Guest Author - Kris Bigalk

Many parents of twins find themselves feeling overwhelmed and isolated, especially if the twins are their first children. It's good for both parents and children to be a part of a larger community of children and parents. Here are some alternatives that exist in most communities.

Mothers of Multiples or Twins Clubs
Most communities have some sort of club for mothers of multiples. These groups vary widely in what they offer members, but at the very least, you'll find other mothers who are facing the same challenges as you. Larger clubs sometimes offer support to moms on bedrest, clothes for premies, and "circles" of like-aged multiples. The multiples club I belong to even has two huge "garage sales" every year, where members can buy anything for their twins at a highly discounted price. To find a group in your area, see the links at the end of the article, or check out your local newspaper or yellow pages. Some pediatricians, OB/GYNs, hospitals, and community education offices also have listings of Multiples Clubs.

Early Childhood and Family Education (ECFE) Classes
In many communities, this great resource is housed under Community Education programs. Classes vary by location, but most include time where parents and babies interact together, along with time where the parents discuss parenting issues while the babies are being watched by a qualified caregiver in the next room. This is a great way to ease yourself into letting someone else watch your babies, if that has been a difficult hurdle to overcome. It also is a wonderful way to discuss parenting questions, because in the end you'll find that lots of other people have the same weird concerns that you do (which makes them seem much less weird!). To find classes near you, contact your local school district and ask about their community education and/or Early Childhood programming.

Neighborhood Moms Clubs
Many communities have local clubs for stay-at-home moms. These clubs usually offer support, and scheduled outings with and without the kids. Larger clubs have newsletters, child care swaps or co-ops, and other fun activities. To find a Moms Club in your area, see the link at the end of the article, or check out your local newspaper.

Religious-Affiliated Groups
Many places of worship have programming for parents and/or young children. Larger organizations may offer classes, whereas smaller ones may have a more informal way of meeting other parents (at coffee after services, for example). Don't be shy; introduce yourself to parents with kids of the same age, maybe even invite them to a fast-food restaurant after the service to chat. Sometimes taking the initiative can be the beginning of a long friendship.

National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs

International Moms Club

Newcomers/Moms Club Search