How to Make Strong Parent Friendships
Making new friends when you’re a parent can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. Follow these straightforward strategies to find friends who are in a similar life stage.
We’ve all heard the jokes about how tricky it can be to make “mom friends,” but this challenge isn’t exclusive to mothers—parents and caregivers of all kinds often face feelings of isolation. Parenting is hard work, and the support that comes from strong parent friendships is invaluable. Often, the best advice and encouragement come from those who are navigating the same stages of parenthood as you.
Making new friends as a parent isn’t always easy, but it’s important. “It can feel like you’re back in high school trying to make new friends,” says child psychologist Joanna Jacobs, based in Los Angeles and a mother of two. “But no matter how awkward it seems, remember every parent is in a similar boat, and all parents, no matter the stage, crave connection.”
If you’re wishing for more parent friends but feel overwhelmed by a hectic schedule or low energy (because, let’s face it, parenting is exhausting!), don’t worry. These six simple tips will help you get out there and make some new parent pals.
Some Tips To Make Strong Parent Friendships
1. Get Out There
As a parent, sometimes the hardest part is just stepping outside. Even though your baby sleeps a lot, that doesn’t mean you’re stuck indoors. Pop them in a stroller and take a walk around the neighborhood.
“A baby in a stroller is a perfect conversation starter,” says Lyss Stern, mom and founder of Divalysscious Moms, a networking event company for New York City moms. “You’ll be surprised by how many people will stop to coo at your adorable baby. While it might seem bothersome at first, don’t be afraid to use it to your advantage. You never know who might have a friend with a baby the same age.”
Find a local park, join a music class, attend library storytimes, or check out parent groups online. Or simply settle into a nearby café.
2. Make the First Move
“Don’t wait for someone else to approach you,” says Samantha Ettus, entrepreneur, author, and mom of three. “If you see another parent who seems like a good fit for strong parent friendships, take the initiative to introduce yourself. Remember, we’re all in the same parenting boat, and no matter how put-together they appear, they desire meaningful connections just as much as you do.”
Not sure how to start? Compliment them! Find something genuine to say about them or their child. “Just make sure it’s sincere, or it’ll sound like a shallow pick-up line,” advises Tara Mandy, founder of a network of parenting websites and mom of two.
You can also start by engaging the kids. “Bring extra toys to the park—things like balls or bubbles. Kids flock to them, and before you know it, parents are engaging too,” she explains. Once the kids are playing, it becomes easier to chat with the other parent. Ask about their child’s name, age, or where they live. If the kids hit it off, suggest getting them together for another playdate.
Read More: The Best Tips for New Parents: Expert Advice for Your Parenting Journey
3. Exchange Contact Info
Once you’ve broken the ice and had a pleasant chat, don’t leave without swapping contact details.
Start simple by asking their preferred way of staying in touch—whether it’s texting, emailing, or something else. “Exchanging contact info is essential,” Stern says. “Otherwise, you’ll get stuck in a vague ‘let’s do this again sometime’ limbo, and it could be months before you bump into each other again.”
If they suggest connecting on social media, make sure to get their last name. Or, offer your information first to give them the option to reach out. And don’t be discouraged if they don’t follow up—there are plenty of other parents out there. The key is to find a clear way to keep in touch.
4. Plan the First Playdate
Even if you’ve clicked with a new parent friend, that first playdate can feel a bit nerve-wracking. Both of you are still figuring out if you have common ground while trying to keep an eye on the kids.
In the best scenario, the kids play independently, giving you a chance to get to know each other. In the worst, the kids might need constant attention, with potential pulling, pushing, and crying, making it hard to connect.
To set yourself up for success, choose a time and place that suits both you and your child. If mornings are when your child is at their best, suggest meeting then. If your child is easily overwhelmed in new environments, try hosting the playdate at your home or a familiar playground.
Be mindful of how you feel, too. If something doesn’t work for you, it’s fine to say so, but offer an alternative to show you’re still interested. Consider setting a time limit for the first playdate—this takes the pressure off and ensures no one overstays their welcome.
5. Use Naptime Wisely
You don’t always have to spend your child’s naptime catching up on chores. Instead, schedule a “naptime playdate.” Go for a stroll with your new friend while your baby sleeps, or grab a coffee together.
A quieter, naptime meet-up can give you a better opportunity to focus on one another and see if you truly connect. “I was always on the go, and meeting moms for stroller walks during naps was a calmer way to connect,” says Soleil Moon Frye, author of Happy Chaos.
A naptime playdate lets you relax and get to know another parent without feeling like you need to split your attention between them and your child.
6. Confirm the Connection
Just because you both have kids the same age or live nearby doesn’t mean you’ll necessarily become best friends. Making new friends as a parent is all about trial and error, but you won’t know unless you try.
“It’s important to approach a playdate with optimism,” says Robyn Brecker, mom and former media executive. “But also be realistic—not every parent will become your new best friend. Still, aim to enjoy the time together. Plus, you never know what other connections you might make through a new friendship.”
If this one doesn’t work out, don’t get discouraged—there are always other parents to connect with. Every encounter gives you more practice in putting yourself out there.
Keep This in Mind to Make Strong Parent Friendships
Finding fellow parents with kids around the same age can be challenging, and establishing strong parent friendships is rarely simple at any stage of parenthood. Balancing new relationships with the demands of parenting can feel overwhelming, but investing in these connections is worth the effort.
Be patient, show kindness to yourself, and remember that meaningful friendships are just around the corner.
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