Modern motherhood has changed so much in recent years, and for many mothers, the experience can feel isolating and overwhelming. We’ve lost the traditional (village) community childrearing and at the same time, social media and the pressure to be “perfect” can create unrealistic expectations and a sense of isolation, as mothers may feel like they have to go it alone or that they don’t measure up to the seemingly effortless lives of other moms they see online. With so much change and so many expectations placed on mothers, it’s no wonder that many are feeling overwhelmed and isolated in their role as mothers.
“It Takes A Village to Raise a Child”
The quote “it takes a village to raise a child” is one that has always resonated with me on a deep, emotional level. As a parent, I know firsthand the incredible responsibility and effort it takes to raise a child and help them grow into a responsible, compassionate adult. But the truth is, no parent can do it alone. It takes the support and guidance of a whole community to help nurture and shape a child’s character and values.
From extended family members to neighbours and community members, everyone plays a role in the upbringing and education of children. This collective approach to parenting and childrearing not only allows for a more well-rounded and diverse range of experiences and perspectives for the child, but it also creates a strong sense of community and connection among the adults involved.
The role of community in Modern Motherhood
From teachers and mentors, to friends and extended family, every person who interacts with a child has the power to make a positive impact on their development. It takes a village to raise a child because it takes a diverse network of individuals, each with their own unique perspectives and experiences, to provide the love, guidance, and support that children need to thrive. So, it is very important to build a strong and supportive community around children to help them grow and develop into the best version of themselves.
Today’s modern Motherhood
As a society, we have lost touch with the concept of “it takes a village to raise a child.”
In the past, raising a child was a collective effort, with extended family, neighbours, and community members all playing a role in the upbringing of the next generation. But in modern times, the nuclear family has become the norm, and the traditional village structure has all but disappeared.
In today’s world, we’ve lost touch with this sense of community in many ways. With nuclear families becoming the norm and an increased focus on individualism, it can be difficult to replicate the traditional village model of childrearing. While there are certainly benefits to modern family structures, it’s important to recognise the value of a supportive and involved community in the upbringing of children and to find ways to foster a sense of community and connection in our own lives and families.
The Invisible Load of Modern Motherhood
For many modern mothers, the burden of raising a child falls solely on their shoulders. The pressure to be the perfect parent can be overwhelming, and the lack of support can leave mothers feeling isolated and alone. The constant demands of motherhood, combined with the societal expectation to do it all without help, can be exhausting.
The loss of the village has had a profound impact on the mental health of mothers. Studies have shown that social isolation and a lack of support can lead to increased feelings of depression and anxiety. It’s no wonder that so many mothers feel overwhelmed and struggle to juggle the demands of motherhood and their own well-being.
the impact on a mother
The modern world can sometimes feel like it is in direct conflict with mum life. The modern world is this capitalist, money hungry, rushed conveyer belt and motherhood is the complete opposite. It’s about relishing in the chaos, patience, acceptance, love and investing time and energy into those you love. The modern world has been great in some ways (dishwashers and hoovers – thank you). But it does not come without its issues – for mothers – particularly in terms of maintaining their mental health and finding support.
The expectations and demands placed on mothers can be overwhelming, and the lack of a strong support network can leave them feeling isolated and alone. The constant juggle between work and family responsibilities can be exhausting, and the pressure to be a “perfect” mother can lead to feelings of guilt and inadequacy.
the digital age and modern motherhood
The digital age and the proliferation of social media have had a significant impact on modern motherhood.
The constant connectivity of the digital age can also make it difficult for mothers to find time to relax and recharge, leading to increased stress and anxiety. It is important for mothers to prioritise their own mental health and seek support when needed, whether through therapy, support groups, or simply by finding time to connect with friends and loved ones.
The Amazing Benefits of social media on motherhood
Social media can provide mothers with a sense of community and support, allowing them to connect with other mothers who may be going through similar experiences. With things like Instagram, Tiktok and even apps like the Peanut App.
Peanut is a social networking app that connects mothers with other mothers in their area. The app was designed to help mothers find support and friendship during the often isolating and challenging experience of motherhood. On the Peanut app, mothers can connect with each other, share their experiences and advice, and find support on a wide range of topics related to parenting. The app also features a number of resources and tools for mothers, including a calendar of local events, a directory of parenting resources, and a messaging feature that allows mothers to connect with each other directly. Peanut is available for download on the App Store and Google Play.
Community and connection
As a mother, it can be tough to feel connected and supported in the midst of the daily chaos that often comes with raising a family. That’s where social media can come in to provide some much-needed solace and connection. Through platforms like Instagram and Facebook, mothers can connect with other moms who are going through similar struggles and triumphs, sharing advice, support, and a sense of community. It’s also a great way to stay in touch with friends and family, especially if you’re unable to see them in person as often as you’d like. Plus, social media can be a fun and easy way to document your family’s milestones and memories, creating a virtual scrapbook to look back on for years to come. All in all, social media can be an incredibly valuable tool for mothers looking to connect, share, and stay informed.
Information and advice
In addition to providing a sense of community and connection, social media can also be a great resource for mothers looking for information and support. There are countless blogs, websites, and online groups specifically geared towards mothers, offering a wealth of information on everything from parenting and pregnancy to cooking and home organisation.
Source of income
Social media can be a useful tool for mothers looking to promote and grow their businesses or personal brands. Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom looking to monetise a hobby or a working mother looking to build a side hustle, social media can provide a platform to share your skills and expertise with a wider audience.
Of course, it’s important to use social media responsibly and mindfully, setting boundaries and taking breaks as needed. But overall, the benefits of social media on motherhood can be truly amazing, offering a sense of connection, support, and opportunity that can make the journey of motherhood a little easier and a lot more fulfilling.
The negatives of social media on Modern Motherhood
As a mother in the modern world, it can be tough to navigate the constant stream of information and pressure that social media brings.
Comparison and competition
Social media use can also be a source of comparison and competition in motherhood, as we are constantly bombarded with images of seemingly perfect mothers and their seemingly perfect families. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, as we try to live up to these often unrealistic standards.
Difficult to focus on the present
Additionally, the constant notifications and distractions of social media can make it difficult to focus on the present moment and fully engage with our children. It can also contribute to a sense of disconnection and isolation, as we substitute online interactions for real-life connections. All of these negative aspects of social media can take a toll on our mental health and overall well-being as mothers.
Increased stress and anxiety
The constant connectivity of the digital age can also make it difficult for mothers to find time to relax and recharge, leading to increased stress and anxiety. It is important for mothers to prioritise their own mental health and seek support when needed, whether through therapy, support groups, or simply by finding time to connect with friends and loved ones.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. By rebuilding the village and creating a supportive network for mothers, we can help ease the burden of modern motherhood. This can be as simple as reaching out to a friend or neighbour for help or joining a local parenting group. It can also involve seeking out professional support, such as therapy or counselling.
As a society, it’s important that we recognise the importance of the village in raising healthy, well-adjusted children. By supporting and uplifting mothers, we can create a brighter future for the next generation. So let’s start building that village today and give mothers the support they need and deserve.
What can we do to rebuild the village?
Parenting Groups
One way to surround ourselves with like-minded mothers is to join a local parenting group or organisation. These groups often host events and activities for mothers and their children, and they provide a space for mothers to connect with each other and share their experiences and advice. Many cities and towns also have parenting forums or online groups that can be a great resource for mothers looking for support and community.
Another option is to seek out a support group specifically for mothers. These groups can be a great source of emotional support, as well as a place to find practical advice and tips on everything from breastfeeding to potty training. Many support groups also offer classes or workshops on various parenting topics, which can be a great way to learn and grow as a mother that apply to your specific circumstances.
Join parenting apps/forums
One of the great things about living in the digital age is that we have access to a wide range of resources and tools to help us connect with others and find support. For mothers and parents who are feeling lonely or isolated, parenting apps and forums can be a great way to find a sense of community and feel less alone.
These platforms offer a space for parents to connect with each other, share their experiences and advice, and find support and encouragement from others who understand what they’re going through. Whether you’re a new mom looking for advice on breastfeeding or an experienced parent seeking support on a particular challenge, there are likely to be forums or groups out there that can help. It’s important to remember that we’re not alone in this journey, and that there are others out there who are facing similar challenges and looking for support and connection just like we are.
So, if you’re feeling lonely or isolated, don’t be afraid to reach out and connect with others through parenting apps and forums. You may be surprised by how much it can help to have a supportive community behind you.
ask for help
Another way to build a sense of community and support in motherhood is to reach out to friends and family members who are also mothers. Spending time with other mothers and sharing our experiences can be a great source of support and encouragement. It can also be helpful to connect with mothers who are at different stages of parenting, as they may have valuable insights and experiences to share.
No matter how we choose to surround ourselves with like-minded mothers, it’s important to remember that we don’t have to go it alone. Building a strong community of support can make all the difference in our journey through motherhood, and it can help us to feel less isolated and more connected to others who understand what we’re going through.
The Take Away
The role of a parent is not just to provide for a child’s basic needs, but to also help them navigate the complex and often challenging world around them. And this is where the concept of the “village” comes into play. It takes the combined efforts of a community to provide the necessary support and guidance to help a child grow and develop into a well-rounded, confident, and successful adult. Whether it’s through the guidance of a mentor, the advice of a trusted friend, or the love and support of extended family, each and every person who is a part of a child’s life plays a vital role in their development.
But the concept of the “village” extends beyond just the people in a child’s life. It also includes the resources and opportunities that are available to them, such as access to quality education, extracurricular activities, and safe and supportive environments. It is the collective responsibility of a community to ensure that children have the resources and support they need to thrive and reach their full potential.
Ultimately, the quote “it takes a village to raise a child” reminds us of the interconnectedness and interdependence of our society. It reminds us that we are all responsible for the well-being and development of the next generation, and that it takes the combined efforts of a community to raise and support the children within it. So, it is very important to build a strong and supportive community around children to help them grow and develop into the best version of themselves.