To paraphrase Jane Austin, it is a truth universally acknowledged that a new mum must be in want of lots of help, support and advice.
Joyful though it may be, nothing – not all the parenting books and websites in the world – prepares you for the arrival of a baby. Once you’ve recovered from the initial shock, it’s important to get out there and mix with other mums. The Dundrum Town Centre in Dublin 14 has introduced a series of fortnightly New Mums Survival Coffee Mornings. Each 90-minute session takes the form of an open discussion and is facilitated by a parenting expert from Irish parenting specialists, Clap Handies. Topics up for discussion include sleep, weaning, teething and play, and attendees are encouraged to share their tips and experiences.
The next event takes place on Wednesday, April 15th at 11am in Frangos World Cuisine on level three. See www.dundrum.ie/happening.asp. If nothing else, it will get you out of your pyjamas and out of the house.