When I became a nurse, I knew I wanted to make a difference during people’s most vulnerable moments. But it wasn’t until I started working with new parents that I truly understood what “support” means: connection, reassurance and knowing you’re not alone.
The Truth About Early Parenthood
Here’s something I wish more people talked about: becoming a parent can feel incredibly isolating. Whether it’s your first baby or your fourth, the transition brings new questions, new worries and new emotions every single day. In my years as a registered nurse and lactation educator, I’ve seen countless parents put on a brave face while quietly struggling with feelings of self-doubt or exhaustion.
That’s normal. And that’s exactly why groups like Parent Circle exist.
What Parent Circle Looks Like
Every second Monday of the month from noon to 1 p.m., new parents gather in a welcoming space at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. There’s no agenda to follow, no test at the end, and no pressure to have it all figured out. It’s simply an hour to breathe, connect and share.
Some months, the conversation turns to feeding challenges or sleep schedules. Other times, parents open up about the emotional rollercoaster of postpartum life or the adjustment of adding a new sibling to the family. Every session is different because every family is different.
As the RN who facilitates these gatherings, my role isn’t to lecture. It’s to listen, offer evidence-based guidance when it’s helpful, and create a space where parents feel safe enough to be honest about their experiences. (We also make sure we have fun things for older children to engage in as well.)
Why Peer Support Matters
Research consistently shows that social support during the postpartum period reduces stress, improves mental health outcomes, and even strengthens the parent-child bond. But beyond the studies, I’ve witnessed it firsthand. I’ve watched a first-time mom walk in looking overwhelmed and leave with three new phone numbers in her contacts. I’ve seen a dad realize that his feelings of uncertainty are shared by every other parent in the room.
You’re Invited
Parent Circle is open to all new parents, completely free of charge, and requires no referral. Whether you delivered at St. Elizabeth’s or somewhere else, you are welcome here. Bring your baby, bring your questions, bring your tired eyes and your hopeful heart.
Because here’s what I’ve learned after years of caring for families: You were never meant to
do this alone. And at Parent Circle, you don’t have to.
Join us on the second Monday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. at HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, 1 St. Elizabeth’s Blvd, O’Fallon.
Register to attend at hshs.org/st-elizabeths/classes-events/parent-circle.
Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements, and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media LLC (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses, or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability, or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party.
