Discussion Groups
*These Groups were offered in the Fall 2007 session.
To register please see the current newsletter or contact us at mccnj@westfieldnj.com.
Another Baby in the House*
Having another baby is a different journey altogether from the first or even second time around. This group explores the new joys and concerns an expanding family can bring. Some of the many topics for discussion may include expectations vs. reality, sharing attention, adjusting, sibling dynamics, post-partum depression, and time management.
Mommy & Me – Crafts*
Join Anna, kindergarten teacher, and Susan, school librarian, for some fun with your child. Each week there will be a story and a related craft/snack. Activities should be appropriate for 2 1/2 to 5 year olds. Babysitting will be available for siblings. There is a $25 supplies fee. Adjustments will be made at the end of the session because as of the newsletter deadline we were still in the planning stages and have no guidelines. When registering please note any food allergy and severity.
Knitting Group*
A skilled knitting instructor will teach this class. This group is designed for those interested in learning to knit, or those who want to improve their knitting skills. You will learn about different needles, yarn, and how to read a pattern. You will have an opportunity to chose your own pattern, and work individually with the instructor. This is a beginner’s class, but we welcome knitters at all skill levels. There may be a small fee for instruction; you will need to purchase your own yarn and needles.
A to Z
Do you have little projects but no time to complete them without interruption? Well now is your chance! Sign up for A-Z and bring your project such as organizing photos, clipping coupons, scrap-booking or simply balancing the checkbook or reading the newspaper. Just bring yourself and something to work on for 90 minutes and enjoy chatting with other moms while you get those projects completed!!
Mommy and Baby
If you are a new mom who’d like to get together with other new moms and their babies then this is the group for you. This group for first-time moms is a great way to make new friends! Topics include what our new role is, how has it changed us, birth/adoption experience, questions about feeding, discipline, scheduling, sleeping and more. New moms with 0-9 month olds welcome. We support breast and bottle-feeding.
Raising a Resilient Child*
Fostering strength, hope, and optimism in your child. Some topics for discussion include Empathy, the power of parent's words, discipline and parenting, making decisions and solving problems, learning from mistakes, nurturing islands of competence. The group is based on the best-selling book by psychologists Robert Brooks and Sam Goldstein, although you don't need to read the book for this group. Practical tools for all aged children.
How Do You….Practical Tips for Everyday*
Get advice from group members and "experts" on how to handle everyday issues. Our initial ideas are meal planning, discipline, getting organized and how to pamper yourself. We will brainstorm topics to meet the group needs the first week. From there Sue and Tina will do research and plan activities according to the groups needs.
Systematic Training for Effective Parenting (S.T.E.P.)
Are you at your wits’ end with your child/children? Do you wish you could communicate better with your family? Do you find yourself saying “no” all too often and want to find a better way? This nationally recognized program is an easy, effective way to guide you and your family through the rough spots as well as build a foundation for smooth spots. The system trains you in techniques that start with the young child and continue to be effective as your child grows. These same principles also build better communication between spouses. Taught by a licensed clinical social worker specializing in children. There is a $100 fee for this group which includes 6 weeks of specialized training and the S.T.E.P. book.
Women's Forum
Sometimes it's easy to get lost in the daily routine. This Mothers' Center signature discussion group explores the many roles of womanhood. The topics will be set each week by the group members, and focuses on finding joy everyday, building friendships, and living beyond a routine.