by Kamerine I have a three year old boy and a one year old daughter. When I was on maternity leave with my daughter I pulled my son out of daycare. I planned to take an unpaid leave from my job to stay home with my kids.

And that's just what I'm doing. Staying home has been pretty great. Sure there are bad days but they are far outnumbered by the good. Staying home isn't the best option for a lot of parents, but it works for me and my family.

There are so many things I love about staying home but there are things I miss about working. I miss being challenged, having tasks to complete and deadlines to meet, but most of all I miss the adult interaction. I used to spend a lot of my time corresponding with people by email and over the phone, consulting coworkers and management, and chatting with coworkers who became friends.

Being at home can be very isolating, especially in the cold winter months, so I do my best to get out of the house. Seeing people saves my sanity and I'm sure my kids love getting out too.

Lucky for us, Global Childcare Services has an outreach program that provides playgroup drop-ins at various locations near me. The drop-ins are free and they provide a great opportunity for my kids to run around and play with new and exciting toys. The staff are warm and welcoming and obviously truly care about kids. There are snacks available for the kids and coffee for the adults. There are lots of toys to play with, books to read, puzzles to do, and at least one craft set out. The drop-ins always end with circle time led by one of the staff.

These drop-ins are perfect for meeting other parents. Over time conversations have moved from the typical "She's so cute!" and "How old is he?" to the friendly exchanges I so crave. Every week I look forward to going to the drop-ins and seeing the people I've come to know.

I hope if you're home with your kids and in the area - Ottawa South and Gloucester - that you'll check it out. We're lucky to have this service available.

Kamerine is mom to 3 year old Little J and 1 year old Baby K. She documents her life with two toddlers, a husband and a cat at followk.blogspot.ca.