Starting in the spring of 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic caused widespread closures of schools, day cares, playgrounds, and other areas that normally would allow parents and children to socialize. Those closures have had lasting impacts on the social development of thousands of children.
Studies have shown that lack of interaction leads to higher cases of developmental delays. Regular opportunities for socialization can also help reduce mental heath issues, such as depression and anxiety, in both parents and children.
Thankfully, life has largely returned to normal for most of us. Schools and daycares are once again open. Group activities have resumed in many places, including our support groups. Let’s look at three important benefits of support groups and playgroups.
Support for Parents
As the name suggests, support groups are all about giving and getting extra support. Whether you are a single parent or have the support of a partner, have family nearby or not, support groups can provide valuable help. In groups, parents can exchange ideas, experiences, and concerns.
We offer a group for pregnancy support and postpartum support. During this group you can meet others who are going through the same experience as you. The variety of backgrounds and previous experiences will give you a wealth of knowledge to benefit from. We often have professionals such as Lactation Consultants, Baby Wearing Experts and even Sleep Consultants join our group to offer insight!
Groups are frequently sponsored by larger organizations. These organizations can help you connect with community resources and programs. Many people are not aware of what programs they qualify for. Support groups can open the door to help you didn’t even know you needed.
Opportunity to Make New Friends
The older we get, the harder it becomes to make friends. This can be especially true when we experience life changes, such as having children. If you are the first in your friend group to have children, it can sometimes feel like you no longer fit in. Support groups can help you to avoid feelings of isolation and loneliness. You’ll meet other parents and may form new and lasting friendships.
Not only can you make new friends, but your children can make friends as well. Check with your local library and schools to find playgroups and other activities that will connect your family with other families. While your kids are playing, you can enjoy some adult conversation with other parents.
Babies are welcome during our postpartum support group, so you don’t need to worry about finding childcare while you attend. The mental health benefits of socialization, both for you and for your baby, are numerous. According to the CDC, social connection can prevent serious illness and improve your ability to recover. Early socializing helps infants develop emotional skills such as empathy and compassion.
Learn New Skills
Children learn by watching and imitating. For this reason, playgroups are invaluable. Children learn how to play by watching other children. Your little one may be willing to try out new things when they see others enjoying them. Active play helps to strengthen muscles and bones leading to a healthier body. Emotional skills are also learned by interaction. As babies interact, they learn how their actions affect others. This ability for compassion and empathy will be essential to forming lasting, healthy relationships later in life. New skills can also be learned by parents. As you observe and interact with other families, you will naturally find parenting strategies you want to try, and those you decide to avoid. If you are struggling with certain aspects of raising your child, you will likely find another parent who has experienced a similar challenge. By talking with other parents, you may find suggestions or resources that will help you to meet the challenge successfully.
Be Part of Our Group
As we have seen, group activities, whether for children or for parents, have many benefits. If you want to find a group near you, check with your local library, schools, or health department for suggestions. Click here to join our pregnancy and postpartum support group at Beanz & Co in Avon. We look forward to seeing you there!