The Lake Oswego Mothers Club and Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation Department are co-sponsoring the 8^th annual Preschool Forum on Thursday, January 17, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the West End Building at 4101 Kruse Way in Lake Oswego. Over 35 local schools will be on site to answer your questions about their teaching philosophy, curriculum, tuition and more so if you are in the market, here’s a chance to do your one-stop shopping.

The Preschool Forum was the idea that launched the Lake Oswego Mothers Club in 2005. Since then, it has grown to include much more. If you are a mother of young kids, here’s why you should check it out.

1. Playgroups. Playgroups are what draw many women into the club. With over 30 to choose from, there is bound to be one that fits your schedule whether you are a working mom or choosing to stay at home.

2. Children’s Events. Club President Ivonne Flores estimates that half of the club’s programming involves children’s events. That may include Gymboree classes, gymnastics or a meet-up at a local trampoline fun center. Cost is never more than $5.

3. Mom Events. With little ones under foot, it’s hard to carve out “me” time, but monthly Mom’s Night Out events make it easier. Events have included happy hour, Bunco, wine tasting and an upcoming 80s night at the Crystal Ballroom. Socials are held twice a year and include a speaker and a chance to mingle over wine and appetizers.

4. Community Events. Outreach is a big component of the Lake Oswego Mothers Club both to members in need and the larger community. In a Pinch volunteers deliver meals to new moms or members who need extra support. Every year, the club selects a charity to support and then organizes philanthropic events to benefit that organization. This year the club is hosting a Mom’s Prom complete with tacky gowns to raise money for Rose Haven which provides services to women and children in crisis.  The Giving Tree is also an annual event with 2012 donations going to the Clackamas Women’s Shelter. In addition, the club sponsors booths at the Lake Oswego Arts Festival Kids’ Day, and the Farmer’s Market.

5. SubClubs. You can find like-minded women through the SubClubs that bring members together to share their interests in a variety of activities like reading, cooking, running or business.

While the programs may be what bring moms initially to the groups, Flores admits that “It ends up being more.” Friendships are formed and support is found, which to a new mom, in particular, can be key. “When you become a mom, your whole life changes,” Flores explains. “For a lot of people, me included, it can be lonely. It’s nice to have other moms who are going through something similar or have been through it to talk to and relate to. For me, it changed how I viewed motherhood. I felt more comfortable with it.”

With over 300 club members from the Portland metro area, chances are you will meet someone whose toddler is a picky eater, whose 12 month old still isn’t sleeping through the night or whose preschooler cries at drop-off. Your tribe awaits you.

Got any preschool recommendations to make? Post them here for readers to benefit from.