Jenny started getting out of the house by taking the dog, Kuma, for a walk. This forced her to get out of the house and realize that it's not such a big scary world out there.
Selin was fortunate to have Erin as a neighbour. As you know, Erin had Emme a few weeks prior to Sienna's arrival so they leaned on each other for support and motivation to get out of the house.
Alas, we all joined "The New Moms Group" at St. Joseph's Hospital in Toronto. This is where Jenny and I met the rest of the ladies and the "mommy posse" was born. We met at the hospital once a week for 6 weeks to discuss all things baby. It was a great outlet to talk about our new feelings, the highs and lows, new responsibilities and things to expect. At the very least, we knew we were never alone. . Our facilitator brought in guest speakers to share information such as baby massage, nutrition and breastfeeding. And best of all, it was FREE, so we had nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Aside from a new moms group, there are tonnes of activities and groups for moms with babies! Some additional mom & baby activities include:
- Movies for Mommies/Stars & Strollers
- Mommy & Baby Yoga
- Baby Salsa
- Stroller Fit Classes
- Ontario Early Years
- Chapters - Reading Time
- Kindermusik/Baby Music Classes
- Swimming - check your City Park & Recreation Dept.
In addition to groups and activities, we all suggest getting some normalcy back into your life by having a friend or family member babysit for a few hours so that you can go for dinner with your hubby, go to the gym, get your hair done or get a manicure (a cheap and cheerful pick-me-up!). In the early days though, don't be too ambitious - don't plan an entire weekend away in the beginning - take "baby steps" and build up to it. As Jenny mentioned, breastfeeding moms also need to think about their feeding schedule. For example, she went to a hair appointment and was very clear that she only had 1 hour when she factored in her travel time etc.
Once you've met some other moms, indoor playdates will become a great outlet for you. You gain adult conversation and the babies learn to interact with each other.
The bottom line is this: you can be as active or inactive with the baby as you want but it's important to do something - anything.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::At the end of each episode, we will share our "MOMMY-SENTIALS" with you.
- Stars & Strollers at Cineplex Odion Theatres. Check them out in your area. - http://www.cineplex.com/Theatres/StarsAndStrollers.aspx
- Baby Yoga/Mom & Baby Exercise
- New Moms Group - check into the Childbirth & Parenting services at your local hospital. If they don't have one, they will probably know of some in the area.
- Ontario Early Years Centre
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