To say that parenting is a tough gig is . . . the biggest understatement. But while we’re quick to share the adorable moments of our children’s lives, we’re less likely to broadcast the trials and tribulations of raising a small human. The blunt truth is that at times, you might feel like you’re not in control of your mind, your body, or your schedule, and it’s completely normal to experience frustration and loneliness. So, where’s a parent to turn when they need a safe space to let it out?
For parents around the world, the answer is Reddit. One of the most-visited sites on the internet, Reddit’s unique blend of anonymity and networking makes it a haven for those who long to feel seen and understood. There are dozens of communities (called “subreddits”) on the platform dedicated to parenting – the good, the bad, and the ugly. Whether you need a cheerleader, a shoulder to cry on, or just someone to say, “That really sucks,” check out these subreddits when you’re slogging through the marshlands of parenthood.
Related: My Facebook Mom Group Provides the Love and Support I Need to Be a Better Mom
Getty / Kelvin Murray
r/BabyBumps
Is your womb currently inhabited by one or more tiny people? This is the community for you. The “Bumpers” can commiserate about every uncomfortable moment of pregnancy, from heartburn to swollen feet to constipation. And when your hormones turn you into a blubbering mess, this is also the place to share your TIC (“Today I Cried”) stories.
Check it out here: r/babybumps.
Getty / manonallard
r/NICUParents
The NICU is a place nobody wants their child to see, but it’s a reality for thousands of families every year. Visit this community for someone to lean on when you’re feeling depleted, and for photos and stories from NICU graduates who have been where you are.
Check it out here: r/nicuparents.
Getty / d3sign
r/BeyondTheBump
Teething. Sleep regression. Clinginess. If any of these phrases make your eye twitch, it might be time to hit up this popular community dedicated to life with a newborn/infant/toddler. The group is also tremendously supportive to anyone struggling with mental health and/or body issues during the postpartum phase, underscoring that it’s okay to not be okay.
Check it out here: r/beyondthebump.
Getty / Carlina Teteris
r/Mommit
With more than 95,000 members, this community is a catch-all for parenting advice, resources, and quality memes. It’s also a repository for cute photos of Redditors’ kids when you need a reminder that your little one won’t always be covered in snot and crumbs.
Check it out here: r/mommit.
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r/BreakingMom
Sometimes, a mom’s just gotta go off. When you feel like changing your identity and fleeing the country to finally get some peace and quiet, consult the “BroMos” instead. This community is the internet equivalent of screaming into a pillow when your kid or partner is pushing your buttons, and it’s glorious.
Check it out here: r/breakingmom.
Getty / Sara Monika
r/Parenting
Parenthood is a marathon, not a sprint. Whether your child is learning to walk or heading off to college, you will find a Redditor in this group who understands what you’re going through.
Check it out here: r/parenting.
Getty / Carol Yepes
r/Adoption
Adoptive parents face unique challenges that outsiders might not understand. This subreddit offers a supportive environment to parents of adopted children of all ages. The community is also open to those who were adopted as children, enabling a rich dialogue with multiple perspectives.
Check it out here: r/adoption.
