“It takes a village” is a saying that often loses its meaning over time—sometimes becoming a mere punchline. I remember using it jokingly years ago while trying to help a friend out of a bar, or while moving oversized furniture, but now, as a parent, I truly see the wisdom behind those words.
Living far from family can be particularly challenging when you have young children. Like many millennials, my partner and I have lived in various cities—juggling from Ohio to New York before finally settling in sunny Los Angeles. While we have friends and family scattered across the country, most of them are not nearby to lend a hand.
Before becoming parents, the distance didn’t bother me much, but now it feels more pronounced. My husband and I have learned to navigate parenting as a duo, and while we manage well most of the time, it would be revolutionary to have a supportive village to help us raise our child. Our mornings are a well-practiced routine, where we seamlessly pass our little one back and forth as we tackle our daily tasks. Weekends allow us to tag-team parenting, ensuring we both get some much-needed time for ourselves. We’ve even mastered the art of diaper blowouts together!
Yet, there are moments when the absence of nearby family hits hard. A recent instance involved a challenging day when I had to manage our toddler’s tantrum alone, longing for a grandparent or sibling to call upon for support. It’s in these moments that I realize how much I would appreciate having family nearby to share in the joys and challenges of parenthood.
For those in similar situations, it can be helpful to find community groups, such as those found in this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination. Establishing connections with other parents can create a makeshift village, even if it’s not the same as having family close by.
Additionally, check out this insightful blog post for more tips on navigating parenting challenges when you’re away from your village. And if you’re looking for thoughtful presents for new parents, this resource has some great ideas!
In summary, while parenting far from family can be tough, creating a supportive community and learning to lean on friends can help fill that gap. Finding ways to connect with others can make all the difference in navigating this journey.