Creating Community- local resources for parents of newborns
Welcoming a newborn into your life is a momentous occasion that brings forth both immense joy and significant adjustments. Amidst this transformative journey, finding a supportive community becomes an invaluable lifeline for parents. The postpartum period marks a time of vulnerability, growth, and learning, where connecting with others who share similar experiences can foster a sense of belonging and comfort. Today, I’m excited to share some amazing local resources available to parents, emphasizing the profound importance of community and connection during this precious postpartum time. Discover how these resources can provide the support, guidance, and camaraderie you need to navigate this season of parenthood with confidence and love.
Baby Bandstand
Baby Bandstand teaching the alphabet to one of their “bandmates”
Alyssa Stern, a passionate musician & performer, with training in speech pathology, founded Baby Bandstand six years ago alongside a certified SLP to combine her love for music with her expertise. Presently, Baby Bandstand proudly offers both in-person sessions across various locations in New Jersey and New York, as well as free YouTube learning videos for all! These intimate 10-week semesters foster a sense of community among new parents, nurturing connections that grow stronger week by week. This sense of togetherness extends to the little ones too, as they delve into speech and language-enriching activities. They offer specialized infant classes tailored for the precious ones aged 0-18 months, setting the stage for a harmonious journey of growth and connection. Additionally, there are classes from the youngest to the most energetic at 5 years old; Baby Bandstand's classes cater to all.
Click here to learn more and find the class schedule and subscribe to Baby Bandstand's YouTube channel @babybandstand
Jayne Freeman of Mamarama
Janye, highlighted, hosting one of her support groups online
Jayne Freeman is a long-trusted figure in the local new parent community, whose wealth of knowledge and experience as a childbirth educator and postpartum doula has been a guiding light for countless parents on their journey through parenthood. Particularly relevant for the postpartum time, Jayne's Formula Support package was created to provide personal and evidence-based information to help parents make informed decisions about selecting the right formula for their baby. Additionally, clients of hers can join an array of new moms support groups which foster a welcoming space for both new and seasoned parents, where community, understanding, and valuable advice abound.
Visit her website to learn more about her offerings.
JC Bump and Baby
Michelle, top center, teaching an Itsy Bitsy® Baby Yoga class
Meet Michelle Goitia, a nurturing presence in Jersey City as a certified yoga instructor, birth doula, and postpartum doula. With over 20 years of yoga practice, Michelle's expertise extends to offering a diverse range of classes tailored to pregnant and new parents, including support groups. What sets Michelle apart is her special Itsy Bitsy® Baby Yoga class designed exclusively for parents and their little ones aged 0-6 months. For new parents seeking community and connection, this yoga class, as well as her JC Bump Moms support group, provide an exceptional opportunity to build lasting bonds while navigating the journey of parenthood together. Michelle offers a nurturing space to foster genuine connections and build a supportive community.
Find her full list of offerings and classes here.
Take a MOMent
Mamas + their babies at a Take a MOMent weekly meeting
Take a MOMent was born from the heart of Aly Shampain, who recognized the vital need for a close-knit support group after welcoming her son Jordan into the world. With a background in education, Aly is devoted to empowering new moms by curating intimate gatherings where moms can connect with other women around the same stage in their postpartum journey. Gathering weekly in cozy settings, these small groups offer a safe haven for moms to connect, uplift, and traverse the journey of new parenthood together. As an advocate of community building, Take a MOMent brings in local pediatric experts each week to discuss a wide range of pertinent topics, including feeding baby, playing with baby, movement, mental health, sleep, and returning back to work or planning for an extended maternity leave. Discover the profound comfort and wisdom that awaits you in this nurturing space, as you forge lasting friendships and glean invaluable insights from knowledgeable professionals.
You can follow Take a MOMent on Instagram and sign up for a cohort there as well.
_____
No matter where you are in your postpartum journey, finding community to walk through this parenting journey is profoundly important. Using local Facebook groups and meet-ups to find your people is essential to feeling less alone and more confident in this season.
Andrea Yates at Caring for You Doula is a postpartum doula based in Hoboken, NJ, serving families across northern NJ- Hudson, Essex, Bergen, and Union Counties. She is passionate about nutrition for new moms, the postpartum period, building a village for new parents, and helping parents navigate this time with confidence and ease. Contact her today to set up a free consultation on how she can help care for you and your family during this amazing time.
