Connect with other mamas

The first few weeks with a new baby are exhilarating and stressful; it's a lot to take in. Once you and your baby settle into a routine you may want to look into some mama and baby playgroups. Why hang with other mamas and their babies:

• You get to discuss concerns and joys with other mamas who can relate.
• Your baby and you get to socialize (always good for the soul).
• You get reassurance that green poop, breastmilk leakage, and a baby that screams for two hours straight is normal.
• You can make some great friends, sometimes for life.
• Mamas love to trade. Clothing, books, toys; the more mamas you know the less money you'll be spending on baby supplies.
• It gets you out of the house!

How to find a mama & baby group: This depends on your needs and preferences. Some groups charge a membership fee (usually low) and some are free. There are groups with a broad focus and others with a focus on a specific topic like breastfeeding, homeschooling, attachment parenting, baby exercise, and more. Some are small and some are large -- you get the picture. You may need to try more than one before you find your perfect fit. Here are some links to various places you can meet up with other moms and babies.

• International MOMS Club
• Stay-at-home mama meet-ups
• Yahoo groups for moms
• Raising Them

Tips: Type "________ area mom groups" into a search engine. In the blank fill in your area. You'll get some great information. Try the SheKnows forums; our forums are full of plenty of mamas and friends and you may be able to meet up with some in your own area! What's your favorite way to meet other mamas?