Good friends are hard to find. Are you looking for great mommy or daddy friends? That can be like mining for gold! You join mommy group after mommy group and may find, every once in a while, a few shining spots. With the popularity of social media, it is becoming harder and harder to find real, live support or cultivate lasting friendships in the real world. While any internet search will turn up page upon page of parenting support groups, it is important to find at least some support within your own community.
One of the first places to find support might be within your own family. While I know some might not have this option, you may find a wealth of information and support from not only your own parents, but also extended family as well. My mom and I have always had a pretty solid relationship, but it was not until the birth of my first child that I realized how much her support truly meant to me and my family. She has been there for general support, to answer questions, to help with the kids, etc. I also had the added blessing of being able to reach out to my older sisters when I needed advice on various parenting situations or just wanted to vent.
Another great place to find parenting support is from friends or those around you who have been like parental figures in your life. This could be anyone from your godparents to your best friend from high school. Especially for those around you who have had children, it is undeniable how much that extra support can mean to a parent and their children. You may be surprised at the amount of people–family or not–who rally around you once you become a parent. Parenting can be hard at times, and good, loyal, trustworthy friends are one of the greatest commodities to help you get through.
If you are unable, often due to distance or circumstances, count on your friends and family for support. Take the time to look for local parenting groups that meet in your area. I am a part of a Mothers of Preschoolers group that meets twice a month. While these types of groups can sometimes be intimidating, it has been a great place to find friends, gain wisdom from moms who are or have been in my position, and have a place to laugh or cry about parenting woes. You may also find groups that aren’t parent related but simply have parents in them as a great support such as exercise classes, your place of employment, or local church.
For more information on adoption or support groups, visit Adoption.com. You can also join adoption message boards and other forums if you visit adoption.com/forums.
Lita Jordan is a master of all things “home.” A work-from-home, stay-at-home, homeschooling mother of five, she has a BA in Youth Ministry from Spring Arbor University. She is married to the “other Michael Jordan” and lives on coffee and its unrealistic promises of productivity. Lita enjoys playing guitar and long trips to Target. Follow her on Facebook.