A mom writes in asking for advice on the topic of making new mom friends. She says she is younger than most of the other moms she encounters and has a hard time connecting with them. What should this mom do to make new friends?
Writer, podcaster, and mom Erika Hardison weighs in with some expert advice below.
A Mamas Uncut fan asks:
“I am having a hard time fitting in with other moms. I would really like to have close mom friends but I am younger than most and I feel awkward around them. But I know it would be good for both my son and I. Advice please!”
– Mamas Uncut Community Member
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Advice from Erika Hardison
Hey! You are right about needing mom friends for yourself and your child. Sometimes as moms, we forget how to be social and we get consumed with parenting and babies that we forget how to be an adult. But don’t worry, there are plenty of moms like you. Hey, even I am one, and one of the things I am sure of is needing a mommy tribe. What’s a mommy tribe? A mommy tribe is a group of moms who gather together to be each others’ support system. You all may do play dates together, babysit when someone is in need, get together for a childless night out or anything that you all can reach an agreement to.
So where can you find these moms? Almost anywhere! Recently, I’ve discovered an app called Peanut where expecting moms-to-be and new moms can connect with more seasoned moms. The app is similar to Tinder without all the creeps. You can find moms local to you or find moms to connect with by your interests. It’s a great tool is you are a bit shy and rather have a conversation first to feel a person out. It’s perfect for those days you need to vent or have a baby who refuses to sleep and you are up all night.
Another option is to visit your local library. You can find moms there and can bond over your babies and their curiosity for reading.
I know older moms can be intimidating because you feel like they are preemptively judging you, but just know you are the best mom for your child. Also, don’t force friendships because you have a common interest together. Being friends means bonding and genuinely liking the person you are with. Show your child how to cultivate real, meaningful relationships, so when it’s their time they will have some great examples to follow.
[Images via Shutterstock]