Where can I find someone to talk to?

[WhoToTalkTo]

Hi all,

I have a one year old child. Most things about their life so far have been, at least in my circle, unconventional, due to the decisions I have made (the birth, breastfeeding, etc). Every decision I have made I have done so in the best interest of my child, but I have always come up against a wave of opinion, albeit well meant, expressing concern and disapproval. This has left me feeling very isolated as a parent as I no longer feel like I can be honest about my beliefs, feelings and intentions.

I do understand and appreciate that I appear to be in a minority with the ways I have chosen/do choose to parent, and that in itself is no issue as I'm not judgemental of how anyone else parents, but I don't know where I can find other mums (or just people in general) who can relate and who I can feel a sense of support from.

If anyone knows of any resources that they think could be beneficial, I'd be grateful as I'm beginning to feel quite lonely.

In order for anyone on here to direct you to like minded individuals we'll need some idea of in what way your decisions are unconventional.

Things like having a home birth, breastfeeding through difficulties, not trying to force independence in areas they're not demonstrating willingness to be independent, trying to create a secure attachment with the way I respond to them, choosing to alter my career so that they didn't have to go to nursery at 12 months. Nothing crazy but deemed quite far fetched amongst my family and friends.

It sounds like if you were to search for attachment or gentle parenting on Facebook you'd probably find some groups.

Alternatively look for breastfeeding groups in your area, or playgroups and see if you can find anyone there.