Halloween has a sweet kind of magic. It draws us out of our homes and into the company of neighbors, friends, and even strangers. Yes, the sugar rush is real, but so is the reminder that we’re surrounded by people who make up the fabric of our days. For one night, doorsteps turn into gathering places and sidewalks into shared space. These moments remind us how real, tangible community can feel so much more grounding than a scroll on social.
Parenting is full of isolating moments. Yet community is a short cut to feeling more belonging. Even small connections, like chatting with a neighbor across the street, asking the cashier about their day, or introducing yourself to other parents at the playground, all create a sense of community and support. These microconnections help us feel grounded and remind us that belonging often starts with a simple hello.
As you wander through the neighborhood or hand out candy tonight, you can reflect on:
Let tonight’s moments of connection remind you: Your community is here.
Midwife Ilana Stranger-Ross advises new parents (which is still applicable to every stage of parenthood):
You have other things to do, I know. But one of the most important things you can do is ensure you have supports in place so that if you need help, you can easily access it. Find out about new parent groups close to you, if you can. Think about things you’d like to do with your baby, after the first few weeks. Identify a therapist or parenting circle, if possible. Ask your care provider who and what they recommend locally.
From A is for Advice (The Reassuring Kind)
Kaitlin McGreyes, doula and mom of three, shares:
Parenting should be a shared responsibility. We’re incredibly isolated from one another. And the act of parenting needs community. The act of parenting needs multiple capable adults to support one another as they bring up their youngest.
How will you connect with your community this week?
Continue this reflection in the Building Your Community of Support Journey in the Moment for Parents app.