One thing I learned very quickly when I became a mom: listen to people who have been there before. Sure, while I was pregnant I obsessively read baby books, but those all went out the window about two seconds after my son arrived. I learned quickly that the best tips came from other moms (and dads) who had walked the crazy winding path of parenthood.
Of course this is nothing new -- my mom talked with fellow moms while waiting in the carpool lane, and her mom talked with her friends on the family's front steps. I'm making my own connections with fellow parents my own way, during weekend play dates and monthly dinner club with neighborhood friends who are also in the trenches of parenthood.
But as parents in 2009 we have a whole other way to connect with people who are going through similar experiences -- online communities. Our version of the coffee klatch, we're able to exchange information about everything -- from the initial questions ("When to introduce solid food?" "Will the terrible twos ever end?) to the more complex issues that evolved as our children get older. And just like the coffee klatches of my mother's generation, these forums often start out as a place for us to discuss kids, but develop into communities where we discuss our adult world too.
All of that said, in the coming months we are going to spotlight online communities where parents are connecting, sharing knowledge, and figuring out life one sippy cup at a time.
First up is The Savvy Source For Parents. This website feature city guides that connect parents in specific cities, and there are a ton of Southern spots on the list: Charleston, Dallas, New Orleans, and Tampa -- just to name a few. Posts are written by moms and dads who actually live in these cities, so they know what they're talking about when they recommend kid-friendly choices in their area. (Plus it's a great resource to check out when you are preparing to travel to another city with your family.)
I liked this post from Atlanta mom Mimi Jenkins, which recommends indoor spots to play while the weather is still chilly. This post from New Orleans mom Kelly Leahy is her review of visiting a local Indian restaurant with two small children. Christine Hines writes about the best places to find storytime in Ft. Worth.
In addition to writing about destinations in their home cities, the Savvy writers also share parenting experiences across a variety of topics, with an emphasis on raising healthy, intelligent, creative, and caring children. I'm taking notes!
Related items from Southern Living:
Readers Choice 2009: Best Family Destinations
