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Neighbor News

Breathing Space: Spirituality for Stay-at-Home Parents

A new Progressive Faith Community start-up in Leesburg called: On Earth. In affiliation with the United Church of Christ.

This group is for those who might identify themselves as “Spiritual But Not Religious” and/or “Theologically Progressive.” As parents of children in Loudoun County, there exists much concern about our Kindergartners having to absorb a full-days worth of curriculum in only three hours. Many of the classrooms have had to eliminate the playtime and arts & crafts activities (the very means through which young children learn) in order to meet state requirements. Breathing Space is designed to provide three things:

1) Playtime- A playroom filled with toys (most appropriate ages are 2-6 years old) is available for kids to simply play. That’s their only job. To play with other kids in an unstructured environment and to simply have fun! At least two certified childcare providers will be present at all times.

2) Adult Conversation- Many stay-at-home parents crave opportunities to spend time with other adults throughout the day. While the kids are playing, the grown-ups can talk. With progressive spirituality (think Oprah’s Super Soul Sunday) as the umbrella topic, we will use Podcasts, TED Talks, book reads, etc. to help facilitate our conversation.

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3) Quiet & Contemplative Time- When you’re home all day with small children, it can get pretty loud. Finding a few moments to be still and quiet can help add balance and sanity to our everyday lives. There will be an opportunity for individuals to take a turn spending quiet/contemplative time in the Breathing Space Meditation Room or outside, walking the Labyrinth. The meditation room contains books, devotionals, short ipod meditations, and themed/interactive prayer stations.

Please visit the Breathing Space Page at: http://beingone.wix.com/onearth#!meetups/cg9h

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