Cold Outside

It’s December, and we’ve already had a taste of what’s to come and will continue for the next several months. Having a baby at this time of year can feel particularly isolating: it is cold, the sidewalks and streets may be icy, and just the thought of all it takes to get out the door may lead you to wonder if it’s worth the effort. Trust me on this one, it is. Staying home all day by yourself in your house with your baby day after day can be really hard. Whatever it takes, even if you just get out for a little while, is worth it. But where to go?

I recently took a poll of moms and added their insights into my own resource list. Here are some ideas:

New moms groups are typically a safe bet and a good place to start especially if you’re venturing out solo for the first time. The Parent Connection at BIDMC offers groups in Lexington, Dedham, Chestnut Hill and Milton locations. We also offer a group specifically for working moms, so if you're back to work, or still on leave, it really helps to hear from other moms who have already walked through this very big transition.

For our group meeting dates, go to bidmc.org/parentconnection.

Or, call us directly at 617-667-BABY (2229). All Parent Connection groups are complementary and open to moms with a baby between the ages of 0-1 years.

Jewish Family & Children’s Service also offers free drop- in groups. For a listing of locations and meeting times, go to jfcsboston.org.

Parent Connection and JF&CS groups are led and moderated by a group leader, and are a great way to meet other new moms in your community, where no one will be disturbed if your baby (or you) start to cry. If you ran out of the house without diapers or wipes, someone is sure to have an extra and willing to share. Many moms find that groups are supportive.

Check out your local library and bookstores for lap-sit story times. At this age, story time is not so much for your baby’s enjoyment, but more of an opportunity for you to get out of the house and perhaps meet some other moms in your community. Libraries typically offer free or discount passes to area museums, another potential fun outing! Check out your town’s website for other family resources. Getting out of the house in the winter without spending lots of money may be challenging, but staying home day after day can be really isolating. If you’ve got a great escape, or local resource, we’d love to hear/share!