MOPS GROUP
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
(CHILD-RELATED)
You will sign your children in, and then take them to the age-appropriate room where MOPPETS workers will be ready to care for them. Every child will receive an identification wristband, and the mother will receive a matching wristband with the corresponding number. Rest assured that these are paid workers who have undergone an application process including a background check, which is currently being completed. If you know someone who is not involved in MOPS but who loves children and has the time to help, please refer him or her to us. We strive to hire the best workers to care for our children! A member of the steering team oversees the MOPPETS program. BE SURE TO THANK THE WORKERS AFTER EVERY MEETING--they make MOPS & MOMS possible! You will pick up your children in the same room where you dropped them off.
Can I keep my child with me during the meeting?
Out of consideration for all moms attending MOPS, we ask that children 6 months and older be placed in their age-appropriate classrooms during meetings. (Older infants who are still nursing may be brought in to nurse, but should be returned to their class when finished.) This is not only for the safety of the children, but also helps us in our goal of encouraging moms to have time for themselves. Our meetings provide a very rare and special time for moms to have a break from their mothering responsibilities. Children in the meetings often are a distraction to mothers and guest speakers. Remember--all children are under the supervision of quality MOPPETS workers, who will notify you if any problems arise with your child(ren). They are in good hands! We have also found that the children have a wonderful time at MOPPETS!
What if my child cries for me?
Many children will cry for a few minutes when first dropped off, but most soon look forward to MOPPETS. However, if your child cries for more than 15 minutes or seems inconsolable, we will let you know. You may then go to your child's MOPPETS room and stay with your child while you try to calm him or her down.
Can I see my child during the meeting?
Please do not check on your child during the meeting. If a child sees Mommy, he or she is likely to become upset (and may possibly start a chain reaction among the other children). You will be notified immediately if you are needed!
Are the children in groups at MOPPETS?
The children are divided by age so they can participate in appropriate activities. Infants are in our nursery, and one-year-olds are in our toddler room. Two, three and four-year-olds are divided between our 2 preschool classes. If you strongly feel that your child should be assigned to a different age group, please contact the MOPPETS Coordinator.
What do they do at MOPPETS?
There are no planned activities for the infants, and they remain in the nursery throughout the meeting time to play and be cuddled and loved (though a MOPPETS worker may occasionally take an unhappy baby for a stroll through the halls). There is a Biblically based curriculum developed by MOPS International for ages 2-5 years. Weather permitting, the three and four-year old classes spend some time on the fenced-in playground.
What should my child bring?
Babies and toddlers still in diapers need to bring a diaper bag with plenty of diapers and wipes, as well as a change of clothes plus a bottle or spill-proof cup. PLEASE be sure that all bags, bottles and cups are labeled with your child's name! While children need to bring their own water or juice, a snack will be provided. DUE TO SEVERE ALLERGIES, MILK IS ONLY ALLOWED IN THE NURSERY CLASSROOM. If your child is potty training, please bring a change of clothes "just in case" (and be sure the MOPPET worker is aware of the situation!) We encourage your child to leave toys, blankets, etc. at home to avoid losing them, but if they can't separate from you without a "lovey," they may bring it with them.
What if my child is sick?
If your child gets sick during the meeting, we will ask you to take him or her home. If you suspect your child is sick beforehand, PLEASE do not bring him or her to the meeting! We know that you may really need and/or want to come to MOPS that day, but we appreciate your cooperation in keeping all of our children healthy by not bringing a child who may be sick. He or she should remain at home where they can rest comfortably. We follow the same guidelines used by Fairfax Community Church to help you in making this decision. PLEASE KEEP YOUR CHILD HOME WITH ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS:
* Have a fever or have had a fever anytime within the last 24 hours, regardless of illness
* Have had diarrhea or have been vomiting in the last 24 hours
* Have been sick and have not been on an antibiotic for at least 24 hours
* Have discharge in or around the eyes
* Have green or yellow runny nose
* Coughing frequently and excessively
* Have a communicable disease