A Foundation of Strength

I remember all the questions I had when my daughter was an infant; how lost I felt about so many things.  She is 14 months now and I still reach out to my favorite moms with questions and concerns.  I am so glad new parents have their own favorite parents to reach out to for advice as well, with our new Mentorship Program.  It’s rewarding to see the many parents of older children acting as mentors to new parents and help them along their journeys.

One of the new parents in our Mentorship Program had many questions about Early Intervention when her daughter was born.  Her very first IFSP meeting was fast approaching, and she kept probing other moms, does a newborn really need Special Instruction, how much time should she be in therapy for, and the like.  The great thing about being part of the community, everyone is ready to offer their opinions, but everyone has a different experience.  We were able to match this new mom with an amazing mentor who helped explain what a child should be getting from Early Intervention.  She even accompanied the new family to their IFSP meeting, and together they were able to get for the new baby all the services she needed, at times that were suitable for the parents!

I hope that everyone feels as close and connected to their mentors, as this new family did with theirs.  They remain in contact, and I hope their bond continues to grow.  I hope that all the connections made at GiGi’s Playhouse become a foundation of strength our children will grow up with.

Larissa Rosa, New Parent Group, Parent Host