You know what they say: making friends as an adult isn’t easy. With babies in the mix, it isn’t difficult to become even more isolated. That’s why it’s important to maintain and make new connections that become routine.
Believe it or not, social media can be a valuable starting point for finding your people in Toledo when you’re a busy mom. We came up with a list of Facebook favorites that we’re sure you’ll love.
A nonprofit that began in the early 80s, MCGT helps moms with small children find entertainment, support and sisterhood. If you follow them on Facebook, you’ll learn about their open houses, as well as other events to check out if you are considering a membership. It is only $40 a year and includes weekly events, occasional childcare through the YMCA, a babysitting co-op, book clubs, guest speakers, and more.
“The daily interaction, especially when I was a new mom, made me feel like I wasn’t as alone,” said Emily Steinman, an active MCGT member and stay-at-home mom. “Other moms were facing both the same joys and frustrations that I was feeling about day-to-day life. The private group has been my safe space, full of supportive members full of advice and encouragement. So, simply put, the presence of this group has been a great resource.”
Through this group, you’ll learn about new activities for kids in Toledo and off-the-beaten path events. It is the collaboration and give-and-take that makes it so special (full disclosure: I’m a member).
“A few years ago, the group started a Buy Nothing page for MC members,” said Steinman. “I’ve received many clothes for my boys for free, and in turn have also given away clothes for free to other members! It’s a special way to connect with others. I also love our WeCare program. We regularly do meal trains for members who have recently had a baby. I love helping others in this way.”
If you’re looking for an online community that helps you learn about other points of view, TMSJ is an excellent choice. It’s a place to go for guidance, or even to ask questions you’re nervous to ask in public. It’s all about learning how to be more respectful of each other.
Erin Schoen Marsh, one of the Facebook group administrators, describes it as “a unique network of moms with different expertises, connections, backgrounds and skills. We get questions about race, custody, divorce, volunteering…On a simpler level, we had someone recently post about needing an enclosed, safe space to bring multiple young children to play, and members provided her with a list of over ten local places within a few hours. To me, TMSJ is a support network looking to uphold one another.”
With over 1,000 members, this group is one of the top selections on our list because of the active information sharing about events around town. You’ll find posts about summer camps, free activities for families, educational resources, free items for kids and opportunities for meetups.
This group covers a broader area, so all of our readers will find something of value by joining this group of nearly 3,000 members. Find friends and set playdates, learn about classes for kids of all ages, pose parenthood questions to get well-rounded responses…it is an excellent resource to add to your network. Those who post are helped with fun requests, like finding the best egg hunts in Northwest Ohio, but there are also moms who go there for serious support, like finding temporary shelters.
While you’ll find events and calls for playdates on this page, the main topic is about saving money. Sharing articles about low-spend hacks, sharing the latest news on sales, bargains, free events, resources for housing insecurity and anything else to help families thrive without breaking the bank. Through this network, you might just find some thrifty friends to hang out with along the way!
Other Facebook groups to consider include:
4 MOMz – Toledo OH
moms helping moms with out all the rules Toledo and surrounding areas only
Sports and other programs for kids in toledo and toledo area
Toledo Mom 2 Mom
Beverly Neighborhood Family Group – Toledo, OH
Toledo Mothers of Twins Club
Mothers Helping Mothers Toledo And Surrounding Areas
Mother’s Helping Mother’s Toledo Ohio Area
Toledo Soccer Moms and Dads
Toledo’s Mommy’s Club
Toledo Area Progressive & Secular Homeschoolers
