Not outgoing enough to playgroup pick-up? 
Don't worry. Lowcountry Child has you covered.

For local playgroups, click here.

Being a new mom is a daunting job. During those first couple of months, you’re preoccupied with how to feed and how to get this little baby to sleep while trying to fit in shut-eye for yourself. But after a while, when you settle into the role of motherhood, you begin to crave the company of other moms.
Before having my son, Cole, I went to work and interacted with 10 to 20 people every day. Once I became a mom, all of that changed. I suddenly found myself cooped up in the house, just me and this little thing that cried and spit up all the time (and I mean all the time). After a while, I was desperately seeking some social interaction. But where do you turn?

Not every parent is forward enough to approach another parent with a playgroup pick-up line, “Hey, do you want to get together?”
Luckily, there are several groups and organizations in the Lowcountry where you can connect with other moms. I met several new mom friends through the breastfeeding support group at Hilton Head Hospital. One of the moms jotted down everyone’s contact information and a playgroup was born – pun intended. Even though I’m no longer breastfeeding, I still try to keep in contact with the moms I met.
Another place to connect, to commiserate and to rejoice with other parents is your local church. Several churches have children and/or mothers’ ministries – ways for moms and kids to connect with each other through their faith.
Once you find a playgroup you’re interested in, don’t e-mail. Call them and talk specifics: the ages of the children, number of children (and parents), what activities are involved, how often do they meet, when they meet and if there are any membership requirements.
If you’re a little nervous about that first meeting, ask a friend to go with you. Make sure to bring a light snack and drink for your child in addition to a fully loaded diaper bag. Be understanding and tolerant of the other children and parenting styles. It’s sometimes easier said than done, but no two parents or children are alike. Don’t make up your mind about the group until you have visited it a few times before making a final decision.
If you can’t find a playgroup that suits you, start your own. Decide on the purpose of the group (for playing or babysitting). Consider the children’s ages. For instance, toddlers are typically good for one activity for 60 to 90 minutes. Decide what time would work best and where you plan to meet. Take turns hosting or meet in a child-friendly place, such as parks, playgrounds or museums. During the summer, try a pool hop, hosting the playgroup in various neighborhood pools.
Laura Jacobi is a Bluffton mother to 21-month-old Cole. To contact her, e-mail laura@lowcountrychild.com.