Family Resources of La Crosse has announced it will again hold a play shoppe in Bangor, this time at the elementary school every Tuesday from 9 to 10:30 a.m. The first play shoppe will be Sept. 9.

“Bangor had a play shoppe about three or four years ago and parents were anxious to get it back,” said parent educator Lois Fredrick-Baker.

The program, open to children from birth to 5 years of age, aims to get children socializing at an early age as well as serving as a support group for moms, grandparents and caregivers.

“We have open play time. There will be stories, a snack, a craft and singing. While the kids play the moms meet to share stories and socialize,” Fredrick-Baker said.

As the parent-educator, Frederick-Baker does the research, organizes the games and songs, brings treats and crafts and is responsible for the setup and take down. She credits elementary school Principal Lois Meinking and Family Resources Executive Director Jodi Widuch with working together to return the play shoppe to Bangor. There are two other play shoppes in the area — one at Family Resources in La Crosse and the other at the Oak Grove Family Learning Center in Onalaska.

“This is something that’s open to anyone and it is not something you have to register ahead of time for,” Fredrick-Baker said. Those seeking more information about the program may reach Fredrick-Baker at 784-8125, Ext. 224.

“Besides helping children socialize at an early age, the program can serve as a support network for parents and caregivers where they can talk with others about their concerns and form connections,” Fredrick-Baker said.