Friends Indeed
Get Online
One of the easiest ways to find fellow parents is by heading to the Web. Look up local mommy groups on Meetup.com or other parent-oriented sites. For example, says Stern, her group, Divalysscious Moms, “is an online, offline community. They can see the events we’re putting on, pick what resonates for them, connect with people online and then meet other moms in person.” A coordinated event can take the intimidation factor out of things thanks to ice breakers or friendly hosts like Stern, who’s happy to make introductions.
At School
If your kid is in day care or school, that’s the best place to meet other parents. “You’re automatically thrown together through bake sales or school plays or after-school activities,” says Stern. “So get involved, and reach out when you can.” But don’t overextend. “Parenting is hard work as it is—don’t wear yourself out by taking on more than you can,” says Steiner.
MORE: Am I a Playdate Outcast?
Catch a Class
From prenatal yoga to your classic Lamaze, classes are a great way to find parents at a similar stage. “You’re all there for the same reason, so you’ll definitely relate. Confused? Ask one of the other moms!” says Stern. “Get a conversation going, ask when they’re due. Finding another parent who’ll have a kid around the same age will be a lifesaver.” And if you’re past pregnancy, there are still plenty of educational opportunities. “Mommy & Me classes are a great way for both your kid and you to socialize,” says Steiner. “But it can be anything—swim lessons, ballet, music and movement. There are so many different options out there these days, and it’s a great place to meet other parents.”
Forget Your Preconceptions
Just because you’re a working mom and she’s stay-at-home (or vice versa) doesn’t mean you can’t connect. “It’s important to reach out to moms who are different than you are,” says Steiner. “You’ll gravitate to people like you, but there’s so much to learn from others—and if you’re a working mom, the stay-at-homes may help the most, because they’re plugged in.” The caveat? “If she’s not friendly back,” says Steiner, “move on to the next. You’ve got too much on your plate without dealing with the mean moms out there.”
Hit the Park
Yes, we know. Being a parent is exhausting. So why not get some fresh air with the tot—and while you’re at it, make a pal or two? “The first place you should go to meet new mommy friends is the park,” says Stern. “No matter what age your kid is, you’ll find parents at a similar stage there.” But while your kid is climbing the monkey bars or dare-deviling on the slide, make sure you’re not cozying up with your phone. “You’ll look unapproachable. Instead, try to chat and be friendly.” In the winter, Stern suggests finding indoor place spaces like the Y or even Gymboree.
Build a Network
Even if you start with one mommy pal, you can make more. “Make it a goal that every time you go to the park, you talk to one new mom,” says Steiner. “And once you’ve made a couple of pals, they’ll introduce you to others.”
