I remember the time when my neighbor knocked on my door and asked me if I needed any help. Maybe she came over because she heard my colicky youngest son crying, what felt like all day and night. Or, she saw my disarrayed appearance when I would leave my house to drop my sons off at day care so both my husband and I could work. It was a difficult year for me, but I felt embarrassed to accept anything. So, I said “no” to her and closed the door.
I think it’s hard for parents, especially moms, to say “yes” to help when we might really need it. And it doesn’t necessarily mean material things, but just general support, like having a person to vent to about things or getting (or giving) practical advice.
If you’re like me, who wasn’t really part of any group or the “in” crowd, it’s even harder to step outside your comfort zone.
I’ve thought, in a lot of parenting moments, it would’ve been good to have a group of moms to lean on, talk to and dish out support. That’s why, in 2025, we are doing a “Find Your People” series. Sometimes, it feels like we are talking to everyone on social media, but are we really connecting locally with others? In this issue, we focus on mom groups in early childhood. This is just a small sector we found; do you know more? Share your group with us at [email protected] and we will place it on the list.
My kids are a little older now, but I’m not saying it’s any easier. They are a little more expensive, but the crying has lessened. However, I do feel like we are at a stage where we could have more fun together. In the January issue, start your new year by planning to enjoy the indoors and outdoors with your family. We give you plenty of options.
For me, I’m trying to stay positive. And while I’m not a fan of resolutions, I do have some goals to stay stress-free all year. Just little things to help me cope with difficult parenting and life moments. It doesn’t mean weight loss or exercise, either. Reasonable goals like taking a couple of minutes a week to stretch or stop doom scrolling one hour before bedtime so I will go to bed on time or read one book a month.
Also, I do want to connect with others more on an adult-like basis. But, honestly, I want to thank all of you. While I may not be part of a formal mom group, as the Northeast Ohio Parent editor, I do feel like you, the readers, have been my people for the last 11 years.
Wishing you all the best year!
