Why Do Moms Go Online?

You would think that in our day and age, it would be unusual for a mom NOT to spend some time online. After all, the technology is easily accessible, and options are numerous. Limitless even!

What may come as a surprise, however, is just how much this Internet connection means to some moms. It is not merely a matter of enjoying the luxury of Internet access, but a whole lot more. For many full-time moms the Internet literally becomes their “connection to the outside world”. The various Internet destinations have to stand in as friends, neighbors, advisors, and centers of convenience.

As would be expected, most moms use the Internet to access email. After all, it is probably the cheapest form of communication available. Other activities include the use of online banking facilities, online shopping, and finding information.

These facilities not only offer convenience, but it makes the moms life a lot easier. Just ask anyone that ever had to stand in a queue in the bank with an irritated baby. However, it is also about saving time. Besides the fact that it is a lot faster that driving into town, it is also accessible at any hour, especially once the baby or toddler has gone to sleep – killing two birds with one stone (if it is done during an afternoon nap).

Additionally, the enormous selections available in online stores allow for more options, as well as the facility to do price comparisons.

Of course, there are those school assignments, for which the Internet is simply heaven-sent. Gone are the days of going to the library, or even going to buy books on the given subject.

The (arguably) most valuable online resource for moms is of (course) the ability to access other people’s knowledge. There are countless online communities where it is possible to pose any questions to more experienced moms, and find guidance, support and friendship among peers.

Finally, the ability to socialize online has opened many new doors for moms staying at home. Normally, an ill child would tie the mother down for as long as it took to recover. However, thanks to networks like Facebook, Twitter and similar communities, it is possible to connect with friends quickly and easily while the child is sleeping.

Additionally, the mere nature of the Internet makes the traditional challenges of distance obsolete. It is as easy to communicate with someone in the next room as it is to communicate with someone from another town or country – allowing the exchange of knowledge and ideas with moms in different cultures.

As such, the Internet has become (for many moms) the telephone (email), the bank, the department store, a friend, a comfort, a way to socialize, and a source of advice and information. For many moms, the outside world is literally just a mouse-click away.

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