Week 9: It’s like dating…but for parent friends!
“Making new mom friends felt like competing in the 'Mommy Olympics' – the events included dodging judgmental stares, hurdling over sleep deprivation, and sprinting through diaper changes, all just to find someone who's as equally lost in this parenting maze as you!"
- Karla, new parent, Texas
As new parents, you've just embarked on the wildest roller coaster ride of your life: the Parenthood Express. With its ups, downs, and unexpected twists, having a strong community of fellow new parent comrades can make all the difference in the world. Sure, it might feel like Mission Impossible, but finding that supportive group of friends is worth its weight in swaddles and sippy cups.
Let's weigh the pros and cons of navigating the new parent social scene:
Cons:
The Judgment Gauntlet: Brace yourselves for the inevitable unsolicited advice and differing parenting styles. You may be subject to a barrage of "well, when I was raising my child" stories from people who believe their way is the only way.
The Time Crunch: Time is a rare and precious commodity for new parents. Attempting to squeeze in playdates and mom's night outs between diaper changes and midnight feedings can feel like trying to put a square peg in a round hole.
The Mommy-and-Daddy-lympics: Comparisons can be brutal. There will always be that one parent whose baby is sleeping through the night, crawling by four months, or reciting Shakespeare by their first birthday. It's important to remember that every child is different and to avoid turning parenthood into a competition.
Pros:
Strength in Numbers: There's power in finding others who truly understand the daily grind of new parenthood. They'll nod sympathetically when you describe the epic diaper blowout that ruined your favorite shirt or the sleepless nights that have left you feeling like a zombie.
The Sharing Circle: Trading tips, tricks, and hacks with fellow new parents can be a lifesaver. Whether it's recommendations for the best burp cloths or a new swaddling technique, you never know what game-changing advice you'll pick up.
Built-in Support System: It's not all about the babies! New parent friendships provide emotional support for you too. In those moments when you feel overwhelmed, having someone to lean on who's going through the same experience can be incredibly reassuring.
Mom & Dad Social Club: Remember, you had a life before your little bundle of joy arrived. New parent friends can help you maintain that sense of adult connection and social life, even if it now revolves around stroller walks and baby yoga classes.
Though it may seem like an uphill battle, building a community of new parent friends is essential for navigating this exciting, unpredictable journey. Embrace the challenges, cherish the victories, and above all, remember to laugh along the way – because when you're up to your elbows in diapers and drool, sometimes humor is the best coping mechanism.
Resources that can help:
Think about the following resources that can help you connect with other parents virtually or in person:
Peanut: Like Tinder but for moms.
Facebook groups: Based on your baby’s birthday
Cooper: Virtual moms groups led by experts
