Parenting can often feel overwhelming, but imagine a community where child-rearing is a collective effort. In many cultures, particularly among indigenous tribes, the concept of shared motherhood is not just a notion but a way of life. This approach can make a significant difference in how children are nurtured and raised.
In the Kraho village of north-central Brazil, the belief that children should have multiple mothers is deeply ingrained. Here, the family dynamic emphasizes the idea that a supportive community is essential for effective parenting. Unlike my own experience, where my children have a few beloved aunties, Kraho children refer to all maternal figures—birth mothers, aunts, and close family friends—as “inxe.” This creates a seamless web of care and love, with no differentiation between biological and non-biological mothers.
Filmmaker Sofia Almeida, who became pregnant while living in the Kraho village, observed the stark contrast between their parenting structure and that of Western society. She remarked, “In each household, there are 15 to 20 people. Every home has multiple mothers, and the children are nurtured by everyone; older kids look after the younger ones.” This communal approach fosters a nurturing environment, where maternal figures work in harmony to provide care.
In indigenous cultures, there’s little room for overprotective parenting. Mothers raise their children in a manner reminiscent of their own upbringing: allowing them the freedom to explore and return to a supportive network of women who care deeply for them.
When my partner and I were expecting our first child, we attended various parenting classes that were often steeped in heteronormative assumptions. It was a challenge to navigate the language and biases that sometimes overlooked our unique family situation. However, we found moments of inclusivity, especially during a lactation class where the instructor asked if I planned to induce lactation to nurse our baby. This openness highlighted the importance of having multiple caregivers, though I personally wasn’t inclined to breastfeed.
In the Kraho village, the advantages of having several mothers extend beyond nursing. Women learn to share their children with one another, fostering a sense of trust and community. There’s a mutual understanding that each woman plays a vital role in the upbringing of the children, promoting nonviolent education and correction. The children grow up knowing they have a network of mothers, each with equal authority, which cultivates respect and accountability.
Notably, this communal approach also reflects a detachment from material possessions. Resources, food, and even toys are shared, allowing children to develop independence from an early age. They’re encouraged to explore their surroundings without fear, which enriches their understanding of the world.
Almeida notes that her daughter, Mia, enjoys a more autonomous life within the Kraho community: “She doesn’t always cling to us.” This illustrates how indigenous practices support children’s independence and exploration.
The Kraho firmly believe in home births, ensuring that mothers are surrounded by trusted loved ones during such a significant moment. This connection between generations is both sacred and strong, reinforcing the idea that a child’s upbringing is a communal responsibility.
Imagine a world where you could rely on an extended family of loving individuals while letting go of the anxiety surrounding material possessions or the fear of being replaced in your child’s heart. This vision, supported by the principles of many indigenous cultures, is one I deeply admire.
For more information on family building through various means, check out our other article on intracervical insemination. If you’re keen on understanding the journey of couples through fertility, Make a Mom offers valuable insights. For a wealth of resources about pregnancy and home insemination, you can explore News Medical.
In summary, the concept of shared motherhood, particularly within indigenous cultures like the Kraho, offers a refreshing perspective on parenting. It emphasizes community, trust, and a collective approach to raising children, fostering a rich environment for growth and exploration.