Today’s parents are creating new kinds of support networks, or “villages,” to help raise their kids. Research shows that more parents are leaning on friends and chosen family rather than just traditional relatives for support.
A recent survey of 2,000 parents found that 29% rely on family friends and 28% count on regular friends. On average, these modern villages include four relatives and three close friends. Surprisingly, 35% of parents believe their village has stayed the same over time, showcasing a blend of old and new support systems.
Interestingly, while many parents report having smaller villages than their parents did, nearly half feel more supported. This diverse support lets parents take time for themselves, stay engaged with their families, tackle chores, and spend extra time with their kids.
Parents reported feeling overwhelmed for about three days a week. Many of them stress about putting meals on the table, averaging four occasions each week where meal prep feels daunting.
Research conducted by Talker Research for Mrs. T’s Pierogies indicated that parents often lean on their villages during everyday moments rather than major life events. They seek help most when they need a break or struggle with family schedules. Food often comes at the forefront of support, with many parents recalling times friends provided meals or comforted them during busy times.
Sharing meals is crucial. About 86% of parents believe that dining together is important for their kids. Quick meal solutions can help reduce the stress of mealtime, giving families more time to connect without the pressure of cooking elaborate meals.
Kids also have their take on the village concept. A survey showed that 61% of older children hear their parents refer to friends as family. This reflects a shift in how young people view family today, emphasizing bonds beyond bloodlines.
These kids value the lessons they learn from their extended family. Life lessons range from simple advice like avoiding hot stoves to deeper messages about kindness and mental health. Fun activities like playing games, cooking, and even traveling together stand out as favorite ways to connect with members of their village.
Almost half of the kids wish they could spend more time with their parents, doing everyday things like playing games or going to the park. This highlights how important it is for families to carve out quality time together amidst their busy lives.
In our rapidly changing world, a supportive village can be vital for parents navigating the challenges of family life. Small acts of kindness, like sharing a meal or helping out in tough times, can create stronger bonds and provide invaluable support to those juggling the demands of parenthood. Building these non-traditional support networks can enrich family life as we know it.
For more on the importance of family and community support in parenting, check out the full survey by Talker Research for Mrs. T’s Pierogies here.
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