We've had many questions about why Play-n-Learn was put on hold this year.  Some of these reasons included: 1) loss of effectiveness and focus because the ministry became so large; 2) workload for "Durbie" was too much (and, in this format, is too much for even a team of people).  After multiple discussions with moms and taking time to pray about Play-n-Learn, we want to affirm the value of this ministry to young moms and their children, keeping our priorities of:

• Relationship-building & fellowship for moms
• Socialization for children
• Gospel-bridge for evangelism and connection to other Parkside ministries
  
  

In order to address the concerns that caused us to put Play-n-Learn on hold, we sense the Lord's leading to simplify the ministry, beginning with the name & structure.  Play-n-Learn will now be called Play Groups, and it will meet on the 1st Tuesday morning of each month, beginning November 5th.  It will be for children birth-5 years of age. Here are some NEW details:

1. Play Groups will meet in the Lower Level of the Commons at Parkside Church from 10-noon.  We will be utilizing a "Room Rotation" model, where four rooms will have different "play" themes as well as represent different geographic areas from which our families come.  This will allow moms to get to know other moms from areas near their homes, faciitating relationships beyond Play Groups.  We will have a Parkside mom who is a designated "room mom" for each room.  Items in rooms will include books, puzzles, role-playing toys, dress-up clothes, and maybe even some crafts that go along with that room's particular theme.
   
   
2. Moms and children would pick one room to go to on each Play Group date and then rotate to different rooms throughout the year.  Of course, if children have a favorite room theme, rotation is not required!
   
   
3. Play time will go from approximately 10:00-11:30, followed by an opportunity for moms to enjoy lunch together in LL33-34.  Moms should pack lunches for their families.  Tables and chairs will be set up, or for those who enjoy "picnicking," we'll have large blankets placed on the floor where moms and kids can gather.  We recognize the value in children having a busy morning, followed by full tummies, so that moms can get them home for afternoon naps/quiet time!

Please contact Kelly Coy if you:

• are a Parkside member and you'd like to talk about being a "room mom"
• have questions

 
We also have a new plan for Lunch Bunch.