Making mum friends on maternity leave (when you don't know where to start)
31 October 2026 · 4 min readMaternity leave is full of firsts, and for many of us one of them is realising that our days look completely different from our friends'. Here's how to find your people.
Before the baby arrived, your days probably had a rhythm: work, friends, plans. Maternity leave can turn that upside down. Lots of mums say they love their baby completely but miss adult conversation. You're not alone in feeling that, and it's one of the main reasons The Mama Time exists.
Say yes to the small things
A coffee, a walk, a baby class. Friendships rarely start with a big plan. They start with turning up somewhere more than once and recognising a familiar face.
Look for regular meet-ups
A one-off event is lovely, but regular gatherings are where friendships grow. Seeing the same mums every few weeks makes it easy to pick up where you left off.
Easy conversation starters
- "How old is your little one?"
- "How are you finding the nights?"
- "Where did you get that pram or sling? I'm thinking about one."
- "Have you been to one of these before?"
Every mum in the room is hoping someone will start the conversation. It's absolutely fine if that's you.
Go on your own
Plenty of mums will come to their first Mama Time gathering on their own. We'll welcome you at the door and introduce you, so you're never left standing on the edge.
The mum across the table is probably hoping you'll say hello first.
Keep in touch
If you click with someone, swap numbers or follow each other on Instagram before you leave. A quick "Fancy the next walk?" message is often how the best friendships begin.