Parenting Insights
By Laura Thompson
Updated: Aug. 5, 2016
Originally Published: April 5, 2016
“It takes a village to raise a child,” is a saying we’ve all heard. In a traditional village, mothers, aunts, and friends gather to support each other, sharing the intimate details of sleepless nights, breastfeeding challenges, and postpartum recovery. These women offer advice rooted in personal connection, warmth, and understanding.
However, in today’s digital age, our connections have shifted. With the internet at our fingertips, seeking advice from actual friends often feels outdated. Why consult someone in person when Google can answer your questions? Are you concerned about your milk supply or puzzled by a rash? Just search online! Unfortunately, the information you find can be overwhelming and alarming rather than helpful.
In light of this, many new mothers turn to Facebook moms’ groups for the support that a traditional village used to provide. In the absence of a nearby community, these online groups offer a wealth of information and camaraderie. You can type your concerns from the comfort of your home without needing to call Aunt Ellen.
Initially, these groups can be incredibly comforting. Posting your worries often elicits reassuring responses from fellow mothers who share their own experiences, comforting you with messages such as, “That’s completely normal! You’re doing wonderfully!”
“Oh, that’s probably just eczema. Many babies have it; try some coconut oil after bathing.”
“If your baby is producing six wet diapers daily, she’s getting enough milk. You’re handling this like a champ!”
“Looks like cradle cap. If you’re nursing, applying breast milk to the scalp a few times a day can help.”
However, it doesn’t take long before you realize that breast milk and coconut oil seem to be solutions for everything! Eye infections? Breast milk. Unidentified rashes? Coconut oil. Flat tires? You guessed it—breast milk. As you gain confidence as a mother, you may still find yourself regularly consulting your Facebook group for advice and companionship, and even offering support to others, which can be gratifying.
Challenges in Facebook Moms’ Groups
Yet, there’s often a less pleasant side to these groups. In larger communities, you will inevitably encounter members who can be difficult to deal with:
- The Know-It-All Mom
This mom believes her methods are the only correct approach. She insists that anyone who disagrees is misguided. Often, she has her own set of parenting rules based on her personal experiences that she believes everyone should follow. - The Homeopathic Advocate
This mother claims to have more knowledge than medical professionals and often promotes natural remedies at the expense of conventional medicine. Her go-to solutions usually involve breast milk or obscure herbal products she happens to sell. - The Offended Parent
This individual takes offense at almost everything and is quick to remind others to include trigger warnings for sensitive topics. While trigger alerts can be useful, excessive use diminishes their significance. - The Not-In-My-Village Mom
This mother expresses outrage when she discovers a male member in the group, regardless of his situation as a stay-at-home dad or single parent. Her concern often stems from past questions she posted, fearing that her private matters may be exposed.
Fortunately, there are effective ways to navigate these challenges. Utilize Facebook’s “Block” feature to silence those who disrupt your experience. If the conversations in your group become more frustrating than helpful, it may be time to leave without a farewell post. Remember, you’ve gained what you could from that particular community.
This is not to discourage you from joining Facebook parenting groups. In fact, they can be incredibly empowering and a source of relief from unnecessary stress. However, if you choose to forgo them, just remember:
Rub breast milk on it. Or coconut oil. And when in doubt, consult your pediatrician’s advice nurse. For more insights on home insemination, check out this informative post on intracervicalinsemination.com. Additionally, if you’re looking for reliable tools for conception, Make a Mom offers an excellent selection. For further understanding of fertility options, Genetics and IVF Institute serves as a great resource.
Summary
While Facebook moms’ groups can be a source of support and advice, they also come with their share of challenges, including negative interactions with certain members. It’s essential to utilize the available tools, such as the block feature, and to leave groups that aren’t serving your needs. Remember, effective solutions often include simple remedies or consulting professionals.