Friendships with other moms are essential to fend off boredom, loneliness, and isolation. Motherhood can be a very solitary and isolating experience, despite the children running around you! No one understands the feelings you experience like another mom. But how do you go about finding and connecting with other moms? Here are seven ways to get you started.
Join a Playgroup: Local playgroups offer many benefits. Of course, they are an excellent way to improve your child’s social skills and find new friends for her. Yet playgroups can be just as beneficial for the moms. While you may not become best friends with every mom in the playgroup, you are sure to find at least one mom with whom you can relate. Many playgroups also organize the ultimate mommy time: Mom’s Night Out. Meetup.com is an online resource allowing you to search for local playgroups.
Online: Social networking is an excellent way to meet other moms. There are many different social networking sites with several catering specifically to moms. Cafemom is one of the most popular social networking sites for moms. Connect with other moms at CafeMom. Share photos, stories and so much more. After creating a homepage, you can search for other moms and add them as friends. Cafemom is full of groups based on a number of different interests, beliefs, and locations. You also have the option of creating your own group. The great thing about online social networking is you can check in with your virtual mom friends whenever you have a free minute.
Parks, playgrounds, and play areas: There is no shortage of kids and moms at local parks, playgrounds, and play areas. Initiating a conversation with one of the other moms can lead to a future play date and possibly a friendship. If you’re nervous to ask for a play date, just remember the other mom is probably thinking the same thing. Take a chance and a new friendship may soon follow!
Library Story Time: Most libraries have at least one story time for kids each week. Just like parks and other play areas, there are plenty of other moms and kids that could potentially become friends. As an added bonus, both you and your child can pick up a few new books.
Take a Class: Signing up your child for a class is another way to potentially meet other moms. Gymnastics, dance, music, or karate classes are all good options. Many schools also offer community education programs for adults. Class options are usually available on hundreds of different topics from cooking to swimming to arts and crafts. Check out the website of your local school district or community college to see if a community education program is offered in your area.
Mom Groups: Many groups for moms may already exist in your community. La Leche League, MOMS Club, Mothers & More, and MOPS are all good examples of national programs that may have a local chapter in your city. If there is not already an established chapter in your area, consider starting one. The websites will give information on starting a new chapter.
Join a Gym: These days, most gyms have a child care program which means you can take the kids along with you. Not only will you improve your health with a good workout, you may meet other moms looking for new friendships.
Meeting other moms can seem difficult and intimidating. Once you get started, you’ll meet mommy friends everywhere you go. With all of your new mommy friends, a Mom’s Night Out is definitely in order!
By Shelley
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