MOPS groups are communities that strive to meet the needs of every
mom with children from birth through 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 can help!
 There
are more than 3900 MOPS groups meeting across 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.
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.
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