You have had a rough night, getting up repeatedly to settle your restless baby and then just as you were dosing off your toddler was calling you, needing a wee. You are shattered and don’t really feel like seeing anyone. On the other hand staying at home on your own with the kids will be a massive challenge and you decide to be brave and try out the Belly Buttons toddler group.

After struggling to find parking, you wonder whether it was a good idea to come. But you walk in. Your toddler runs off as he has spotted a tent and a tunnel and various other toys he wants to play with and you look around. Someone walks towards you and introduces herself and asks you your name. You are offered a cup of coffee and you accept thankfully. You seat yourself onto the sofa, next to the other breast feeding mums. One of the mum s asks you how old your little one is and what the nights are like. You don’t feel like disclosing that you are struggling, but then the other mum explains how exhausted she is and you start exchanging survival strategies.

Someone shouts: ‘Snack time!’ and all the kids, including your toddler are running to the little chairs and tables where IKEA bowls and beakers are awaiting the hungry, active little people. You wonder whether you should be going and checking that your toddler is behaving, but most other mums seem to stay where they are, while a small group of women are helping with the kids.

 

A plate of cake and cookies is being passed around for the parents and a lady whom you hadn’t noticed before introduces herself and explains that she will be talking about how you can look after yourself while having small children. There is a short discussion and some questions afterwards.

Then the children seem to be getting really excited. Musical instruments are being shared out and everyone gathers and makes a circle. You sing a few songs and even learn a new one.

‘Tidy – up time!’

Everyone, even the children, start putting toys into boxes and within a few minutes you wouldn’t have guessed that there were a group of toddlers and parents chatting and roaming around the room.

You are still tired, but somehow feel a little lighter, a little less desperate, a little more patient, a little more loved and understood.