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.
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.
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.
11 Simple Ways Families Can Show Kindness to Others
There’s never a right or wrong time to be kind to people. Apart from making others’ lives better, it also boosts your mood and makes you feel important. There’s no need for huge surprises or complicated acts of kindness. Here are 11 things you can do at any time of the day, without putting in too much effort or investing money.
A Thank You Act
Show your local firefighters that you appreciate their work by preparing handmade cards or a basket full of goodies. Rest assured, they will be touched by your little gesture. It doesn’t require a lot, but it means a lot to them.
Drive-Through Kindness
Are you stuck at the drive-through? Why not pay for the person behind you before they reach the window? Simply explain this to the worker, and they will tell you the amount. It doesn’t cost a lot, and it will make their day.
Grocery Help
If you happen to find coupons for different products at the grocery store, give them away to parents or elderly people in need. You never know if somebody’s struggling, and this might mean more to them than you can imagine.
Rolls of Quarters
Hand out rolls of quarters at the laundromat. It’s such a simple thing to do, but a lot of people don’t actually have change on them. They will appreciate it, for sure.
Thank-You Notes
Write thank-you notes to people who mean something to you. Whether it’s your grandma or your favorite barista who always gets your order right, this little act of kindness holds a lot of meaning.
Body Positivity
Write little inspiring notes and put them inside dressing rooms. This can boost people’s confidence and make them feel comfortable in their bodies while trying on clothes.
Flowers for No Reason
Buy someone a bouquet of flowers. It is proven that flowers can make everyone happy, even without a special occasion.
Pay the Bill
If you have the chance, pay for someone’s bill at the restaurant. This act of kindness will let them know that they are important to someone.
Parking Meters
Feed the parking meters for someone. It’s such a simple yet touching gesture.
Be Kind to Moms Too
You can make a diaper-change care package and leave it in a public bathroom. A mom who is unprepared or short on money could definitely use some help.
Donate Food
Buy canned goods and donate them to your local food bank. You can help the homeless or people in need, and it won’t take you a lot of time.
Remember to always show kindness without expecting anything in return!