It Takes A Village

Together We Shine

Parenting

One thing you will come to realize when you become a parent is that it takes a village to raise children. In your village you will find support, guidance, and solace.  Building the right village should be a key concern for every parent.  Your village can consist of family, friends, teachers, church members, mentors, co-workers, or just about anyone that fits into your sphere of influence.

Every parent has to have people in your lives whom you know and trust. People to help you both in emergency situations and with the day-to-day challenges of raising kids.

Reflect on your own experience as a child.  I am sure there were many people that were instrumental in your life beside just mom and dad.

 Things You Want To Consider When Building Your Village

What morals and principals am I looking to instill in my children?

What are my weaknesses, and how can I allow others to strengthen me in this area?

What gifts or skills do I offer to the village?

Are my village members honest, fair, and equitable?

Who puts my child’s well-being first?

Benefits of The Village

Establishing a healthy village for your children can be one the best decisions you will ever make.

• A village is a listening ear for children. An objective viewpoint.
• The village can engage and challenge your child. Sometimes the children are more apt to listen to an outside influence.
• A village can be a child’s safe harbor.

• Above all else your village prays for your child.

The Village Is Important

Have you seen the quote “I homeschool, because I have seen the village and I don’t want it to raise my child”? The only part of the quote I agree with is the fact that it implies that I (as a parent) am taking responsibility for what influences my child.  Your village is what you make it. If at any time you find that someone or something is not right for your family, it is your responsibility to remove the influence. Children absorb their community and reflect the values to which they are exposed.

I hope you find the above information helpful as you venture into parts unknown.  Also, check out my Pinterest board “Parent Zone” for more helpful parenting advice.