Frequently asked questions:
Is this group still accepting new members despite COVID-19?
In May 2021, we begin restarting playgroups for current and new members.
We also still have our monthly board meetings to evaluate the situation and try to find ways to support our members during this unprecedented time.
If you are interested in joining, please reach out to us via our Contact Us page.
Is this group only for moms?
No. We welcome all parents and guardians. Our group is not for au pairs or nannies, as our playdates are also meant to help parents make friends who are in the same season of life.
Is this group only for at-home parents?
No. Our members include parents and guardians who either stay at home with their children or work part or full time. Our group is not for au pairs or nannies, as our playdates are also meant to help parents make friends who are in the same season of life.
Learn more about how our membership, mission, and diversity have kept growing.
Is this group only for families in Wheaton, Md.?
No. Many of our families live in Silver Spring, Bethesda, Takoma, Olney, etc. See the bottom of this page for a complete list of applicable zip codes.
Families living outside of this area may still request to join WAM & Fam by contacting us, but please understand that the majority of our activities will happen in and near the greater Wheaton and Silver Spring area.
Do you have membership fees?
We have a modest annual $18 ($1.50 per month) membership fee, which is prorated based on the month you join. This covers basic administrative costs and our annual holiday parties.
In cases of financial hardship, an applicant may request a waiver of the membership fee via the application form.
$1.50 / month
$18 / year
Does your group belong to a national club?
No. We have no affiliation with any other group.
Learn more about how our group got started more than 20 years ago.
Are my children welcome at your activities?
Absolutely. We believe that being a parent shouldn’t isolate you, so children are welcome at all of our activities—except Parents’ Night Out. Of course, you don’t have to bring children to attend our activities. But if you do, please remember that you are responsible for your children’s safety and behavior.
I am still nursing / chest feeding. Is that a problem?
Not at all. Nursing and chest feeding parents and their children are always welcome. Many of us are also nursing or have nursed our own children.
Can I participate in an activity before joining?
Yes. Prospective members are welcome to attend up to two public activities before deciding whether to join. However, our weekly playgroups are open only to members.
Who decides what the activities will be?
Our members do. We encourage all members to host activities on a regular basis. The frequency of activities depends on our members, but we have several every month. Hosting just means coordinating the activity and can be as simple as suggesting a time and meeting place. Our club functions best when all members participate.
Are any activities or events required?
Members are expected to participate in at least one of WAM & Fam’s volunteer service projects every year to help give back to our community. We strive to host one service project per month, which always coincides with a playdate, so members have plenty of opportunities to choose from. Visit our Volunteer services page for more information.
Which zip codes make up the WAM & Fam boundaries?
Our members live in any of the following zip codes: 20012, 20705, 20783, 20814, 20815, 20832, 20851, 20852, 20853, 20866, 20895, 20901, 20902, 20903, 20904, 20905, 20906, 20910, and 20912.
Families living outside of these zip codes may still request to join WAM & Fam by contacting us, but please understand that the majority of our activities will happen in and near the greater Wheaton and Silver Spring area.