**For the record, this post is not a sponsored or paid advertorial. Just something I think is important, especially for new moms looking to find their way. Please read on...**
Sometimes there are things that are near and dear to your heart that you just have to write about.
For me, it is reminiscing fondly about my maternity leaves, and the times that allowed me to forge deep and lasting friendships with moms who were similarly finding their way through mommyhood, one diaper at a time.
Today's post is about just that - connections - and the value garnered from having a support system that consists of moms just like you who are going through similar challenges and similar joys. Those first milestones of parenthood along with the fears and how to raise your babies can be considerably soothed knowing that what you're going through is normal and that at the end of the day, you're not alone.
Mommy Connections is a new social network that provides a wide range of pre and post natal programs across Canada, and by the end of 2011, will be expanding into the United States. Starting from the time that you are expecting, through your pregnancy and beyond, this community-based program will give you all the nuts and bolts about pregnancy, new parenting and the first formative years of your child's life.
From a mom who's been there, it's often difficult to find that support system that will be there for you when you really need an ear to listen or a hand to help.
Mommy Connections is across Canada and will be branching into the U.S. this year, but for this post, I'll focus on the West Toronto Chapter.
Mommy Connections West Toronto offers a Post-Natal Program and New Moms Social Network. This eight-week program features expert presenters who will enlighten, support and educate moms – as well as provide an opportunity to socialize with their babies. Each registrant will also receive a free swag bag full of samples and discounts from local businesses. Now who doesn't like free stuff??
Geared toward the needs and interests of today’s modern mother, the program highlights fitness, nutrition, safety, infant communication, and much, much more. Not only does Mommy Connections give moms the information they need to make decisions that are right for them and their family, it's also a fantastic venue to connect with other moms in the community to share stories, solicit advice, and just laugh - and sometimes, that's all you really need.
The next class starts May 17th, 11-12:30 at Swansea Town Hall and costs $120 for 8 weeks. To register, or for more details please visit www.mommyconnections.ca/west-toronto or contact Karen at Karen@mommyconnection.ca
Mommy support groups serve such an important role in society today. I honestly do not think I would be as good of a mom without the support networks I've found in the two moms' groups that I am a part of. Each group serves its own important purpose for me, but the two share many similarities as well - namely all of the same benefits you've listed here. I'd encourage all moms to find some type of mommy group in their area if at all possible. :)
ReplyDelete@Holly Ann Thanks, Holly! I completely agree, that's why I wanted to do this post. It's so easy for some of us to get isolated after the birth of our children, so knowing that there are local resources that one can call on makes the transition to parenting so much easier. Thanks for commenting.
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