Alternatives to Mothers' Groups

How Mums Can Stay Connected Through Other Community Activities

Aug 5, 2009 Wei Yin Wong

Besides mothers' groups, mums can enjoy other community activities provided by playgroups, baby gyms, libraries, breastfeeding associations and cultural centers.

In addition to mothers’ or parents’ groups, stay-at-home parents should consider joining other community groups to meet fellow parents, get support, exchange parenting tips and help their children pick up some social and learning skills too.

Many of these groups provide great community activities that are either free or subsidized by local governments. Check out some common alternatives to mothers’ groups.

Child-Centric Playgroups

While parents’ groups are more parent-centric, playgroups are more child-centric. They are places where many young children first learn to socialize and get along with other kids. Playgroups are often started and managed by parents or carers and many offer a wide range of structured activities as well as free playtime for children of different age groups. A small fee may apply as these activities need money to run efficiently.

Baby Gyms and Sport Classes

Baby gyms and sport classes like swimming, tennis and soccer classes are great places to meet other young families. Exchange phone numbers and email addresses with other parents to arrange other gatherings outside the gym and sport classes. Music, dance and language schools are other places to make contact with other parents and children of similar age and background.

Local Libraries

Local libraries are not only for borrowing books and toys but they are meeting points for parents and kids as well. Many libraries run weekly children’s story times, craft sessions and song and dance fun hours. More special events, kids’ shows and workshops are held during school holidays. Just visit the local library and find out what it has in store for toddlers and young children.

Breastfeeding Associations

Although breastfeeding associations give priority to breastfeeding mothers, they also often have activities, events and seminars related to parenting and childcare that all parents can attend. For example, the Australian Breastfeeding Association regularly holds parenting seminars all across the country. Australian parents can visit its website and search for more upcoming events organized by the Australian Breastfeeding Association in their areas.

Cultural Centers

Cultural centers, museums and art galleries often hold educational exhibitions that the whole family can enjoy. There are always new exhibits and interactive displays at museums and galleries. Sometimes admission for kids under certain ages is free. But even if there is a fee, it is usually quite small and worth the family’s while. Check newspapers and parenting magazines for exciting events in those places. Again, more activities can be expected during school holidays.

There are many free and affordable community activities that parents and kids can participate together. Those who look beyond joining mothers’ groups can join playgroups, attend baby gyms and sport classes, visit the local library, take part in events held by breastfeeding associations and check out cultural centers that offer educational activities for young children.

Found this article useful? Read also Found this article useful? Read also Mothers’ Groups in Australia, Making Mothers' Groups Work for New Mothers and Tips for Joining a Mothers’ Group.

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Playgroups Help Both Mums and Kids