VANCOUVER -- It's easy to understand how stay-at-home parents can feel like they're isolated. But, there are ways to reach out. In the internet age, meeting other parents and even getting advice is just a click away.
Marcy Buchanan is a stay-at-home mom. She says life is hectic with her two and four-year old daughters.
And like many other parents at home or not -- she forgets about taking care of herself -- and worries instead about her kids.
"They're at the forefront of my mind when I'm doing anything. Their needs are always the first thing I think of."
Lara Leontowich of Westcoast Moms, says, "Moms are interested in doing stuff, but you have to be able to do stuff just for yourself."
Lara Leontowich is the founder of www.westcoastmoms.ca. It's a new website in the Lower Mainland designed to bring parents together. She says moms in particular want to know how they can get out and find resources.
"They really want to find an outlet where they can get information and talk to other moms, socialize and it might be that they do that from the comfort of their own home."
Other ways to connect with moms is to put a poster up at your local coffee shop. Start up a play group or even a walking group. Think about becoming a volunteer and research programs through your local rec centre or church. Leontowich says when you take care of yourself -- you're in better shape to take care of your kids.
Buchanan says tapping into an on-line community has made a big difference.
"There's so many moms that need support and just need someone to talk to, to bounce ideas off of and just to know you're not alone."
For more information on Lara's website and how to reach out to other parents in the Lower Mainland -- you can visit www.westcoastmoms.ca.
Thursday April 20, 2006
