Why Do Stay-at-home Moms Need a Support Group?

Almost two years ago, I made the decision to quit my job and become a full-time mom. The first thing I did was join a local support group. I am constantly raving to my family and friends about how wonderful my group is and how much my children love the meetings and activities. Still, two years later, I am still answering the question, why do you need a support group.

Let me begin by saying that being at home with your children all day, every day can be very rewarding. It can also be extremely lonely. If, in your previous life, you worked or even went to school, you were able to interact with other adults everyday. That is no longer the case once you make the decision to be a stay-at-home mom (SAHM, for short). Your days are now filled with finger painting and Elmo. A support group allows you to hold a conversation with someone over 4 feet tall, someone who understands what your days are like. If you're lucky enough to be a member of a diverse group, your topics will be vast and varied. Is potty-training stressing you out, want to discuss the upcoming election, or just chit-chat about the latest fashions? Give one of your support group buddies a call and enjoy a few minutes of grown-up conversation.

Most support groups have set activities that occur on a regular basis that allow moms to meet and spend time together face to face. For example, my group holds a group meeting once a month, but we also get together each month for Moms Night Out and book club. This really helps to give you something to look forward to. If you let your husband or significant other know just how important it is for you to get out of the house once in a while, you can usually count on him to take the kids off your hands for the night. He may even throw in some extra money so that you can splurge a little.

In addition to providing an outlet for the moms, supports groups are also a valuable resource for the children. Typically, the children of SAHMs do not go to daycare. Their friends are the children of other SAHMs. A support group gives you a build-in supply of playmates. When little Bobby starts getting cabin fever, you can call up another mom and schedule a time to meet at the park, or museum, or even your own backyard. A hidden benefit to play dates is that they also give you a few minutes to relax. So, take advantage of that member directory.

Though my children are all now school-age, I have chosen to remain active in my group. They are my lifeline to the outside world. I truly don't know what I would do without these wonderful women.