Europe
Europe
MOPS stands for Mothers Of Preschoolers.
MOPS groups are communities that strive to meet the needs of every mother with children from birth through kindergarten and first-time pregnant mothers. MOPS recognizes that urban, suburban, and rural mothers, stay-at-home and working mothers, teen, single, and married mothers all share a similar desire to be the very best mothers they can be. MOPS groups can help!
There are more than 3900 MOPS groups meeting in the United States and in 35 countries around the world. MOPS groups meet regularly to celebrate the joys of motherhood and to encourage each other through the challenges.
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Each MOPS group adapts to fit the size and "personality" of the group's population. For example…
- MOPS groups may vary in size from 10 to 200 women.
- 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, while some meet year-round.
- MOPS groups meet in small and large buildings, using the space and resources that are available.
- MOPS groups are chartered through local faith-based organizations, including churches and parachurch ministries.
While each group is different, the MOPS 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: Mature women listen, encourage, and offer information and perspectives gained through experience.
- 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.
