The Bridgewater chapter was founded in 1996. By 2001, the chapter had grown so large that we split into Bridgewater West and Bridgewater East. The Bridgewater East chapter has since split into Bridgewater Central, Bridgewater East and Somerville/Raritan chapters.

Our chapter offers many different activities. We're always looking for additional ideas. If you have any suggestions, please contact any board member!

Playgroups are groups of 4-7 moms (each playgroup sets its own limit) with children of similar ages. Siblings are always welcome to attend. Most playgroups meet weekly at a date and time determined by the group. Playgroups rotate between members' homes. Some playgroups choose to organize some outings of their own or meet at parks during warm weather. Playgroups are currently our most popular activity and many members have developed very strong friendships through them.

Monthly meetings are held at 10am on varying days of the week, typically at the Bridgewater Library. We briefly discuss chapter business and have time to socialize. We always have snacks, a craft and coloring to occupy the kids. We sometimes feature a speaker or discussion topic. Moms are encouraged to bring a few toys to share.

Mom-focused activities are things that primarily satisfy the interests of the mom but at which kids are always welcome. Our current mom-focused activities include Book Club, Stroller Club and Cooks' Corner. Cooks' Corner is essentially a themed potluck lunch with kids. We enjoy great company and great food! MOMS Night Out is an opportunity to socialize on our own in the evening as well.

Kid-focused activities include larger field trips (such as to Sesame Place or the Crayola Factory), local outings (such as a tour of the local firehouse or Wegman's), breakfast or lunch at a kid-friendly restaurant, Park Days during the summer or activities at members' homes (such as a kids' craft or cooking activity).

Family-focused activities include our annual Egg Hunt and annual Family Picnic.

Service projects are an important part of our MOMS Club mission. We are required to do at least one service project per year that benefits needy children or mothers. We typically do 3-4 projects per year. As moms who are fortunate enough to stay home with our children and give them the best we can, it is good to reach out to the community to help those who are less fortunate. Recent service projects include purchasing holiday gifts for HIV-positive children, collecting maternity and baby items for a homeless shelter for pregnant women and collecting school supplies for needy children.

The newsletter is mailed to all members monthly. It contains information about the coming month's planned activities. In addition, it contains information about other activities and shows around town, a recipe column, a "Meet a Mom" column and other information to help you get to know our other chapter members better. We also send out a weekly e-mail update with information on upcoming events and other recent news. Members are welcome to advertise in our newsletter for free.

Other policies:

- Meals for MOMS provides meals and other support to members in cases of a new baby, hospitalization or other need. If you're expecting or have a need, contact our Meals for MOMS coordinator.
- If you're relocating, contact us. We'll find the chapter that serves your new area and put you in touch with the appropriate people there. We'll also forward them the prorated portion of your dues so that you don't end up paying dues twice for the same time period.
- Moms may nurse at any MOMS Club activity.