When a group of parents and kids meet for specific duration of time, there will be problems that arise, no matter how successful the playgroup is. To manage it effectively, overcoming any potential problems in the playgroups should be a priority.
Read on to learn how to handle sensitive issues within playgroups.
Manage Behavior Problems Among Children
Make it very clear to every playgroup mum that it she is responsible for the discipline of her own child. Some kids may be clingy and extremely shy. These kids will need some time to stay close with their mums before gathering enough courage to start playing with other kids. Avoid pushing them to make friends. Instead, be encouraging and supportive to give them time to warm up to the playgroup.
There will also be unruly kids or those with aggressive behavior. Tell parents that biting, hitting and kicking will not be tolerated. When such incidents happen, the parent concerned must take the initiative to stop such misdemeanor. If the problem persists and such disruptive behavior is affecting the playgroup negatively, it may be wise to ask the parent and child to leave the group temporarily.
Resolve Personal Conflicts Between Parents
Sometimes, there may be personal conflicts between parents or disagreements among them on how the playgroup should be run. Some members may be more outspoken and appear to put themselves in charge of the group, causing resentment in other members. As always, democracy is the best policy. Before any decision is made, make sure it gets the majority vote.
Additionally, playgroup mums should avoid comparing their children. They should also not take it personally when other mums try to impose their views on others. Take these with a pinch of salt and be open to other parenting ideas. Who knows? Some of them make actually work.
Deal With Latecomers in the Playgroup
When parents have to bring children anywhere along, they sometimes end up being late. If late arrivals are becoming a problem in the playgroup, consider shifting the meeting half an hour or an hour later. The playgroup organizer can also tactfully remind members to try to be on time when sending out meeting reminders.
However, if some activities such as field trips or birthday parties have been planned, it’s best not to wait until everyone has arrived. Deal with latecomers in the playgroup by starting without them. Having missed some activities, these parents may be inspired to be more punctual in the future.
Discourage Lingering in Playgroups
It’s common for playgroup meetings to linger past the session durations. Often, late arrivals are the cause. But sometimes, the mums and kids stay on because they are having too much fun. A good solution is to extend the duration for another half an hour if everyone seems unwilling to leave after the playgroup meeting ends officially.
However, if the meeting must end by a certain time, don’t hesitate to announce diplomatically that it’s time to say goodbye. Alternatively, start picking up toys and books and clearing snacks and drinks 10 minutes before the play session concludes. The other mums should be able to take the hint and get ready to go home.
To run a playgroup effectively, recognize potential problems and find ways to overcome them. To manage sensitive issues within playgroups, talk to mums about managing kids’ behavior and possible personal conflicts between parents. There should also be solutions to deal with latecomers and lingerers in the group.
Found this article useful? Read also Starting a Playgroup, Managing a Playgroup and Preparing for a Playgroup Meeting.
References:
Carren W. Joye. A Stay-at-Home Mom’s Complete Guide to Playgroups. San Jose: Writers Club Press, 2000.
Peabody Broad, Laura and Towner Butterworth, Nancy. The Playgroup Handbook. New York: St Martin Press, 1991.
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