Anyone else have a stack of parenting books they’ve been meaning to read? Just me? Before Jack was born, I imagined myself reading these books after he went to bed or while he napped. Little did I know that there are so many other things (including rest!) that took over those small windows of child-free time.

With the support of other mamas, I have found education and resources in the handiest of places — Instagram! I know, I know, social media? Really? Hear me out. In the mindless moments when I find myself scrolling through the feed, I now have learning bursts from these credible and educational sources to help me elevate my parenting game. Check out the list below to see if they align with your parenting values. These have been a game-changer in my household! I also love that almost all of them are women-owned businesses and all the owners are parents.

• Big Little Feelings | Two mamas, one of which is a child therapist and parent coach, created their business so parents can get practical action plans to navigate all the tough moments. They have a freebie resource with five tips to stop a tantrum before it even starts and their main course is called Winning the Toddler Stage ($99). Follow them for free, practical tips on Instagram (@biglittelfeelings).
• The Conscious Kid | They are a nonprofit education, research, and policy organization dedicated to equity and promoting healthy racial identity development in youth. They support organizations, families, and educators in taking action to disrupt racism in young children. Their Instagram (@theconciouskid) focuses on parenting and education through a critical race lens.
• Raise Good Kids | A podcast and Instagram account that shares topics about mindful parenting every single day. Some of my favorites include being clear communication, mindfully speaking about our/their appearance, and teaching your children self-esteem. Learn more @raisegoodkids.
• Feeding Littles | Another fabulous women-owned business! Megan and Judy have been teaching pediatric feeding for a combined 40+ years and their goal is to make mealtime easier for infants and toddlers. They are experts in nutrition, oral-motor development, and feeding behavior. These mamas also post the most hilarious videos on their Instagram (@feedinglittles) that make it fun and simple to learn their techniques and recommendations. The Instagram video post about spilling drinks and using a coaster has been a game changer for Jack!
• Busy Toddler | Susie Allison is an early childhood education advocate, former teacher and mom of 3. Her mission is to bring hands-on learning back to childhood, support others in their parenting journey, and help everyone make it to nap time. With 1.2M followers on Instagram (@busytoddler) she shares practical activities you can create with items you already have around the house. It’s an amazing resource for pandemic parenting!

Are you navigating toddlerhood, too? What’s working in your household? What’s supporting you in your parenting? Drop a line below. We’re all in this together!