Whether you have just found out you are expecting twins or triplets, or your children are just heading off to school, you are undoubtedly excited about the countless pleasures and challenges in your future. You may sometimes wonder if you can handle the responsibilities of parenting two or more children born at the same time. At times, you may be flooded with emotions, both positive and negative, as you realize that your life has changed forever. And as you marvel at your children's development when they enter each new phase in their lives, you may question if you will make the right decisions that will help your children grow as individuals while not breaking the unique bonds of a multiple birth relationship.
One of the best ways to feel more confident about yourself and your role as a mother, father, or guardian of multiples is to talk with other parents in a similar position--mothers and guardians who understand exactly what you are going through and who know how comforting it can be to talk with someone who has experienced the same things.
One of the best things a parent of twins, triplets, or other High Order Multiples (HOM) can do for themself is join a local Mothers of Twins Club (MOTC), Mothers of Multiples Club (MOM), or Parents of Multiples Club (POM).
Local MOTCs or POM Clubs provide group and one-on-one support. Clubs usually meet once a month, with meeting topics ranging from informative guest speakers and workshops, to informal round table discussions and social activities. Most clubs also share information with their members through a local newsletter and online forum. In addition, many clubs sponsor special activities, such as holiday parties and summer picnics for the entire family, appreciation days, mom and tots day outings, playgroups, and used clothing, toy, nursing, and equipment sales.
Local clubs promote friendship and networking by bringing mothers of multiples together to work on special projects benefiting their communities. Some clubs fundraise for local charities, help out at telethons, donate items to social service agencies, or pledge their talents and services. Many clubs also promote service within their club, through Big/Little Sister mentoring, Meals for Moms, and assistance to those with special needs children. Local Mothers of Twins Clubs and Parents of Multiples Clubs give their members an opportunity to network and share in the joy and challenges faced by parents today. But most importantly, members discover they are not alone! The best advice you could EVER take regarding your multiples is to contact the local Mothers of Twins Club or Parents of Multiples Club nearest you!
Membership in the Indiana Federation of Mothers of Twins Clubs is through one of the local club affiliates. Membership dues, payable through the local club, are $5.00 a year. By joining an IFMOTC-affiliated local Mothers of Twins Club in the community, members not only enjoy the many benefits of local club membership, but they also gain the many benefits and services of IFMOTC membership. Should an individual be interested in IFMOTC membership and live more than 30 miles from an affiliated club, member-at-large membership is available.
What Can IFMOTC Offer You? |
The Indiana Federation of Mothers of Twins Clubs, Inc. offers a variety of member services and benefits:
IFMOTC provides information on child development and parenting, especially with regard to twins and higher order multiples - IFMOTC maintains contact with doctors, researchers, social service agencies, and educators in order to promote awareness of issues specifically related to multiple birth children
- IFMOTC publishes a quarterly newsletter, Twindiana, to keep members informed and to help member clubs throughout Indiana stay in touch with each other.
- IFMOTC holds an annual convention in June which features educational workshops, social activities, business meetings, and informal networking among members and member clubs.
- IFMOTC supports an annual philanthropic project to raise funds in support of an organization benefitting families or children.
- IFMOTC awards scholarships to mothers of multiples committed to continuing their education.
- IFMOTC provides information on the activities of other multiple birth groups, especially the National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs, Inc.
Most important, IFMOTC gives women across the state of Indiana the opportunity to share in the unique and special bond of being a mother of multiples.