The Power of Community

What Exactly Is a Community?

When most people hear the word community, they picture a neighbourhood, a school gate full of chatting parents, or a group of people who live close enough to borrow sugar from each other. And yes, that’s one kind of community. But Merriam-Webster also describes a community as a group of people who share interests, goals, or experiences, even if they are scattered across different towns, cities, or countries.

That definition fits the world we live in today. With online groups, social media chats, video calls, and virtual meetups, many of us connect more meaningfully with people miles away than with those next door. Community has stretched far beyond physical boundaries. It’s no longer about where you live, but rather about who you feel connected to and why.

More Than a Place - Feeling of Belonging

At its heart, community is really about belonging. It’s that comfortable feeling you get when you walk into a room (or a Zoom call) and think, “Ah… my people.” It’s knowing you can speak freely, share your worries, celebrate your wins, and trust that others genuinely care.

This is why people naturally gravitate toward groups of all sorts: parenting circles, sports clubs, faith groups, online chat spaces, and so on. Wherever people feel accepted and understood, they flourish. A supportive community boosts confidence, encourages growth, and makes everyday challenges feel a little lighter.

According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, love and social belonging are at the third level, following basic needs like food and shelter. The strong pull of belonging is also the reason why some people join unhealthy groups. Humans are wired to connect. When we can’t find belonging in positive spaces, we may fall into negative ones. That alone shows just how powerful a community can be. When used wisely and kindly, community becomes one of the most uplifting forces in our lives.

The Migrant Experience: Finding a New Kind of Home

The need for community becomes especially important for migrants. Moving to a new country can feel like opening a book in the middle of the story. It can be exciting, yes, but also confusing and a little overwhelming. Many migrants arrive full of hope but quickly realise how isolating it can be. The language might be unfamiliar, the systems confusing, and the culture completely different. Even simple tasks like making appointments, finding a school, or filling out forms can suddenly feel like solving a puzzle.

In these moments, meeting someone who understands your journey is comforting. A shared laugh or a common cultural reference helps ease loneliness and builds confidence. A supportive community helps newcomers find their footing and slowly turn their new environment into a place that feels like home.

MyChildandMe: A Safe, Warm Space for Parents

This is precisely why ParentSkills2Go created the MyChildandMe programme. We know parents, especially those adjusting to life in a new country, need welcoming, judgment-free spaces where they can ask questions, share stories, laugh, learn, and feel understood. Parenting can feel heavy at times, and being far from your usual support network can make it even harder.

At ParentSkills2Go, we believe that when parents feel supported, families thrive. And when families thrive, communities become stronger, healthier, and more vibrant.

Visit www.mychildandme.com for more information.