Being a stay-at-home mom isn’t easy, despite what some may think....there are no more vacation days or sick days; forget about a full lunch hour or annual reviews and raises too. It is non-stop, but at the end of most days, even the tough days, you know it is all worth it.
Many women making the transition from full time work to stay-at-home-mom, however, will admit that one of the most difficult things is losing the social aspect of working. To avoid feeling isolated in your new environment and in your new role, it is important to create a new network system and support system.
Finding a Playgroup.
One recommendation to help with the transition is to find a playgroup. The internet can assist you in finding an appropriate playgroup that meets your goals in or near your town. There are many websites that you can search by zip code for existing groups, or that you can post contact information for you to create your own group.
Some groups are national organizations and typically have a yearly membership fee associated with it. Others are very informal based on the interests of moms and that give you the opportunity to have an email buddy or to meet if they are nearby to your location.
Posting a simple flyer or two at the local library or church could generate a lot of interest. You will be surprised at the number of other moms who are waiting to find your group. You can keep it as small or make it as big as you want.
Some larger groups include meeting outside of playgroups, such as a Moms Night Out, Potluck Lunches, a Babysitting Co-op, a Community Service Group, Breakfast Club, Walking Group and other activities and events to include moms, kids and families.
Finding Local Children's Programs.
Church groups, libraries, and bookstores often hold regular children's programs such as storytimes. If there are children, they usually have Moms or Dads with them that you can meet too.
Playgroups provide the kids with a chance to be social with their peers, but it is also a positive social avenue for stay at home parents. You are able to share parenthood with others who truly understand some of the frustrations; share ideas on eating habits, potty training, and how to control the whining. You won’t necessarily connect and be best friends with everyone in the group, but you start with having something in common....parenthood.
