Ready to Learn Mom

1. Set up an environment where it is easy to have fun:  the pool, the beach, the playground, or a big backyard or playroom full of fun things to do.
2. Structure it for parents and kids to both have fun.  Depending on the size, pitch in for extra help to be there to keep an eye on the kids and allow the parents to socialize with the playgroup parents, to have a break too.
3. Create a network for the parents and the kids.  Invite families that could become life long friends or will be in your school district to move from close toddler network to the school PTA/PTO.
4. Have playgroup activities planned:  field trip to the children’s museum, zoo, apple orchard or pumpkin farm; holiday theme parties to celebrate them all:  Easter egg hunt, cookie exchange at Christmas, trick and treat parade at Halloween, and a birthday party with name exchange once a year to celebrate everyone’s birthday!
5. Know the personalities and group dynamics to keep conflict to a minimum among both parents and kids.  Have rules:  we must respect each other, be polite, and treat others as we want to be treated.  And if you can’t do that and are having a bad day, it’s time to leave early.
6. Have a set time:  such as 9-11 a.m. on a certain day of the week or once a month or every two weeks.  Short intervals are always best.    
7. Alternate locations and have each parent bring something to pass: muffins, juice, fruit, veggies, etc.
8. Invite people from your community to join but keep it to a manageable number.  If you don’t know people and are new to the area, set a time and date and invite people your children meet at the local playground or church.  Have a conversation with the parent and watch how the kids play to determine if you want to invite them to your house to start your own circle of friends for yourself and child.  Remember if you want your child to be successful in school, it helps to build that social network for them starting when they are toddlers!

Smiles – Stacey

Stacey Kannenberg
“Ready To Learn Mom”