Supporting New Moms and Their Infants

New Moms In-Person Support Groups

Becoming a mom can be a wonderful and life-changing experience and it can be challenging, overwhelming and taxing. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to learning how to be a mom, these are some suggestions to help build your capacity as both a new mom as well as in order to support others who have just begun their parenting journey.

Seek Knowledge

Local libraries often have extensive parenting sections.

Read books, websites, and articles on parenting, child development, and pregnancy. Look for reputable sources that offer practical advice and evidence-based information. Be sure to distinguish between reputable sources and a social media snippet. Some popular, classic books include "The Baby Book" by William and Martha Sears, Parenting From the Inside Out by Daniel J. Siegel and Mary Hartzell, Nurture Revolution by Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum, and The No Cry Sleep Solution by Elizabeth Pantley.

Attend Parenting Classes

Many communities offer parenting classes and workshops for expectant parents or new moms. These classes cover a range of topics, including childbirth, breastfeeding, newborn care, and parenting techniques. Participating in these classes can provide you with valuable information and the opportunity to connect with other parents. Additionally, online communities can be very beneficial. These groups allow you to share your concerns, ask questions, and connect with other moms who are going through similar experiences. It's a great way to build a support network and gain insights from others. There are free virtual groups available for those early weeks when you might not be ready to leave the house as well as in person local support groups.

Talk to Experienced Moms

Seek guidance and support from experienced moms in your family, circle of friends, or support groups. They can share their experiences, offer advice, and provide emotional support. Remember that while what worked for them might work for you, it also might not work because you, your baby, your circumstances and your values may be different, and that’s ok!

Join a BabySpace Coachella Valley New Mothers Group Cohort

Connect with in-person support groups like those at BabySpace Coachella Valley. These groups are built to connect you with mothers and their babies who are very close in age to your baby, providing a great way to make in-person connections with other moms in your area. Attending Babyspace Coachella Valley groups are an excellent way to not only gain knowledge about your baby’s development in areas of physical, social emotional and motor growth but also learning about how your baby’s brain architecture forms and ways to support optimal growth. BabySpace Coachella Valley’s Executive Director is trained in both infant parent mental health and perinatal mental health and created this unique space as a way to foster the best outcomes for infants and their parents.

Trust Your Instincts

Remember that every child is unique, and there is no one "right" way to be a mom. Trust your instincts and listen to your baby. You will develop a deep understanding of their needs over time. Be wary of someone telling (selling?) you the only way to parent is through their course, schedule, plan, etc. When something feels against your instincts, heed the call. You know your baby best.

Embrace Self-Care

Self-care can look like a walk alone in your neighborhood or a hike outside.

Taking care of yourself is crucial in order to be the best mom you can be. Prioritize self-care by getting enough rest, eating well, and finding time for activities you enjoy. Talk to those in your life about how to help you prioritize yourself in your postpartum and early motherhood years so that you can have the capacity and energy to attend to your baby. As the adage goes, you cannot pour from an empty cup.

Practice Patience and Flexibility

Parenting can be challenging, and it's important to be patient with yourself and your child. Be open to learning, adapting, and adjusting your approach as you go. Remember that parenting is a journey of constant learning and growth. You were not meant to do it all alone and if asking for help and support is new for you, then beginning to explore alternate ways of communicating your needs with those around you will set your relationships with the adults and your children in your life on a sustainable path.

Seek Professional Help When Needed

If you have concerns about your child's development, behavior, or your own well-being, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Your OB, Pediatrician, PCP, Lactation Consultant, and postpartum doula are all a wealth of knowledge during this time in your life. Additionally, finding a therapist who is trained in Maternal Mental Health and Infant Mental Health can help you with the support you may need during this time of transition. This team of professionals are here to support you and provide guidance.

Remember that every mom's experience is unique, and you'll likely encounter a wide range of opinions and advice. It's important to trust your instincts as a parent and choose the advice that aligns with your values and circumstances. Trust in your abilities, seek support when needed, and progress on your incredible journey of motherhood.

Serving the Coachella Valley and surrounding areas, including: Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells, Thousand Palms, Palm Desert, La Quinta, Indio, Bermuda Dunes, Coachella, Thermal, Mecca, Desert Hot Springs, Yucca Valley, and Joshua Tree

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