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How to build a team parent around you?
These tips will help you!
We know what they say: “it takes a team to raise a child”. But what if you don't have a team to begin with? Not every parent is fortunate enough to have friends and family close by to help out, or acquaintances living around the corner to jump in when needed. Also, not every parent has the (financial) resources for extra support. Fortunately, there are quite a few ways to build your own parenting team!
These tips will help you to increase your own community, so you'll have a wonderful group of people around you that you and your little one(s) can count on.
Look around you and find your team parent
Building a team parent around you is not something you'll arrange overnight. However, chances are high that there is potential in the people who are part of your daily life already. Think of all the people you see and talk to on a weekly basis – even if it's superficial. From your favourite colleagues and people in your gym class, to the hairdresser who you love chatting to.
All these people could possibly become part of your team parent, if you and your kid(s) feel comfortable around them, of course. Try and see if you can make these contact moments bigger, by having a longer conversation or even asking them over for a cup of coffee. Well begun is half done! And who knows, maybe something beautiful grows out of it.
Don't be afraid to speak up
Looking around you and putting yourself out there are great first steps. Now the next step would be to speak up. Whether you open a relevant topic on a forum, or simply post a call on social media. Don't be afraid to share your parenting challenges with others. It's ok to admit that it's hard sometimes and that you'd love to have a support system around you. Whether you're looking for a babysitter or just need someone to share your concerns with from time to time. Don't forget to think about the people you've met during pregnancy! Maybe your midwife can link you to parents that had a little one around the same time. Or what about the people you met at pregnancy yoga?
Remember: there are plenty of parents on the planet that most likely go through the same struggles. Wouldn't it be wonderful if you find each other and you can help each other out? Even if it's just by thinking along with you.
Put yourself out there
Have you ever looked at online communities or groups in the neighbourhood you could join? This can be nerve wrecking, but it is a very effective way to meet new people. Put your best foot forward and show up at that event in town, sign up for that group workshop, choose to go off route when you're on your daily strolls for once and join a parenting group. The fact that you're present directly helps you to make new contacts. You got this!
It's a matter of give and take
Maybe you've made some new contacts. Well done! Since you're looking for your own team parent, it can help to offer your own helping hand too. That way you get to become someone else's “team member”, while building trust and a stronger bond at the same time. We're pretty sure the other person would easily do the same thing for you too!
Don't underestimate yourself! You are the foundation of your own team parent
Last but not least: never underestimate yourself! Of course, it's very nice to lean on the sweet people around you every now and then, because let's be honest – parenthood can be tough. Just don't forget how strong you are! You are a parent after all, and that's impressive enough. Even without the help of others, it's in your nature to rock parenthood. Even at times when you have no idea what you're doing. In the end, you know what's best for your child. Have a little faith in yourself and listen to your heart. A team is at its best with a good captain. And that awesome captain is you!
It takes a team to raise a child
We hope this gave you some inspiration to build a warm, loving and trusting team parent around you. We're 100% sure you can do it! As we believe in the power of teamwork, we joined hands with high fashion streetwear brand Filling Pieces. With this collaboration we celebrate parenthood and the power of community – brought to life with a limited edition Joolz Geo³ stroller. The Joolz Geo³ is our most spacious and sturdy stroller, so you can conquer every season and obstacle without having to worry. For this unique edition, we were inspired by the iconic Varsity jacket, a sports classic and symbol of community.
Shop the Joolz x Filling Pieces Geo³
No parent should ever feel alone. Let us be your little support system too! At Joolz, we’re here to be your team parent. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok and sign up to our newsletter to stay inspired.
