Why You Need to Know ISO and FS

My kids playing on equipment we bought used from another family. Photo credit: Amy Suardi

Before having children, I used to think joining groups was, well, kind-of embarrassing. Now I think it's essential.

My sleep-deprived, drooled-upon sanity craves in-person gatherings like playgroups, co-operative preschools, or moms' clubs. But my wallet craves the efficiency of online parent groups.

Need summer clothes for your 18-month-old? The answer is: ISO 18-month-old clothes. ISO is the Web abbreviation for "in search of." Even though there are lots of ways to find inexpensive kids' clothing, asking is one of my favorites. It's so easy and, by giving and taking with other parents, you build mutual good will.

What to do with that bouncy seat you don't need anymore? That's where FS -- or "for sale" -- comes in. As in, FS: bouncy seat. After failing to sell a pack-and-play on Craigslist, I put a message on my moms' group and sold it immediately. And since the buyer was another parent in our community, I felt comfortable accepting a check and having her come over while my husband was away at work.

I also belong to several neighborhood listservs, or email groups. Just like moms' groups, these online water coolers are excellent places to find advice that can save time and prevent headaches. In just one day on a Washington, D.C. neighborhood listserv, I saw ISO used in nine different ways:

ISO: Feedback on Comcast vs. Verizon
ISO: Skilled carpenter
ISO: Auto Cleaning/Detailing
ISO: reliable used car
ISO: Local appliance timer repair shop
ISO: Someone to power-wash, stain, seal deck/fence
ISO: nice heavy old bookcases
ISO: recommendations for painter
ISO: Specialty Dry Cleaner for Formal Dress

The great thing about geographically based groups is that you know the tips are local and the people live nearby. As with interacting with other parents, exchanging stuff with people in your hood is a great way to build community.

So don't be silly and embarrassed like I was. If you want to save money, make money, or learn before you buy, start joining. To find a group near you: ask around, scan local papers for mentions, or simply search the most common hosts, Yahoo! Groups and Google Groups.

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