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What is a MOPS Group?
MOPS groups are communities that meet the needs of every mom with
children from birth to kindergarten. MOPS recognizes that urban, suburban, and
rural moms, stay-at-home and working moms, teen, single, and married moms all
share a similar desire to be the very best moms they can be! MOPS groups help
them do it.
More than 2700 local MOPS groups
are meeting across the United States and in 19 other countries. Groups of moms
meet regularly to celebrate the joys of motherhood and to encourage each other
through the challenges.
MOPS groups adapt to fit the size and "personality" of the group's
community.
For example…
- MOPS groups vary in size from 10 women to 200.
- MOPS groups meet as often as once a week, and as infrequently as
once a month; groups meet during the day, in the evenings, or on weekends.
Most groups meet during the school year, and some meet year-round.
- MOPS groups meet in small and large buildings, using the space and
resources that are available.
Groups are chartered through local faith-based organizations, including
churches and Para church ministries.
While each MOPS is different, the program is built on several foundational
principles:
- Community: MOPS provides an open, caring, and accepting atmosphere
where women can come together to share this important season of life.
- Mentoring: MOPS Mentors are
experienced mothers who help new moms grow personally and as parents.
Through the relationships built in MOPS groups, mentors share wisdom from
their own experience and practical and meaningful ways to fulfill the varied
roles of mother, woman, and wife.
- Practical Instruction: Teaching focuses on areas of common
interest, offering inspiration and information that is relevant to the life
of a mother.
- Leadership Development: MOPS groups are organized and run by
mothers of preschoolers, as well as for mothers of preschoolers. Women who
are involved in MOPS gain confidence in their leadership skills through the
training and experience they receive from MOPS.
The above principles can be carried out through different aspects of a MOPS
group:
- Discussion: The intimate and accepting atmosphere of a small group
offers moms a chance to share their successes, failures, questions, and
concerns. It is during these times that a mom realizes that she is not
alone, and lifelong friendships are formed.
- Teaching: Topics presented at MOPS meetings celebrate motherhood
and meet a mom's unique needs during this season of life.
- Creative Activities: Through creative projects and presentations,
women are encouraged to experience the sense of accomplishment that comes
with trying and finishing new things.
- MOPPETS: During most MOPS meetings, children are cared for in a
program called MOPPETS, where they experience love in a preschool-like
setting.
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