Living in a world of over eight billion people, it is amazing how lonely it can be. Modern technology has afforded us the privilege of having the world at our fingertips, via our cell phones, television, computers, etc… But finding our “Village”, close personal connections with individuals is much more difficult. Advice is at our fingertips, recipes galore, how to parent our children, how to manage a household, so much wonderful information. Technology can increase feelings of isolation. It is difficult to parent young kids without your own community. Nothing replaces human connection.
Everyone, myself included, have become so incredibly busy we have forgotten the importance of reaching out. It is so easy to immerse ourselves into survival mode, that we forget that self care can involve laughing with a friend. So many of the families I encounter through my job no longer live near family, or extended family. The drive to find a good job can mean leaving all of our friends and family behind. I encourage engagement between like minded parents at drop off and pick up at my daycare. There are so many types of parents with different parenting styles that we can all learn from each other. Joining parent and tot groups are a wonderful way of meeting parents. But alas the key component to finding our village is being willing to reach out.
The diversity of our communities enables us to seek out positive role models, and like-minded families. Being up front and intentional can help develop organic friendships. Going to parks, community centers, schools, churches, but remembering to instigate conversation with your peers. It may seem impractical as a new parent to volunteer, but it is a great way to meet like minded individuals. I have encouraged parents to understand that sometimes finding time for themselves to develop friendships means making it a priority, an absolute necessity.
Don’t rush it. The building process takes time. Juggling parenthood can be overwhelming. But remember, your children gain so much by having other adults in their lives. Learning to trust and spend time with other families teaches our children about the value of maintaining positive friendships. Your village is out there, go out and find them. Live intentionally, you are worth it!