Going to a baby group- feel like an outsider.

[pinkponie]

I tried a local baby group once about a month ago but something came up and I couldn’t go back for a few weeks. When I did go, it was like everyone knew everyone already and no one was interested in talking to me. I tried being friendly and saying hi but I just got a few quick hello’s and then they’d start talking to each other, so I ended up just playing with DD for the whole thing rather than chatting to others and playing with her. This is the only local-ish one I can walk to (don’t drive) so I want to go back but I’m struggling with nerves. Any advice?

Find the person with the youngest baby and befriend them because the likelihood is that they haven’t had the opportunity to go very often either.

Agh hate that kind of thing. Give it two more shots. Could be different people next time or they might be friendlier. Good luck!

They’ll have started talking more to each other because they go every week and they’ve started building a friendship. Even if it’s hard, I’d try to keep going. There might be someone new who turns up
next time that you click with and is in the same boat (ie doesn’t know anyone). Also, if you keep going and keep talking to people even if it isn’t the whole time people will start to remember you and talking with them will become more natural over time.

Stick with it because you won't be the newcomer for long.

And I like the idea above of befriending the new ones who join.

Stick with it... it takes time.
I'm 'granny care' so generally at least 25 years older than most of the Mums and still managed to make genuine friendships (we progressed to soft play and play dates etc) I just chat to anyone.
I'm now starting again with dgc no 2 (aged 9 months) and it's a fresh batch of Mums and babies... just be brave and talk to everyone (and yes especially the new comers)