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Having kids who go to school ordaycareusually means having to socialize with other parents.
Whether its about school matters or organizing playdates, keeping a good relationship is important.
When theyre at this age, parents decide who they will socialize with.
But even parent friend groups arent immune to sexism.
Inthis story, a single mother protested a widower dad joining their mom group chat.
She claimed she didnt feel comfortable with a stranger having her contact information.
Yet other mothers called her behavior out assexistand hypocritical.
What do you think, Pandas?
Deakin University actually did someresearchon this, and they found mom groups should be more inclusive to dads.
People are absolutely stunned when they discover that I adopted Tigger as a single parent, he writes.
But where is the mother?
There is no mother.
They cant comprehend it.
The school staff would often assume that Windwalker wouldnt put much effort into helping out with events.
Then the teachers would act surprised when he would come in with a batch of homemade pumpkin harvest cookies.
Even less pleasant assumptions used to be about his sons hygiene.
Generally, anything directed towards parents seems to still be overwhelmingly directed specifically towards the mums.
And while he agrees that it makes sense, he couldnt help but feel left out.
The transition toparenthoodcan be an anxious time for both mothers and fathers.
Previous research shows first-time parents groups are beneficial to both mums and dads.
However, sometimes, mom groups can also turn into pretty toxic cliques.
Some parents describe socializing with fellow parents as being back in middle school.
First, she advises people to look inward.
Maybe its not a them problem.
Maybe its a you problem.
Its up to the new addition to the parent group to show theyre willing to do the work.
Thats why Walfish recommends showing initiative: volunteering for a daycare/school event, for example.
If that doesnt work, try looking for a partner in crime within the group.
Its natural to not click with some people, so aparentshouldnt strive to be everybodys friend.
Finding that one warm, responsive parent in the group might be the key to fitting in.
Lastly, while parent groups are beneficial and handy, its okay not to be a part of one.
It might even work out for the better in the end.
Check out the results:
