Clutter Busting: Find Some Mom-Me Time with Others

Having a baby changes everything and most of it is for good. However, I often hear the same complaint from busy parents that feel their relationships outside the home have suffered since having children. Although being active on online groups and boards can be rewarding, it is not the same. Humans need one on one interaction. It is absolutely imperative that children get to socialize with others, but it is also important for parents to show their child how they interact with their peers as well.

Interpersonal relationships are very important skills your children need to develop. They will learn how to create and maintain friendships by mirroring you! It is very easy to become complacent by the lack of friends, but how very rewarding it can be to create a support group right in your neighborhood.

There are many different types of playgroups that you can start right in your community, today! You can choose an activity that includes your children or one that is just grown-ups. First come up with something that you enjoy, and figure out what time you can spare throughout the week. An example would be a walking playgroup. Spread the word to others that you are starting a stroller-walking group and pick a time and meeting place. Email your friends, make posters up and hang them in the grocery store, church, daycare, post office, etc and simply spread the word.

Here are some other ideas:

• Card Club
• Board game group
• Scrapbooking Group
• Book Club
• Playground Playgroup
• Matinee Moms- meet at a movie matinee once a month
• Bible Study

If you are active in a church, speak to your priest or pastor. You are most probably not the only person who is looking to create relationships within the church body. Perhaps the church will allow you to meet there, and you may even get them to help sponsor it and provide childcare. You won’t know unless you ask.

Throw out the parental guilt. Creating more friendships in the community helps you be a better parent, and can make things easier once you have a pool of friends to contact for help down the road, for example; carpooling to school and sporting events. The opportunities and benefits are endless. Don’t wait for someone else to start it… go for it!! You have absolutely nothing to lose and many friendships to gain!

Betsy

Please share your own clever ideas!!