How to Create Community for Your Child

Our son, Kayman, first showed up at the East Bay Church of Religious Science with guitar in hand at 18 months old. He headed straight to the band. Without hesitation, the bass player, Bobby, welcomed him as if they had some prior agreement. The choir and band has became his community. They mentor and guide him. The members tell him how wonderful he is, weekly affirming that Kayman is a light in this world. Kayman feels safe and free with this group. When it is time to leave, Bobby always says, "Now, listen to Mommy and Daddy, Okay?" This community of angels has been so valuable to us. With families spread out all over the world, it is important to figure out alternative ways to create community for our kids.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    
   Kayman & Bobby

   Once you start a connection, the children are going to want to keep it going. That said, find something that you as the parent would love to do weekly. This activity could be anything (church, sporting event, neighborhood gathering, clubs or a group you create).

2. 
    
   Children's Music Program

   Make sure that the values of the prospective community are in alignment with your own. If you find, for example, that the group does not view children as these incredible beings in little bodies, find another group.

3. The group should allow for a certain amount of freedom. The children will not want to attend if they are constrained to a chair for hours. There should a balance of serious, fun and unstructured activities.

4. Make sure that the location is convenient. Otherwise, you will get tired of driving week after week. The time of day should also be a consideration. Avoid meetings that gather too early in the morning or too late at night. Either you or the child will complain about going even if it is a great group.

5. 
    
   After Choir's Performance at Temescal Street Fair

   Most of all, have fun!
   
   (You may make a donation to Kayman's Music Fund below to support children's music programs)

Resources

• Author's Website
• East Bay Church of Religious Science Music Ministry
• Bobby Eddins, Bassist
• Make a Donation to Kayman's Music Fund

[chiuche]

on 6/21/2009 Great! Thanks