ten times a week.

Out of eveything the group does, my personal favorites are the playgroup activities. I am not a professional, but I teach Isty Bitsy Yoga and baby sign language classes (with the help of my assistant organizer who has experience in sign language). We also have a parachute, and I hope to one day also offer other activities too.

The most popular event is our stroller walks. It is such a simple activity, but it really fills the needs of moms and children alike. Our walks usually take place at the mall. Since most of our children are around stroller age, it suit all age ranges in the group. Moms stroll around chit-chatting, without having to worry about where their children are or what they are doing. Afterward we let them play in the play area or playground (if we are at a park.).

I love the fact that we constantly go to places within the city that are child-friendly. We've been to the children's museum, chuck e cheese, etc. With summer on its way, we'll be making time for pools and splashpads.

There is such a variety of events that we do, it would be impossible to name them all. From time to time, I will talk about these events, share some pictures, and talk about how well they are recieved. I think the thing that makes our group our own is we all have need to join together. It may be for different reasons, but those different reasons fills other member's need in turn. It's amazing how so many moms can come together. So if you are ever wondering what my group is like---well, now you know.

A Typical Playgroup before the Internet

I am dependent on the the Internet. I shop there, read there, socialize there, heck you could say that I live there. Quite frankly, the Internet saved my life from isolation through playgroups. Ironic, no? For those of you who are stay at home moms suffering from that same isolation but do not own a computer; all hope is not lost. Just because you don not have a computer does not mean you cannot part take in playgroups, and  I am going to tell you how.

The first playgroups before technology where preschools and church groups. Preschools developed for children under the age five, and typically met for a few hours in the mornings on a weekday. Parents did not normally attend, as staff supervise. Church groups are really a core family, and it is only natural for parents to gather on a weekly or monthly basis to celebrate childhood, and parenthood alike.

Today, you can find playgroups at libraries, rec centers, churches, even some hospitals. There are tons of them online. It might take a bit of searching, but they are out there. As a matter of fact, some are national! I can't give you exact details of all of them, but here are the largest most popular ones that I know-

MOPS- Mothers of Preschoolers is a christian-based mothers group, usually meets once a month but can meet in other patterns if the steering team chooses to do so. Usually, child care is provided,  the mothers share a breakfast, listen to a speaker and/or do a craft. MOPS is so popular and large that most divide into smaller discussion groups so it is easier to get to know your fellow members. MOPS does have a yearly fee, and you can find out more about them by visiting their website.

MOMS club- Moms offering Moms Support is another organization that is nation-wide. Activities vary group to group, and also have an annual fee. MOMS club is not affiliated with any religious backgrounds, however many members have strong religious beliefs.

Moms of Multiples- Moms of Multiples is pretty obvious. They're purpose is to support mothers who have twins, triplets, etc. Since I am not a mother of multiples myself (Although sometimes I feel like my oldest is the same age are her younger siblings depending on the day!), I cannot tell you much about this organization, but it's definitely popular with parents, because it was the first group I had ever heard of.

All of the these group started with little Internet involvement. Look what they have accomplished! So what if there are no chapters in your area? Where else do you look?

Libraries- most libraries have story times, which attract mothers and mall children. Same with bookstore. Start attending these and just ask the moms there if they would like to come to a playgroup. Some libraries even have playgroups already.

Hospitals- If you are a breastfeeding mom, there are usually breastfeeding support groups. voila.-- an other playgroup in the making.

Put out a want ad.. in community newsletters, the newspaper, where ever!

Check with local churches. Some may not even be affiliated with the church.

I have to say, from my experience the easiest way is the Internet, but I realize that for some, it is just not a possibility. There are options, you just have to get creative.