BIG List of Kalamazoo Mom Groups, Playgroups & Parenting Organizations- 2024

Find your SWMI Village through Playgroups, Parenting Organizations + Online Groups

Not long after we moved to Kalamazoo, we had our first child. And while I loved being a mom, I quickly discovered how isolating it can be in a new city: the majority of my days were spent with a tiny companion who only drooled and smiled.

Although I found toddler events and parks to visit, I needed to connect with other people who were in the same stage of life. I needed mom friends.

But where to start? How do I find someone to ask for advice, grab a coffee, or share a morning at the park with our kids for a playgroup? Where could I find a mom group near me?

Answer: you start here. Use our playgroup roundup to connect with other Kalamazoo area parents and build your support network.

In this Guide

• Facebook Groups
• MOPS Groups (Mothers of Preschoolers)
• Other Local Parenting Groups
• Storytimes
• Print this List
• More Parenting Resources

FYI: “Mom Groups” are not only for Moms

Before we get any further, a quick clarification: “Mom groups” is a generic term to describe many of these organizations; however many welcome moms, dads, and other caregivers.

Be sure to read up on the playgroup or organization you want to join; many invite all caregivers to participate.

Kalamazoo Public Schools

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KPS is deeply committed to the principles of excellence, innovation, and compassion. We foster a student-centered environment that values inclusivity, collaboration, and open-mindedness.

We firmly believe in achieving academic excellence while nurturing the diverse needs of our students.

Kalamazoo Area Mom Groups and Community Groups

Whether you’re a first-time parent, a homeschooling mom, a father looking to connect with other dads, or simply in search of local families to spend time with – there’s a group for you in Southwest Michigan.

Parenting friendships provide an invaluable support system for parents and caregivers. From baby groups to kids’ open-play gatherings, check out these fun and casual playgroups for making new friends around Kalamazoo and growing that village.

Our list also includes online-only forums to provide virtual support and advice.

Facebook Groups

Kalamazoo Babywearing Love: Local group for caregivers to connect with other babywearers.

Kalamazoo Dads Group: Dads-only group for discussions and playdates.

Kalamazoo Heart: Homeschooling-focused support group for Christian families.

Kalamazoo HEART Mom Group Play Group — ^{Photo: Kalamazoo HEART}

Kalamazoo La Leche League: Local chapter to virtually support breastfeeding moms.

Kalamazoo Mom Friends: Local group for parenting discussions, meetups and advice.

So NOT Together Moms: Provides a support network for moms of all backgrounds. They offer meetups and moms’ nights out.

Stay-at-Home Parents Southwest Michigan: Stay-at-home parents/caregivers in the Southwest Michigan share ideas, organize playgroups and find new friends.

Zoo Mama: Kalamazoo area moms group focused on parenting advice, local recommendations, and other parenting-related discussions.

Facebook groups are typically large, informal discussion-focused groups that do not have participation requirements.

MOPS Groups (Mothers of Preschoolers)

Also referred to as MomCo Groups (Mom Community Groups)

Group	Meetings
Centerpoint Church 2345 N 10th St, Kalamazoo, MI 49009	Second & Fourth Thursdays 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Centerpoint Church – MOPS & MOMSNEXT 2345 N 10th St, Kalamazoo, MI 49009	Second & Fourth Thursdays 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
First Reformed Church of Portage 7905 S Westnedge Portage, MI 49002	First & Third Wednesdays 9:15 AM – 11:15 AM
Gracespring Bible Church 8643 Gull Rd Richland, 49083-9647	First & Third Thursdays 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
North Avenue Church of God 1079 North Ave Battle Creek, 49017	Second & Fourth Fridays 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Oakwood Bible Church 4100 Oakland Dr Kalamazoo, MI 49008	First & Third Fridays 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church – Weekday Group 1150 W Centre Ave, Portage, MI 49024	First & Third Thursdays 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church – Evening Group 1150 W Centre Ave, Portage, MI 49024	Second & Fourth Sundays 6:30 PM
St. Mark Lutheran Church 114 E Minges Rd Battle Creek, MI 49015	Second & Fourth Tuesdays 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Westwood Christian Reformed Church 620 Northampton Rd, Kalamazoo, MI 49006	Second & Fourth Wednesdays 9:15 AM – 11:15 AM

MOPS is an international, Christian organization founded in 1972 and is focused on mothers of young children. MOPS sessions meet twice a month, providing free childcare while the moms meet separately. The website has recently been renamed MomCo, or Mom Community Groups.

All moms are welcome to join MOPS/MomCo Groups; you do not need to be a member of the sponsoring church.

Other Local Parenting Groups

4DAD: Local community group providing support for dads in Kalamazoo and surrounding cities.

Baby Talk & Toddler Talk: In-person class and playgroup offered through Bronson.

Early Childhood Connections: Resources and playgroups for Calhoun County (Facebook Page)

Fit4Mom: Stroller-based and mom-only workouts paired with playdates and MNOs.

GKMOM (Greater Kalamazoo Moms of Multiples): Group for moms of twins, triplets or more. They offer monthly member meetings, moms night out, play dates and lunch meet-ups.

Kalamazoo County Early Childhood Families: Supports children aged 0-8 by sharing information and events for families.

Mom groups playgroup — ^{Photo: Kalamazoo County Early Childhood Families}

Kalamazoo County Talking is Teaching: KRESA initiative supporting literacy for families with local events, resources and playgroups.

Kalamazoo County Talking is Teaching Mom Group Play Group — ^{Photo: Talking is Teaching}

Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency (KRESA) Community Playgroups: Community playgroups with KRESA.

MOMS Club: Non-profit group supporting moms with activities and community service projects.
• Battle Creek Chapter
• Portage Chapter (Portage/Kalamazoo/Vicksburg) Facebook Page

Pathfinder M.O.M.s: Group for moms of children of all ages to promote faith, love, and friendship.
Pathfinder Church 8740 S Westnedge Ave, Portage, MI 49002

Southridge Church Mothers of Miracles: Moms group that meets twice monthly on Wednesday mornings. Childcare provided.
Southridge Church 6726 Texas Dr, Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Email

Tiny Treasures: Faith-based playgroup at Haven Church.
Haven Church 5350 N Sprinkle Rd, Kalamazoo, MI 49004

Storytimes

Library storytimes provide a great meetup with local families. Check the list for SWMI libraries near you:

Did We Miss Your Playgroup or Organization?

If you know of other mom groups, playgroups or parenting organizations in Kalamazoo that should be included, please leave us a comment or email our editor (liz@kzookids.com).