As we unfolded and laid out our blankets this past week, ensuring that the edges touched to make a cosy spot to sit, I put the families enrolled in the Forest Friends baby class on the spot. I asked them “When someone asks you what this program is all about, what do you say?”. They gave me the rundown, saying that they mention the stories, the songs, and the sensory play, but then they surprised me with an additional note.
“And the socialization!”
“For the babies?” I asked.
“Well yeah, but for the moms, too.”
“It’s like a mom group!”, someone else added.
Something you need to know about me: I’m a crier. I could cry at the drop of a hat. That, and my husband says I could make friends with a wall. I just really like people! Moving on… My heart was so full in that moment and I felt my eyes well up. Without knowing it, that was what I wanted to hear. That was my intention, my goal, after all in starting…. well, all of this. Everything I offer at You & I is created with the intent of connection and support.
Yes, the programs are for the children in the way that "Wheels on the Bus" is a children’s song and learning about the metamorphosis of a moon moth is something adults already know about. Parents don’t need to play with cloud sand, or bubbles, or lean into process play to meet their developmental needs; that part is for the children and babies. The conversations that arise and the connections made between the parents and caregivers during the weekly classes are for the adults. I’ve seen parents meet in the first class, share snacks throughout the weeks that follow, talk about their favorite famer’s markets and hiking spots, and by the last class I’ve heard all about the stroller walks they planned and the coffee dates they set up. By the time the eight-week program is over they’ve become friends, and I had the privilege of watching it unfold in front of my very eyes. I know no one needs me to forge a friendship or introduce them to somebody in hopes a connection is made – that’s not my role – but I do have the pleasure of lovingly creating a space for these parents and caregivers to come together with opportunity for connection. The sensory play and snack-sharing is just a bonus!
Little Songs Family Music Classes is the shortest program that I offer at 45-minutes per class for only six weeks. The nature programs are both eight weeks and while the baby class is only 45 minutes, families tend to stick around closer to an hour. While I love the music classes, I don’t love how rushed they feel. Families don’t get much of a chance to get to know one another and find connections, so I’m considering making a change to eight, one-hour classes! A 45-minute music class with a reserved 15 – 20 minutes to talk and have unstructured play with class materials. Let me know your thoughts! I’d love to hear them.
The basis is that it’s not just about what your child can learn or gain from You & I’s programs. It’s about you too! These programs are as much for the adults as they are for the children and I want you to enjoy them too. So, if you’ve dropped-in to a class or enrolled in an entire session, I want your feedback! If you loved it, great! If you think there are some things that could be better, definitely let me know. I want to constantly improve the programs and services that I offer, but in order to effectively do so I need to know your thoughts. Email me at floranye@youandibgky.com with feedback on a class or program you enrolled in and receive a $5 off coupon for your help!!
I so appreciate you, friends. Until next time!
Flora
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