Why Does It Take a Village?
I’m sure you’ve heard it! But is it true? Does it really take a village?
If you’ve answered “yes”, you are not the only one who feels this way, Mom. I promise!
It truly takes a village!
What does this mean? According to Wikipedia, a “village” is the entire community uniting and providing support to one another so children can grow up in a healthy and safe environment! We shouldn’t feel bad or guilty for needing a village! Here’s why:
Sometimes, We Just Struggle
Let’s face it, the STRUGGLE IS REAL! Life is not easy and there is no handbook for parenting. It feels good to know that.
Someone else understands our struggles and can offer a new perspective. Perhaps your daughter is dealing with the same issue your neighbor’s daughter had when she was in the 7th grade. How did they support her? What worked and what didn’t work? Your struggles are not unique to just you and your family. We don’t have to figure this stuff out alone! We can lean on each other.
Our Families Feel Safe, Secure, and Never Alone
Wouldn’t you find comfort in knowing others are looking
out for your precious children? Unfortunately, we can’t be everywhere all the time. Having a trusted village of like-minded adults shows children they are never alone. Sometimes, they don’t want to tell us everything, no matter how close they are to us. It may be easier for them to share their feelings with another adult they can trust—who happens to ALSO be someone you trust. One of the worst emotions someone can experience is the feeling of being alone. There is strength in numbers! Get yourself a village so you can always have people cheering you on!
Your Village Has Everything You Need
Let’s bring back the days of asking our neighbors for a cup of sugar! Remember the days when you lacked something and your neighbor happily provided it?
Villages are made up of a diverse group of people with different gifts and talents. The people in your village can offer the solution to your biggest struggle(s)! If a certain person can’t help, they know someone, who knows someone who can help! Whether you are in need of a tutor, a home organizer, a nanny, or a sitter for your fur-baby, someone in your village will be able and willing to help!
It’s Time to Get connected! Here are a few tips:
Schedule play dates with other parents- This will require you to step outside of your comfort zone, Mom! Don’t be afraid to spark up conversations with other parents. You will be surprised at how quickly your playdate invitation will be accepted. Every parent wants their child to have a friend and most parents are craving adult friendships!
Social media- Are you on Facebook? Don’t just nose around, join some virtual social groups! How about a group for moms who like to sew? What about a group for moms of multiples? Find your interest group and get connected!
Ask Questions- Who is your hair stylist’s babysitter? Can your manicurist recommend a good house organizer? Does your son’s football coach know of a good tutor? The people around you are a great resource and would be happy to give referrals. Don’t be shy! Tell others what you and your family want and/or need and start building your village.
Being a part of a village means having support and being willing to support others. Share your passions, gifts, and talents with others! Allow others to share their passions, gifts, and talents with you. Remember, it takes a village and you are ALWAYS welcome to join ours!