Jan 29, 2008

Connecting with Other Moms After Your Baby Arrives

After my first daughter was born, I had sort of a culture shock. I had spent four years as a busy music teacher, traveling to three schools. Most of my friends worked full time. I knew it would be great for me to stay home with my child, but it took a lot of getting used to! For once in my life, I actually had to be alone with myself, and my baby! Many moms feel guilty for feeling this way, and aren't sure how to deal with it. If this is you, then you are not alone!

There are many activities around Boone to help you connect with other moms to share experiences, learn from experts, and even get healthy together!

--------------------------------------------------

There are post-natal exercise classes at the Watauga Wellness Center. You can bring your stroller, and children under 12 months. You don't even need to be a member; all you need is a note from your doctor releasing you for activity! Call the Wellness Center at 266-1060 for more information.
  • Post Natal Classes: Monday and Wednesday at 11:00 AM
-------------------------------------------------

Watauga Medical Center also has classes for new moms. They bring in experts to talk about baby issues, and have time for socialization.
  • Babes in Arms: New mothers will meet to discuss any issues or concerns they have with an RN and a staff person from Birthing Center Education Office. Birth through 9 months. FREE
  • Babes on the Move: Mothers (or fathers) and babies from 10-18 months meet once a week. Guest speakers from various community agencies will present information related to parenting and health. FREE
-------------------------------------------------

Join the High Country Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS)
Welcome to High Country MOPS. Our goal is to reach out to mothers of young children and fulfill your unique needs at this stage of life. We aim to meet some of those needs by providing real relationships with other moms. We welcome ALL moms of preschoolers--urban, suburban, rural, stay-at-home, working, single, married, and teen. We meet the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month from September through May at Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Boone, NC. Call 828-266-9703, ext. 133 or e-mail: hcmops@yahoo.com for more information

-----------------------------------------------

Join the High Country Mommies
As part of The Mommies Network, HighCountryMommies.com is a free community for moms in Ashe, Avery, Burke, Caldwell and Watauga Counties. We realize that all moms need local support -- and who can't use another friend? HighCountryMommies.com offers a simple way to connect with local moms for friendship, support and fun. Members meet on our forums to share information on everything from where to get the best haircut to tips on transitioning to a "big kid" bed. Each month, we also offer many face-to-face events for our members, their children and their families. Register today and join us!

---------------------------------------------

The Children's Playhouse
(From their website) The Children’s Playhouse provides children from birth to age eight with an enriching, educational play environment while at the same time offering their parents and caregivers friendly support in the important job of raising children. It is an informal “town square” for the High Country, a place where natives and newcomers, out-of-towners and locals, experienced parents and eager first-timers, and people of all classes are brought together to share the joy of playful learning with their children.

Stimulating arts– and science-based programs, enticing play areas and exhibits, and informative parenting resources all support this mission. The Playhouse is supported in part by the Children’s Council of Watauga County, the United Way, Watauga County, and the Town of Boone.

---------------------------------------------

Watauga County Library Storytime
Every morning from 11 - 12:45 is preschool storytime at the library. Bring your preschooler, relax with them, listen to stories, and connect with other parents.

Wednesday afternoon storytime is from 3:30 - 4, and includes school children.

What activities have you been a part of? Have you had any really great experiences? Share by clicking on "Post a Comment" under this article.