Author: Anna Reeves

Having moved to several different states every couple of years, I’ve had to start fresh and build new friendships time and time again. I didn’t want to entirely give up my current friendships either. Through those experiences, I’ve learned valuable lessons about navigating friendships as a mom. While it can be both rewarding and challenging, balancing the demands of motherhood with cultivating meaningful relationships takes intention and effort. Here are my best tips for successfully navigating and nurturing mom friendships:

Go where moms go

While this may seem obvious, This is actually the best places to make mom friends. This may be local or online, but look for groups where you can join or introduce yourself. Parks are no longer top choice for meeting other mamas. Try fit for mom or My Gym children’s fitness centers. Local libraries.

make the first move

It’s kinda like dating. Ew. I know but really.. the other mamas are in the same position you are but they most likely don’t want to speak up either. Some great icebreakers are to ask how old is their kid? or compliment their choice in diaper bag etc. Just start the conversation.

Nurture your already existing friendships by Prioritizing Communication

Clear and open communication helps build trust and understanding. If your friend has a child also, remember all mamas have different styles of parenting and you need to be able to communicate your style effectively not to step on their toes, but to also set your boundaries and expectations. My high school best friend and I are wildly different when it comes to our parenting styles, but I respect her choices and she respects mine. Share your feelings and needs openly, and encourage your friends to do the same.

Embrace the Chaos together

Motherhood can be chaotic, and being understanding helps maintain strong bonds. Recognize that life with kids can be unpredictable and messy. Don’t stress about having a perfectly clean house or a perfectly planned outing, embrace and accept those imperfections. Find humor in the chaos and share light-hearted moments with your friends.

Schedule Regular Meetups

Regular interactions strengthen friendships and provide support. Set dates for playdates, coffee breaks, or mom’s night out in advance. Meet in places that are kid-friendly or find activities that both you and your kids will enjoy. If in-person meetups are difficult, use video calls to stay connected. But show up when you say you will.

Share Parenting Tips and Support

Sharing experiences and advice can provide mutual support and reassurance. Share parenting tips and advice in a supportive, non-judgmental way. Don’t hesitate to seek out advice or support when needed. Share and celebrate each other’s parenting successes and milestones.

Respect Boundaries

Respecting personal boundaries fosters a healthy and respectful friendship. Recognize that everyone has different boundaries and schedules. Don’t assume your friends are available or interested in every activity. Clearly communicate your own needs and listen to theirs.

Balance Friendships with Family Time

Maintaining a balance ensures that family and friendships both receive attention. Plan time for family activities while also carving out time for friends. When possible, include family members in your friend activities to blend social and family time. Be realistic about how much time you can devote to friendships given your family commitments.

Support Each Other’s Parenting Styles

Respecting different parenting approaches fosters a supportive environment. Accept that different families have different approaches and practices. Focus on positive support rather than critiquing each other’s methods. Offer encouragement and support in areas where your friend might be struggling.

Plan Low-Key Gatherings

Low-key gatherings can be less stressful and more enjoyable. Host small quick and simple playdates or a quick coffee at home with a friend for a relaxed atmosphere. Meet at a neighborhood park for an hour or have a brunch or little picnic for a casual and enjoyable outing.

Be Supportive During Tough Times

Life happens. There are motherhood journeys that have good and bad all wrapped up in one. Offering support during difficult times strengthens friendships and provides comfort for that friend. You will have times that you probably need to lean on them as well. When needed, provide practical support like meals, childcare, or a listening ear during tough times. Regularly check in on your friends if they’re going through a challenging period. Show empathy and understanding, and offer support without needing to fix everything, sometimes its better to listen than to get involved. However if you feel your friends life is in danger, you should notify the authorities, but never get directly involved in a hostile situation.

Make Time for Self-Care

Taking care of yourself helps you be a better friend and parent. Ensure you’re taking time for yourself to recharge and maintain your well-being. Establish boundaries to prevent burnout and manage your time effectively. Support your friends in taking time for their own self-care as well.

Navigating mom friendships involves balancing communication, support, and personal boundaries while embracing the unique challenges of motherhood. By prioritizing these aspects, you can build and maintain strong, supportive relationships that enhance your parenting journey and enrich your life.