Looking for your Parent Village?
Explore our supportive Boston-based Parent Support Groups designed for new and returning parents, offering a space to connect with others, navigate the challenges of early parenthood, and share practical advice on infant care. These 90-minute sessions, limited to a small group with a dedicated facilitator, create an open environment for honest discussions about the impact of parenthood on identity and relationships. We offer Parent Support Groups designed just for moms and now offer a special group just for dads.
What are Parent Support Groups? Our Parent Support Groups are designed to build local connection and community with other new parents, get real about the challenges of early parenthood, help work through new relationship
dynamics, and provide practical suggestions for infant sleeping, feeding, soothing and more.
How are Parent Support Groups Structured? Groups meet for 90 minutes, 6 weeks in a row. Groups are kept
small at 8 participants and one group facilitator.
Who are Parent Support Groups for? Our Newbies,
Kangas and Here We Go Again Parent Support Groups
are designed for postnatal support for moms. Our NEW Dad & Baby Group was designed to create a space just for dads.
In every group, participants attend with their baby. These groups are not intended for couples. We want to ensure this is a space to be really honest about how parenthood has affected your own identity and your relationships.
That being said, we celebrate the fact that families grow in many ways and if you have any questions about whether a group is a good fit for you, please reach out to hello@littlelovageclub.com.
Where are Parent Support Groups located? 485 Harrison Ave in Boston’s South End neighborhood.
Book a Parent Support Group: Browse and purchase a spot in your preferred Parent Support Group at the link below.
Newbies | Parent Support Group | 0-3 months (for Moms)
Entering motherhood is an awe-inspiring journey, marked by thrilling highs and challenging lows. Our Newbies Parent Support Group is here to provide you with a supportive community to share your experiences and receive valuable guidance.
During our sessions, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of caring for newborns, covering topics like feeding methods (breastfeeding, pumping, bottle-feeding, and formula) and optimizing sleep routines. We’ll also take time to address the unique challenges faced by primary caregivers, such as seeking and managing support, finding balance between daily responsibilities and childcare, and navigating the complex landscape of relationships.
In addition to this wealth of knowledge, we’re strong advocates for fostering connections within the group. We believe that forming bonds with fellow moms is just as essential as gaining practical insights. We’ll encourage you to get to know one another on a personal level and plan enjoyable activities outside of our sessions, whether it’s a casual lunch or other social gatherings. These connections often become a vital part of your parenting journey.
Here We Go Again | Parent Support Group | 0-3 months
for second, third (and more!) time (for Moms)
Welcome back for another round! With your prior experience, you’ve already conquered the essentials, but now it’s time to master the art of juggling another baby while tending to the evolving needs of your growing family.
Our Here We Go Again Parent Support Group is your go-to resource for addressing the common challenges of parenthood and discovering the best ways to maintain your time and sanity when dealing with both an infant and a toddler. In this gathering of seasoned mothers, whether you’re on your second round or more, you’re encouraged to ask questions, swap tips and ideas, and enjoy socializing while savoring those precious one-on-one moments with your newest family addition.
You’ll find camaraderie with fellow moms who are also navigating the joys and trials of a growing family. This is an opportunity for you and your baby to forge new connections and feel the warmth of a supportive community that understands the unique adventure you’re embarking on.
Kangas | Parent Support Group | 3-8 months (for Moms)
Congratulations! You’ve successfully navigated those initial few months, and now you’re witnessing a world of new milestones your baby is achieving. From that first heartwarming smile, delightful cooing, to the exciting feats of rolling over and grasping objects, your baby is in a constant state of growth and change.
In our Kangas Parent Support Group, we’re here to provide moms with the support and guidance you need as your little one continues to develop and explore the world around them. We’ll delve into topics like sleep expectations, the introduction of solid foods, baby-proofing your environment, and tracking growth and developmental milestones.
This is your space to ask questions, share your own insights and tips, and connect with other parents as you create beautiful memories with your baby. You’ll gain valuable insights on how to best adapt to all these incredible changes, forge new friendships, and find the support you need on this delightful parenting journey.
*NEW* Introducting our Dad & Baby Group!
Are you a new dad navigating the exciting yet sometimes overwhelming journey of parenthood? Look no further! Little Lovage Club is thrilled to announce our newest Parent Support Group tailored specifically for fathers of infants age 0 to 6 months. Our Dad & Baby Group will provide a supportive and empowering environment where you can connect with other new dads, share experiences, and build lasting friendships.
Join us once a week for four weeks, with each session lasting 45 minutes. It’s the perfect opportunity for you and your little one to bond while engaging in meaningful discussions and activities.
Here’s what you can expect from our Dad & Baby Group:
Learn and Grow: Gain valuable insights and tips on newborn care in a relaxed and non-judgmental setting. Our sessions will cover everything from soothing techniques to deciphering your baby’s cues, helping you feel more confident and prepared as a parent. Plus, it’s a chance for you to create special memories with your little one.
Build Your Dad Village: Connect with fellow new dads who understand the joys and challenges of fatherhood. Build a supportive network to lean on throughout your parenting journey. Forge friendships with other dads, share laughs, and support each other through the ups and downs of fatherhood.
Give Mom a Break: Let mom enjoy some well-deserved peace and quiet at home while you and your baby attend our sessions. (Yes, please bring your baby with you!).
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of our Dads Group at Little Lovage Club. Because let’s face it, why should moms have all the fun? Join us and embark on this incredible journey of fatherhood with confidence, support, and a whole lot of love.
Parent Support Group Reviews
Read about the experiences of recent Parent Support Group graduates.
Meet our Parent Support Group Team
Parent Support Group Facilitator: Kara Doherty
Kara has twenty years of childcare experience starting as nanny and then as a postpartum doula providing overnight support for new families. Her passion is helping parents get off on the right foot so they can enjoy the newborn stage. She’s excited to help the moms in Parent Support Groups get more confident and answer all their newborn questions and especially likes helping with feeding and sleep routines. She’s hoping to help the new mothers really enjoy their time with their new baby and make this stage less stressful and more fun.
Parent Support Group Facilitator: Vanessa Thornton
Vanessa is a South End mom of two children—Fiona (7) and James (4). With a master’s degree in nutrition, she has spent the past 15 years as a dietitian and a certified pediatric specialist, supporting parents on their journey from infant feeding and introducing solids all the way through picky toddlers and body image issues in older children. As the owner of South End Family Nutrition, Vanessa is passionate about guiding parents and families toward healthier, happier lives. She leads virtual classes on Tinyhood and hosts workshops and group sessions throughout the city, supporting families of all kinds. Vanessa finds great joy in creating spaces where parents can connect and learn from each other, witnessing the powerful moments of growth and community that unfold.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General FAQs
- We are a peanut and tree nut free facility. Please do not bring any nuts into our space.
- Caregivers are always free at Lovage. We only charge per child.
- We do not allow shoes in the playspace; children may be barefoot or in socks. We suggest that caregivers wear socks as well. Grippy socks are best!
- Parents/caregivers should always be within arms reach of their children and are responsible for continually supervising their children while in our space.
- We have bathrooms with child-sized amenities and a changing table with extra diapers. Children should never be in the bathroom alone.
- For eating and feeding we have a bottle warmer, filtered water and paper cups, kid-sized tables and chairs, and high chairs. We ask that all food stays in the snack area.
- You may bring your own food and drinks (no nuts please, see above!). Please nurse or feed a baby a bottle wherever and whenever you need to while in our space. You may also use our private feeding room.
- Download our App: We HIGHLY recommend downloading our app! It is the easiest way to build a profile, sign our waiver, search our schedule, book and cancel classes and Open Play, and more. Go here to download on Apple. Go here to download on Google.
- Naming Your Account:The First Name and Last Name on your Little Lovage Club account should be your primary child's name (not your name or another adult’s name). This ensures that your child's name appears on class and open play rosters. The primary child is the one in your family who will most frequently use Little Lovage Club services. You can book additional children using the "Book a Guest" feature for Open Play and Enrichment Classes (see below).
- Reserve in Advance: Please try to reserve Enrichment Classes and Open Play in advance! We can't guarantee availability for walk-ins, and we don’t want you to arrive and find that your preferred program is full.
- Cancellation Windows:We have a 2-hour cancellation policy. If you cancel at least two hours before the start of your class or Open Play reservation, your credit will be returned to your account for future use. If you don't cancel, your credit will be forfeited. We understand that unexpected situations can arise—please email hello@littlelovageclub.com if something beyond your control prevented you from canceling within the window.
- Note: Whether you're a member or non-member, if you have two siblings using Little Lovage Club classes or Open Play, we encourage you to add both children's names to your account through the phone or web app.
- Members Booking a Sibling into the SAME Enrichment Class: Either members need to have a DUO membership or purchase a separate Enrichment Class credit ($25 for member sibling) for another sibling if you have a SINGLE membership. If you have a DUO membership: first, book your primary child into the Enrichment Class using your membership credit, then book your second child as a guest. Make sure to check the box to confirm. If you’re using your new class credit, book your primary child into the Enrichment Class using your membership credit, then book your second child as a guest.
- Members Booking a Sibling into DIFFERENT Enrichment Classes: Either have to have a DUO membership or purchase a separate Enrichment Class credit ($25 for member sibling) for another sibling if you have a SINGLE membership. For either option, you book classes using the primary child’s name, regardless if it’s the primary child vs. the sibling taking the class..
- Non-Members Booking Sibling into the SAME Enrichment Class:If you want to book two siblings into the same class, please make sure to purchase the correct number of credits to book multiple children. First, book your primary child into class using your Enrichment Class credit, then book your second child as a guest using your second Enrichment Class credit.
- Non-Members Booking Sibling into the DIFFERENT Enrichment Classes:If you want to book two siblings into different classes, please make sure to purchase the correct number of credits to book multiple children. First, book your primary child into class using your Enrichment Class credit, then book your second child using the primary child’s name, regardless if it’s the primary child vs. the sibling taking the class using your second Enrichment Class credit.
- Members Booking Sibling into the SAME or DIFFERENT Open Play Session: First, book your primary child into the Open Play session using your Open Play credit, then book second and additional siblings into Open Play using the "Book a Guest" feature. Use a single Open Play credit per child.</
- Non-Members Booking Sibling into the SAME or DIFFERENT Open Play Session:Please purchase enough credits to book all siblings into the same Open Play session. First, book your primary child into the Open Play session using a single credit. Then, book second and additional siblings into Open Play using the "Book a Guest" feature; using a single credit per child.
- Learn about Parent Support Groups: Read more and book your spot on our website.
- Book a Parent Support Group: You can book Parent Support Groups via our website. Go here to view and purchase.
- What are Parent Support Groups? Our Parent Support Groups are designed to foster connection and community among new parents, offering a space to openly discuss the challenges of early parenthood, navigate changes in relationships, and share practical advice on infant sleep, feeding, soothing, and more. Each group meets for 90 minutes weekly over the course of six weeks. Groups are kept small, with 8-12 participants and one facilitator.
- Who are Parent Support Groups for? Postnatal classes are designed for either a mom or a dad (depending on the group) to attend with a young infant rather than for couples. We want to ensure there is space to be really honest about how parenthood has affected your own identity and your relationships. That being said, we celebrate the fact that families grow in many ways and if you have any questions about whether a postnatal support group is a good fit for you, please reach out to hello@littlelovageclub.com.
- Where are Parent Support Groups located? Parent Support Groups are now located at 485 Harrison Avenue in the South End.
- Book a Spot for Every Child: Each child must have their own separate booking for Open Play (see section on booking siblings into Open Play). However, babies under 6 months who are accompanying an older sibling can join for free and do not require a booking.
- Open Play Schedule: Each Open Play booking gives you access to a two-hour session in our play space and amenities. Sessions are available at 30-minute start times during all operating hours: 9:00 am–5:00 pm on weekdays, and 9:00 am–1:00 pm on weekends. Please note, there is no discount if you arrive during the last hour of the day. Operating hours may change when Little Lovage Club moves to our new location at 485 Harrison Ave.
- Open Play on the Weekends: Occasionally, Open Play is not available on Saturday or Sunday afternoons due to private parties, but please check the schedule to confirm. Operating hours may change when Little Lovage Club moves to our new location at 485 Harrison Ave.
- Advanced Bookings Recommended: Advanced bookings are highly recommended, especially for our peak morning Open Play from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Unfortunately we cannot guarantee a walk-in spot will be available if you do not sign up ahead of time.
- Purchasing Enrichment Class credits: You can either buy a credit for a Single Enrichment class ($35); or you can purchase a Membership for a monthly allocation of Enrichments Class credits. See Membership FAQs above.
- Please Arrive Early: We always recommend arriving at Lovage to check in and get settled at least 10 minutes in advance of your Enrichment Class start time. You are welcome to play in our Open Space for up to 30 minutes until the start of class is announced. After you’ve checked in and your stroller is settled, please move into the Open Play space to make room for others to arrive.
- Open Play Before and After Class: Your Enrichment Class booking includes 30 minutes of free Open Play before the class starts. Please arrive within that window, and make sure to be there at least 10 minutes before class begins. Please note, Open Play is only included before class—not after. If you'd like to stay and play after class, be sure to book an additional Open Play session.
- Book at Spot for Every Child: Every child attending an Enrichment Class must have a separate booking (see section about booking siblings). However, babies UNDER 6 months who accompany an older sibling to a class designed for the older sibling can attend free of charge.
- How to Buy: Go here to purchase a gift card.
- How to Redeem: Sign in to your account or create an account at littlelovageclub.com or via the App. Go to your account / personal information. Under Payment Methods, go to Redeem Gift Card. Type in the Gift Card code. This will add the gift card funds or credits to your account. Then go to the buy page and use these funds to purchase credits and/or apply those credits to classes and/or Open Play via the schedule.
-
Parking Lot: A paid parking lot is located across the street at 500 Harrison Avenue.
Rates are as follows:- First hour: $10
- $5 per additional hour
- $30 daily maximum
- Street Parking: There is also 2-hour street parking available on Randolph Street, Washington Street, and Harrison Avenue.