After being a mom for a few years, most of us realize the term “it takes a village” is so true but so complicated. Many of us live far from family or have parents who are in need of caretaking themselves.
Even if we have family to help, it can be priceless to have other people in your family’s life that make up this metaphorical village. Not sure what that tribe should look like? Here are 4 qualities to look for—and the people that might be part of that group.
Consistency for Your Family
A nanny who stays with your family for years is an obvious parenting partner, but even a babysitter who comes every week, an art class with the same teacher that you enroll in repeatedly, a tutor who is a regular homework buddy—these are all people who have a relationship with your child and who can really know them as they grow.
Teaching Your Child In Ways Big & Small
Sports coaches, activity instructors, music teachers, and more are all great examples of people who teach your child things you can’t. Consistent adults in your child’s life that truly reflect your values and help your child develop as a person are invaluable.
Making Your Life Easier
Childcare is the obvious big one here. Daycare, nanny, babysitter, preschool—there are a lot of options and only you will know the right one for you. Later on, choosing the right school if you have different options (public, private or even homeschool) will be a crucial part of building that tribe.
Providing a 3rd Place
Psychologists say kids need a third place to belong: a sport, after school activity or center, skate park, etc. The people who facilitate that third place can be key. Coaches in particular can be role models and teach so much more than their sport.
The key is that this is a person you truly trust as an extension of your family and your values. These people might include:
People To Complete Your Family’s Village:
- Teachers & School Staff
- Sports Coaches
- Activity Instructors
- Nannies & Babysitters
- Mom Friends
- Religious Leaders
- After-School Care Providers
Related Stories on the Local Moms Network:
Daycare or Nanny: How to Choose for Your Family
