What does the adage "It takes a village to raise a child" mean?

Answer by  GlobalCitizenHillary (10)

This phrase means that it takes more than just the parents of a child to successfully raise a child who can emotionally, socially, intellectually (perhaps spiritually) and professionally function in today's world. In fact,extended family, one's community and perhaps one's government all have a role to play in successfully shaping our future generation.

Answer by  wantnot (305)

It means that it takes more than just the child's parents; the school, church, and community should all be supportive in order for a child to be successful.

Answer by  Clement (1453)

This saying means that the entire community (village) is responsible for the child's behaviour rather than only his or her parents. Similar sayings can be traced back to Lunyoro (Banyoro).

Answer by  newgeneration (699)

This phrase refers to a nurturing environment, which a child needs to grow into a well-adjusted adult. A child should be surrounded by a safe community and loving family.

Answer by  rilyalune (185)

It means that the wisedom of many people is better to raise a child than the wisedom of just one person.