When You're The Only Mom

Whether you're in your 20s or your 30s, being the only one with a baby can make you feel a bit out of the loop, and no matter how much your childless friends love yours, they still can't relate to any baby issues you're having like another mom does.

When you've been friends with the same women since you were girls, it may be difficult for you to spend as much time with them, or even relate to them when you're the only mother. But it's hard to stay connected when it's not possible, or you just don't feel like running with the crowd. Having a child results in a huge lifestyle change for most, and many women find much more joy in spending time with their newfound family than in making it out to their old weekend hot spots.

Many new mothers feel lonely and left out when they are the only one in the circle with a baby. If you don't have any other friends who have children it's important to establish those relationships, because even if you only end up with one or two other mommies to chat with it really can make all the difference.

Having a child doesn't mean you should cut yourself off from your old group completely. Spend time with other moms and kids during the day, and go out with your old crowd on a weekend, for a coffee, or any other chance you have to get away by yourself. Because while it is important to have some friends who have a baby, most moms want to get away from baby talk at least once in a while.

Having other moms to talk to however, also has it's benefits. They will most likely be in the same mindset as you, and will have plenty of advice to offer, and soak up. She also won't mind talking with you about spit-up or diaper brands, as opposed to your baby-less pals, who will likely be less than thrilled to hear about you little one's first poo since you started her on solid food.

So how do you make friends with someone you don't know? Set a date and place to meet with her where there will be some sort of entertainment to watch, just in case the conversation goes dry. Don't be disappointed if you don't hit it off with her, there are lots of other moms in the area, and lots of activities you can go to solo where other moms are guaranteed to be, and that way, you don't need to worry about being late if no one is there waiting for you.

It's hard however to make new friends. So if you do decide to go somewhere with just you and yours, and see another mom there who isn't talking to anyone, or is there by herself, say hi, and ask her how old her little one is. If it is a weekly event ask her if she will be back next week. Once you talk with her a few times you two can go off and do other activities together with your children, and meet other moms, before you know it, you might have yourselves enough to start your own playgroup.