The Story of the Mother Oak
When a live oak is allowed to grow to her full majesty, she becomes a Great Mother tree beckoning everyone to come rest under her branches. With a sturdy, spiral trunk and deep roots that intertwine with neighboring trees, a live oak is quite a force to be reckoned with. They are able to withstand fierce winds and live for generations... absorbing knowledge and wisdom from nature and the experiences they have with those who may dance around their trunks, feast on picnics in their shade, or take a leisurely nap among their low, strong branches....Their presence as Great Mothers for us is an important reminder about our own ability to persevere... the importance of intertwining roots...and our own knowledge, many lifetimes worth, that is often forgotten in today's busy world. This group is an opportunity for mothers to connect, intertwine their roots, remember their true nature and come in to their full majesty.
Who is this group for?
This group was created for mothers and their babies and children aged 6 and under (*older siblings are welcome, but materials and programming may not be applicable to their interests). Pregnant mamas are welcome too!
When and Where
We gather on Monday mornings from 10-12 in a beautiful location in the Richmond area. In order to protect the safety and integrity of the group, the location is private (you will receive details once you register). We will always meet in the same location to allow ourselves and our children to observe how nature changes over time and to develop a sense of “belonging.”
Early Winter 2024: November 11 - January 6 (no circle 12/23)
What is a typical meeting like?
We will meet in a beautiful natural space convenient to most of Richmond and the surrounding areas. Here we will share in circle time before the children are free to play. During free play, mothers will have a chance to forge meaningful relationships. We will provide conversation topics and journaling prompts based on lunar and astrological events or seasonal festivals. Each week, families will receive inspiration for incorporating these themes at home throughout the week. Any materials needed for special projects will be provided.
Do you really meet outside all year?
Yes! Mothers are a hardy bunch! As long as it is physically safe to be out of doors, we will meet. Spending time with your child outside in all kinds of weather builds resilience and a positive attitude. In the winter months, time spent in nature is a wonderful remedy for Seasonal Affective Disorder (something I struggle with myself). Winter is filled with magic for children! As long as you are dressed properly, you won’t regret getting outside.
**In the event of unsafe weather or driving conditions, we will delay or reschedule our meeting.
I'm already so busy! Why should I make time for this group?
As a homebody myself, I certainly understand the value of limiting commitments! Ultimately only you can decide what is best for you and your family. I believe this group can be a worthwhile commitment for mothers who are longing for community and structured time to nurture their emotions and spirit. Unlike other groups that focus mostly on the child’s experience, this group is especially designed to meet the needs of both mother and child. It is also a unique opportunity for your child to enjoy observing and interacting with a mixed-age group!
Investment
In an effort to be accessible, we offer a tiered payment system:
- Tier 1: $160 per season, this tier is for families who are currently experiencing financial abundance and feel called to support another family who needs assistance in order to participate.
- Tier 2: $120 per season, this tier is the standard cost to enroll. It covers the time I spend planning, organizing, and facilitating the program, and it covers any materials we need as well as continuing education so we can bring you the very best experience possible!
- Tier 3: $80 per season, this tier is for families who are currently experiencing financial difficulty and need community support in order to participate.
- Drop-in: $20 single date. If you would like to come and experience a play circle before committing, you are welcome!
- I also BARTER. If you are a maker or provide a service I am always open to trading. Please reach out!
If you find that you require assistance beyond tier 3, please reach out!
**Payments can be made in cash or via Venmo at your first session.
Won't the kids just run off? What about safety?
Well, yes! Of course they will run off. We will work together to set and maintain boundaries around safety. While each mother is ultimately responsible for her own child/children, I encourage us to all be on the lookout for each other's children... it takes a village. We also often have a Mother's Helper to keep an extra eye on things so we can be more engaged in meaningful conversation.
The meeting is during my baby's nap time
Did you know it’s common practice for babies and young children in Scandinavia to nap outside? You can absolutely bring along your stroller (or even a moses basket) for a portable nap! If nap time is directly before or after we meet, you could consider arriving early or staying late and going for a long walk while your baby naps in the stroller. And of course, it is always okay to hold a sleeping babe in your arms or a carrier while we meet.
HIYA! Nice to meet you!
I’m Amanda , the founder of the Mother Oak Community. I have a background in early childhood development and social work. Through my educational and professional experiences, I gained some wonderful insights into family life, child development, interpersonal communication, and the sociological and personal aspects of the motherhood experience. I’m a wife, friend, sister, daughter, and best of all, I’m a mother. I grew up in coastal Maine and felt a deep love of nature from a young age. After experiencing a difficult transition into motherhood, I found daily time spent in nature to be essential to my healing and well-being. Along the way, I realized time in nature is also essential to the well-being of my energetic, mud-loving son. Spending time in the natural world helped me to not only feel connected to everything around me, but also to understand my unique and irreplaceable role in life as a mother. Eventually I saw motherhood, with its deep connection to nature, as a profoundly sacred experience, even (and perhaps most especially) when it was messy, mundane, or downright dark and difficult. I’ve spent my motherhood journey exploring these ideas and look forward to discussing them with you!