February 20, 2024: Parenting in the early years is not for the faint of heart! At its best, being a mom of a toddler is full of laughter and milestones. But there are days when being a young mother can feel isolating. Many moms have moments when they ask themselves, “Am I alone in this feeling? Is my child the only one who suddenly decides he won’t get dressed right before we have to be out the door?” At St. Paul’s Preschool this year, a new group was formed to help young moms bond and support each other. “Mommy and Me from 2 to 3” meets each Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., and is led by Jen Archey, our Preschool Director. In this small group, parents play with their children, engage songs and crafts, and get pointers on child development. More importantly, moms of toddlers are bonding with one another, sharing stories, and realizing that they are not alone in navigating long days, potty training mishaps, and a few sleepless nights. “Sometimes all we need to dig in and keep trying is for someone to see us, and say, ‘You are doing a great job!’ or ‘You can do this!’” says Jen Archey, who loves leading the group each week. “The kindness that these women share for each other, and each other’s children, may seem like a small thing. But the work of Jesus is in the small things, and I am grateful to be a part of it.”
