Facebook introduces new group type to help parents connect with each other amid lockdowns

This new Facebook group option will give parents a chance to get in touch with other parents and resources to help raise their children in this era of social distancing and lockdowns.

New Facebook group types are being rolled out that can be treated as safe spaces for parents to come together to support, educate and share resources. (Pixabay)

Given that we are still locked in our houses, dealing with work and life in ways we had not imagined, even a little help goes a long way. Particularly for parents, this time might be tougher since they have to handle their kids and work. For new parents, a time like this can feel difficult in isolation since none of us can physically be in touch with others, having to rely on video calls and messages.

Facebook has created a solution for parents to tackle things a little better. New Facebook group types are being rolled out that can be treated as safe spaces for parents to come together to support, educate and share resources.

“More than 5.5 million people in India are part of active parenting groups on Facebook. To help support these communities, we're launching a new Facebook group type – parenting. The new features will make it easier for parents to discover the right communities, and make it safer and easier to engage within them,” said Grace Clapham, Head of Community Partnerships APAC, Facebook.

Admins will now be able to select the ‘parenting' group type which will unlock access to three unique features that have been customised to make the parenting experience better. These new additions will make parents feel more comfortable while sharing their personal experiences, find content they want and also seek and share advice.

These three new features are -

Anonymous Post:

Some parents might want to discuss topics anonymously especially if they are sensitive. Members of a parenting group on Facebook can now post without revealing their identity with the Anonymous Post feature. If you are looking to share or receive feedback on sensitive topics like financial concerns etc, you can always use this feature.

Anonymous posts on Facebook parenting groups.  (Facebook)

Anonymous posts on Facebook parenting groups.  (Facebook)

Badging:

Facebook is adding new badges to parenting groups, so that members can choose to identify themselves to groups members in regards to what stage in the parenting journey they are in. Badging makes it easier for parents to find other parents who are dealing with the exact same issues or are at the same place on their journey and connect with them. Example badges include “New Parent” and “Expecting Parent”.

Badges you can use on the group.  (Facebook)

Badges you can use on the group.  (Facebook)

Mentorship:

Facebook is also expanding their Mentorship feature to all parenting groups who select this group type. Parenting group admins can now choose and create an online mentoring program, let members sign up and match mentor/mentee pairs. Members can use this feature to pair up with other parents to offer guidance etc.