Join a warm, welcoming community for new and expecting moms focused on connection, support, and meaningful conversation during the postpartum months. Whether you come with your baby or attend on your own, this group provides a space to build relationships, share experiences, ask questions, and feel less alone in the transition to motherhood.
Each week includes guided discussion and occasional guest speakers whose expertise aligns with the interests and needs of the group.
Topics may include baby development, play, community resources, maternal mental health, and navigating the joys and challenges of early parenthood. The group is facilitated by Amy Pappas, LCSW, a licensed therapist and mom who specializes in supporting women through pregnancy, postpartum, and the many transitions of motherhood.
Weekly Schedule
June 15 – Getting Started
Our first session focuses on connection and community building. We’ll get to know one another, discuss what brought you to the group, and explore the hopes, questions, and challenges you’re carrying into this season of motherhood. Together we’ll begin creating a supportive space where everyone feels welcome.
June 22 – Baby Book Club with Connections Academics Literacy
Baby Book Club builds on the mission of fostering a love of learning from the very beginning. This literacy and sensory-based class is designed specifically for babies and their caregivers. Led by experienced educators, the session provides a supportive environment where babies can explore books, stories, sensory experiences, and early social interactions. Caregivers will learn simple ways to support language development and literacy at home while connecting with other families in the group as well as practical ideas to continue learning and play at home!
June 29 – Little Bean Therapy: Supporting development through everyday play and movement
Join Little Bean Therapy for a hands-on, supportive session focused on simplifying the early months of play and movement. This session explores how everyday interactions and common household items can be used to support your baby’s development. Topics include: Tummy time success strategies, early sensory exploration, co-regulation and responsive caregiving. You’ll leave with practical, realistic ideas that can be incorporated into your daily routine without requiring special equipment or expensive toys.
July 6 – Open Discussion (or another class visitor)
This session is shaped by the interests and needs of the group.
July 13 – Music Playhouse of Chicago - Using music to support development, connection, and joy
Music is a powerful tool for learning, bonding, and development. During this interactive session, you’ll learn age-appropriate musical activities, songs, rhythms, and sensory experiences that can easily be incorporated into everyday life with your baby. Research shows that early exposure to music supports communication, social-emotional development, and parent-child bonding. Participants will explore: musical play and movement, sensory experiences through music, parent-child bonding activities, communication and language development, and simple songs and routines to use at home. This session is designed to be fun, engaging, and accessible for both babies and caregivers.
Our final session is an opportunity to reflect on the journey we’ve shared together. We’ll celebrate growth, discuss ongoing challenges, exchange resources, and talk about ways to continue building support and community beyond the group.
Special Pop-Up Events
My Gym Chicago Pop-Up
Wednesday, June 10 | 12:10–12:55 PM
My Gym Chicago | 1730 W. Fullerton
$20 per person
Designed especially for babies ages 0–6 months, this special pop-up provides an opportunity to connect with other new moms while exploring developmentally appropriate play and movement in a welcoming, low-pressure environment. Participants will: Meet other new moms, learn about baby development and early movement, experience age-appropriate activities for younger babies, and learn about future classes and offerings as babies grow
Photography by Erin Kelly Special Photo Pop-Up
June 24 Late Morning or Early Afternoon
Location TBD in Lakeview
$45 per person
Join newborn and family photographer Erin Kelly Leuschel-Perzov for a practical session focused on capturing beautiful, authentic photos of your baby using the camera you already have. This workshop is designed to help parents feel more confident documenting everyday moments without needing professional equipment. Topics include: Simple techniques for better photos at home, capturing authentic family moments, photographing babies and young children naturally, and creating meaningful memories through everyday photography. The session will also include a professional parent-and-baby photograph to be taken during the event as well as an option to purchase more photos if desired.
Fill out form or send email for registration and more details!
