Taking the plunge; baby & toddler groups.

Motherhood is amazing, the rewards outweigh the sleepless night, the sick stained clothes and the tantrums in the supermarket. But it can also be lonely. With a partner who works or even as a single mum, there is no adult interaction.. and you're often sat thinking what to do next. 
Baby and toddler groups can be a lifesaver for some (including myself!)
With a structured play routine and tea/coffee and cake on hand, groups are fab for mums and babies.

There are many different types of mum & baby groups. Some run by the Childrens Centres, some run by local churches and some run by organisations of many kinds.

They often include a craft/messy play activity, free-play time where your child can explore a variety of toys and games, snack time where a healthy snack and drink is offered.. and story/song time.
For parents a hot drink and biscuits may also be offered. 

The benefits to baby/toddler are obvious; social interaction, getting out of the house, learning to share ad develop skills needed in life, exploring different toys/activities that may not be available at home.

The benefits to the parents may not always be as obvious. Groups are often deceived as competitive, cliquey mummy meet ups, where children are left to run wild whilst the local mums have a gossip.


With a lot of groups this isn't the case.
There's a lot of benefits to mum. Firstly, just getting out of the house can do a world of good.. It is important to get fresh air/exercise after being cooped up inside with a little one. Secondly, seeing your baby/toddler playing with others can be a wonderful confidence boost- you have created thst tiny person who's now developing well and making friends. The chat with other mums is great, it will make you feel like you and not just mummy. It is also a good time to share experiences/worries/advice on parenting topics.
A cup of HOT tea.. well need I say more as to why this is a good thing? ;)

Taking the plunge can be scary at first, but once you're there its all forgotten often. 

I've made a lovely set of mums at our local church group, and it is now part of our weekly routine. Alyssa loves going and playing with her friends & I'm sure Emilie will too once she's older.

It's hard to make the first step, but just try to be yourself, don't fret- they are all mums too, if you're looking flustered, or the bags under your eyes are looking more like suitcases- they won't judge, hey are all in the same situation.

Enjoying the park after group.

That's all for now, Tamar xo