“The moment a child is born, the mother is also born.”

When we become parents (both mothers and fathers) our personal identities undergo a huge transformation, one that can take some time adjusting to. Suddenly, we are responsible for much more than just ourselves and that can feel both extraordinary and terrifying!

Luckily, we don’t have to go it alone. One of the best things I did for myself when I became a new parent was connect with other moms and dads going through the same thing; the nursing, the sleep training, the introducing solids…and though our conversation may have seemed boring to an outsider, these were the conversations that helped me get through the first year (and then that second, and so on!)

Finding your village during this important and memorable time in your life can make all the difference. It can remind you that you’re not alone. It can help you build and improve on your parenting skills. It can serve as a way to access resources and build friendships. And it can help you discover this new identity you’ve taken on as a parent.

Whether you’re looking for a little more validation on your parenting journey, or just a group of moms to grab coffee with and chat (and laugh) about your child’s weird poop habits, check out these wonderful parenting support groups we’ve discovered in our very own area. See one we’ve missed? Shoot us a comment below!

Doylestown Health Postpartum Mothers’ Group

595 West State Street, Doylestown

Parenting is a joyous experience, although it does come with its challenges as well! Join Doylestown Health educators in an environment where you will feel nurtured, respected, heard, and supported. Express your feelings, concerns, and ask questions. To be around other new parents and know that you are not alone can be very comforting. This parenting support group meets in-person at the Beck Family Classroom every first and third Saturdays of the month from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm and every Saturday morning on Zoom from 10 to 11 am.

For more information and to receive the Zoom link contact: Marlene Rosenblum.

Family Service Parent Support Group

Bucks County Family Center, 2 Canal’s End Road, Suite 201G, Bristol

Family Service’s Parent Support Group meets weekly on Tuesday evenings to help you make positive changes in your parenting. It’s a place to come together with other parents to share feelings about and get advice on being a good parent. You’ll exchange creative parenting practices based on your own personal experiences and develop a lasting network of friends who can serve as an ongoing resource.

Some benefits of attending:

• All meetings are free of charge
• Free childcare during meetings
• Snacks are provided
• Facilitated by a Masters level clinician
• Weekly meetings are held year-round
• Social activities throughout the year
• Topics focus on children of all ages
• Easy access to public transportation (SEPTA bus line)
• Free parking

Newtown MOPS

80 Lower Silver Lake Road, Newtown

Newtown MOPS believes in the simple but revolutionary idea that remarkable things happen when moms come together. Their monthly parenting support group meetings include practical teaching through speakers, demonstrations and videos. Sometimes meetings will feature an expert speak on a relevant topic, sometimes you’ll be tapping into your Pinterest-y side with a craft, and sometimes you’ll enjoy a demonstration.

Plus, there’s coffee and food… food you didn’t make OR have to clean up! But most importantly, you’ll get to have honest (uninterrupted) conversations with other local moms who understand the joys and frustrations of motherhood. All of this without your toddler attached to you! And you can use the bathroom by yourself.

No One Asks About Dad (A Support Group for Dads)

Ally Psychological Services, 5049 Swamp Road, Suite 303, Fountainville

Lots of dads feel unappreciated, disrespected, and unrecognized. This group is here to change that. Join other dads, like you, to talk about the frustrations of being a dad. Don’t worry, this won’t be all touchy feely kumbaya. You’ll talk about things that matter and give you some skills that actually work. Join for eight weeks of conversation with other dads in similar spots. Hear what they have to say, offer and receive support, and get out of the house each week. The parenting support group is led by a professional male counselor to help dads feel heard and validated.

Parenthood Village of East MontCo

Jenkintown

Are you looking to find your village during your parenthood journey? Parenthood Village of East MontCo is a welcoming and inclusive parenting support group of families residing in the East Montgomery County area.

PVEM provides an active, judgment-free, monitored Facebook page to ask questions and discuss things pertaining to life, kids, and parenthood as well as in-person and virtual events and meet-ups (both family-friend and parent-only) so that you can find the support you need that works for you and your family. Email parenthoodvillage@gmail.com to get started!

Restoration MOPS (Levittown)

Restoration Church, 401 Pinewood Drive, Levittown

Restoration MOPS is here to travel alongside you during this season of motherhood and to provide you with all of the support and resources you need to be a great mom. During meetings, you will have a chance to socialize with other moms while enjoying a child-free breakfast, hot coffee, discussion time, speakers, creative activities and service projects.

There is an annual fee of $31.95 for your MOPS International membership as well as a $50/semester fee that goes towards childcare, breakfast items, craft supplies, etc. Scholarships are available as needed. If you’re interested in joining, send an email to restorationmops@gmail.com.

Lead photo courtesy of Ivory Tree Portraits.