Now that your newborn is here, it’s time to gather all the support you can.
Adjusting to parenthood can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. According to Dr. Maggie C. Vaughan, LMFT and PhD, and head of youth transformation at Tapouts in Manhattan, two things are key to finding support:
- Push yourself to get out of the house.
- Accept that parenting is messy and imperfect.
“Parents often feel shame or inadequacy when things go wrong,” Dr. Vaughan explains. “This can prevent them from reaching out.”
But building a support system can change your parenting journey in powerful ways.
Why Support Matters for New Parents
Lance Somerfeld, parenting advocate, emphasizes that “it takes a village” to raise a child — and that village starts with your local and virtual communities.
Melissa Bykofsky, Executive Editor at What to Expect, highlights the reality:
“About 75% of new moms report not having enough support,” she says. “And isolation during that first year is extremely common.”
Fortunately, finding support is more convenient than ever — whether through in-person meetups or online platforms.
6 Ways to Build Your Parenting Support Network
1. Throw a Nesting Party
Instead of a baby shower, host a nesting party — a gathering where friends help prep meals, stock your freezer, or organize the nursery. It’s practical, fun, and incredibly helpful.
2. Speak Up About What You Need
Don’t expect others to read your mind. Be direct with friends and family about how they can help — whether that’s watching the baby for an hour or simply checking in emotionally.
3. Join Online and Local Parent Groups
Use platforms like Facebook, Meetup, and the What to Expect NYC Forum to connect with other parents nearby.
Try resource swaps to exchange baby clothes, toys, and advice.
4. Don’t Forget Dad
Fathers need support too. Groups like City Dads Group and Fathering Together host dad meetups and provide peer guidance through early parenthood.
5. Start Socializing Early (for Your Baby, Too)
From day one, helping your baby make social connections is important. Try:
- Local parent-child classes
- Playgroups or storytimes
- Community events for new parents
6. Access Virtual Support When You Need It
If you can’t make it to local events, lean on virtual support groups, podcasts, or apps like Peanut to talk with other parents facing similar challenges.
Final Thoughts
Parenthood can feel isolating, but support is closer than you think. Whether it’s prepping for baby with a close friend, chatting with other sleep-deprived parents online, or joining a dad’s meetup, you don’t have to go through it alone.
Ask for help. Build your village. And remember: messy, tired, and figuring it out — that’s normal.
