For many parents now it takes a virtual village to raise a child

As parents, we often hear about the importance of having a "village" to support us in raising our children. But in today's digital age, that village can now be virtual. The rise of social media, online parenting communities, and digital resources has led to a new era of parenting – one where we can seek advice, support and guidance from a wide range of sources, without even leaving our homes.

I remember the first time I turned to the online community for help with my child. My daughter had been experiencing some behavioral issues, and I felt lost and alone. But when I stumbled upon a forum where other parents were discussing similar struggles, it was like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. Suddenly, I had a whole group of people who understood what I was going through and could offer advice and support. It was then that I realized just how powerful the virtual village could be.

• In 2020, 69% of mothers reported using social media to get advice on parenting topics, up from 62% in 2015, according to Pew Research Center.
• The app Nextdoor, which allows users to connect with their neighbors online, saw a 80% increase in users during the pandemic, as families sought out virtual support from those nearby.
• BabyCenter, one of the largest online parenting communities, has over 45 million members who engage in discussions on everything from breastfeeding to sleep training.

The Power of the Virtual Village

One of the most significant benefits of the virtual village is the diversity of perspectives it offers. Traditional parenting resources – like books and doctors – may offer sound advice, but they often lack the personal, relatable stories that can help us feel less alone. With the virtual village, we can connect with parents from all walks of life, who may have faced challenges similar to our own. We can also get advice that is tailored to our specific needs, rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.

The virtual village also provides a sense of community and belonging. For parents who may be isolated – either geographically or socially – the virtual village offers a place to connect with others, share stories and build relationships. It's not uncommon for parents to form lasting friendships through online parenting communities, often going on to meet in person and even attending each other's weddings.

And of course, the virtual village can offer practical support and advice. From finding the best stroller for your lifestyle to navigating the ins and outs of potty training, the virtual village provides a wealth of information at our fingertips. There are online courses, webinars, and tutorials on everything from baby gear to breastfeeding, making it easier than ever to educate ourselves on the topics that matter most.

Practical Tips

1. Join online communities centered around your specific parenting needs, whether that's breastfeeding, special needs parenting, or dealing with sleep issues.
2. Be open to different perspectives and ideas – remember, the beauty of the virtual village is its diversity.
3. Don't be afraid to ask for help – you might be surprised at how many people are willing to lend a hand or offer support.

Conclusion

1. The virtual village offers a diverse array of perspectives and advice, making it a powerful resource for parents.
2. It provides a sense of community and belonging, particularly for parents who may be isolated or in need of support.
3. The virtual village offers practical resources and information to help us become better parents.