The Power of Building a Supportive Community in Parenthood

By Desiree Schnoor

Having the support of others when becoming a parent for the first time, or when anticipating the changing needs of your growing family, can make all the difference. Feeling connected to a community brings about feelings of belonging, support, and purpose, and reduces feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. In the busy days of parenthood, being connected to a community can have benefits for you and your family – at a time that is really meaningful. Building a strong community can bring more joy to your parenting journey – and can help you feel more connected to yourself and others as your family grows. 

Honoring your experience: Building a community that is right for you

Honor time for yourself 

Before we dive into the specifics of building your community, I want to encourage you to take time to rebuild yourself. Your parenting journey is as unique as you are, and much of it may feel unknown to you at first. Becoming a parent may feel like a huge identity shift, so give yourself time to learn who you are now and what you need now. Finding yourself in your postpartum journey will take time and intention. One of the best things you can do is make time for self-care and for your individual interests. Having a new baby is A LOT. Days and weeks of lack of sleep, endless feedings, and nonstop caring for a newborn can leave you feeling like there is no space and maybe even no desire to care for yourself. Be gentle and curious with yourself and your newfound feelings and lifestyle. Tuning into yourself in this way may help you show up in a more meaningful way with your community. 

Honor changing dynamics with your partner, friends, and family

There may be changes in the priority you place on your existing relationships. You may feel drawn to build closer relationships with other friends or siblings who have kids than you did before. You may want to spend a lot of time with family, or not very much at all. Keep open communication with your partner about your feelings and needs. Do you want to spend more time with them, or do you feel a need for time by yourself? 

Honor your preferences

When finding the community that is right for you, be sure to honor your personality and preferred connection styles. Think about your existing personal and family values and the parenting styles you want to build. Look for others who are living similarly. Finding support in other families in your city or town can help you feel settled in your new parenting role with others who are like you. 

Normalizing your experience: Embracing community to improve your well-being in parenthood

In the early postpartum season, it’s easy to feel alone—even when surrounded by others. Connecting with others who are also navigating new parenthood reminds you that you’re not the only one figuring it out. Sharing stories, struggles, and small victories can validate your emotions and reduce feelings of overwhelm or inadequacy.

Building community can mean finding someone to share your feelings with. Finding a parents’ group that meets locally or online can be a powerful place to share and be heard and validated.

Building community can mean finding someone to share activities with. If a part of your day is taking a walk to your local park, finding another parent to talk with can bring structure to your new routine and encouragement through the changes you may both be experiencing. 

Building community can mean finding someone to share resources with. There is so much to discover about becoming a parent that it can be overwhelming. Sharing resources with others can include swapping baby gear, clothes, and recipes, or sharing articles, books or provider information. Connecting with others in this way can reduce overwhelm and anxiety and foster meaningful connections. 

A strong community isn’t just about socializing—it can be a lifeline. During this transition, the right people make a difference. Real, trusted connections mean you don’t have to carry the mental and physical load of parenthood alone. These are simple yet powerful community building blocks – take your time to find your way.

Enriching your experience: Making the most of your community connections

When it comes to growing with others and building deep connections, here are some considerations.  

There is more than one way to build community. Do what works for you and your family. Remember, this may change over time. Factors like where you live and work, your child’s ages, or school or sports schedules will impact what community means to you. Be open to change and the possibilities it has for you. Check in with yourself and take time to reevaluate how your needs and desires shift.

Consider virtual and online options. Local, in person connections are valuable, and virtual community building is too. Finding a group that meets online reduces the limitations of geography and may open you up to connections with families you would have never been able to meet in person. 

Consider interest groups that align to your values while being open to other viewpoints. There is so much to learn about parenthood, and often there are many ways to parent, not just a “right” or “wrong” way. Being willing to hear a different perspective can help you gather more information as you learn to trust your parenting journey. 

Consider building connections unrelated to parenting. Parenthood is an important part of your identity – but it is not all you are. There are benefits to building community connections that have nothing to do with parenting, but instead focus on something else you enjoy. Being in community reminds you that you’re still you—not just a caregiver. It offers space to laugh, create, vent, and reconnect with your values and voice. When you’re seen and supported as a whole person, not just as a parent, you’re more likely to show up with joy and confidence for your child, your partner, and yourself.

Parenthood is a profound transformation, and no one should have to navigate it in isolation. By honoring your own needs, nurturing relationships that matter, and embracing connections, you create a network that uplifts and sustains you. Give yourself grace and time to learn about who you are and what you need. Check in with yourself and reach out to others. In building these bonds, you’re not just finding support—you’re also rediscovering yourself and shaping a richer, more joyful parenting journey. 

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Explore More PSI Resources:

Postpartum Planning Class
Free, Online Peer Support Groups 
Find Your Postpartum Community with The Climb