New Poll Shows Most Parents Are Turning to Social Media for Advice

Parenting books are no longer needed when you have social media to give you all the information you require. Recent research has shown that more and more parents turn to online sources for topics such as feeding, potty training, and sleeping schedules. Read on to find out how to search for the correct information.

Why Parents Use Social Media

According to the C.S. Mott Children's Hospital National Poll, 80% of parents with small children, mainly mothers, seek advice on social media. The most commonly searched topics include potty training, sleeping issues, nutrition, and discipline. On social media, parents can find easily accessible information from private groups and learn from other parents. Their experiences can make parenting less intimidating. It can also be particularly beneficial for mothers who are afraid to be judged by others for not doing certain things right.

Parenting Has Changed

Over time, parenting styles have changed a lot. More and more parents use the "gentler" method, trying to be conscious of their children's feelings. Social media also has a role in changing the "rules" and ways of raising a child. Also, older parents didn't have to deal with all the technology we have today. That's why parents sometimes need "modern" advice.

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Just like children, every parent and their methods are different. This means you can always use and try out an idea from someone with more experience. Of course, you shouldn't forget that not every method will work for your kids, and that's totally fine. Social media has opened the door to connecting and feeling at home with like-minded parents you can't find offline.

How to Safely Find Parenting Advice

Remember that social media may not always be the safest place for finding information. Many parents out there have decided to use privacy settings and keep photos of their children offline. These healthy boundaries are crucial in ensuring the well-being of your children and your own mental health.

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If you want to teach your kids to be careful with what they post on social media, you must follow your own advice. Avoid posting your children's photos on different platforms, as this can cause stress, embarrassment, and even anxiety in the future. As they can't give consent, it's better to wait for them to grow and make their own decisions.

Being Picky With Information

If you're posting pictures of your little ones, make sure your profile is open for friends and family only. Needless to say, it's not advisable to use your kids as a profile photo. After all, you don't want strangers to get any information about them. Even if social media has helped you in the past, don't believe in all the information you read. When finding a source, make sure that the person has a reliable background or "MD," "PhD," "PsyD," or "LCSW" credentials. Overall, social media can be a useful tool when it comes to being a better parent.