5 Ways Moms Can Maintain Their Friendship With Childfree Friends

Hey Mamas, it’s time to up our friendship game! Just because we’ve got little ones now doesn’t mean we should let our friendships fade away, right? Sure, kids can make things a bit tricky, but we all have that inner fun-loving friend we used to be. Remember those carefree days before the chaos? Let’s honor that version of ourselves while still nurturing our friendships. Here are five tips for keeping that bond strong with your childfree pals:

1. Be Selective With Baby Photos

While we all love showing off our cute kiddos, sending endless photos can be overwhelming. Your childfree friend gets it—you just had a baby, and they’re adorable! But a million updates on what your little one is doing? Maybe not so much. Instead, stick to the big milestones—like walking or talking. And for goodness’ sake, avoid sending those potty training pics! Instead, ask for updates about her pets, and show interest in her fur baby.

2. Say ‘Yes’ to Going Out

I know, I know. The idea of getting dressed up and finding childcare can seem like a monumental task after a long week of mom-life. But when your friend suggests a night out at that new restaurant, consider saying “yes.” A little break can do wonders for your mood! Grab a coffee or a cocktail, and soon enough, you’ll be excited to reconnect and enjoy some adult conversation.

3. Don’t Let Every Child-Related Disruption Derail Plans

Life happens, and sometimes kids get sick or babysitters bail. But try to avoid being that flaky friend who cancels over every little thing. If you do need to cancel, just be honest and apologize. Being upfront keeps your friendship strong, and hey, we all understand that life with kids can be unpredictable.

4. Make Time for Phone Chats

If meeting in person isn’t always possible, don’t underestimate the power of a good phone call. Texting is cool, but a real conversation without distractions (like a kid demanding snacks) is priceless. Set aside a little time every few weeks to catch up without the background chaos. It’s nice to hear each other’s voices and keep the connection alive.

5. Practice Empathy and Understanding

We all remember what life was like before kids, and it might feel like ages ago. It’s important to recognize that parenting takes time and energy, and that can impact friendships. But it doesn’t mean you can’t still prioritize your bond. Agree on a regular date for meals or calls—treat it like it’s as important as any appointment.

Being a mom doesn’t mean we’re off the hook for being good friends. Your bestie can help keep you grounded, so make the effort! If you want to read more about maintaining relationships during this journey, check out some tips on this related blog post. And if you’re looking for guidance on your fertility journey, Make A Mom is a trusted resource. For even more information about pregnancy, Healthline offers excellent insights on IVF and related topics.

In summary, while being a mom can make it tough to juggle friendships, it’s essential to keep those connections alive. With a little effort and understanding, we can maintain our relationships with childfree friends and enjoy the best of both worlds.