WordPress Blog Template Tech: Parent Themes, Child Themes, and Page Builders

There is a lot of tech involved in the blogging world. From creating your own graphics, navigating the whole domain and hosting thing, and choosing a WordPress blog template, there is a steep learning curve, to say the least.

And it can be a bit defeating at times. Especially when it comes to choosing a theme. 

Let’s dive into the difference between the child theme, a parent theme, and a page builder.

Related: All the tech to consider when choosing a theme for your WordPress Blog.

Page Builder

Page builders include programs like Divi, Elementor, and Thrive Architect.

These are drag-and-drop style website builders that are extremely popular and for good reason. They are easy to use and can help you build out a website that is both beautiful and functional.

My only gripe with these page builders is that you have to set up and tinker with your website all on your own. It’s a web designer’s dream, but if you aren’t a designer I’d steer clear until you have a better grasp on WordPress.

I would hate for you to never get your blog out into the world because you can’t get past the design phase of your website. Launching is way more important!

When you are making a little $$$ and can afford to hire a designer to redo your website, do it!

Bonus: You can use Elementor for free with many other themes for more customization!

Related: How to Find your Blogging *Thing*

Parent Theme vs. Child Themes

Two of the technical terms out there that may confuse you is parent themes and child themes. Let’s break that down a little bit.

A parent theme is a framework. It’s a structure on which you can build your website.

A parent theme doesn’t contain any of the pretty stuff that actually makes up the visual part of your website.

My favorite parent theme out there is the Genesis Framework. 

Now, the other half of the convo here is child themes.

Child themes are the visual counterpart to the parent theme. To run a child theme, you have to have a parent theme.

But, once you have a parent theme that you know you want to use it’s easy to search the web for child themes to go along with it. 

My favorite place to find child themes to go with the Genesis Framework is either StudioPress or Restored316. (I use the Glam theme!)

A parent theme is the architect and the foundation. A child theme is the subway tile, the choice of color on the office wall, carpet, signs and all the other pretty things inside.

Related: The Best WordPress Themes for Bloggers

Wrap Up

WordPress has a super steep learning curve. But with a little knowledge of the basics, some practice, a good WordPress blog template, and you’ll be on your way.

So tell me, what other WordPress questions do you have? Leave them below so we can get those questions answered and get ya movin’ forward!