Hello I am a mum to a 6 month year old. We live in Broomhill but are soon to live closer to botanical gardens area. We moved from London in February and as I'm at home im looking to meet people in the area.
Iv'e been to a few groups so far which has been great but all the nice people i met have now gone back to work!
I wondered if anyone could recommend good groups or activities to meet mums in the hunters bar/ endcliffe park area. I have looked into gymboree- is this any good, there are a few music groups too- are they any good? Would be lovely to get to know people to push pram about with and coffees etc!

thanks loads
toni

You should find a huge selection of toddler and activity groups in "Link" which is a free publication that you can pick up at many GPs, toddler groups, Post Offices. It's out about twice a year. My favourite groups are Kings (at the King Cebtre in Nether Edge mondays and fridays) and the NCT for younger ones on Tuesday mornings. We also loved Sing and Sign http://www.singandsign.com/franchisee_details.php?i=129,Sheffield,_Chesterfie ld_&_Worksop. My son is still signing (and talking now) at two and a half.

Many people have trouble establishing friendships with people once they become parents - often chatting with people at groups is fine, but taking it a step further can be a bit more difficult. If that is your main aim, then I'd recommend doing something like Rozee Pozee suggests - I know the NCT Bumps & Babes group well, and they are a really friendly bunch - introduce yourself to the organiser Nic when you arrive and you'll be made very welcome, and introduced to others, probably with babes of a similar age.

I found it difficult taking the next step with friendships, and I found that taking a class or something where everyone begins at the same time, can be a great way to meet new people who are keen to continue friendships. I used to run baby signing business, and it was the beginning of many friendships for people. This is a great way to do it, especially if it is a nice informal group with a friendly host.

Another way to develop these friendships I found was to get involved - offer support to the host of the group - it is likely in the setting up and putting away times that your relationship grows, and you set up a lunch date or similar quite naturally. Or you could take it one step further and get involved in a local parenting group like the NCT - this is a charity and we are always looking for new people to get involved and help out with our activities. We are a very welcoming bunch, open our arms to new people, and develop loads of lovely new friends in the process. :) (PM me for more info or call our enquiries line on 0844 2436259.