Article by Jeannie Briones
TULALIP, Washington – Parenting is a tough, often overwhelming job that takes a lot of skill and patience. It has been referred to as the toughest job for which we receive the least training. Mothers, expectant mothers, grandmothers, or any women who take care of children can benefit from extra support and encouragement – and they can find that much-needed support at Tulalip.
M.O.M.s (Making Opportunities for Mothers) is a support group for tribal and non-tribal females of all ages who are caregivers of children. The group meets every Tuesday from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Tulalip beda?chelh conference room. There is no obligation or application process, it’s very simple, all you have to do is show up.
Designed to provide support for female caregivers, the group meets in a casual environment, where women feel safe enough to talk about their concerns and share their experiences with child rearing.
“Our focus of the group is to offer support,” emphasized Teri Wood, beda?chelh Child and Family Therapist. “It’s a place for female caregivers to come and talk about real life.”
M.O.M.s group coordinators, Teri and Tamara Brushert, Administrative Assistant for beda?chelh, encourage open discussion on subjects like self-care, safety, culture, and community, allowing participants to gain knowledge and skills that enhance positive parenting practices.
Other benefits of the M.O.M.s group include monthly guest speakers and a free home cooked meal. And to make it even more worry-free, children are welcome to attend with the caregivers supervision.
If you would like more information, please Tulalip beda?chelh at 360-716-3284.
Jeannie Briones: 360-716-4188; jbriones@tulalipbribes-nsn.gov