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Hey fabulous moms! So, you've decided to venture beyond bedtime stories and dive into the thrilling world of adult conversation. Welcome to the ultimate step-by-step guide on how to start a book club because, let's face it, sometimes we need more than mom-versations about snack choices and playdate schedules.
Step 1: Define Your Purpose (Because "Me Time" is a Thing) Ask yourself, "Why on Earth am I doing this?" Maybe it's to escape the kid chaos for a hot minute or to rediscover your love for something that doesn't involve talking animals. Go deep, mama. Deep like the bottom of the laundry pile.
Step 2: Determine the Logistics Decide how often you can sneak away from snack duty. Virtual or in-person? Weigh the pros and cons of leaving the house versus hiding in the closet with a good book. It's all about balance.
Step 3: Identify Potential Members Text your mom friends, that mom from soccer practice, and maybe even the mom you bonded with at the paediatricians office. Anyone who's ever needed a break from the Paw Patrol theme song is game. Non-parents are welcome, too, obvs.
Step 4: Set Up a Communication Platform Pick a platform for your bookish conversations. Whether it's WhatsApp or Facebook, find a place where you can share bookish memes, talk about your new book boyfriend, and vent about that elusive "me time."
Step 5: Create a Reading Schedule Plan your readings like you plan school lunches – strategically. Make sure it's something you can devour in between nap times and PTA meetings.
Step 6: Decide on Meeting Formats Structured discussions? Free-for-all? Assign roles if you're feeling like a Pinterest mom or just let it flow like spilled apple juice on the kitchen floor. It's a book club, not a Martha Stewart Living photoshoot.
Step 7: Choose Your First Book Select a book that won't make you question your life choices. Think relatable, not too heavy, and maybe a hint of romance – because why not indulge in a little escapism?
Step 8: Plan the First Meeting Set a date, time, and venue – preferably one where you won't be interrupted by demands for snacks or assistance in the bathroom. Introduce yourselves, share some mom wisdom, and pretend you're not wearing yesterday's yoga pants.
Step 9: Create a Welcome Packet Develop a welcome packet or purchase a pre-made starter kit that includes essential information about the book club - like this one!
Step 10: Promote Inclusivity Motherhood is isolating enough. No one wants to feel left out. Foster a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Encourage members to share their thoughts and be open to diverse perspectives. Make sure everyone feels comfortable expressing their opinions. If you want to track your reading in more depth, try these themed digital reading journals: Art Nouveau or Coquette.
There you have it, supermoms – your guide to starting a book club that won't add stress to your mom life. May your discussions be therapeutic, your coffee be strong, and your bedtime routine go smoother than a well-written plot twist. Happy reading, you fabulous book-loving mamas!
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