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Raising Baby

Online support groups make raising a child as easy as changing a diaper.

By Kyra DeBlaker

In years past, when a new mom would give birth, her mother was the first one home with her to help with the transition into life with a new edition. But today, in our ever-changing, fast-paced world, grandmothers aren’t always available to spend hours on end with mom and baby. The traditional support groups consisting of grandmothers, aunts or family friends are no longer available. Grandmothers are now corporate lawyers, aunts are successful doctors, and neighbors are company CEO’s and so much more, which leaves no time to bake cookies and prepare bottles for a struggling new mother.

Support groups in place to assist new and even veteran moms are popping up across the country, in your community and even online. Web-based or online groups school new moms, experienced moms and moms-to-be in all subjects baby, including postpartum depression, breastfeeding, sleep (for mom, not baby) and life transitions to name a few.

Postpartum depression affects women of all ages, ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds. Groups designed to cushion and overcome the depression that can occur any time in the six months following child birth are often offered through hospital and doctor sponsored programs to new moms and experienced moms who suffer with this ailment. These programs are now finding a spot online. When a class or a sponsor isn’t available moms can log on and find the support they are looking for in real time, at any time of day or night.

While not all suffer with postpartum depression, most women choosing to breastfeed struggle with breastfeeding. Despite being schooled in techniques while in the hospital, women often find breastfeeding to be both challenging and frustrating. Support groups and information pertaining to breastfeeding can be found online. Most sites offer tips and advice in the art of breastfeeding.

Thankfully, our technologically advanced life has made it possible for new moms to log on for information on and support for raising baby. Online support groups offer instant dialogue, day and night for moms looking to get answers to basic questions, complex issues or random occurrences leaving mom in need of guidance.

To find support groups in your area or online, log on and search for support groups or call your local hospital, as most either offer or are familiar with support groups in the area. Be advised, some groups charge a set fee to join, while others do not. Both charge-based and free-of-charge programs are equally beneficial. As with most information online, use caution and research the site. Be advised that most online support groups will not solicit personal information; rather they offer a forum to share thoughts and ideas.

Kyra De Blaker is the contributing editor for Curious Parents. Tips courtesy of www.edmunds.com. Visit their website.