Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS)

MOPS is an international Christian organization that seeks to build community and provide support for mothers of infants through kindergartners. Some groups have programs especially for teen mothers and grandmothers raising grandchildren.

Local groups meet once or twice a month, in the mornings or evenings, throughout the school year. Meetings typically include a speaker or program, refreshments and time for fellowship, games or crafts. Childcare is provided during meetings.

Some groups organize extra activities such as play dates, Bible study groups or evenings out.

MOPS International dues are $20 per year; scholarships are available. Benefits include a book, a subscription to MOMSense Magazine and weekly e-mail encouragement. While your first visit is always free, most groups have dues of $4 or $5 per meeting to help cover expenses.

Here’s a list of local groups:

• FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 9-11:15 a.m. most first and third Fridays, September through May. About 95 moms attend, including a special table for grandmothers raising grandchildren. Meeting dues: $5. Meets in the First Presbyterian Church gymnasium, 9 S. Eighth Ave., Yakima. Call Julie: 307-4887.
• LOWER NACHES (MEMORIAL BIBLE CHURCH). 9-11:30 a.m. third Fridays, September through May. About 25 moms attend. Meets at Memorial Bible Church, 111 Old Stage Way, Gleed. Call Mandy Rowe, 930-6441.
• MOMS IN TOUCH INTERNATIONAL. 10:45 a.m. to noon, first Mondays of each month. East Valley group. Moms, grandmas, aunts and others are welcome to join in praying for children and the East Valley schools and staff. Bring snacks or a lunch for the kids. Baby-sitting is provided for a small fee. Terrace Heights Presbyterian Church, 4303 Maple Court, Yakima. Contact Julie Byers at 453-0741.

• MOMSNEXT. 7 p.m. Open to all mothers with children in grades K-6, and mothers of preschoolers and homeschooled children are also welcome. Free. No childcare. Meets at Westside Church, 6901 Summitview Ave., Yakima. Contact Tera at 972-3001 or terapledger@charter.net.

• MOUNTAINVIEW CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP. 6-7:30 p.m. second and fourth Wednesdays, September through May. About 15 moms attend. Meets at Mountainview Christian Fellowship, 7105 Alpine Way, Yakima. Call Tabitha at 972-3723 or Danielle at 833-2228.
• NILE VALLEY COMMUNITY CHURCH. 8:45-11:15 a.m. third Fridays, September through May. Speakers, crafts, food. Free on-site childcare. Meets at Nile Valley Community Church, 60 Bedrock Lane, Naches; 509-658-2904.
• TEEN MOPS. This group provides a non-threatening environment where teen moms are encouraged by Christian women; see Mothers of Preschoolers. Open to teen mothers through age 21; about 15 moms attend. Meetings are free, including dinner and on-site childcare. Meets at Stanton Academy Alternative School, 901 W. Whitman St., Yakima. Call Holli Wolcott at 453-4206.
• WEST SIDE BAPTIST CHURCH. 9-11 a.m. second and fourth Mondays, September through May. About 85 moms attend. Meets at West Side Baptist Church, 6901 Summitview Ave., Yakima. Call Tera at 972-3001.