Parenting is hard, especially in the current situation. Most parents can agree to this. The saying it takes a village comes to mind, and it has become quite literal with the internet and parenting websites. As a parent myself, I can wholeheartedly say that having a parenting network is a great way to access parenting knowledge. I can personally say it has helped me become a better parent. It allows you to communicate with thousands of other parents. 

Parents have the opportunity to ask about school recommendations directly to another parent who has experienced this. Also, you can ask if you should go independent or state or even find trustworthy childminders. 

There are parents in these communities that have already encountered what you may be presently experiencing. These parenting communities serve to spread knowledge, whilst bouncing ideas off each other, or even share the light irreverent side of parenting. 

Parenting websites and the importance of having a parenting network 

The emergence of digital media gives new parents access to information and communication with volume. It can be overwhelming for parents, mostly because of the amount of information out there. Parents choose to join these networks to help simplify this information.

Studies have shown that being a part of a parenting community eases a parent’s mental health. 

Parents can choose which network they belong to without having the frustration of interacting with parents who don’t share the same parenting value. Each of these networks fits around your ideals, traditions, and beliefs. 

How parenting websites and communities can support you

Research has shown that parents who have a parenting network support their children effectively as they are not isolated. They can share and bounce ideas with other parents which helps them avoid levels of toxic stress. 

However, as a parent, you are the only person that knows what type of value you want to teach your children. It would help if you thought about what parenting methods work for you; this is how you know which parenting network belongs. This network will be able to celebrate your parenting success and cheer you on. Additionally, they will be able to provide you with insight and valuable information. 

Identifying the best communities to enhance your parenting network

We asked Think Academy parents which parenting websites they use for advice and support? There was an overwhelming response, and so here are the top ten favourites.

1. Mumsnet

The UK’S best-known parenting site Mumsnet is a favourite among Think Academy’s parents. The popular forum was the leading feature parents found this parenting network to be useful. Parents can bounce ideas off each other and ask almost any parenting question they might have.

2. Parenting Chum 

This community has proven to be exceptionally popular with our parents. The idea of finding various events and classes is a plus to many.

ParentChum also provides an online destination where parents can chat, get support and advice. Besides, parents can make new friends and join a community group of mums and dads.

This community is worth exploring as it features various support systems for parents.

3. Tots 100

This parenting network proved to be quite popular with our working parents, as it offers various blogs and insight on parenthood brands.

It gives parents a chance to network whilst enjoying reading informative articles to support their parenthood journey.

4. NCT

This network is for parents with young children, Think Academy parents have explained how much this network has helped them during the early parenthood phase. The network supports parents by including workshops and classes.

5. Bounty

Parents were quick to recommend this parenting network, as not only does it include free goody bags, but, it also has specialist information from midwives, doctors, parenting experts, and dieticians.

Moreover, Bounty offers articles aimed at families that require financial help and childcare services.

6. Mom Thinks

This parenting network is new and started up as a social media page on Instagram. The main feature of this network is sharing motherhood stories. The purpose serves as an attempt to normalise motherhood and mental health problems.

Also, Mom Thinks offers consulting with professionals, including doulas, therapists, stylists, and consultants.

The goal is to help parents face the struggles that are associated with parenthood.

7. The Motherload

With over 95,000 members in The Motherload Facebook Community Network, it is not a surprise this is popular with the Think Academy parenthood community. Motherload offers a variety of content across their website.

The idea behind is this community is mothers can share their stories, questions, and hacks with no judgemental comments.

8. Mums Meet up 

This network allows you to meet other mothers within your area. Mothers can connect with like-minded people. Additionally, some administrators manage the community so that you can meet in a safe and secure environment.

It also holds a directory for parenting bloggers where you find the best parenting blogs in the UK.

9. Peanut 

This app allows you to connect to mothers or expectant mothers and ask questions along the way.

It has proven to be popular within the Think Academy parenthood community as it creates a connection with like-minded parents for mothers with children of different ages.

10. Kensington mums

Finally, Kensington mums have earned their place in the top ten with articles targeted to parents with children of all ages in London.

This community allows you to keep up to date with all the latest news. Whilst giving you the parenting advice you need.

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About the author

Dania is a mother of two and has been writing for almost five years. She has recently created her motherhood community “Mom Thinks”. Dania is an expert in writing articles about Education, Lifestyle and Parenthood.