Motherhood can be both incredibly rewarding and exceptionally challenging. Whether you are an expectant mother, a new mom, or raising toddlers and older children, the support of other mothers and community members can be an important lifeline. Below, we’ve listed and described several unique Mothers’ Groups for local families.
The Mamas Network
The Mamas Network provides a third space, or a space away from home and/or work, where mothers can meet, connect and support each other. The Mama’s Network prioritizes inclusivity, stating that it “doesn’t matter what the labels say. The only part that matters is that you are a mother, and we are here for you.” The Mama’s Network offers several meetings a week and partners with community partners to provide unique local support. They also offer open coworking time with childwatch!
For more information, visit their website or drop by 3909 Research Park Drive Suite 400, Ann Arbor.
No Nut Mom Group
The No Nut Mom Group (also known as the NNMG Food Allergic Families of Ann Arbor) is a food allergy support group committed to building a supportive community and resource for families with food allergies. They are also focused on providing education about food allergies to the Ann Arbor area more broadly. The group has many opportunities to join, including indoor and outdoor events where you can develop friendships with other families living with food allergies.
For more information, visit their website or facebook page.
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Fit4Mom Ann Arbor
For moms who are looking to prioritize their health, Fit4Mom Ann Arbor may be a great answer. According to their website, Fit4Mom “provides fitness classes and a network of moms to support every stage of motherhood.” Focused on strength in mind, body and spirit, they provide both workouts and wellness programs for mothers.
For more information, visit their website or call (734) 358-7074.
Ann Arbor Mommas Network (Facebook Group)
Interested in creating connections but hesitant to add in-person events to your busy schedule? The Ann Arbor Mommas Network is a facebook group that is “an Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti area specific support and resource group for moms, women and nonbinary people who have children.” While they welcome those outside of the local area, they are especially dedicated to providing recommendations and resources that are easily accessible in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti locations.
For more information, visit their facebook page and answer the questions to get started.
Parent child classes at Steiner School
Enjoy time with other parents while your child plays, explores, learns. Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor offers classes for children from birth to age three where children can play, snack, sing and listen to stories in a safe outdoor space while parents connect with each other in a caring environment. While not specific to moms, these classes will support child development while allowing adults to build community.
For more information, visit their website.
SURE Moms
For moms of children in the juvenile justice system, Sisters United Resilient and Empowered (SURE) is a powerful resource. SURE meets weekly, and meetings are facilitated by an Outreach Worker who helps provide a space to “listen, encourage, teach, and learn from each other’s experiences.” SURE allows for one-on-one support and also a community of resources and family engagement.
For more information, visit their website or call 734-478-3125.
Rooted Together
Nuerodivergant moms and moms of neurodivergent children may be especially interested in joining Rooted Together, however this support group of moms is open to all. Rooted Together meets monthly, and is a therapy-informed group designed by licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Hasti Raveau. These meetings are focused on topics such as regulating your nervous system to avoid or alleviate burnout, difficult issues of motherhood such as overstimulation and boundary-setting, and practical resources available to families. Please note that there is a cost for membership or drop-in.
For more information, visit their website.
MomShare
MomShare provides a free, virtual space for new and expecting mothers. Their zoom-based classes are held weekly and may include topics such as infant sleep, soothing, and/or safety. They also explore topics related to the family as a whole, such as boundaries, challenges and intimacy. Bring your little ones on camera with you, or take this time for yourself as you navigate new motherhood with a qualified facilitator.
For more information, visit their website or call 734-973-6779.
Author: Dr. Alyssa Whitford is a former K-12 teacher and current professor of education at Hope College in Holland, MI. She is passionate about literacy, social studies, and all things education. She is also a proud parent to two children of her own.
