I started attending The Crossing Playgroup when my eldest child was a baby. I went on to have 4 children in total, and attended for around 8 years, five of which as a member of the committee.

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When the outgoing Chair retired, I was voted as Chair and held the role for 3 years.

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During my time at The Crossing I increased members, set up a facebook page, organised a yearly trip for all the parents and children.

 

I also helped to come up with fundraising ideas, in addition to applying for grants, in order to keep the group open.

We also planned educational crafts and activities for the toddlers and held an annual Christmas Party.

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At it's prime, the group attracted up to 60 families every session.

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Being on the committee, especially as Chair, gave my a wealth of experience in the charity sector and helped me to understand charity governance, accounts, and funding.

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I had a very supportive committee that worked alongside me and the group is still growing and thriving to this day.

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The friends I made at this playgroup have supported me throughout parenthood and beyond, with many of them becoming Godparents to my children.

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Making friends as a new Mum was a huge help and support to me as a new Mum, and a "mum of many".

 

Being able to watch other parents and their children become friends for life was also a very rewarding aspect of running the group.

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My advice to every new parent, if they ask for it, is always to regularly attend a playgroup.

 

The benefits to mental health, the routine, the support ,and the social skills the children gain, are second to none.