We are currently hosting hybrid sessions, with meetings on Zoom and two opportunities to meet in-person at Tucker's Grove Park and the Santa Barbara Zoo. Reach out to us for details or follow us on Instagram or Facebook for current information.

If you have a 0-4 month old and would like to be added to the current online group and Zoom meetings, please complete the Sign Up Form 

New Parent Discussion Groups

So you’re home with your new baby without the help of your doctors, nurses or midwives – now what?

PEP’s New Parent Discussion Groups (commonly referred to as “PEP Groups”) are a great place to meet other families with babies the same age, dealing with the same issues, sorting through some of the same challenges, and experiencing the same joys that come along with new parenthood.

PEP Groups are free-of-charge, facilitated by PEP volunteers, and cover topics such as breastfeeding issues, sleep challenges, emotional highs and lows, and changing relationships. It’s comforting to know that others are going through the same thing at the same time, while learning from each other in a safe environment.

For some new parents, PEP Groups are the first place they’ve taken their baby in the car. For other parents, it’s an environment to explore the many emotions that come after birth. And for everyone, it’s a place to meet new friends!

PEP is different from other new parent groups, with a primary focus on support of the new parent(s). A healthy and supported parent equals happy and healthy child. We encourage peer support in a judgement-free atmosphere. PEP is not sponsored by paid companies, parenting books, or other websites, and we do not solicit or endorse products at our Groups gatherings. We understand that every family is unique, and our philosophy is that there is no one right way to parent – we encourage each family to find the methods that are right for their ever-changing needs.

Come to our PEP Groups with the intent of getting and giving peer support, and leave making new friendships that will last a lifetime!

When Should You Come to Groups?

You do not have to wait until a new group starts to join us. New parents are welcome to come whenever you are ready. We look forward to meeting you and your family. Please note: Babies in arms are, of course, welcome, but unfortunately our space does not allow for older children or siblings to join.

New Parent Group Meetings

Every Thursday
10AM – 12 NOON

2023 Start Dates

January/February 2023 - January 5, 2023
March/April 2023 - March 2, 2023
May/June 2023 - May 4, 2023
July/August 2023 - July 6, 2023
September/October 2023 - September 7, 2023
November/December 2023 - November 2, 2023

Looking to join an existing PEP group?

Even if you didn’t go to a PEP group when your baby was first born, we would still love to help you connect with other parents with similar aged children. Please fill out the Sign Up Form so we can start the process.

Find out more information about Groups in Spanish

PEP would like to recognize and thank the Santa Barbara Zoo for sponsoring our New Parent Group facilitated offsite meeting each session.