A parent support system can assist parents who are dealing
with stress and feeling overwhelmed. Supportive individuals and groups
promote a strong sense of family, community and social networking. It
is beneficial to use a parent support system when you need advice and
encouragement during stressful times. Being a part of a parent support
system will allow you to get help, share strategies and even make new
friends.
Look to Your Family and Friends
Your
first avenue of support may be from your spouse or family. However,
even this type of support may not always be readily available. You
should consider alternatives for when this comfortable and familiar
system is not able to help you. If you are a single parent, if you do
not have family available or if you have strained family relationships,
you may want to look to a friend, coworker or an outside organization
for support.
It is important to realize that support can be
found in many shapes and sizes; it can take the form of a listening
ear, helping hands or words of wisdom. The right support will help calm
and steady you and help point you in the right direction. A strong
support system should help you to focus on your strengths, rather than
focusing primarily on griping or negativity.
Join Community Groups
Many of your friends and coworkers may also be parents. Identify which ones enjoy discussing their children, and discover if they want develop a support system. The easiest way to find like-minded individuals is to join a community group of interest to you.
As you meet community group members, you will need to develop trust and knowledge about the other individuals. If you plan to entrust your child with any of these members, you will need to know about their values (e.g. safety issues, talking inappropriately in front of children and so forth).
Network with Other WAHMS
WAHM groups are sure to have members who are similar because their actions (i.e. work at home to raise children) do speak louder than words. You can find local WAHM groups by searching on line, or you may become part of an online support group.
Join Forums Online
There are many parent support systems available online. These groups are convenient and are available to you 24/7. They offer many perks like social networking and blogging.
If you prefer support from other parents in your area you can find
local groups by contacting daycare centers, churches, community centers
or your local newspaper.
Parent support systems are not a one
size fits all. You may want to look for a group that describes your
specific situation. For example, if you have a child with disabilities,
you may want to join a parent support system that has members who have
similar experiences.
A parent support system can offer you
guidance on a variety of parenting issues. Your role is to participate,
actively listen and to keep communication open. If you have carefully
developed your new network of friends, (whether online or in person)
you will most likely find others who want to encourage you every step
of the way. This is the purpose of a parent support system; to help you
succeed and develop a healthy family.
Learn from parents who
have already been there and share your experiences with new members.
Remember to have fun. This is an exciting time in your life, and you
will want to enjoy every moment.