Explaining "It takes a whole village to raise a child"

Reviewed and edited by

Anwar Kareem 25/10/2024, 16:25

English.me team member

What does it mean?

It takes a whole village to raise a child

The phrase means that raising a child is a communal effort and requires the support, guidance, and involvement of a wide range of people beyond the immediate family, such as extended family, friends, teachers, neighbors, and other community members.

Tone

The tone of the phrase is inclusive and supportive, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and collective responsibility in nurturing a child's development.

Origin

The phrase is often attributed to African cultures, though the exact origin is unclear. It conveys the idea that child upbringing is a shared responsibility.

Examples of usage

When Sarah got sick, her neighbors and friends helped take care of her children, embodying the spirit of "it takes a whole village to raise a child."
The community center offers programs for kids and parents, proving that it really does take a village to raise a child.
As a single parent, John appreciated the support from teachers and neighbors, realizing it takes a whole village to raise a child.