New moms need other moms. Of course, they need the support of their partner and family members, too. But during that exhausting newborn phase, no one understands what it’s like to be a bleary-eyed, baby-feeding-and-burping machine better than someone else who is also a bleary-eyed, baby-feeding-and-burping machine.
With a newborn relying on you at all times, it can be difficult to find the time and energy to connect with other moms. This causes many new mommies to feel isolated and overwhelmed during their baby’s first few months.
Joining a group for new moms is a great way to find social connection, reassurance and advice for first-time moms. Plus, no one is going to roll their eyes when your baby needs to cry, feed or be changed.
Make connections with other local moms at these mom groups around Chicagoland. Some groups are designed for new, first-time moms and others are community groups for moms of babies, tots and little ones. The one thing these moms all have in common? Being eager to support new moms!
What are you waiting for? Check out one of these groups and start making friends, swapping baby stories and getting advice and reassurance from other moms who just get it.
The Branch
- Where: Southwestern suburbs
- When: Check the calendar for upcoming events
- Cost: Varies depending on the event
The Branch’s mission is to connect local moms and make sure they know they are never alone in their motherhood journey. With chapters in Aurora, Bolingbrook, Lisle Naperville, Oswego and Plainfield, there are so many ways and opportunities for mothers in the ‘burbs to connect with fellow moms. The Branch hosts Moms Nights, kid playgroups and other special events.
Chicago New Moms Group
- Where: 3759 N. Ravenswood, Chicago
- When: New sessions begin twice a month
- Cost: $210/new moms, $180/second-time moms
Join a small cohort of new moms and talk about topics ranging from your personal motherhood journey to relationships, identity and baby tips. Over the course of six weekly sessions, you will learn how to smoothly transition to your new role as a mother while forming supportive friendships with other parents. Groups for second-time moms are also offered.
Cradle Talk at Edward Hospital
- Where: Our Saviour’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 815 S. Washington St., Naperville
- When: Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
- Cost: Free
At this support group hosted by Edward-Elmhurst Health, new moms and their infants can drop in to learn about topics like dental health for babies and infant CPR and choking, attend tummy time sessions and enjoy Music for Baby classes or participate in a Stroller Strides. Breastfeeding support is offered at each session. Online sessions are also available. Check the support group’s website for the most up-to-date information on virtual sessions and the topics that will be covered each week. A Facebook support group is also available for moms looking for support, connection and resources.
Downers Grove Area Moms & Families
- Where: West suburbs
- When: Check the calendar for upcoming events
- Cost: Varies depending on the event
This group is for active moms and their little ones who want to get out, be active and socialize together. From splash pad playdates and storytimes to Moms Night book clubs, movie nights and wine clubs, these busy ladies meet up all over the western suburbs. Moms from all areas are welcome.
DuPage Area Moms
- Where: DuPage County area
- When: Check the Meetup page for upcoming events.
- Cost: $35 annual membership fee
This mom group is on a mission to support other mothers in the group while working to benefit all local moms through acts of community service. DuPage Area Moms hosts Moms Night Out workshops and social events, playgroups for moms and tots, and a semi-annual clothing and toy resale fundraiser that funds scholarships for local moms looking to go back to school. No matter what type of involvement you’re looking for, this group does it all!
Mom & Baby Hour
- Where: Edward-Elmhurst Immediate Care, 130 S. Main St., Lombard
- When: Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
- Cost: Free
At this support group hosted by Edward-Elmhurst Health, new moms and their infants can drop in to learn about topics like dental health for babies and infant CPR and choking, attend tummy time sessions, enjoy Music for Baby classes or participate in a Stroller Strides. Breastfeeding support is offered at each session. Online sessions are also available. Check the support group’s website for the most up-to-date information on virtual sessions and the topics that will be covered each week. A Facebook support group is also available for moms looking for support, connection and resources.
Naperville Area Moms Support Group
- Where: Fox Valley Mall, 195 Fox Valley Center Drive, Aurora
- When: Every Tuesday, 1 p.m.
- Cost: Free
If you’re looking for a more relaxed opportunity to chat and vent with local moms while your kiddos play, join the weekly playgroup at Fox Valley Mall. While your kids socialize at the free, enclosed play area, you can get to know this welcoming community of suburban moms.
Neighborhood Parents Network
- Where: Around Chicago
- When: Check the calendar for upcoming events
- Cost: $65 annual fee
This nonprofit offers events, resources and advice for parents at every step of their parenting journey. From playdates, webinars and moms retreats to parenting advice and finding childcare or the perfect school for your kiddo, Neighborhood Parents Network connects parents across the city who just want the best for their kids — and to find support and friendship in fellow parents! A 7-day trial membership is available to see if NPN is a good fit for your growing family.
South Loop Moms N Tots
- Where: South Loop
- When: Check the Meetup page for upcoming events.
- Cost: $60 annual membership, $15 online only membership
This group is only available to parents who live in South Loop, which means you’re guaranteed to make a friend who lives just down the street! South Loop Moms ‘N’ Tots hosts events that are meant to connect kids ages 0-5 and provide fun, relaxed opportunities for moms to meet and mingle.
Swedish Hospital New Moms Group
- Where: Virtually or in-person at Swedish Hospital Galter Medical Pavilion, 5140 N. California, Suite 630, Chicago
- When: Tuesdays, 10:30-11:45 a.m.
- Cost: Free
Recent or expecting mothers can connect with other moms and gain support at New Moms Group at Swedish Hospital. The group is facilitated by a licensed clinical social worker and covers topics such as postpartum body changes, feeding challenges, exercising post-delivery, dealing with baby blues and more.
All babies and mothers are welcome, regardless of if they delivered or will deliver at Swedish Hospital.
The hospital also offers a virtual mood support group on Monday evenings from 6-7 p.m.
Follow Chicago Parent on Instagram.
