Friends are important no matter what stage of life you’re in. But once you become a mama, it can change your social game—hello, early bedtimes and constant snuggles. While our kids are our world, we mamas need other amazing women who get what it’s like raising these incredible little humans. They need to get everything from the joys of motherhood like cute smiles and rolling giggles to challenges of motherhood like managing sleep regressions and pumping schedules.
Let’s face it, making friends as an adult is already hard enough. Now try adding time to meet new people into our already jam-packed days and nights. Between story time sessions, sleep training, doctor’s appointments, birthday parties, music classes, and everything else, squeezing in time to socialize can feel impossible. That’s why you need a supportive community of fellow mothers. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with practical tips to put yourself out there and meet other super moms effortlessly. Plus, you can listen to the episode of Conversations with Cam called Championing Your Fellow Mothers.
Who’s ready to expand their friend circle?
How To Make Mom Friends
Join online parenting communities.
Raise your hand if you’re part of at least one baby/parenting group on social media. These virtual mom clubs can be a lifesaver for everything from quick baby feeding tips to snagging last-minute playdate partners. But, they’re also one of the easiest ways to find your new mom-bestie.
You can find other mamas online through these parenting forums and Facebook groups. When you join a mom’s group, you can get a quick taste of what these other moms are like by simply checking their profiles. And, if you dig what you see, you can start a conversation. Easy peasy.
Say “hi” to your neighbors.
Do you ever look out your front window and wonder about the parents of the other kids running around the neighborhood? Well, now is your chance to find out. The neighbor woman ladies you smile and wave to while gardening or walking the kids might just turn out to be your kinda gal. So, next time you cross paths, why not wander over and introduce yourself or invite them over to the porch for a glass of wine and a gossip sesh while the kids are asleep? All it takes is a simple “Hello” and some small talk. You never know where it could lead!
Volunteer at your kids’ school.
We know what you’re thinking: how can we find time to help out teachers on top of everything else? Seriously, like our girl Sarah Nicole discusses in this episode of The Papaya Podcast, life harmony with relationships is tough! But hear us out. Signing up to help out with a school party, field trip, or fundraiser is an easy way to meet other moms. We know it might take extra time, which seems scarce these days, but we promise it’s worth making room in your schedule. Not only will you be a rockstar to the teachers with an extra set of hands, but you’ll also meet tons of local moms going through the same drop-offs and recitals as you.
Schedule a mom brunch.
If you’re a young hot mama juggling little ones, hosting a casual momma brunch is an easy way to score potential BFFs. Besides, who doesn’t love an excuse for mimosas and macaroons?! This is the perfect low-key way to build a little MILF crew (You can even rock these hot mama hats and crews.) All you need is a fun location with a fun kid’s area, then invite that neighbor you’ve said “Hi” to, the other moms at school you’ve begun speaking with, or the moms at your mommy and me classes. You can find mamas anywhere!
Schedule playdates at the park.
It can be a tad frustrating trying to make new friends or maintain your already growing friendship community while keeping our littles busy and occupied. Stassi and her fellow mom bestie discuss the episode of her podcast called The Kids Are Finally Asleep & It’s Martini Time. But, you can kill two birds with one stone by scheduling play dates at the park. There, your little ones will be occupied playing and you’ll have enough free time to meet other moms who might also be looking for their people. It’s also a good place, once you find your mom besties, to bond and strengthen your friendships while keeping an eye on the kids.
Start a mom blog/podcast.
It’s okay if you’re not the extroverted type and would prefer to make friends from the comfort of your home. We have the solution for you: start that blog or podcast you’ve been dreaming of! You can share your experiences of motherhood with others trying to navigate that new identity. You can also interview fellow creative moms for your podcast or feature them on your blog. It’s such an easy way to build friendships and a community of moms who uplift one another. Besides, when you’re ready to share your compelling story with the world, Dear Media is here to give you all the inspo!
Offer to carpool.
Between all the school drop-offs, activities, and general errand running that comes with motherhood, our cars basically become our second homes. Why not turn all that time behind the wheel into an opportunity to make a new friend by offering up your co-pilot seat? The next time you chat with your neighbor whose kid goes to the same school, you can offer to take turns carpooling. You’ll save gas money and have time to catch up on the way. Soon, playdates will start planning themselves.
Don’t be shy.
Confidence is the most important step in making friends. You must be able to step out of your comfort zone and summon the courage to speak to other moms, especially if you’re the shy type. And even though putting yourself out there when you’re not feeling your most confident can be scary, you only need to push past that inner critic and just go for the hello!
We know it’s hard, but community is SO important. For more on why, definitely dive into the episode of Soul on Fire called Human Design Deep Dive on Relationships, Parenthood, Friendship, & Beyond. It’s human nature to have friends, even as a mom. So, get out there and start by giving little compliments here and there. Then take it a step further by asking where they got their snacks or an outfit for their little ones. Before you know it, you’ll be well on your way to becoming besties. Still need a push??? Listen to these confidence boosting podcasts!
It takes a village, guys! Find your new moms squad with these tips!
Well, mamas, we’ve covered some effective ways to expand your mom circle, from online communities to meetups at the park. We’ve all been the new girl trying to fit in at some point. So don’t be afraid to say those hellos, send out those invites, or step outside those comfort zones, and put yourself out there, even on days when it seems easier to feel lonely.
Remember, there are so many incredible women just like you who are also looking for friends to lean on, vent to, and create special memories with. Your kids also benefit when you put in the effort to find your people. Your ideal mom squad is out there, and they can’t wait to meet the fabulous mama you are, too.
Check out our blog and podcasts for more tips on parenthood, friendships, community, and other advice. And, never forget that you’re doing AMAZING! Reward yourself with a Raising Good Humans sweatshirt, a moody mug, your fave drink, and a Bravo show. You deserve it!
