(as seen on MumsnChums)
You are embarking on a brand new life with a brand new life. Not too scary right?
It doesn’t have to be a journey you take on your own. There is an
entire community of Mothers waiting out there to share their thoughts,
wisdom, tips and tricks. You just need to get out there. *Finding a
solid support network is so important (especially when you are a new
mother), and it isn’t as hard as you might think.
Here are just a few things you can try to help you find Moms in your area who can help guide you on one of the most important journeys of your life.
1. Get Out There!
This one may seem simple and obvious but when it comes to actually
doing it with a new baby it can be hard, but it is so important. Part of that feeling of isolation is because when we are new moms we don’t leave the house for days on end.
It can be hard to actually do all that you need to do for your baby and
still squeeze in a shower and throw some clean clothes on. It is so important though to actually leave your house.
You might be surprised about how different life looks outside your
front door and you might be surprised who you might meet too. The
easiest thing to do is head for a walk to the park. It is the best
place to meet other mothers. Talk to them. I still
connect with a couple of women I met at a nearby outdoor space near my
house when both of us had young kids. The kids are still friends too!
2. Join Mommy and Me Groups
There are so many groups out there, just look and you will find one that is the right fit for you and your baby. There is so much power in sharing your experience with others who understand what you are going through.
They understand you, they can empathize with you, they can offer help
and wisdom, they are just there for you in a way that many others can’t
be. I found Ontario Early Years Centers so helpful.
3. Join a Fitness Group (something just for you!)
This one can be hard for a lot of women. How do you find time, away from your baby, to do something for yourself? I think it is important for your physical and emotional well being. You need to find time for you.
Maybe this is something you do with other Moms or you partner up with
another Mom you know so that you can help each other with child care.
You get to go to a workout class while the other Mom watches your child,
and then the next time you swap. It is a great way to support each
other, share your experiences and get fit too.
4. Find All the Community Drop Ins
Many community centers have drop in programs. They are a great resource for you. These
programs offer a great opportunity to get out with your baby, find
other parents in your community and discover resources in your
neighbourhood. Many are free or offered at a small fee.
5. Create Your Own Group
Get creative and resourceful and create your own group of moms.
This is great if you have a few friends who have just had a baby or if
you have seen a few other moms at the park with new babies. Find
somewhere that is easy for everyone to get to and meet once a month for
starters. You could maybe use a community meeting room at your local
community centre or library. Be as casual or formal as you want. You
could pick topics for each get together or even have guest speakers,
like public health nurses or lactation consultant.
6. Get Online
There are so many resources online, the best ones often have forums (or chatrooms like Mums ‘n Chums).
Forums and chatrooms offer you the chance to connect with people like
you without leaving the comfort of your couch. You can ask questions,
meet other moms and feel connected with people who are also in the same
baby boat as you.
