We have one going in the Phoenix area and it's worked out really well! We started with 3 moms and their kids the first time and now have around 10 regulars, with an average of 5 moms meeting each time (we've been hit hard with flu season and vacations lately). Most of the kids are in their 2's-- some just turned, some almost 3. Some of them have younger siblings who also come and are included as much as possible, and older siblings will also participate as they feel like it.
We do:
-- Hello song with each child's name in it
-- usually pick a topic for the day (counting, a letter, music, an animal)
-- try to find songs and activities that match the theme, plus some regular favorites like ring around the rosies
-- sometimes include books but have found they don't pay attention too well so we are starting to drop this a little
-- sometimes try to include a simple arts and craft but some do it, some don't
-- the felt board has been a big hit, with the kids taking turns putting objects on it during the short lesson
The class only lasts 20-30 minutes. Any more than that and they lose interest.
We bring snacks as we feel like it and have a free play while moms visit at the end. Usually lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours total, with most of it being chatting and free play.
We rotate who hosts and have it once a week. In the hot summer we had it at people's houses, but as it's getting nice out finally we may start to meet in parks sometimes. The host mom is responsible for planning the theme and activities that day.
We haven't planned any field trips due to weather but may start to plan some soon.
Hope that helps!
Darshani
We do:
-- Hello song with each child's name in it
-- usually pick a topic for the day (counting, a letter, music, an animal)
-- try to find songs and activities that match the theme, plus some regular favorites like ring around the rosies
-- sometimes include books but have found they don't pay attention too well so we are starting to drop this a little
-- sometimes try to include a simple arts and craft but some do it, some don't
-- the felt board has been a big hit, with the kids taking turns putting objects on it during the short lesson
The class only lasts 20-30 minutes. Any more than that and they lose interest.
We bring snacks as we feel like it and have a free play while moms visit at the end. Usually lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours total, with most of it being chatting and free play.
We rotate who hosts and have it once a week. In the hot summer we had it at people's houses, but as it's getting nice out finally we may start to meet in parks sometimes. The host mom is responsible for planning the theme and activities that day.
We haven't planned any field trips due to weather but may start to plan some soon.
Hope that helps!
Darshani
