Mother’s Day Out, a daycare program sponsored by Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church, is preparing to commemorate 10 years serving the LOU community.

The program, which operates on Mondays and Wednesdays, is offered to parents each year as a way for them to make time for running errands, doctor appointments and the like. Its hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the program operates from September to May. Children who are between one year old and walking and four years old are welcome to participate, according to a statement from the program.

“It’s a great program to have, because I feel like there’s not enough options for parents if they don’t want to send their children to full-time daycare but they still want them to interact socially,” Lauren Hodge, program director, said. “I just think we need more options for parents, and I think it’s so sad that people are put on wait lists.”

The Mother’s Day Out program does not have a set curriculum, but children are coached on their letters, numbers, colors, shapes and other building blocks of education. In addition, they are treated to a daily story time, engage in various arts and crafts and have a music time.  

Outside play is held when the weather cooperates. Holidays, such as Halloween, Christmas and Valentine’s Day are celebrated with parties or carnivals.

Providing a more laid-back atmosphere, coupled with the extended hours, Hodge said, encourages children to socialize without becoming overwhelmed. Seventeen children are in the program right now, with room for an additional three, Hodge said.

“That’s how the children make friends, and that’s how a lot of the moms become friends as well, through our kids,” she said. “I think we’re a good, laid-back program, which some parents really like. A lot of people do like having structure, but I feel like we’re more easygoing.”

A day at Mother’s Day Out includes a snack about 9:30 a.m., followed by lunch at 11:30 a.m. and rest time at 12:15 p.m. each day.

Active St. John Parishioners have first priority, and all others are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Parents must pay a registration fee, which covers basic program costs, according to a statement from the program.

For questions concerning costs and other requirements, contact Hodge at 662-816-2454, or via email at lshodge78@yahoo.com.