5 Ways to Make Mom Friends
Every new parent needs to find their people. Here's how to meet other new moms near you.
Medically reviewed by a board-certified pediatrician
Once upon a time, in the era B.C. (before child), you might have danced 'til dawn at the clubs. Now that you're a mom, you're probably still awake at 1 in the morning—though "bottle service" means something entirely different. Parenthood inevitably changes your social life, and when you have mom friends, they just get it. Looking for ways to meet friends now that you're a parent? Here are five ways to meet other new moms and make some new friends.
1. Go online
No matter where you live, there's bound to be an online parenting community that's right for you. Local Facebook groups can connect you with other moms for advice, resources, second-hand baby items, babysitters, recommendations, and almost anything else you can think of. Online forums offer camaraderie, whether you're looking for specialized support or a place to swap stories with other moms. Whether you create relationships that blossom into real-life friendships, or you keep your connections strictly digital, you'll find that social media can be irreplaceably valuable as you get your "new mom" footing.
2. Visit the library
Looking for a free, fun activity that draws other parents and their babies? Head to the library for story time. It's a great opportunity for even young babies to look around and see something new—and you'll find other moms with babies of similar ages, so you can always suggest going for a snack after The Very Hungry Caterpillar wraps up.
3. Join a music class
Babies love to boogie, and you’ll have a ball as your baby or toddler dances and “plays” instruments at a mommy and me music class. Psst, introverts: This is a smart option for you whether you’re musically gifted or not, since you don’t have to come up with small talk throughout the entire class—but you’ll still have opportunities to mingle before and after the baby jam session.
4. Try parent-centric fitness
From stroller workouts to mommy-and-me yoga, there are lots of fitness classes geared towards parents. And they’re a great place to meet like-minded moms and dads who are taking their postpartum health seriously. Consider striking up a conversation about the best smoothies in the area, and maybe you’ll end up grabbing one with your new friend.
5. Say hi to your neighbors
Getting to know the people in your community can help you connect with other moms. That older woman down the street may have priceless wisdom to share when it's time to sleep-train your baby. Or that woman you keep seeing at the coffee shop? She might have a little one, too. Whether you're at the playground or the grocery store, try saying hello when you're out and about; a little small talk could open the door to a wonderful friendship.
6. Volunteer at school or daycare
If your child is in school or daycare, drop-off and pick-up can be a great place to chat with other parents. Want to go one step deeper? Consider volunteering to organize or help with school activities or work with the PTA.
7. Group texts
Once you've started to meet other moms, a group text is a great way to stay connected. Especially as the pandemic makes it challenging to gather in person, an ongoing text chain can help you check in with other moms. Set some ground rules (for example, no texting before 7 a.m.) and share support even when you can't see each other in real life.
The friendships you create as a mother can be uniquely supportive—and they can grow closer as your children grow older. It may take a little work to meet other new moms, but the effort is well worth it.
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