Starting a parenting support group to adjust to lifestyle changes that occur when you have children. Information on getting organized as well as activities and topics.
One of the most challenging things about parenthood is feeling isolated. If only you had SOMEONE that understood what you were going through! Whether you are a new parent or have more than one child, it is imperative that you develop your own support network of people. This is not limited to those people whose children suffer obvious disabilities or for those people who are parents of multiples (for whom the support networks are obvious and easily found). The everyday parent, who either chooses to stay at home or rejoin the work force, needs to associate themselves with a network of people that will be able to rejoice and commiserate on various parenting issues.
Word is out that parents need support. Just a few clicks of your mouse will have you pointed in the direction of a plethora of groups for you to join that will provide that much needed reassurance. But there is more to this parental coming together than cyber space allows. What you need is the hands on, everyday network of people that help you shine in your job.
Playgroups are always a good start. There you will not only find people who will have a lot in common with you, but it is a great way for your kids to get to know other kids and build their ever important social skills. Try searching your local newspaper or free parenting pages, usually found in most pediatric offices or supermarkets, to find a group suitable for you. If you are unsuccessful in this way, you could always try starting your own playgroup. Place an ad in the paper or parenting pages yourself or perhaps you find that you see some people regularly at the park, why not ask them to help you form a playgroup?
Another more formal type of playgroup is a moderated Mommy and Me group. Again, search your local listings or hospital education classes for these groups. Often you will find these enlightening and a great source of comfort. These classes will typically have an educated co-coordinator who will not only be able to provide you with many answers to questions that would otherwise be a mystery, they will also be introducing you to other parents who face similar hurdles.
There are also many classes that are more child centered. Try taking your child to local swim, dance, gym or karate classes and you are sure to find other parents who are finding the same parenting challenges in there life. Your children are the gateway to many new friendships and it is much easier to find common ground with a complete stranger who has a child than it is with just anybody off the street. How many times has a complete stranger with a child approached you with questions such as, "How old is your child?" or "How much does your baby weigh?" These are great starters that could help you build friendships.
Have you ever heard of babysitting co-ops? These groups are a fantastic way of getting the time you need to be alone and a great way for you to get to know people and have a playmate for your kids. The general idea of the group is that you will trade off on babysitting duties. One occasion you will do the babysitting and the next time you get time off! It is also good to note here that often having two kids is a lot easier than having one. They amuse each other! So if you are a little scared about having another child in your home than relax. If you happen to come across an ad for a babysitting co-op then attend the monthly meeting. You'll be thanking your lucky stars later.
Overall, there are many opportunities for groups that you can associate yourself with in order to gain the support, and respect for that mater, to one of life's most challenging jobs. Don't think that being a parent ties you to the home. There is a great many new and exciting opportunities that come from having children and often the people you come to know in your own little support network will prove to provide some of the most loyal and long lasting friendships that you can get.
