Comedy Brings Laughter to New Mothers and Babies

Quick Smiles:

• Baby-friendly comedy clubs offer new moms support, laughter, and a sense of community.
• Events feature stand-up, poetry, and stories from inspiring mothers.
• Every Other Mother and Bring Your Own Baby create joyful, inclusive spaces for parents and little ones.

At the Phoenix Theatre in Hampshire, mothers and their babies fill the seats, swapping nursery rhymes for punchlines at the Every Other Mother event. The crowd is a mix of mums, infants, and toddlers, all gathered to find connection, laughter, and support.

Every Other Mother combines stand-up, poetry, and stories in a welcoming setting, allowing mothers from all walks of life to share experiences and creativity. Co-founder Sally McIlhone describes it as a “lunchtime cabaret,” aimed at helping mothers feel inspired and seen.

“I wanted anyone who came to feel like they’d found a place where they belonged,” says McIlhone, whose children are two and seven.

After launching in January 2024 with poet Sophie Cameron, the event quickly grew into a safe haven for creative expression, where mothers can be themselves without judgment. Baby mats and toys mingle with prosecco and pizza, creating a relaxed atmosphere for parents and children alike.

“Just because we’ve had babies, doesn’t mean we’ve had lobotomies,” says attendee Jen Clarke.

She appreciates the mix of adult conversation and shared laughter after many rounds of nursery songs.

Other shows, like Screaming with Laughter and Bring Your Own Baby, have also gained popularity for their approachable style and focus on letting parents unwind. Comedian Hatty Ashdown welcomes crawling toddlers onstage, making everyone feel included in the fun.

Comedians Alyssa Kyria and Carly Smallman, founders of Bring Your Own Baby, know the shows offer something special for new moms.

“It was just a gorgeous thing to see all these mums having a laugh and letting loose a little bit,” shares Kyria.

One touching story came when a mother realized her baby saw her genuinely laugh for the first time at a show. Both organizers and attendees recognize these moments as a true antidote to the challenges of new parenthood.

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