Information for New Users
What it takes to be a good user on BabyFilter
This site isn't like those other sites. It depends on the quality of contributions from its members. If you are reading this, you probably know exactly what we are all looking for in a good online community. And we at BabyFilter are glad that you are here!
Please read the guidelines below before continuing on- its vital to this community that you understand what is expected of you when you become a member of BabyFilter.
Trust
In honor of MetaFilter, this site's inspiration- I'm taking this just about word for word, because it embodies the main principle behind community, and I could not have said it better myself (thanks, Matt!):
One of the guiding principles here is trust in each other. The index page of BabyFilter.com can be added to by almost everybody that has signed up, as there is very little editing or deleting going on. Anyone can post a comment in a discussion, and say whatever they feel.
I give you the ability to do this because I trust you. I trust that you'll act in a civilized manner, that you'll treat others with opposing viewpoints with absolute respect, that you'll contribute in a positive way to the intelligent discussions that take place here everyday.
I give you the benefit of the doubt, because I trust you, so all that I ask is for you to honor that trust and promise to become a good contributor.
Good Contributions
Its easy to create content for a website where all members can post anything they like. Its way too easy to say "me too" or :-) or especially something mean or smart-assed. You came here because you don't want or need that- you want and need to find help with one of the hardest things any of us will ever do- taking care of, and raising, a child.
The best thing about a place like BabyFilter is that we all bring exceptionally different experiences to the table, each of which being valid and worthy of sharing with others to help them find their way. Be respectful, be thoughtful. If you make a statement of fact, do your best to add some proof, via references to books or by adding a link to a webpage.
When everyone brings intelligent, thoughtful conversation to a discussion, BabyFilter is the best it can possibly be. Tell us what you did right. Tell us what you did wrong. Tell us what you learned. Let us learn from you. Feel free to express an opposing viewpoint- respectfully. We all certainly do not have to agree, and taking the time to explain your viewpoint, present new information, or validate a discussion with your experiences will help BabyFilter become more valuable and useful to everybody.
Contributing
Right now, BabyFilter is extremely new- we haven't even cut the umbilical cord. New members can post immediately and often at this point. However, once the community grows we will impose a waiting period for new members before they can post a new discussion, something like three days. As well, we will impose a restriction on how often members can post a new discussion.
Commenting on existing discussions, however, will always be open immediately to all members.
Who Can Sign Up
You can. Assuming you have read this page and agree with its principles. If you are signing up to promote a product or website, drag down the level of community here, or be disruptive- don't waste your time. The community polices itself and you'll be quickly flagged and kicked out. And we won't feel sorry about it.
If you are still game- sign up for an account, and contribute to the Intelligent Baby Talk.
