Most new families feel like the first months after birth are a blur. With Covid, and social distancing measures in place, it can feel isolating! While we all hoped that this virus would be short-lived and that we all quickly return to pre-pandemic life, it is clear now that we must adjust to the “new normal”. However, this doesn’t mean that we have to live a life of isolation and loneliness. It simply means we need to adjust and pivot. There are numerous ways in which you can still build a sense of community and find your parenthood tribe.
Here is a list of some ideas to find community during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
Apps
- Nextdoor: Neighbors, friends, and local gatherings are posted here. You could write an introductory post stating your name, your baby’s name, and that you are looking for families interested in connecting locally. For example, someone to go for a walk within the neighborhood.
- Marco Polo: This is an app that I have heard new moms love to use! You can send videos that don’t expire to family and friends and you can respond on your own time.
- Peanut: Marketed as “A safe space for women to meet and find support”, this is like a dating app but for mom friends. It is designed to connect you with other women in your area who are going through similar experiences as you.
Places
- Yoga Studios: Many yoga studios are having to reinvent how they connect with their community as most studios have not been permitted to return in person. Reach out to the studio and ask if there are new parents that want to connect or see if they have an online bulletin board.
- Parks: They are not a new option, but they are much more valuable. Whether it’s going to a walk to tone your body during pregnancy, with your infant on a stroller, or to give your growing kids an opportunity to run around, it is also a great chance to connect with other families in your community.
Support Groups
- Online Support Groups: Platforms such as Facebook have countless groups for parents to connect. There often are even groups for parents who live in specific communities. This is a great way to connect with other parents, get help, ask questions, and find out what is going on in the neighborhood.
- In-person Support Group: Whether it be Mommy & Me, La Leche Leauge, or a group for parents with special needs, there are numerous options for support groups that you may not know about. Contact a local birthing center, doula, breastfeeding consultant, or pediatrician to ask about support groups in your area.
Join Our Community at Amazing Births & Beyond
At our facility, we host several classes, workshops, and group sessions for pregnancy, birth, and parenthood. These sessions create a great opportunity for parents to connect, hear what questions other parents have, and maybe even make new friends. Class sizes are limited and in some instances held online for safety measures. Call our office today to learn more about our upcoming sessions.
