Welcome to the Village

I am a great believer in the phrase “it takes a village to raise a child”. It is a phrase I have been familiar with for a long time but wasn’t sure where it originated from. After a bit of research I found that it originates from an African proverb meaning that it takes many people, “the village”, to contribute towards the child's upbringing. Coming together to provide and safe, healthy environment where a child can flourish, develop, and their voice be taken seriously in that secure loving environment. Doesn’t that sound amazing?! These “villagers” can include a huge range of people; relatives, neighbours, teachers, community members, professionals that may provide direct care for the child or support for the parent.

This fantastic sounding support network is much harder to come by these days. What with both parents working long hours, families being more spread out, people choosing to have children at different times in their lives and generally speaking not having that same sense of community anymore. The care and support for the child is still there, but not so much for the parents. Unless you have really close relationships with your own family, or have friends and neighbours that have children at a similar time to you, as a parent you have to actively ‘find’ your village. Whether that’s attending baby groups and classes, striking up a conversation with other parents at the local park, or going online.

I don’t think I would be the parent I am now if it wasn’t for the support and network I have around me. I have found myself seeking information online as well about various parenting related subjects - cloth nappies, baby wearing, breastfeeding, weaning - the list goes on! You tend to go there to ask a question (or search to see if someone has asked it before), get your answer then leave. It’s a bit of faceless advice, and sometimes I guess that’s what we need. But what about when you want a group to share your experiences with, to feel heard if you just want a rant and some comfort, to not feel judged by the information you’re seeking. It’s rare to find a group, blog, or website that really feels like a community or “village”. When you do it feels like you’ve hit a goldmine! It’s my aim with this website to create a “virtual village” that is a safe space for sharing information, asking any questions (literally anything parenting related!) and seeking support. 

So whilst I work behind the scenes figuring out how to make a virtual village, I have shared some of the things I wish I had all in one place when I was seeking answers. I’ve covered pregnancy must haves, hospital bag items, home birth items, and more.

Welcome.

Clare x