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'The More the Merrier' at multiples playgroup

  • Published
  • By Erin Blauvelt
  • 305th Air Mobility Wing public affairs
MCGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, N.J. --  The More the Merrier is the name (and policy) of a newly revitalized multiples playgroup that meets on the first Friday of every month here at McGuire. The playgroup, sponsored by Family Advocacy Services, is looking to expand their group of twins, triplets, and parents. 

According to Allyson Ludington, the POC for the program and mother of twin two-year-old boys, having multiples is a unique experience. "We come together to support and encourage each other," she says. "It's nice to be able to talk to people. We share stories--challenges and victories. We rejoice together when we reach milestones." 

Melodye Giovanni, Family Advocacy Outreach Manager, explains that the program was started in February of 2007 by a mother of twins who felt "alone and isolated." Both families attending the playgroup agree that a program like this is very much needed and welcomed. They would point out that parental support groups, books, tips, and advice are almost exclusively geared toward parents expecting one child, which is challenging enough. 

Amber Smith, mother of twin girls who will be three in August, had many questions, such as "Should I use one or two cribs?" Maj. John Ludington, 2nd Air Refueling Squadron Director of Operations, said, "It can be very difficult to do anything when you're holding two infants at the same time."  "Even simple things, like opening the door while holding your babies, require special skills with multiples," Allyson Ludington added. 

Mrs. Smith describes having multiples as "both the most challenging and most rewarding experience. And for that, this is a place we can share stories and ask and answer questions." Col. Scott Smith, 305th Air Mobility Wing vice commander, said he could see how his wife "absolutely connected with other multiple moms, which helps immeasurably [...] 'I've been there -- here's how I handled it...' goes a million miles." Colonel Smith describes the network of multiple parents as "amazingly important." He adds, "You can't put a price on the membership/advice that comes from those who have walked this path." 

The act of simply going out of the house presents distinctive challenges for parents of multiples. "You don't want to punish your children for being multiples, but going out can be really hard," said Mrs. Ludington. As any parent with a child knows, keeping an eye on children at play is quite a challenge, having twins makes the task twice as daunting. 

"We quickly became outnumbered with the arrival of Oliver and Elliot," said Major Ludington. In agreement, Mrs. Smith says one of the most appealing aspects of the program is the "safe, enclosed play area." Meeting in the PAX Terminal's children's area, the venue offers children a bright, colorful room with tunnels and slides. At the same time, padded floors, nets, and a small room offer parents a relaxing place to socialize and easily keep an eye on their children. 

"You just can't fully be ready ... physically or psychologically," said Colonel Smith on the arrival of his twin girls, but The More the Merrier is a great place to go to find the support and confidence it takes to raise multiples. 

"All military is welcome -- Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, everyone! And all ages! We'd really love to hear from some older multiples and get their insight," said Mrs. Ludington. 

For more information on The More the Merrier, you can contact Family Advocacy Services at (609)754-9680.