When I was expecting quadruplets, I was hesitant to join our local Mothers of Multiples (MoM) club.  I felt that since the majority of members were mothers of twins, or expecting twins I wouldn’t fit in.  Plus, I already had an online support group for mothers of higher order multiples.  In hindsight, I wish I had joined during the pregnancy because I probably missed out on support from a wonderful group.  I ended up joining our local group when the quads were about 15 months old, and at the time I was the first member with quadruplets though there were a few members with triplets.  Since parents of higher order multiples tend to “find” each other, I’ve recruited others in our area so I’m not the odd mom out.  I struggle to attend the group’s monthly meetings, but I’ve gained plenty from my membership.  Over the past few years, I’ve come to appreciate our club and recommend that parents expecting or with very young multiples join their local group.  My favorite perks include:

• Playgroups

  In addition to organized playgroups, I’ve bonded with other members and we regularly schedule our own play dates.  It’s always nice to have play dates with other multiples since quads can easily take over a room.

• Buy/ Sell/ Trade

  When the quads outgrow things (e.g. double strollers, coordinated or matched outfits) there is an automatic market for them amongst club members.  I’ve been able to sell items on our group’s page as well as at the semi annual consignment sales.  Plus, I’ve been able to purchase needed items from group members.  As a MoM, I always like it when our outgrown “sets” can be appreciated by another family.

• Family Events

  Periodically, our club hosts family events.  These events are usually very low cost or are free.  They offer excellent opportunities for fellowship amongst parents and children.  I always appreciate our annual photos with Santa and the Easter bunny without having to wait in long lines or pay a hefty price tag.

• Mom’s Night Out

  Several times each year, our club hosts a mom’s night out, which includes wine, snacks, and a fun activity (e.g. Painting with a Twist).  Just like family events, most of these events are either free or low cost.

• Local Resources

  Whether I’m searching for the best medical specialist in our area, great places to host birthday parties, or places to take the kids for fun, our group will have a list of suggestions.  Chances are someone in the group has the intel I need.  It’s always nice to know when a MoM has vetted something.

I found out about a fantastic playscape for the quad’s 3rd birthday from the club.

• Support

  Since I was a little late to join, I missed out on some of the support our club offers.  Members bring meals to new parents (goodness knows this is HUGE for parents with multiple infants).  For parents with babies in the NICU, there is a preemie closet that lends clothes to babies while in the NICU.  Finally, the group is full of sage advice about anything imaginable from getting babies to sleep through the night to deciding whether to separate or keep multiples in the same classroom.

P. S. If you aren’t a parent of multiples, but have young children, there are other organizations such as Mothers of Preschoolers and Parents as Teachers as well as informal neighborhood and community Facebook pages that offer similar benefits.