New parent chat for the in between moments

A morning that begins at five can feel very long by lunchtime. You may have plenty of people asking about the baby and very few asking what you have been enjoying yourself. Here, you can talk about either.

Talk about the ordinary details

Perhaps you have discovered a song that settles a restless afternoon, or a nearby walk that works with a pram. Perhaps you just want to tell somebody how strange it feels to forget which day it is. These little details often make the easiest conversations.

Another parent may recognise the scene straight away. Someone without children may still have a good story, a recommendation or the right question to ask. The wider ChatFriends community gives you both kinds of company.

Remember the interests you brought with you

Your reading, humour, favourite music and opinions have not disappeared. They may simply have had less room lately. Joining a conversation about a television series or a place you would like to visit can feel refreshing after a day of routines.

You can arrive for ten minutes and leave when life calls you away. Come back later if a subject stays with you. Online friendship is allowed to grow around the life you actually have.

An easy first message

Start with something specific and light. It gives other people a way to reply without expecting you to tell your entire story at once.

• What did you manage to watch or read this week?
• Which small outing has made a long day feel better?
• What have you found unexpectedly funny lately?