Why Every Parent Needs a Village (And How to Find Yours)

Parenting wasn’t meant to be a solo journey. The phrase “it takes a village” exists for good reason—raising children is one of humanity’s most challenging and rewarding endeavors, and it requires community support. In our increasingly isolated world, many parents find themselves struggling without the extended family networks and close-knit communities that previous generations relied upon. Building your parenting village isn’t just nice to have; it’s essential for both your family’s wellbeing and your own sanity.

Join Local Parent Groups

Start by connecting with other parents in your immediate area through library story times, playground meetups, or neighborhood parenting groups. These face-to-face connections often lead to lasting friendships and practical support networks. Many communities have Facebook groups or apps like Nextdoor where parents coordinate playdates and share resources.

Connect Through Your Child’s Activities

Sports teams, music classes, art programs, and school events are natural places to meet like-minded parents. Strike up conversations during pickup times or volunteer for activities together. These shared experiences create bonds and give you common ground for building relationships that extend beyond your children’s activities.

Find Your Tribe Through Shared Interests

Look for parent groups that align with your hobbies, values, or lifestyle choices. Whether it’s hiking parents, book club moms, or working parent networks, finding people who share your interests creates deeper connections. These groups often provide both social support and practical advice from people who truly understand your situation.

Utilize Online Communities Wisely

While in-person connections are invaluable, online parenting communities can provide 24/7 support and advice. Join Facebook groups, Reddit communities, or apps like Peanut that connect parents with similar interests. Be selective about which groups you engage with, focusing on positive, supportive communities rather than judgment-heavy spaces.

Build Relationships with Other School Families

Your child’s school is a goldmine for potential village members. Attend school events, volunteer in classrooms, and participate in PTA meetings. These parents are dealing with similar challenges and stages as you, making them ideal candidates for your support network and potential lifelong friends.

Create Reciprocal Babysitting Arrangements

Organize childcare swaps with trusted parents in your network. This provides free babysitting while strengthening relationships and giving children opportunities to play with friends. Start small with short exchanges and build trust gradually. Clear communication about expectations and emergency procedures is essential for success.

Seek Professional Support When Needed

Your village should include professionals like pediatricians, therapists, and family counselors who can provide expert guidance. Don’t hesitate to build relationships with these support providers—they’re part of your extended village. Many offer parent education classes or support groups that can connect you with other families.

Nurture Intergenerational Connections

Include older adults in your village through volunteer programs, religious organizations, or neighborhood connections. Grandparent figures can provide wisdom, childcare support, and different perspectives on parenting. Many communities have programs that connect families with senior volunteers who enjoy spending time with children.

Maintain Long-Distance Village Members

Don’t forget family and friends who live far away but can still provide emotional support, advice, and encouragement. Regular video calls, shared photo albums, and planned visits help maintain these important connections. Long-distance village members often offer valuable perspective and unconditional support.

Be a Village Member to Others

Remember that building a village is a two-way street. Offer support, listen without judgment, and be reliable when others need help. The more you invest in your community, the stronger your village becomes. Small gestures like bringing dinner to a struggling family or offering to carpool can strengthen bonds significantly.