Once you’ve found that special someone and have decided to have kids, life can go from scary to scarier. Luckily, there are friendly and helpful parents in D.C. who have been there and done that and who are willing to offer their support to you, the new parent. Here are some of the best places to make friends with new parents in Washington, D.C.

MOMS Club

http://www.momsclubdc.org

MOMS Club is a resource of moms helping moms. With a focus on stay-at-home mothers, activities are scheduled during the daytime, when mothers need support the most. The organization hosts monthly meetings; playgroups for kids; craft meetings; holiday parties; and outings to parks, museums and concerts. It also volunteers and provides meals for fellow moms and their families during trying times.

D.C. Metro Dads

http://www.dcmetrodads.com

DC Metro Dads is a place for stay-at-home dads to find each other and to find support. The site offers information about local playgroups, social events for dads and activities like camping trips, picnics, family hikes and DNOs (Dad’s Night Out).

Leaping Kids of Washington, D.C.

http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/Leaping_Kids_of_Washington_DC

This Yahoo! Group is a forum for D.C. parents to arrange playgroups for kids. For the adults, the group offers book clubs, scrapbook clubs, wine tastings and holiday parties. Leaping Kids also hosts mothers’ and couples’ nights out. Get out of the house and meet other parents through the active Leaping Kids group!

P.A.C.E. (Parent and Community Education)

http://www.pacemoms.org

P.A.C.E. offers groups led by mental health educators for new and second-time mothers. The educators are trained in child development, family relations and parenting skills, and they are all experienced mothers. Groups meet with a professional once a week, and members are encouraged to meet outside of the group other times during the week. P.A.C.E. is a safe place for learning and support for mothers.

lil omm

http://www.lilomm.com

lil omm’s mission is to connect families “from the womb to the wisdom years.” Through the practice of yoga, lil omm offers a place to spiritually center yourself in a hectic world. It offers classes and workshops focusing on prenatal needs and postnatal needs, as well as classes for families, adults and children.