Emotional Wellness Mary Symmes is the founder of Self Investment Strategies and a life coach devoted to the empowerment of working women. Mary is also a clinical social worker in Alexandria, Va. Visit her Web site at SelfInvestmentStrategies.com Getting Other Mom Friends Question: I'm a working mom with two toddlers and find I don't have many friends outside of work. I'd like to find some other women with children the same ages as mine so we can spend time together on the weekend. How do you make new friends when you're in your 30s? It used to be so easy when I was younger! - Becky Answer: Your Question: Becky, to make new friends in adulthood requires a lot of initiative. As you note, when we are younger we are generally around people our own age doing the same kinds of things. In adulthood, that friendship developing from association is not so easy. So - you have to go get 'em! Here are some ideas: Find a working mother's play group. Hang out at the park or playground and introduce yourself to other mothers. Ask your neighbors if they know other mothers in the neighborhood - working and stay-at-home. See if local day care centers, preschools, or pediatricians' offices will let you post a notice to find a like-minded woman. See if local churches, temples, or mosques have any young mothers' groups. Take a class in something you enjoy and meet someone there. See if you can find a book club to join. Join a sports team. Check to see what your local YWCA has to offer. Sometimes local libraries have programs for kids. Go to a few with your kids and see who you can meet. Tell everyone you meet that you are looking for other young mothers to pal around with! I'm sure you will have more ideas that these. Remember that you will have to break the ice and suggest the initial contacts. Don't take it personally if some women don't respond - many women feel overwhelmed or depressed by small children, and don't have any energy to spare. Just move on to the next possibility. Just like dating, it is a numbers game. It takes time to find someone who develops into a really good friend. Just try to have a lot of fun while you are doing it! Mary Symmes Other Recent Questions: I can't decide if I should go back to work after I have a baby or not. Any advice? I'm worried that my husband may be having an affair. How can I find out? Ask Mary your questions The above is for general information only and is not intended to substitute for professional mental health treatment. Individuals should consult licensed professionals as needed.