How do you create an uproar among parents and caregivers in Washington State all at once? Threaten our paid family leave. Last fall, Washington State’s Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) made local and national headlines when it was projected to hit an 8.7 million dollar deficit by year-end.
For young parents embarking on the journey of parenthood during a time when many of their peers are in a different phase of life, having a community of support with others who “get it” is even more essential. We recently partnered with Southwest Youth and Family Services to offer a PEPS Group for young moms in Southwest King County.
Check out our five most popular articles published on our Highs and Lows Blog in 2022!
Before participating in a PEPS Group, many people believe PEPS is just another parenting class. In reality, PEPS is so much more than that. It’s a space to build community, have real, raw conversations, and connect with other parents going through the same phase of life. Archana Agrawal shares her experience in a PEPS Newborn Group and how her expectations changed after joining a group.
A first birthday is an exciting celebration for a child. It marks the beginning of their journey as a toddler, a time when they’ll begin to learn more about themselves and the world around them. For many parents, relatives, and friends, a first birthday is an excellent opportunity to support a child’s early development through thoughtful gifts.
It’s been a busy year for PEPS! As we wrap up 2022, our Executive Director Dana Guy is reflecting on the progress we made in 2022 and the ways we’ve adapted to (yet another) year of unpredictability. Thanks to our incredible community of supporters, we’ve taken some big steps forward in everything from expanding our programs to launching into advocacy work. Read Dana’s letter on our blog!
Parenting is full of decisions — some big, some small. Some choices will be more monumental than others. But for the daily decisions like which bottle to use, developmentally appropriate toys, and more, Childish Things resale boutique (a PEPS sponsor!) has the experience and perspective to help you make the right choice for your child and family. Read more on our blog.
PEPS is best known for our newborn parent support groups. But did you know we have Baby Peppers for parents of older babies (5-12 months) too? You might think Newborn PEPS is enough – but in our recent blog post, Annie Garrett, PEPS alum and Group Leader, explores the unique benefits of joining a Baby Peppers group during the challenging “post-postpartum” period.
As a group leader you create a safe space where parents can become parents together, where they can say raw feelings out loud, connect and build community is critical. Get inspired by Alison’s, Cindy’s, Chelsea’s and Carolyn’s take on co-leading their PEPS Groups.
Licensed psychotherapist, Julie Ellett, shares her perspective on what it’s like to parent an adolescent and why supporting parents in this parenting stage is so critical to the well-being of their teen and family.