As a new mom, I felt excited yet overwhelmed by my new sense of responsibility. The realization that I now had to make big decisions for my child was a bit daunting. I desired to have the information and support to know what is best for my family while having the means to talk with other moms who were also going through similar situations. Thankfully I took advantage of programs through Women’s Wellness of NJ to help expand my parenting horizon and to form lasting friendships along the way. Thinking back to my experience as a new mom, I have put together my top three outlets new moms should absolutely take advantage of to find guidance and keep your sanity. Best of all, they are all free!

Be informed!

As moms, our first priority is to make the best decisions we can to keep our family healthy and happy. Joining us in Hackettstown every 3rd Saturday of the month for our Mothers Group will help you gain information on a variety of topics related to total wellness for your family. From gardening to handling toddler behavior and from infant massage to feeding our kids healthy snacks, you will learn tips and tricks to keep your entire family well and happy. Visit our Mothers Group page at http://womenswellnessnj.com/services/mothers-group/.

Socialize with other moms!

Caring for young ones can feel isolating at times. You give so much of yourself as a mom. Sometimes a short adult conversation is all you need to feel a bit more like yourself. Our weekly Playgroups are great channels to chat with other moms and share in both the challenges and joys of parenting while providing a safe, fun, and clean environment for your little ones to play. Visit our Playgroup page at http://womenswellnessnj.com/services/playgroup/ or view our calendar for days and times at http://womenswellnessnj.com/calendar/.

Schedule some “me” time!

It is important to recharge and take a little time for yourself every once in awhile. Whether you go for a walk by yourself to or go grocery shopping sans kids, a few moments of peace will help you recenter. Take advantage of Women’s Wellness of NJ’s Moms Night Out where you can have some fun with other moms going to dinner, bowling, or a wine and paint session with other moms. You deserve it! For information about our Moms Night Out email Colleen at [email protected].

I hope you will take advantage of these local and free programs offered through the Midwives of New Jersey. I can attest that they have helped me in many ways while adjusting to being a new mom. I hope to see you at a future event!

This blog is written by Colleen Grzywacz. Colleen is a mom of two little ones, and a local music teacher. She is also our Mothers Group Leader in our Hackettstown Office. For more information on our other postpartum programs such as our MotherCare Class and Lactation Circle, please email [email protected].