By now, you’ve probably heard this phrase a gazillion times: “It takes a village to raise a child.” While this proverb has a point, I’ve always thought it doesn’t go far enough. Of course, we all need a healthy community for our kiddos—but what about momma? In my opinion, building and maintaining a village is as essential for kiddos as it is for stressed-out parents.
By now, you’ve probably heard this phrase a gazillion times: “It takes a village to raise a child.” While this proverb has a point, I’ve always thought it doesn’t go far enough. Of course, we all need a healthy community for our kiddos—but what about momma? In my opinion, building and maintaining a village is as essential for kiddos as it is for stressed-out parents.
In this blog, I’m going to share four of the best benefits for building your momma village ASAP. By the end of this post, I hope you’ll understand why I’m so passionate about this topic!
Strength in Numbers — Why Mommas Always Benefit From A Village
Prepping For The Unpreparable — Villages Are The Best Emergency Relief!
It’s common to feel panicky when things don’t go according to our carefully thought out plans. However, as we’ve all learned in 2020, things can get real crazy real fast. When the unexpected happens (and it always does!), it’s way easier to move forward with the help of people you could trust.
The truth is, we can’t prepare for everything life is going to throw our way day-to-day. However, knowing you have a social safety net in crisis moments is a huge boon for your stressed-out brain.
Ask Kiddo Questions To Fellow Mommies
When you become a new momma, you’re bound to run across dozens of urgent questions daily. While your pediatrician can help you settle a few issues, there are many situations where you need to speak with a momma who’s been there, done that.
Joining a mom support group can be super helpful when you need answers to confidential questions. Thankfully, it’s getting easier for mommas to build these villages online. Even if you can’t connect IRL with mommas you feel comfortable talking with, you should find a few mom groups to Zoom with.
For instance, all you IVF mommas may remember the online groups I recommended in my previous post. Be sure to research all the momma groups in your area or on social media until you find one that clicks.
Who Needs Xanax When You’ve Got Your Village?
I’ll be honest, I think the idea of independence is a bit overrated. I know so many mommas who put off building their village because they feel weak asking for help. In my opinion, it’s always stronger to seek help when you need it than to maintain an independent ideal.
And you don’t have to take my word for it. Many studies show people who neglect social support have worse mental and physical health than those who have a strong village.
A key reason for this has to do with stress. The simple act of meeting with friends, family, or neighbors has a tremendous impact on our sense of belonging. Without a village to vent to, it’s easy for stress to get buried in your subconscious. So, for the sake of your well-being, please don’t put off building your village.
Strengthen Your Kiddo’s (Non-Digital!) Social Skills
Even before COVID-19, kiddos had a lot on their plate. Although high-tech gadgets have made our lives more convenient, they could also make our lives more confusing. Despite living in the social media age, statistics show more kiddos struggle with feelings of isolation and loneliness.
One of the best ways you could help your little ones navigate this crazy new world is to expose them to in-person events with your village. Like learning how to write or ride a bike, social skills take time and practice to perfect. The more opportunities little ones have to play with friends and family, the better chances they’ll feel confident as they grow.
As our world becomes increasingly digital, it has never been more important to unplug and introduce our little ones to the value of true connectedness.
Need Support in Seconds? DM Me!
Often, taking the first step towards building a village is the most challenging thing for new mommas. I get it: Being a momma bear is tiring and time-consuming. However, please know that you could always DM me on Instagram for speedy support.
Wherever you are, please don’t think twice about sending me a message on social media. I’d love to be a part of your village! XOXO
