When I had my first baby I joined a mothers group organised by the local Early Childhood Centre.   We originally met at the Baby Clinic and learnt settling techniques and other baby related things over coffee and biscuits.  We eventuated to meeting at each other’s houses each week…. all 17 of us!  Now slowly as some mothers went back to work, moved away or just stopped coming we’re down to 10 of us that get together a couple of times a year, and 4 of us that catch up almost weekly as we’re still able.  And that is 9 ½ years down the track!  My experience with Mothers Group saved my sanity (still does) and they’re now some of the closest friends I’ve ever had.

Not everyone has this fortunate experience though.  Some mothers, for various reasons, become competitive, judgmental and opinionated which, when you’re feeling overwhelmed and vulnerable with a new-born baby, can be isolating.  My mother’s group experienced a little of this but as many of us started having our second and/or third baby this calmed things down.  We’ve all had our ups and downs; even some pretty decent blow-ups, but have somehow been able to move forward with renewed understanding.

A newly released book called “The Mothers Group” by Fiona Higgins tells the story of a Sydney Northern Beaches Mothers Group.  Each of the mothers struggle in their own way to become the best mother they can be and become reliant on the friendship and support from the members of their mothers’ group.  This is all challenged one day when an shocking event tests their friendship and reveals hidden secrets.  It’s getting rave reviews, and may just be appropriate for a 10 Year Anniversary gift for all my Mothers Group Friends.  See www.fionahiggins.com.au