Parent Hook-Up

Have you ever been to a playgroup, kid place or library and felt an attraction to another parent. Not in the dating sense of attraction. But in the sense of; "hey our sons are the same age" or "I like her parenting style". In the sometimes lonely world of parenting, it is appealing to get a parent hook-up.

How do you pick up a parent?

Casual, friendly, and without pressure. "We come to the library every Saturday morning" shows your openess to meeting again without the pressure of a parent date.

If you've seen the parent a few times, and spoken casually at the swings you could certainly trade cell phone numbers. That way when your off to the park next time you could give them a call.

For babygroup or pre-school friends, you could plan a pot luck playdate at a park (ok not in April -- but in the warmer weather). Where you eat, play and leave.

Swapping e-mail addresses is also a good way to start a parent hook-up. Just don't send FW: jokes or chain letters. Recipes, cool websites (like www.parentclub.ca), and tips are best.