Connecting with other moms is not just about finding companionship; it’s about creating a support network, sharing experiences, and building lasting and enjoyable friendships. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the challenges of parenthood or a seasoned parent looking to expand your social circle, there are numerous ways to connect with other moms.
The Day-by-Day Pregnancy Book by Dr Maggie Blott highlights the importance of planning for support even before your baby’s arrival. Having support means being connected with others to ease your “burden”. Mom friends lighten the load of motherhood because you can relate to each other quite well. This in turn reduces chances of postpartum depression. My experience explains how I connected to some amazing moms through groups, followed by 10 ideas to help you build your mom tribe.
My Experience
Mothering two toddlers is a very busy life. Some days are “easier” than others. Nevertheless, I’ve really been blessed to have the support of my husband, my mom and siblings. After the birth of my second child, my priorities shifted from catering to one child to two children. As you can imagine, my workload increased. Naturally, I began to crave the company of other like-minded moms who have or had the multiple toddler experience. Surely, a mom of two or more toddlers would understand what I was going through.
In my quest to find other moms like me, I searched for playgroups or mommy-and-me classes in my area. I found a mommy-and-me class which provided opportunities for both my babies and I to socialize. My daughter enjoys anything with music – singing, clapping, dancing, music instruments etc. What was more exciting was being surrounded by other moms with toddlers in my children’s age group. However, I admit that it is hard work handling two toddlers on my own.
My Support Groups
I belong to two faith-based groups that have positively impacted my life as a mom. Joining these groups have empowered me. I am daily strengthened knowing that other moms are excelling amidst their busy life schedules. I have learned that nobody has it all figured out, but uniting as a force fortifies foundational support. My first support group is the Virtuous Women Fellowship (VWF) (@vwf_vibrantmarriages) headed by Dr (Pastor) Glory O. Opara. It focuses of building vibrant marriages with an epitome of sisterhood support with Jesus at the core. This group has been a huge blessing in my mom journey. I receive support in knowledge of being a better version of myself for my family.
The second group is the Praying Wives group. Praying for our families is our priority. The beauty of this group lies in the fact that each mom member has multiple toddlers. Also, we are all based in different countries, hence we converge online. We also meet to read and discuss books. So, it’s also a mini book club. It’s always a refreshing time connecting with like-minded moms who are out to support and encourage one another.
Being a close-knit group of three moms, we often share parenting tips and enjoy each other’s company over the phone. Our phone conversations are usually filled with noise in the background. But there’s no escaping that and it’s okay because we understand that it’s a phase of life.
Ideas to Help you Connect with other Moms
1. Start or join a mom’s group.
2. Attend playgroups or Mommy-and-Me classes.
3. Join local or online parenting groups.
4. Attend parenting classes (antenatal classes) or workshops.
5. Utilize social media.
6. Volunteer.
7. Attend community events.
8. Take fitness classes.
9. Attend school or PTA meetings.
10. Use Apps designed for moms.
Research-Based Findings
External support comes through searching beyond your immediate environment. For instance, on websites like meetup.com, one can search for a women’s social group among many other social groups. Such groups often have local parenting groups where you can meet other moms who are navigating similar challenges. Similarly, Fit4Moms is a fitness group for moms to meet and build a connection. Joining parenting groups or forums on social media platforms like Facebook, is commonplace. You can follow pages dedicated to motherhood, and virtually connect with other moms in your community. You can share experiences, ask for advice, and even arrange meetups.
There are also several apps available specifically for moms looking to connect with other moms in their area. These apps often facilitate playdate scheduling, group chats, and community events. One such app is the Peanut App . Lastly, keep an eye out for local or community events geared toward families, such as fairs, festivals, or farmers markets. These events can provide casual settings for meeting and connecting with other moms/families.
Conclusion
Remember, building relationships takes time and effort, so be proactive in your efforts to connect with other moms. Don’t hesitate to reach out, attend events, or join groups where you can meet like-minded moms who can offer support, friendship, and valuable insights. And most importantly, be open-minded and welcoming to new connections – your mom tribe is out there waiting for you!
Reference
Keys, J. 2023. How to make mom friends: 14 tips from other moms. Accessed on 02 April 2024. Available at: https://jesskeys.com/how-to-make-mom-friends-according-to-other-moms/