So last weekend was a huge weekend. Why, you might ask? Well… my son turned 18 years old. Yes thats right, we now have an adult. T H A T I S J U S T C R A Z Y! We had a fun night Saturday as we celebrated, drank a few cold ones and danced the night away. It was a ripper.
As I danced, I thought about all the people in my life who have invested in Josh and who have been in our corner throughout his journey to 18. I even thought “wow, we wouldn’t have made it without our tribe, without our network of dedicated friends who are in our corner”. Do you have a network of other parents in your corner. The kind of parents that you could call on for support. That you could call on to hang out, or when it’s really tough and can give you a break.
I am thankful for the people in our corner who have lifted us up at just the right times especially as a parent. It is no secret that sometimes parenting can be hard and for us we felt pretty alone with where we were at particularly when we have had challenges with our children. Have you ever felt alone as a parent? I think it is pretty common and all the more why it is so important to surround yourself with a network of other parents to encourage you and you can share your heart and be vulnerable with.
Here is three reasons why parenting is not meant to be done alone and how having that network can help you be more connected as a family.
- Shared Experiences and Support:
- Emotional Support: Parenting can be challenging, and having a network of other parents provides a valuable support system. Sharing experiences, challenges, and successes with those who understand firsthand can alleviate stress and prevent feelings of isolation. This emotional support translates into a more positive home environment, as parents are better equipped to handle stress and maintain a positive outlook.
- Advice and Guidance: Other parents can offer practical advice and solutions based on their own experiences. This collective wisdom helps parents navigate various stages of their children’s development more effectively, leading to better family dynamics and stronger connections within the family.
- Social Opportunities for Children and Families:
- Playdates and Social Interaction: Regular interactions with other families create opportunities for children to play and socialize, fostering their social skills and friendships. These interactions can also lead to family gatherings, such as picnics or joint outings, where parents and children alike can bond and create lasting memories together.
- Community Building: Being part of a community of parents encourages a sense of belonging and shared responsibility. This communal approach to parenting helps build a support network where families look out for each other, strengthening the overall fabric of family life.
- Role Modeling and Positive Behavior:
- Exposure to Different Parenting Styles: Observing how other parents handle various situations can provide new perspectives and techniques that can be beneficial when applied at home. This exposure can inspire parents to adopt positive behaviors and strategies that enhance their family interactions.
- Promoting Healthy Relationships: Children learn by example, and seeing their parents engage positively with other adults and families can teach them about healthy relationships and community involvement. This modeling of positive social behavior reinforces the importance of connections and cooperation both within the family and in the broader community.
By fostering these aspects through connections with other parents, families can create a more supportive, socially rich, and cohesive environment that benefits both parents and children.
One thing that we have found valuable is having The Table Talk Project with our friends. Clicking on Back at The Table and following the guided menu. It makes for great discussion and we always go deeper as friends. Try it and let me know how you go.
