Welcoming a new baby is an exciting and life-changing experience, but let’s be real—it can also feel overwhelming. Between sleepless nights and endless diaper changes, it’s easy to wonder if you’re doing everything possible to support your little one’s growth. The good news? There are so many ways to encourage your baby’s development while also building a community of fellow parents who truly get it. Whether you're looking for sensory play, parent-and-baby classes, or just a friendly face who understands the struggle of teething, local resources can make all the difference.
Thanks to our partners at Atrium Health Levine Children’s, we’ve curated a guide of great places and activities to help your baby thrive—and help you find your people along the way:
1. Parent-and-Baby Classes
From baby yoga to music and movement classes, structured activities provide sensory stimulation, encourage motor skills, and introduce early socialization. Plus, they’re a great way for you to meet other parents in the same stage of life.
- New Mom School Ballantyne
- Music Together Of Charlotte
- Multiple Locations
- The Little Gym
- Multiple Locations
- My Gym
- Multiple Locations
- Lanti Music Mommy & Me Pop Up
- Tinkergarten
- Mommy and Baby Yoga
- Kindermusik
- Multiple Locations
2. Library Storytimes
Local libraries often offer free baby-friendly storytimes that incorporate songs, movement, and interactive play—all of which support early literacy skills. Bonus: You’ll meet other parents who also appreciate a mid-morning outing that doesn’t require buying a latte (but no judgment if you do). We keep a full list of local library times on our MacaroniKID Fort Mill/Rock Hill, South Charlotte and Union County sites. You can also search by location on each of these local library system websites:
3. Indoor Play Spaces & Sensory Gyms
These spaces are designed with babies and toddlers in mind and offer safe environments for crawling, climbing, and exploring. Sensory gyms often have soft play areas that encourage development, while indoor play cafes allow parents to chat over coffee.
- Discovery Place Kids
- Discovery Place Science
- Sea Life Aquarium
- Playland - multiple locations
- Just Play
- Jumpin’ Jax
- High Five Playhouse
- Funtown Play Cafe
- Spirited Sprout
- Play House Play Cafe
- Main Street Children’s Museum
- ImaginOn
- Monroe Science Center
- For more ideas check out these guides:
4. Stroller Walking Groups, Greenways and Other Stroller-Friendly Spaces
Fresh air and movement are good for both you and your baby! Many communities have walking groups or baby-wearing meetups at parks or malls, creating a low-pressure way to get some exercise and connect with other parents.
- Sweat Like A Mother (S.L.A.M)
- New Mom School, Ballantyne
- Fit4Mom Fort Mill
- Fit4Mom Charlotte and Matthews
Stroller-friendly trails, greenways, and parks offer fresh air, gentle movement, and a change of scenery—perfect for calming a fussy baby or getting a much-needed mental break. Plus, you might spot other parents out for a stroll, making it an easy way to spark casual connections.
- Union County Greenway Guide
- Fort Mill Greenway Guide
- South Charlotte Playground Guide
- Union County Playground Guide
- Fort Mill Playground Guide
5. Parent-Friendly Gyms with Childcare
Finding time to work out can be tough with a baby, but gyms that offer onsite childcare or child watch services make it easier. These facilities allow you to prioritize your physical and mental health while your little one plays safely nearby. It's also a great opportunity to meet other parents squeezing in some self-care, just like you! You’ll want to contact each facility below to confirm age requirements and schedules.
- Burn Bootcamp (monitored childcare)
- ISI Elite Training (unmonitored child area visible to members)
- Lifetime Athletic Clubs (monitored childcare)
- YMCA of Greater Charlotte and Upper Palmetto areas (monitored childcare)
- Monroe Aquatic and Fitness Center (monitored child care)
- Crunch Fitness (Ballantyne location ONLY)
6. Community Centers & Faith-Based Groups
Many community centers and churches offer parenting groups, playgroups, and seasonal events tailored to families with young children. These spaces create natural opportunities to form friendships with other local parents.
7. New Parent Support Groups & Expert Advice
Whether you’re looking for tips on how to nourish your baby, or answers to questions that keep you up at night, expert led support groups and nurse advice chat can provide guidance and peace of mind.
A great pediatrician is more than just a doctor; they’re a support system. You should feel comfortable leaning on them for advice, reassurance, and expert care as your baby grows. And if you’re still searching for the right fit, consider one of the highly skilled pediatricians at Atrium Health Levine Children’s—affiliated with the best and dedicated to giving your baby top-tier care from day one.
- Atrium Health Women’s Care 4th Trimester Support Groups
- Atrium Health’s Women’s Care offers 4th trimester support groups. After welcoming your baby, sharing your experiences with other moms about feeding challenges, the decision to work or stay home, and coping with sleepless nights can help you adjust to motherhood. Check out this video to learn more and join the virtual meetup.
- New Mom School, Ballantyne
- Classes cover everything from the basics of newborn care to managing your well-being—ensuring you’re equipped to not just survive, but truly enjoy motherhood.
- Atrium Health Levine Children’s Nurse Advice Chat
- If your child sees an Atrium Health Levine Children’s provider, you have access to pediatric nurse advice chat. It’s a secure, quick and easy way to get reliable and real-time answers to your newborn’s health questions. To start a chat with a nurse, just open your MyAtriumHealth App, select “Ask a Question” then tap on “Pediatric Nurse Advice Chat” from the menu. Peace of mind is just a live chat away!
Find Your Village
Parenthood is better when shared, and finding a local network can make all the difference. Whether you're looking for developmental activities for your baby or just hoping to have a real conversation with another adult (who won’t judge your spit-up-stained sweatshirt), these resources are here to help. Explore what’s available near you, and enjoy building connections that will grow right alongside your little one!
For more expert advice on topics to help your child thrive, click here.
Experts at Atrium Health Levine Children’s are here to support you through every stage of your child’s growth. Find a pediatrician near you today.
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