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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is MumNet?
- I’m not sure if I should join a MumNet I or MumNet II group?
- I’ve never left my baby with anyone else. How does childcare work?
- Who are the childcare workers?
- Do I have to bring my children?
- What if I cannot participate in the fitness class?
- How do I register?
- When and where do the groups meet?
- How much are the fees per term?
- What payment method is accepted for registration?
- Why does MumNet have to fundraise?
- I'm interested in being a group leader. How do I learn more?
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Why are volunteers so important to MumNet?
Known by members as their “weekly moms group”, MumNet is a registered charity that has operated for over 25 years in Toronto. The program helps women face the challenges of motherhood in a mutually supportive, community-based, group environment.
Each session, we host 15 groups that meet weekly across the city. MumNet I groups cater to moms with infants and young children. MumNet II mothers have at least one school-aged child.
Moms participate in a fitness class, a facilitated group session and squeeze in some much-needed child-free social time while children are cared for onsite.
Our organization is run mainly by volunteer women. We are not affiliated with any cultural groups or religious denomination, and embrace all moms without discrimination.
I'm not sure if I should join a MumNet I or MumNet II group?MumNet I is for new moms or moms with young children. MumNet II (formerly MumVet) is for moms with at least one child in preschool or school, but childcare is still provided if needed. Having a school-aged child does not mean you cannot join a MumNet group – these are just guidelines to help women connect who have kids of similar age. Read this blog post to help determine which group is right for you.
I’ve never left my baby with anyone else. How does childcare work?
For many new moms joining a MumNet group, this will be their first time leaving their baby with someone new. It is totally normal to feel anxious about this! When you arrive on your first day, you will be introduced to the caregivers, and you can leave detailed instructions regarding your child’s feeding or bottle time, nap time, etc. The caregivers will send for you if needed, but usually most babies and children settle in and are happy to play while away from mom. Moms are welcome to bring nursing babies into the program, but we do ask that babies return to the childcare rooms once finished.
Who are the childcare workers?
The childcare workers are experienced caregivers who undergo regular training and have had police background checks. They have been trained in basic first aid and CPR, and are thoroughly aware of the evacuation procedures specific to the location where they work. Many are mothers and grandmothers themselves.
Do I have to bring my children?
Nope. Moms who do not bring their kids pay a lower fee each week.
What if I cannot participate in the fitness class?
All moms are strongly encouraged to participate in the fitness class; however, the fitness instructors are aware that not everyone will participate on a weekly basis, for various reasons. Moms who do not participate in the fitness class are asked not to disturb those who are exercising. There are no refunds for those who are not able to exercise.
You can register online here.
When and where do the groups meet?
Our programs are divided into three terms: fall (September to December), winter (January to March) and spring (March to May).
Groups meet weekly at 10 locations across the city, from 9:15am to 11:15am. Details and locations can be found here.
How much are the fees per term?
Fees and term dates can be found here.
What payment method is accepted for registration?
Fees can be paid in full via PayPal or with a credit card, during the online registration process. Please contact us if you need to make alternate arrangements.
Why does MumNet have to fundraise?
MumNet is funded through two main sources: membership fees and fundraising, predominantly from our annual gala. Monies raised by fundraising enable us to keep our fees low and to keep our groups accessible to as many moms as possible. We offer additional subsidies so our programs are available to all women regardless of their financial situation. Further details on our fundraising initiatives can be found here.
I’m interested in being a group leader. How do I learn more?
For more information on how you can become a group leader, click here. Or, you can contact our office manager at [email protected].
Why are volunteers so important to MumNet?
MumNet was founded and is run by volunteer women, both current members and alumnae. There are only three paid staff that work part-time (the Executive Director, Fitness Manager, and Office Manager); all other positions are held by volunteers. Many members have used their volunteer work experience as an opportunity to build for future jobs and careers. The value of volunteering is a way of giving to a wonderful organization but also as a way of developing your skills and experience for the future.
How can I join the MumNet Board of Directors?
The MumNet Board of Directors is comprised entirely of volunteers. Our Board advises, governs, and oversees MumNet policy and direction, and assists with the leadership and general promotion of MumNet to support our organization’s mission and needs. The board is typically made up of members with combined experience in a variety of areas.
For more information about how to advertise with MumNet, please visit our sponsorship page or email .
Does MumNet sell member information (email addresses, etc.)?
No way. Protecting the privacy of MumNet members is very important to us. MumNet will never share or sell any of the information members provide to the organization.