MILWAUKEE — The COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult for many people, including new moms.

That is why one Wisconsin mom started the group Babbling Babes. It is a safe place where moms meet at different locations across the Milwaukee area and it gives them a chance to sip on coffee and talk about things that matter to them. Most importantly, these group gatherings help beat new-parent isolation. 

A U.K. study found that 55% of new moms mourned the loss of their pre-baby social life, per the Journal of Perinatal Education. 

Stephanie Ciatti, a speech-language pathologist and mom of three, started Babbling Babes in 2019 as a way to help new moms connect with others.

“So I went to all the hospital groups, church groups and was really trying to find something a little more authentic to me where I could get a cup of coffee, relax and connect and talk about things outside of our babies like our hobbies, interests or work,” said Ciatti.

Ciatti connects with Milwaukee area businesses like Little Sprouts and Colectivo Coffee, as well as other restaurants and historical places, to host gatherings for moms and their babies. It gives a chance for both moms and little ones to get out of the house and be part of a community.

Ciatti also knows this group is connecting moms outside of these gatherings.

“It is very exciting to see moms exchange information and really continue to gather outside of these gatherings," explained Ciatti. 

Babbling Babes also offers virtual events and typically gives a donation to a non-profit at gatherings. The group is open to new moms and moms of toddlers.

Those interested can find more information here.