What is community?
Parenting can feel isolating. You’re navigating unfamiliar responsibilities, finding your footing in new social groups, and balancing new routines.
With so little time in your day, it might seem easier to try to shoulder it all on your own. But you don’t have to do it alone. Community can look like leaning on a friend, reaching out to a parenting group, or getting professional support. There are people and resources that can lighten your load.
Why it matters
Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a way to strengthen your family’s foundation. Connecting with others gives you fresh perspectives, reassurance, and the support you need to handle parenting with more confidence and calm.
Building community benefits both you and your family. Learn how supportive relationships outside the home can strengthen your parenting journey in this short video from the Kids Mental Health Foundation.
Put it into practice
Try these quick steps to begin growing your parenting village:
Circles of Concern and Taking Control
Zero in on actionable steps within your control to drive meaningful changes for you and your kids.
Thought Diary for Biased Expectations
Recognize unrealistic expectations placed on parents and empower yourself to advocate for the support your family needs.
Practicing Radical Acceptance
Acknowledge your limits as a parent and take proactive steps to advocate for your family’s needs.
Best Possible Self Visualization
Empower yourself with this quick visualization technique to help you put your best foot forward.
Capitalizing on Positive Events
Build a stronger sense of connection and happiness in your relationships by savoring and amplifying positive moments.
10 Easy Ways to Achieve Hygge
Embrace this core Danish practice of enjoying life’s simple pleasures, and bring warmth, connection, and contentment to your family and community.
Social Capital Quiz
Take this short quiz to learn more about the types of social relationships in your network and how you can expand your connections both online and offline.
How To Say “No” Politely
Practice setting boundaries and maintaining healthy relationships with these ideas on how to politely say no.
Starting a Conversation Using the ARE Method
Harness the power of the Acknowledge, Respond, and Expand method to foster deeper and more meaningful conversations.
“You Are Not a Unicorn”
Use this quick mindset shift as a lighthearted reminder that you’re not alone in your parenting or personal struggles.
Explore these activities to deepen your support network:
“Seeing Is Believing” Writing Exercise
Shift your perspective and boost your sense of belonging with this reflective writing exercise.
Courageous Connections That Challenge Your Biases
Expand your personal and parenting circle by confronting your internal biases to build more authentic and open-minded relationships.
Values Worksheets
Tune into what truly matters to you to foster relationships that align with your core values.
TED Talk: How To Build Community When You Feel Isolated
Combat feelings of isolation and begin building your community with practical tips from this TED Talk by Chitra Ayar.
Becoming a Strong Self-Advocate
Learn to advocate for yourself and navigate the real, everyday pressures of life and parenting with greater support.
Being Well Podcast: Overcoming Procrastination: Motivation and Creating a Pursuit Mindset
Listen to this podcast for tips on how to overcome procrastination and boost motivation to become a more present and proactive parent.
Parental Advocacy and Self-Care Workbook
Strengthen your voice and well-being with exercises in this interactive workbook.
Finding Meaningful Friendships as a New Parent
Identify ways to connect with friends even when you are low on time and energy.
Social Anxiety in Parenthood Podcast
Know that you’re not alone with this insightful podcast exploring why social anxiety is common in parenthood and how to overcome it.
19 Social Skills Activities For Adults
Explore a list of engaging activities that help you try something new and expand your social network.
Read up on community
Discover the power of connection and support in parenting through these artices:
The Resilient Parent Library
Check out these books for building a community for your family:
Research
Because it’s nice to know we’re not just saying this, here’s the research that backs up the power of community.
- Parent Engagement and School Readiness: Effects of the Getting Ready Intervention on Preschool Children’s Social-Emotional Competencies
- Parenting Characteristics Among Adults With Social Anxiety and Their Influence on Social Anxiety Development in Children: A Brief Integrative Review
- Family Engagement and Leadership Framework