Tammy's Ten: Maternity Leave Tips for Avoiding Social Isolation

Motherhood is a life-altering experience. Leaving work to care for a baby can be very overwhelming. Some mothers experience sadness, stress, anxiety, frustration, loneliness and even postpartum depression. Avoiding social isolation is the key to an enjoyable maternity leave. As a mom who loves being home with her kids, I'd like to share my tips that worked.

1. Go to the park. Pushing your baby in the swing or sliding together down the slide is just plain fun! It's free entertainment and you can mingle with other parents in your neighborhood.

2. Visit work. Whether you are missing your coworkers or just craving a little adult interaction, bringing your baby to work for a visit can help you feel less isolated. Planning a weekly lunch date will help you catch up on the latest gossip and feel connected to your life before baby.

3. Go to the library. The library can be a fun outing for you and your baby, especially on a rainy day. There is usually a designated children's section and you can meet other parents in your area. Reading to your baby is also very important and the library provides you with an unlimited free supply of books!

4. Visit a local playgroup. In Ontario we have Early Years Centers, which are free and run by the government. They provide a place for parents to meet and children to socialize. They are great for entertaining older siblings as well!

5. Visit a McDonald's play center. Grab a coffee and meet other parents. It's a great idea for a rainy day or when you just don't feel like cooking lunch! It also works well for multiple children and it's free other than the cost of food.

6. Sign up for a mom and baby class. Swim with your baby at the local pool, take yoga with your baby at the gym or join a moms with strollers walking class. You can have fun with your baby, get a little exercise and meet parents with similar interests.

7. Visit family and friends. If your parents are retired, drop by for a coffee. Meet your friends or spouse for lunch. Get together with your friends on maternity leave for play dates or just a walk in the neighborhood. Keeping social during the day is important for mom and baby's happiness.

8. Make use of modern day technology to stay close with family and friends. Giving grandma a phone call or sending a quick e-mail to your sister can help you from feeling isolated. Join an on-line parent's chat room and discuss issues with other moms.

9. Keep up with current events. Reading the paper, listening to the radio or watching news on the television are great ways to stay connected with the rest of the world. It also gives you more to discuss with your family and friends than your child's runny nose!

10. Visit the children's attractions in your local area. Try a children's museum, petting zoo, amusement park or gym world. They generally cost money, but babies are usually admitted for free. It gives your baby a great experience, amuses older siblings and keeps you knowledgeable about the children's activities in your area.

Maternity leave can be a wonderful experience for you and your baby. Get out and enjoy yourself! Even going for a simple stroll around the block can help to brighten up your mood and starve off boredom. Staying home with your baby is a big adjustment, but it can also be a very rewarding experience. Being off work for close to two years with my children has been amazing! Do I have to go back?