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Storytelling at its Heart: The Parent-Child Mother Goose Program Journey

Storytelling at its Heart: The Parent-Child Mother Goose Program Journey


We are excited to share an insightful article written by our organization & #39;s co-founder, Celia
Lottridge, titled "The Parent-Child Mother Goose Program: Storytelling at the Heart." Originally
published in 2001, this article provides a retrospective look at the origins and essence of our
beloved program.
Celia Lottridge, the first Executive Director of the Parent-Child Mother Goose Program, nurtured
it into an international phenomenon, with associate programs and offshoots across Canada, the
United States, and Bermuda. The program, rooted in the oral tradition, relies on storytelling,
rhymes, and songs to achieve its goals.
In the article, Celia describes the program as both simple and complex, likening it to a bouncing
rhyme and the evolving relationship between parent and child. Participants, ranging from two
weeks to four years old, come together to engage in rhymes, songs, and stories. The key word
is "together," as everyone joins in, creating a vibrant community where adults and children alike
interact and learn from one another.
Through storytelling, parents and children not only bond but also take away valuable rhymes
and songs to use in their everyday lives. The connection between parent and child deepens,
and both gain new awareness of language, rhythm, and touch. Storytelling, as the bedrock of
the program, fosters shared experiences and connections between teller and listener.
As we reflect on the profound impact of the Parent-Child Mother Goose Program, we invite you
to delve into Celia's inspiring words and discover the magic of storytelling that continues to
enrich the lives of families worldwide.
Written by: Guita Movallali, May, 2024

🌟 Join Our Board of Directors! 🌟
November 13, 2025 | News & Announcements

🌟 Join Our Board of Directors! 🌟

Parent-Child Mother Goose Program® (P-CMGP) | Parent-Child Mother Goose Program® (P-CMGP) We’re inviting passionate community members to join our Board of Directors and help guide the future of the Parent-Child Mother Goose Program®. We are especially seeking someone who has direct experience as a past or present participant in the Program — someone who knows firsthand the magic of songs, rhymes, and stories that bring families together. The Role As a Board Member, you’ll join a team of 12 dedicated volunteers offering expertise in areas such as law, finance, fundraising, HR, strategy, and nonprofit leadership. Together, we support the Executive Director and advance the mission of PCMG through collaboration and community impact. Key Responsibilities • Attend monthly board meetings (2 hours, September–June) • Participate in special events when possible • Use your unique experience and perspective to strengthen the organization and its programs Who We’re Looking For A candidate who believes in our mission and shares our commitment to families, storytelling, and connection. The ideal candidate has experience in the not-for-profit sector, fundraising, grant writing, finance, or law, and a desire to help guide PCMG in fulfilling its mandate. To Apply Please send your resume and cover letter to [email protected]. In your message, tell us a bit about your background, motivation, and when and where you participated in the Parent-Child Mother Goose Program. An informal meeting with Board members will follow to discuss the role in more detail.
May 14, 2024 | News & Announcements

Storytelling at its Heart: The Parent-Child Mother Goose Program Journey

Storytelling at its Heart: The Parent-Child Mother Goose Program Journey | We are excited to share an insightful article written by our organization's co-founder, Celia Lottridge, titled "The Parent-Child Mother Goose Program: Storytelling at the Heart." Originally published in 2001, this article provides a retrospective look at the origins and essence of our beloved program. Celia Lottridge, the first Executive Director of the Parent-Child Mother Goose Program, nurtured it into an international phenomenon, with associate programs and offshoots across Canada, the United States, and Bermuda. The program, rooted in the oral tradition, relies on storytelling, rhymes, and songs to achieve its goals. In the article, Celia describes the program as both simple and complex, likening it to a bouncing rhyme and the evolving relationship between parent and child. Participants, ranging from two weeks to four years old, come together to engage in rhymes, songs, and stories. The key word is "together," as everyone joins in, creating a vibrant community where adults and children alike interact and learn from one another. Through storytelling, parents and children not only bond but also take away valuable rhymes and songs to use in their everyday lives. The connection between parent and child deepens, and both gain new awareness of language, rhythm, and touch. Storytelling, as the bedrock of the program, fosters shared experiences and connections between teller and listener. As we reflect on the profound impact of the Parent-Child Mother Goose Program, we invite you to delve into Celia's inspiring words and discover the magic of storytelling that continues to enrich the lives of families worldwide. Written by: Guita Movallali, May, 2024