Upon entering parenthood, I initially avoided seeking parenting guidance from social media platforms. However, the landscape shifted with the onset of the pandemic, leading me to not only consume advice from my Instagram feed but also venture into crafting articles on enhancing fatherhood, a gratifying aspect of my professional journey.
While maintaining a cautious stance towards numerous influencers who often promote products, I’ve discovered a cohort comprising parents, medical professionals, writers, and others dedicated to spreading positivity. Here are 10 individuals who consistently bring joy and enrichment to my life, and I trust they will do the same for you.
Virginia Sole-Smith
In a realm where parenting podcasts typically address mundane topics like morning routines or tantrums, journalist Virginia Sole-Smith stands out. Through her Burnt Toast newsletter and podcast, she confronts the detrimental impact of diet culture on children. Shockingly, she revealed to NPR that over a quarter of U.S. children will have dieted by middle school—an alarming statistic. Her antidote to this bias involves advocating for body acceptance, a message crucial for fostering self-love and inclusivity.
Dr. Becky Kennedy
Dr. Becky Kennedy advocates for a parenting approach centered on kindness rather than fear, a philosophy that has sparked discussions. Yet, her podcast, book, and social media presence under Good Inside resonates deeply with overwhelmed parents seeking to break free from past parenting patterns. Her reassuring guidance reminds listeners that they are doing their utmost—a message everyone benefits from hearing.
Brown Bag Brown Dad
While some parents slip notes into their children’s lunches, Lynell Jinks elevates this practice by intricately illustrating lunch bags with diverse themes, from characters from Home Alone to iconic portraits. His social media showcases these creative endeavors, serving as a delightful reminder that injecting fun and imagination into daily routines can enrich a child’s experience.
Cup of Jo
Joanna Goddard’s blog, a hub for motherhood, relationships, travel, and recipes, has evolved significantly since its inception in 2007. Despite the site’s growth and the founder’s personal challenges like navigating a recent separation, the content remains authentic and relatable. Notably, the community engagement through comments adds a layer of depth to the platform.
The Dad Father
Aaron Thygesen has mastered the art of crafting humorous parenting content without coming across as preachy—a rare feat. His sponsored content, including memorable spots for Dave’s Killer Bread, evokes genuine laughter, indicating a keen understanding of effective storytelling.
Feeding Littles
Megan McNamee and Judy Delaware, both experts in nutrition and feeding dynamics, have transformed my family’s approach to mealtimes. Initially skeptical of their baby-led weaning methods, I’ve witnessed my sons’ transition from picky eaters to more adventurous ones. Their emphasis on fostering a positive relationship with food resonates through their social media platforms, promoting a message of individualized approaches to nourishment.
Momma Cusses
Gwenna Laithland, known for her unfiltered humor and relatable anecdotes, embodies a refreshing parenting style. Her authenticity shines through as she navigates the complexities of parenthood, injecting humor into everyday situations—a rarity in the realm of social media.
The Mom Psychologist
During the tumultuous phases of my children’s early years, Dr. Jazmine McCoy’s Instagram account (@themompsychologist) provided invaluable guidance. Her practical tips and empathetic approach offered solace and direction amidst challenging parenting moments, emphasizing connection over reprimand.
The Dad Gang
Founded in 2016, The Dad Gang champions black fatherhood, striving to dispel stereotypes and foster a supportive community. Their social media presence exudes positivity and inspiration, serving as a beacon for fathers seeking camaraderie and valuable parenting insights.
The Oh.Henrys
The Henry family, while seemingly akin to other influencer families, stands out for their practical parenting hacks and candid discussions on marital challenges amidst raising four children. Initiatives like assigning daily responsibilities to each child and launching The Marriage Comeback podcast underscore their commitment to authenticity and transparency in portraying the realities of family life.
These individuals collectively remind us that social media often showcases curated highlights, concealing the everyday struggles we all face. By extending grace and understanding, we can cultivate stronger partnerships and parenting dynamics, navigating challenges with empathy and resilience.