Speed Dating for Mums: How to Find Your Perfect Playgroup

How many times have you heard, “I made the bestest of friends at mums group or playgroup. They became my village and tribe?”

While that’s been my experience (shout out to the ladies in Mackay and my bestie!), it’s not the case for everyone. Not every mum clicks with their first mums group or playgroup. This is where the speed dating analogy comes in: just like in speed dating, if you don’t feel a connection, you move on (and the bell usually helps too!). The same goes for playgroups.

Just because the other mums have babies around the same age doesn’t mean you’ll instantly become best friends. If it doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to walk away and try another group.

I get it—it’s tough. You’ve dragged yourself out of the house, possibly after a sleepless night, changed a terrible nappy, repacked the nappy bag, and then, you arrive at a group that just doesn’t vibe with you. You’re allowed to feel frustrated and cry.

But the best thing you can do is try again. Find a new group, a new space, and see how that feels. Don’t feel pressured to return to a group that doesn’t serve you. Everyone’s journey is different, so don’t worry if your experience isn’t the same as someone else’s. Find what makes you happy.

Here are some places where you can find local mums groups:

⭐️ Playmatters 

⭐️ Australian Breastfeeding Association

⭐️ Kangatraining

⭐️ Local primary schools and Churches

⭐️ Mainly Music

⭐️ Libraries - have great nursery rhyme and under five programs that are free

⭐️ Area health services usually have new parents programs that you can join

⭐️ Other small businesses in the community.

Sometimes it just takes a little asking—whether through friends, local parenting pages, or even a doula who can suggest activities as part of their service. Like speed dating, it might take a few tries before you find your connection.

If you’re struggling to find your tribe, know you’re not alone! And if you're local to Ipswich and Springfield, check out my blog on small businesses supporting mums in finding their village.