Waltham Cooperative Playgroup

The group's mission is parent education, parent support, and positive child and parent interaction. I to I is a parent-driven cooperative which runs two 16 week semesters during the year. It's a great place to attend with your children (ages newborn-5) and it's fun for children and parents alike. Families choose one or two days-- W/Th and the session runs from 9:15-11:15 on Wednesdays & Thursdays.

I to I is held at First Lutheran Church of Waltham, located at 6 Eddy St. (We are not affiliated with the church, but rent space from them.) For additional information please email [email protected]

In order to help children get comfortable with their peers and other adults, the day follows an enjoyable routine. Since the group is run as a co-op, parents are assigned roles to help the day run smoothly. Opening Assistants set up a craft and free play toys for parent and child to work on together when they arrive. After clean up, the group then moves into a circle time, which is led by a different parent each week. Circle time is used to help children get used to the idea and does not focus on a strict curriculum. It ends with a transition song, sending the children to wash hands for snack. Snacks for the children are provided by the organization and one parent is in charge of bringing a snack for the parents. The children sit together to socialize and enjoy snack while the adults take a rest too. After snack time comes the part of the morning many families enjoy the most. Parents separate into another room for some adult discussion time, while children practice gentle separation (as parents are right in the next room and easily available if needed). 4 parent Assistants remain with the children during this time, and kids get to work on gross motor skills. This means fun toys such as a slide and see-saw, push toys and ride on cars, grocery store and building items, plus much more. As free time and discussion come to an end, everyone helps to put toys away, then the group sings a good bye song. The Closing Assistants finish cleaning and ensure the space is ready for the next day. Families are welcome to tour and join for a day to see if the program is a good fit for them.