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MistyMagic profile picture
Come and Check-in For All!
by MistyMagic
Last post
 October 10th
...See more I am posting this on a Frijayyyyyy! The start of the weekend when many people are thinking of relaxing and having a lie-in but for many of us the weekend routine is not really that different from the weekdays. So I have found some tips and tricks for you all Pregnancy Tips1. Rest and Relaxation * Nap Time: Take short naps to boost your energy levels. * Prenatal Yoga: Try prenatal yoga or gentle stretching exercises to relax your body and mind. 2. Healthy Eating * Meal Prep: Prepare healthy meals and snacks ahead of time to ensure you’re getting the nutrients you need. * Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. 3. Pampering Yourself * Massage: Consider a prenatal massage to relieve aches and pains. * Bath Time: Enjoy a warm (not hot) bath to soothe sore muscles. 4. Bonding with Your Baby * Talk to Your Baby: Spend a few minutes talking or singing to your baby bump. * Reading: Start reading baby books to get into the parenting mindset. * Play music: (not too loud and no concerts yet lol!) 5. Education and Preparation * Prenatal Classes: Sign up for online prenatal classes to learn about childbirth and baby care. * Nursery Setup: Use the weekend to organize the nursery and ensure everything is ready for the baby’s arrival. Parenting Tips1. Quality Time * Family Activities: Plan activities that everyone can enjoy, like a trip to the park, a picnic, or a family game night. * Reading Time: Spend time reading with your baby or children to promote literacy and bonding. 2. Routine and Structure * Consistent Schedule: Try to keep a consistent schedule for meals, naps, and bedtime to provide a sense of security. * Chore Time: Involve kids in age-appropriate chores to teach responsibility. 3. Outdoor Fun * Nature Walks: Go for a nature walk or hike to explore the outdoors and get some fresh air. * Sports and Games: Play sports or engage in physical activities to burn off energy. * Garden play: Show them gardening and grow from seeds. 4. Creative Activities * Craft Projects: Set up a craft station with supplies for drawing, painting, or building. * Baking Together: Bake some simple treats like cookies or cupcakes with your kids. * Pizza Making!: Never too young to start on healthy pizza making, get them to arrange their own toppings from healthy vegetables. 5. Parent Self-Care * Relaxation: Make sure to set aside some time for yourself, whether it’s reading a book, taking a bath, or enjoying a hobby. * Date Night: If possible, arrange a date night with your partner to reconnect and recharge. General Tips for Both1. Plan Ahead * Make a To-Do List: Write down the activities you want to accomplish over the weekend to stay organized. * Flexible Planning: Be flexible with your plans and open to spontaneous activities. 2. Social Connections * Playdates: Arrange playdates with other families to provide social interaction for both kids and parents. * Support Groups: Join a parenting or pregnancy support group to share experiences and advice. 3. Mindfulness and Mental Health * Meditation: Practice mindfulness or meditation to reduce stress and stay present. * Journaling: Keep a journal to document your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. By incorporating these tips, you can have a balanced and enjoyable weekend whether you’re expecting a baby or already parenting. So now it's your turn. Please introduce yourself so we can all get to know each other. Pick out a few tips that you do already or that you may start to use. How are you feeling this week?
tommy profile picture
Parenting & Pregnancy Automated Taglist!
by tommy
Last post
 July 5th
...See more Welcome to the Parenting & Pregnancy Taglist This thread is an auto-updating list. The list is regularly updated by forum leaders and can be found below. Having issues? Reply to this thread and someone will help you! Why should I join the taglist? ✔ Never miss out on sub-community check-ins, discussions or events ✔ Get tagged and notified by community leaders whenever a new relevant thread has been posted ✔ Become a more active member of the community. What do I need to do? ✅ To add yourself to this taglist, press the Post to Thread button below and write the exact words Please add me. ❌ To remove yourself from this taglist, press the Post to Thread button below and write the exact words Please remove me. ------------------------- Current taglist as of 12th July 2024 (updated by @Misty) @KindCatEars @Iyyana @MistyMagic @tommy @Truth22
SoulfullyAButterfly profile picture
Parenting Hacks
by SoulfullyAButterfly
Last post
 June 11th
...See more What are your favorite parenting tips/hacks?
tealPapaya5453 profile picture
pregnant
by tealPapaya5453
Last post
 4 hours ago
...See more hi, im pregnant, i dont know what to do. does anyone have any advice?
EmilyDeyes profile picture
Feeling like a failure
by EmilyDeyes
Last post
 2 days ago
...See more I need help, I'm currently 32 weeks pregnant and have a 15 month also. I'm feeling like a failure, my boy won't sleep much, he keeps waking up between 4-6am every morning for the past 2 weeks. I can't do it anymore I'm going crazy, and so is my husband. This boy has become insufferable, crying and whining whenever he's up, he doesn't really stop. He won't play,he won't eat aside from snacks, he's also teething, and growing. I've tried everything I can think of at this point, music,reading,bath, silence and dark, Tylenol for pain, and even back scratches and back rubs, Nothing seems to be working. It's driving us crazy. We can't even take him to visit anywhere because everyone is sick. And please don't just tell me I signed up for this, it's my fault I know it is.
xxrrbe profile picture
Did I made the right decision?
by xxrrbe
Last post
 2 days ago
...See more I am currently 6 months pregnant and was almost 4 weeks pregnant when i found out and immediately spoke to the father of my child. We decides to do co parenting, I do not agree with this however I was so lost and afraid that i can’t do it alone so I had agreed. however, since this conversation, I never really saw or felt his interest with me nor the child. he was totally absent, he never checked on us, never there emotionally, physically, nor financially. worst, found out he was seeing/speaking to someone else already when i was almost 2 months pregnant. it was the situation until 2 weeks ago i decided to move back to the philippines (i was living overseas alone) as the situation was really stressful and i am alone without support. when he found out, he reached out asking for my home address and wants his parents to see me and the child once i gave birth, he still insists on co parenting. however, during this time, i no longer want to co parent with him and i am decided to raise the child alone after all what he has done. so i i frankly told him my decision and he never reached out after. do you think i made the right decision?
MomInMotion10 profile picture
Holiday chaos
by MomInMotion10
Last post
 2 days ago
...See more Anyone else’s kids acting abnormally bad these weeks leading up to the holidays? I know the hustle & bustle takes a toll on littles just like it does on adults, but I’m really struggling with losing my temper more than I’m proud to admit. Any tips on how to keep your cool during this festive season appreciated!
skyraven02 profile picture
someday
by skyraven02
Last post
 Tuesday
...See more Someday I will get a break I'm tired of yelling and fighting with kids all day everyday.
Joshsbabygirl profile picture
Parenting boundaries and discipline
by Joshsbabygirl
Last post
 Sunday
...See more I need help with disciplining my step daughter and bounties and rules and behaviors and action and I would like me and my boyfriend to set up a punishment and stuff taken from her that will help as well.
sensitiveLemon663 profile picture
Burnout😭
by sensitiveLemon663
Last post
 December 13th
...See more So I’m new to here and my reason for joining is I am nearly to the point of wanting to give my children up so I googled what to do and I found a webMD article on parental burnout. So I read the 12 steps of parental burnout and each one I read sounded exactly like what I was feeling and thinking and going through and I don’t know what I can do to change things😭😭 I’m exhausted and sad and angry! I love my kids and I hate myself for being this way but I don’t choose it😭 they drive me crazy I have the shortest temper, I feel like I’m drowning in responsibility, I literally have not a single friend, been in an on off toxic relationship for 5 years, have a 4 year old and a 6 year old that are starting school! They are bad… they are disrespectful and unruly and my gramma is ill and I take care of her my kids dads are deadbeats and I don’t know what to do! I’m losing my mind and it’s so complicated to even actually explain the depth of thought that runs through my mind at a million miles an hour constantly anytime I hear even an ounce of silence but I get way overstimulated and angry when there is even a shred of too much noise….. has anyone experienced this?? I cannot get time away from my children I have no help I haven’t even been able to see a dr because I don’t have time and cannot talk to a therapist online because I have no money…. At what point do I give up or break thru sorry for the long rant I’m just ready to rip my hair out and shove my head through a wall
dreamBreeze5078 profile picture
Hello
by dreamBreeze5078
Last post
 December 9th
...See more Hello .. I want a listener who has enough experience in dealing with children and raising them.
HopelessChick profile picture
I need help.. postpartum depression
by HopelessChick
Last post
 November 23rd
...See more i have a 3 month old baby boy and he keeps crying and i dont know what to do. I feel like a failure. It bothers me so much that i cant figure out what he wants right away. I feel like im not good enough for him. Its not helpful that im back to work already and him crying all night.. i know the doctors told me to get help and all but i have no time for anything. All i wanna do is sleep but i cant even do that. I keep having evil thoughts and i try my best to use all my coping skills but i hate having thoss thoughts about my baby. I dreamt of being a mother and now i feel like i wanna explode and hurt everyone around me. its not helpful my hubbys family think my breast milk is poisoning him and my family is too busy caring about what kind of mom im being. Its not helpful that i see my friends living their life while i feel like a deflated ballon. i feel so ugly and i remember i used to be that girl that guy chase after and get confessions everyday. Now i barely get to take care myself and just dont know muself anymore.
calmMango9611 profile picture
Mental Health Awareness Month-May 2024 (Questions Every Parent Should Ask)
by calmMango9611
Last post
 November 20th
...See more Hello Community: May is Mental Health Awareness Month, as you may already know. This is a repost from the Newbie Hub. I was asked by @Heather225, to repost this here. So I will. Fast Facts About... Your Child's Mental Health: 12 Questions Every Parent Should Ask Does my child.... Often seem sad, tired, restless, or out of sorts? Spend a lot of time alone? Have low self-esteem? Have trouble getting along with family, friends, and peers? Have frequent outbursts of shouting, complaining, or crying? Have trouble performing or behaving in school? Show sudden changes in eating patterns? Sleep too much or not enough? Have trouble paying attention or concentrating on tasks like homework? Seem to have lost interest in hobbies like music or sports? Show signs of using drugs and/or alcohol? Talk about death or suicide? If you answered yes to four or more of these questions, and these behaviors last longer than 2 weeks, you should seek professional help for your child. U.S Department of Health And Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Services Administration Center for Mental Health Services
amicableBlackberry7974 profile picture
Early Pregnancy
by amicableBlackberry7974
Last post
 November 7th
...See more Hello, I'm six weeks pregnant, and I've just had my blood test. It showed an indication of thalassemia, which could potentially harm the baby. This trait can come from either me or my partner. We will have another blood test on Monday to confirm. I'm worried 😟
MistyMagic profile picture
Parenting Teenagers.
by MistyMagic
Last post
 November 4th
...See more Coping with teenagers can be challenging, but with the right approaches, it’s possible to maintain a strong relationship, support their growth, and handle conflict in constructive ways. Here are some tips and ideas to help you navigate this journey effectively. 1. Focus on Communication, Not Control * Listen Actively: Teenagers are often navigating intense emotions and experiences. Rather than jumping in with solutions or judgments, listen attentively to understand what’s really bothering them. This shows that you respect their feelings and can help de-escalate tension. * Use Open-Ended Questions: Avoid questions that can be answered with a simple "yes" or "no." Try something like, “How did you feel about what happened at school today?” This can encourage them to open up. * Empathy Over Solutions: When teenagers vent or share frustrations, sometimes they just want to feel heard. Try empathizing by saying something like, “I can see how that would make you feel upset,” rather than immediately offering solutions. 2. Establish Boundaries with Flexibility * Set Clear Expectations: Teens may push boundaries, but they also need them. Explain rules clearly and ensure they understand the consequences if they’re broken. Be consistent with enforcing these rules, which helps build a sense of security. * Allow for Negotiation on Some Rules: If you’re open to compromising on smaller issues, it can help teens feel they have some control over their lives, which is essential for their development. For example, if they’re unhappy with a curfew, allow them to discuss it respectfully and maybe compromise. * Involve Them in Rule-Making: When appropriate, let them help create some of the rules or consequences. This can encourage them to take responsibility for their actions and understand why the rules are in place. 3. Be Their Role Model * Demonstrate Healthy Behavior: Teens absorb more from what they see than what they’re told. Model respect, patience, and healthy communication in your own behavior. * Own Up to Mistakes: If you react too harshly in a moment of frustration, apologize. This not only shows maturity but also teaches them the value of accountability. * Self-Care is Key: Coping with teens can be draining. Taking care of your mental and physical health sets a good example for them while helping you stay balanced. 4. Encourage Independence and Responsibility * Assign Age-Appropriate Responsibilities: Give them tasks that they can handle, whether it’s managing their own schedules or contributing to household chores. This teaches them about responsibility and helps build self-confidence. * Encourage Decision-Making Skills: When they’re faced with choices, help them evaluate pros and cons rather than making decisions for them. This approach fosters critical thinking and accountability. * Celebrate Small Wins: When your teen demonstrates responsibility or follows through on something challenging, celebrate it! Positive reinforcement is often more effective than punishment. 5. Stay Calm During Conflict * Take a Pause if Needed: When arguments get heated, take a break before responding. You can say, “I need a moment to collect my thoughts. Let’s talk about this in a few minutes.” This helps prevent saying things in anger. * Use “I” Statements: Instead of saying, “You’re so irresponsible,” try “I feel worried when you don’t communicate with me about where you are.” This keeps the focus on your feelings rather than placing blame. * De-Escalate by Lowering Your Voice: Speaking softly, even in tense situations, can have a calming effect on both of you and prevent the conflict from escalating. 6. Understand Their Need for Identity and Peer Connection * Give Them Space to Explore Identity: Adolescence is when teens start defining who they are outside of their family identity. Encourage safe exploration, even if it involves hobbies, fashion choices, or music that you might not understand. * Respect Their Peer Relationships: Teens often value peer opinions more than family. This can be challenging for parents, but it’s essential to respect these relationships as long as they’re healthy. Offer a safe space to talk about their friends without judgment. * Encourage Healthy Risk-Taking: Teens need experiences to learn and grow, so it’s okay to support safe, challenging activities like joining a sports team, pursuing an art project, or taking up a challenging hobby. 7. Offer Consistent Unconditional Support * Check-In Regularly: Even if they seem uninterested, short check-ins like “How was your day?” or “Anything interesting happen today?” let them know you’re there for them, even if they don’t feel like talking. * Remind Them of Their Strengths: Teens can be self-critical, so take moments to acknowledge their efforts and successes, big or small. This reinforces their sense of self-worth and boosts their resilience. * Be Patient: Building a trusting relationship with a teenager takes time. They may pull away and push back, but with patience, you can stay connected and supportive. 8. Seek Support When Needed * Don’t Hesitate to Seek Counseling: If conflicts are intense or if your teen is showing signs of mental health challenges, consider reaching out to a family counselor or therapist. Professional support can provide both you and your teen with strategies to cope better. * Find a Support Network: Sometimes, sharing experiences with other parents of teens can provide fresh perspectives and remind you that you’re not alone. Look for local support groups or online forums where you can talk through parenting challenges and gain advice. Final Thoughts Remember that every teenager is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Staying flexible, open-minded, and focusing on maintaining a supportive, respectful relationship will go a long way. Remember that parenting is a skill and we can all learn tips and share our feelings hereto help us navigate the pitfalls of parenting. Now, over to you! 🏃‍♂️ Share some of the things that have worked for you as a parent. 🏆Teenagers will someday be the adults in this world, what might that look like in their future? 💚How do you feel as a parent? How are you doing?

Parenting and Pregnancy Support

Welcome to the Pregnancy and Parenting Support! We are so pleased you have stumbled across our little internet corner. Our community is here to support you through your parenting and pregnancy journey. From pregnancy woes and wins, milestones with your little ones, resources, general support, offering personal experiences, and more! Feel free to discuss anything and everything related to the life that is raising a child, growing a child, supporting someone who is growing and or raising a child, or co-parenting while raising a child. 


What are the different forum topics for Parenting and Pregnancy?

Community Space: A place to introduce yourself and participate in our community check-ins, games, and more!

CoParenting: A place to connect with others in a co-parenting arrangement, share your story, and support others!

Parenting: A place to receive support, ask questions, and start and participate in discussions regarding the parenting journey!

Pregnancy: Want to share your pregnancy experience? Have questions and want to hear the experiences of others? Discuss it here!


How can I help?

You can help us by simply responding to threads and sharing your story (if you're comfortable). Check-in with us, join a discussion, or start one! Alternatively, join us as a Forum Leader. Check out this thread for more information.


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Parenting and Pregnancy FAQ

Q: Are there any sub-community-specific guidelines that we need to adhere to?

A: You can find Sub-community-specific guidelines below, which you should follow in addition to the general forum guidelines.


Help! I still have a question!  If you need help, feel free to contact a community leader or post here, and someone will contact you!

Community Guidelines

1. Include a trigger warning (TW) when referencing sensitive topics such as miscarriages, death, abortion, etc.

2. Respect the views of other members within the sub-community. Parenting is not easy and is often done differently from person to person.

3. Do not attempt to diagnose another member's child. You may share your experience with your child with the same or similar symptoms and the outcome, but diagnosing should be left to a medical professional. 

Not Helpful: “[I think] Your child has [xxx].

Helpful: “My child had/has symptoms [xxx] and [xxx] and was/is diagnosed with [xxx]; you might consider taking your child to a medical professional to rule this out.”


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