MOPS is a haven for busy moms. MOPS began in 1973 when a small group of moms met in a local church near Denver, CO, to share their common needs. Today, approximately 2500 groups meet in the United States, Canada, and fourteen other countries, reaching more than 100,000 women and their families, providing a caring, accepting atmosphere for today's mothers to grow and share their experiences with other women.

MOPS groups exist to support every mother of preschoolers and adapt to fit the size and "personality" of the group's community.

For example…
MOPS groups vary in size from 10 women to 200.
MOPS groups meet as often as once a week, and as infrequently as once a month; groups meet during the day, in the evenings, or on weekends. Most groups meet during the school year, and some meet year-round.

MOPS groups meet in small and large buildings, using the space and resources that are available.

Groups are chartered through local faith-based organizations, including churches and parachurch ministries.

While each MOPS group is different, there are several foundational principles on which the ministry is built:

Community: MOPS provides an open, caring, and accepting atmosphere, where women can come together to share this important season of life.

Mentoring: A MOPS Mentor is an experienced woman who helps new moms grow personally and as parents. Through the relationships built in MOPS groups, a mentor shares wisdom from her own experience and practical and meaningful ways to fulfill the varied roles of mother, woman, and wife.

Practical Instruction: Since many moms who attend MOPS do not attend a church, a teaching format of topical interest is given from a biblical perspective. This style provides a practical Christianity that allows a non-Christian woman to feel comfortable in a MOPS group. MOPS is not a Bible study.

Leadership Development: Not only are MOPS groups specifically for mothers of preschoolers, meetings are organized and run by mothers of preschoolers, who gain confidence in their leadership skills through training and experience they receive through this ministry. These women often move into other areas of leadership in their church or community after graduating from MOPS.

These principles can be carried out through several aspects of a MOPS group:

Discussion: The intimate and accepting atmosphere of a small group offers moms a chance to share their successes, questions, and concerns. It is during these times that a mom realizes that she is not alone, and lifelong friendships are formed.

Teaching: Presentations from MOPS Mentors or other speakers offer inspiration and information that is relevant to the life of a mother. Topics celebrate motherhood and meet a mom's unique needs during this season of life.

Creative Activities: Moms may be given the opportunity to express themselves creatively during MOPS meetings. Through craft projects and life skills presentations, women are encouraged to experience the sense of accomplishment that comes with trying and finishing new things.

MOPPETS: Children are cared for during MOPS meetings in a parallel program called MOPPETS, where they experience love in a preschool-like setting.