PARENTS AND TOTS GATHERING AGAIN
Popular Weekly Get-Together Is Back

It’s a time to play, a time to sing and dance, a time to learn, and a time to make new friends.

The folks at St. Andrew’s Wesley United Church have relaunched their Parent and Tot Gathering, taking place every Wednesday from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Minister Jen Cunnings leads an interactive story-telling session with felt-board illustrations.

Jen Cunnings, Minister with Children, Families and Pastoral Care, began the program in May of 2009 as an outreach to the West End and Yaletown communities after recognizing a need and hearing of the social isolation often experienced by parents in our community.

The purpose of the program has been to offer a safe place for children to play, explore and socialize, and to offer a place of support and connection for their parents and caregivers.

Nurses from Three Bridges Public Nursing join the gathering at least once a month to share resources and support with parents. Librarians from the Vancouver Public Library also attend to share stories and discuss the library system’s many resources.

The first hour of the Parent and Tot Gathering is for free play with a storybook area, ride ‘em toy corners, lots of imaginative play, building blocks, a small slide, tunnel and tent and a special corner for young infants.

Everybody dance now! Parents and tots alike join in on the fun.

Free play is followed by an invitation to share a snack that the church provides, and then a story time, using felt boards, puppets and story books to engage the children.

There is a singing session that includes playing with a parachute and doing some simple movements with scarves.

Volunteers from the church provide hospitality, ensuring that there is coffee and tea available along with some special treats. There is always an honorary grandparent available to offer comfort and a cuddle for parent or child.

All are welcome. There is no entrance fee, but the church appreciates donations to cover the costs of refreshments.

Parents looking for something new and fun to enjoy with your tots, drop by at 1022 Nelson (keep an eye out for the signage on the sidewalk) and join the fun.