One popular idea for an Enrichment activity or group is to set up a playgroup for your ward. This is a great opportunity for those sisters who have young children. It gives the children a chance to form friendships with members of their ward. It also gives stay at home moms the opportunity to socialize and form friendships as well. It is important that everyone in the ward feels welcome to playgroup. Here are five tips to help your playgroup run smoothly.
1) It is best to have playgroup at the same time every week. This allows people to easily schedule it as part of their weekly schedules.
2) It is also easier to have playgroup at the same place each week. That way there is no confusion about where you should go each week. A local park is an ideal place to hold the playgroup. There will be ample room for the children to play, and it should be safe. The sunshine will also do everyone good. If you meet outside you should set up a default plan or location for rainy days. You may decide to meet at the church or you may just cancel playgroup.
3) It is important that you foster a feeling of friendship in your playgroup. Be sure to invite new sisters to it. Be sure that you speak to every ward member that comes to playgroup. This is a great chance to reach out to nonmembers as well. You can invite friends so that they can become comfortable with your church friends.
4) It is best to keep the playgroup simple. The simpler it is the more likely you will be to succeed. You do not need to provide snacks or refreshments at everyone. You do not need to have crafts set up at every playgroup for the children to do.
5) It can be nice to plan special playgroups for the children as well. Our playgroup has a special Valentine’s, Easter and Halloween playgroup. This includes games, crafts, a story time and refreshments. It is nice because more people come out for these special events. The events help to make memories for the kids, and the moms have fun to.
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