You have work friends, high school friends, and college friends, but what about mom friends? With so many women choosing to have children later in life, or not having them at all, it’s hard to find girlfriends who can relate to your mommy side.  No one better understands the trials, tribulations, and humor of parenting a newborn than others who are doing the same thing. That’s why it’s so important to reach out to other mamas. Spend a naptime searching for mom groups, and dive right in. You aren’t alone, and groups like this will remind you of that.

1. Breastfeeding Support Groups

Between La Leche and hospital groups, you’re sure to find a gaggle of ladies who get together to chat all things breastfeeding and babies. For my breastfeeding advice see Top 10 Breastfeeding Must-Haves and How I Stored 300 Ounces of Breastmilk in 3 Months.

2. Hospital New Mom Groups

Many hospitals offer a time and place for new moms to gather. My hospital’s new mom group provides guest speakers on topics from college savings plans to home safety. Give your hospital a call to see if they offer a similar service.

3. Gymboree Play and Music

Though pricey, Gymboree is tons of fun. The music, puppets, and parachute put a smile on H’s face. Classes incorporate discussion among parents to help you get to know one another. The first class is free, so give it a try to see if it’s right for you and your babe.

4. Little Gym

Believe it or not, Little Gym accepts babies as young as 4 months old. The classes focus on body awareness and movement. They’re quite affordable, and some locations are free for the first few months.

5. Swimming Pool

Baby-mommy swimming classes are a surefire way to meet other moms. If taking a full-blown swimming class isn’t your thing, look for pools with time set aside for open swim for babies. It’s easy to meet other moms with so many adorable waders splashing around.

6. Baby-Friendly Aerobics Classes

StrollFit classes cater to moms of all fitness levels and enable you to bring your baby along. If you don’t have StrollFit classes nearby, don’t fret. Many gyms offer baby-friendly exercise classes. Mom friends who sweat together, stay together.

7. Neighborhood Organizations

When H was born, I didn’t know any young moms in my neighborhood. A Google-search led me to discover a thriving local moms group. I now have oodles of activities on my calendar. Search Facebook, too, to find mommy organizations in your area.

8. MeetUp.com

MeetUp is a giant network of local groups. You can easily search for playdates in your area and sign up to receive emails when new playdates are formed. Through MeetUp, I discovered Hip Mamas St. Louis, a group with over 90 members.

9. Library Story Time

Story time is a good excuse to get out of the house and meet new people. Ask the mom next to you if she wants to grab coffee afterwards. It may feel like you’re asking her on a date, but that’s kind of what making new friends feels like.

10. Mom’s Club

Mom’s Club is an international organization. Each local chapter has its own personality, but most of them offer playdates, mom’s night out, and Facebook groups you can turn to with parenting questions. No Mom’s Club in your area? Consider starting your own chapter.

Making new friends can feel awkward for anyone. Just remember that the other moms are in the same boat you are. They’re out and about to meet people too, so why not be the first to speak up. Your babies provide you with plenty of conversation starters and entertainment.

You might also like Trust Your Instincts and Farewell, Stretch Marks: Beauty Tips for New Moms.