Children and adults gathered around a colorful play tunnel, with some playing with a toy and looking at a book while others are observing a baby on a mat.
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Playful Beginnings

Support and play group for the postpartum mom and baby 0-12 months old.

Held in-person at Faith United Methodist Church in Orland Park, registration REQUIRED

Groups led by Armi Grace Petersen MS, OTR/L occupational therapist

Children's toys and games scattered on table surfaces with colorful city and road maps, including a small toy robot, building blocks, maracas, and various small figures and objects.
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More about the group

This community playgroup provides families a safe space to learn about baby's developmental milestones (tummy time, rolling, crawling, early walking, etc.) while bonding with baby. This class encourages sensory play with age appropriate toys. Infant massage techniques will also be introduced. Support and education for parents also available. 

For ages 0-12 months (pre-walking babies)

Toys and equipment are provided. 

Free developmental screenings are available.

$30 Registration Fee covers baby (0-12 months old) and 2 adults

Held at Faith United Methodist Church in Orland Park, IL

Black and white abstract image with a curved black shape on the top half and a white shape on the bottom half.
Two babies on a play mat with toys, ribbons, and a pink blanket.

Upcoming Group Dates:

𑁍 July 18th 9:30-10:20am (Lemonade Theme)

𑁍 October 17th 9:30-10:20am (Halloween Theme)

Register for Playful Beginnings

Additional group offerings

Upcoming events
Playful Toddlers
Starting Solids

  • "Armi Grace from Motivated OT Mama, has been a breath of fresh air to be around. We joined in on her crawlers play date group and learned many tips on how to motivate on little one to crawl with the proper form. Armi Grace walked us through on the tools and methods we needed to encourage our little one to build her confidence to be mobile. We’re delighted we found a positive reassuring OT to ease our worries and lovingly answer our questions. I came in as a new mom and appreciated the environment she provided with a welcoming energy."

    - A, 1st time mom

  • "Armi Grace made the most welcoming environment for her postpartum and play group. She provided fun toys with new ideas for the babies and then snacks and conversation for the mamas. She kept conversations flowing and made everyone feel welcome to share. She was there for the moms in more ways than one and it felt so good to be out of the house with my baby in a safe space. I can’t wait to go to more!"

    - T, 2nd time mom

  • "If you’re reading this an wondering if you should book with Armi Grace, here is your sign to DO IT! Armi Grace not only knows her stuff when it comes to OT - and gives advice with so much care and knowledge that you truly feel safe talking to her about any issue you can think up, but she also is just an amazing human who is beyond thoughtful and caring for new moms. I’m not kidding when I say I think a session with Armi Grace can brighten any spirits because she’s just so kind, so judge free, so supportive and really does the thinking for you so you can truly take something off your plate. That’s so rare - especially as a Type A girlie - to let someone else walk you through a worry in such a safe and trusting way. Also, she prepared an easy craft for my baby, took candid photos and videos in a cute and darling way, and made sure I had a snack and water. How incredibly amazing is that?! That’s the support we all need in post partum and Armi Grace provides it ten fold."

    E, 2nd time mom

  • "Armi's class is just great! I love the concept, moms get support while babies have play/feed/belly time. You can ask all the questions what come to your pospartum mama’s brain, share your worries or just listen to others. We shared how we take care of us-moms and I met there one beautiful soul and became friend with her, that was amazing bonus:). I recommend this class to every new mom, Armi will provide safe space, support, understanding and kindness along your journey. Armi also shares her times after births, when she experienced PPD and she has tips, how to deal with something this heavy to bear."

    - A, 2nd time mom

  • "I wish I found Armi Grace sooner! Her services go above and beyond providing exceptional and empowering care not only to baby but MAMA too! We are just as important. Armi Grace is there every step of the way and I have felt so supported! The mommy and me baby classes not only give my son enrichment but I get to relate and feel supported with others alike. It takes a village and I highly recommend Motivated OT Mama."

    -B, 1st time mom

  • "What an amazing experience getting support for both babe and mama! I’ve learned so much to help support my infant in growth/development while also learning new ways to support myself. Highly recommend the mom and baby groups as being able to connect with other moms as we all navigate life with a newborn/infant is so helpful. Armi Grace truly delivers incredible resources, support, and care in every aspect of her business and I highly recommend her to all."

    - V, mom to 5

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Take the First Step

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