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.
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 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.
Kalamazoo County Talking is Teaching: KRESA initiative supporting literacy for families with local events, resources and playgroups.
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).
Printer Friendly List
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More Parenting Resources
More to Explore
GKMOM (greater kalamazoo mothers of multiples) has monthly member meetings, moms night out, play dates and even lunch meet ups.
Thank you! We’ve added the group.