FAQ > New Moms Groups

What should I bring? Bring your baby, a diaper bag, a receiving blanket and a bottle of water for yourself. We have infant play mats, nursing pillows and a fully-stocked changing table in each private classroom.

Is this a breastfeeding group? No, it is a group for moms and newborns, with many topics discussed. Feeding – including breast and bottle feeding – will likely be discussed, but feeding is not a focus of the group.

Is there a specific philosophy of this group? Our group facilitators have a nurturing and accepting approach to working with new babies and families. There is no specific philosophy. A variety of parenting approaches are discussed and we recognize that each family needs to make the decisions and choices that they feel will be best for their baby and family.

Is my baby too old or too young for a particular group? Every group must have a youngest and an oldest baby. Each of our new moms groups has suggested age ranges. If you have one of the younger babies, you will have the opportunity to see babies just a bit older and hear suggestions and tips from the group leader and other mothers. If you have one of the older babies, you will gain confidence from all the moms asking YOU questions for a change. Most importantly, you will learn many new ideas for developmentally appropriate infant care and play activities while forming a support and friendship network at the same time.

What if my baby cries a lot or is fussy during group? ABC means “All Babies Cry!”. It might be reassuring to hear from other mothers that their babies cry a lot too, and to learn some coping techniques and new ideas for soothing a fussy or gassy baby. It’s helpful to hear that every new mom is struggling with some issues. It’s a huge adjustment, and it’s an amazing thing to be in a room with other moms who really understand what you are talking about! The groups are comfortable and informal- you may do whatever you need to do to keep yourself and your baby comfortable. If he cries, you do just what you’d do at home- stand up and sway, bounce or walk around. If he needs to eat, you feed him. If he needs a diaper change, you’ll change him.

Can my husband come? May my caregiver/nanny bring my baby? Our New Mothers Groups are specifically for mothers and babies. However, we have many other programs appropriate for fathers, grandparents, nannies and caregivers to attend with your child. Ask our Staff Associates for an age-appropriate suggestion.

My baby’s only two weeks old, and I’m afraid of germs. Unlike the mall or supermarket, our groups are a controlled environment and very clean! Infection control is discussed the first week, and group members are very considerate about not coming if they or their baby may not be well. Our changing table is immaculate, and we have hand sanitizer at the changing table and other areas in the classroom. During group, your baby will remain in your arms, lap or at your side.

My baby wants to nurse/eat constantly! What if I need to feed her during the group? If she’s hungry, you’ll feed her. In fact, our private room is the ideal place to practice nursing in public- what better place than with a bunch of supportive moms and babies doing the same thing? We have nursing pillows here for the moms who like to use them. We have a bottle warmer available for use as well.