How to Find a Playgroup

You're just moved to an area and don't know many people, but your toddler is climbing the walls and you are starting to crave adult conversation. What do you do?

Find a playgroup, of course!

I know, you're probably thinking that's easier said that done but with some investigation and questioning, I'm sure you'll find the perfect playgroup for you and your child.

Online:

First of all, let your fingers do the walk...across the keyboard, of course! Do a quick Google search: "your city name" playgroup. Results may vary. If your first search is unsuccessful, try nearby cities or counties. You may be surprised to find a playgroup right next door!

After your Google search, stop by meetup.com, the world's largest network of local groups. This site is great because you can search for a playgroup within a certain radius from your zip code. Meetup.com does change group organizers so some groups may ask participants to share the cost while others may ask for donations. Their meetup page will say if they do or don't.

Your next stop should be your local craigslist website. You can do a quick search for "playgroup" in the community section, or just browse through the listings. Just be careful! Don't be surprised if you run across some "interesting" postings but if you keep to the more "G-rated" sounding titles, you'll be fine.

Offline:

Maybe you don't have access to the Internet or you just don't feel comfortable with contacting people across the web. That's fine. There are still opportunities to find a playgroup in your area, but it will take some extra time and work.

First of all, ask around. Ask your neighbors and people that you trust, like your pediatrician or daycare provider. If you're really brave, walk up to other mothers in the park who have young kids. They're the best source of information - if they don't currently attend a playgroup, more than likely, they know someone who does!

Also, keep an eye out for community bulletin boards. You can find these at libraries, bookstores, grocery stores and other areas where moms hang out. Some groups or even other moms will post ads on these bulletin boards.

Initial Introduction:

So, let's say that you've found an ad, online or offline, that you'd like to respond to. When you do contact the coordinator, give then your real name, a phone number and/or email address where they can reach you, the ages of your kid(s) and a general idea of where you live. That information is the basics that they need to know if you'll be a good fit for their group. For example, if you have a 3-year old, and this group mainly has 1-year olds, you will not be a good match.

When they do contact you back, be open and willing to meet up with them in the next week. Most groups will either provide you a schedule of that week's outings or give you a day and time that's best to have a newcomer introduce themselves.

The biggest complaint that most playgroups have about new people is that they don't show up when they promise to. So, do yourself and the coordinator a favor - keep your promise of attending the get-together. If something does come up, call the coordinator right away and let her know that you will not attending.

With this information in hand, I'm sure you will be able to find a playgroup, and a whole bunch of new friends, near you!