Do You Need Parenting Guidance and Advice?
/Do you feel like you are navigating an endless maze when you’re seeking parenting advice? How do you separate fact from fiction when you go online?
After all, the Internet features an overwhelming amount of information for parents. Therefore, you may find it difficult to know just where you should start.
Therefore, it’s important to keep several things in mind.
First, look for websites that are affiliated with reputable organizations or institutions. These sites are more likely to offer accurate and up-to-date information.
Next, check the credentials of the authors of any articles or blog posts you're planning to read. Are they qualified to offer advice on the topic? Do they write in a way that is insightful, meaningful, and helpful to you?
Finally, take a look at the overall tone of the site. Is it positive and supportive, or judgmental and critical?
After all, it’s easier to respond to parenting guidance that is both compassionate and wise.
Credit: Unsplash.
Look for a Community Devoted to Parents
It’s especially helpful to find an online community that understands the needs of today’s working parent - a community that offers a place where parents can learn and hone their parenting skills.
When you read parenting information, consider the tone of the advice. Again, is it respectful and encouraging? Is the advice based on research? Trust your feelings about what you’re reading. If you’re not comfortable with the information, you need to take a detour and find another site.
The Benefits of Online Parenting Resources
There are a number of benefits to be gained from seeking online parenting resources.
First and foremost, it’s a great way to gain access to some perspectives that you might not otherwise have considered.
It can also be a convenient way to connect with other parents who may be struggling with similar issues.
Finally, many online parenting resources offer a sense of community and support - both which are invaluable when you’re coping with certain issues.
Types of Online Parenting Resources
There are many types of online parenting resources available to parents today. Some of the most popular types of media include forums, blogs, websites, and social media groups.
Pros and Cons of Using Online Parenting Resources
While some of these resources can be very helpful, it is important to remember that not all resources are created equal. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re communicating this way.
Pros:
-Resources are a great way to get quick advice or find out about new parenting methods.
-Resources offer a convenient way to access information (especially for busy parents),
-Community resources help you connect with other parents who may be going through similar experiences.
Cons:
-Not all online sources are reputable or accurate - therefore, carefully check the source and scan the reviews before you interact on a site.
Parenting Authors We Trust
There are so many different parenting resources out there and it can all be very overwhelming. Here are a few we’ve used and recommend:
Lansbury's work emphasizes the importance of treating children with respect, understanding their developmental needs, and fostering secure attachment relationships. She advocates for practices such as setting limits with empathy, acknowledging children's feelings, and allowing them to explore and learn through independent play.
Sarah Ockwell-Smith is a well-known parenting expert, author, and speaker, specializing in gentle parenting, attachment theory, and child development. She is the author of several books, including "The Gentle Sleep Book," "The Gentle Parenting Book," and "The Gentle Discipline Book." Ockwell-Smith's approach to parenting emphasizes building strong parent-child relationships based on empathy, understanding, and respect.
If you’re looking for online courses:
The Big Little Feelings course is an online parenting course created by licensed clinical social workers and child behavioral therapists, Deena Margolin and Kristin Gallant. It focuses on helping parents navigate challenging behaviors and emotions in young children, particularly toddlers and preschoolers.
Courses by Martha Deiros Collado
Dr Martha is a clinical psychologist and HCPC registered practitioner with over 20 years of clinical and academic experience. Her courses are The Pre-School Years and The School Years. Both are brilliant resources.
You have it in your power to improve your parenting skills. Begin your online journey today.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.
