Parenthood Archives

Tips for Getting Your Kids Involved In The Kitchen

Aubrey Hutson November 20, 2023

Most kids love helping their parents cook. But alas, finding age-appropriate tasks for them can be somewhat of a challenge. If you’re wondering how to get your kids involved in the kitchen, keep scrolling. Today’s article explains how to introduce your kids to the joys of cooking – without creating a culinary disaster. How to Get Your Kids Involved in the Kitchen Wondering how to get your kids involved in the kitchen? Here are some suggestions: Start Small While cooking can involve sharp objects, involving your kids in the process doesn’t have to mean handing them a set of kitchen knives. Instead, you can assign your children tasks as simple as dumping ingredients into a bowl and stirring. If you’re unsure where to begin, here’s a general overview of age-appropriate kid activities in the kitchen: Cooking Tasks for Young Children Ages 2 to 3 Cooking Tasks for Young Children Ages 4 to 5 Cooking Tasks for Children Ages 6 to 7 Cooking Tasks for Children Ages 8 to 9 Cooking Tasks for Children Ages 10+ Invest in the Right Tools While you can probably get away with sharing stirring tools — like spoons and spatulas — we recommend investing in a kid-friendly plastic knife set. You might also consider a cutting board with a non-slip bottom that prevents it from sliding out underneath your children’s fingers. Additionally, having a small step stool nearby can help younger kids reach the counter. And buying personalized aprons will help your children get excited about cooking. Start a Family Garden Another way to excite your kids about cooking is to start a family garden. Not only does gardening impart valuable life skills, but cooking is significantly more fun when you’re using ingredients that you’ve grown from scratch. If you’re unsure how to create a garden, check out our Mom’s Guide to Growing Your Own Garden. Teach Them Where Food Comes From While your kids are helping you in the kitchen, use it as an opportunity to teach them where food comes from and how it serves us. Similarly, allow your children to touch everything — after washing their hands, of course — as this provokes their curiosity. And children are more apt to try new foods when they’re exposed to them during the preparation process. Accept Things Will Get Messy No matter how hard you try to avoid it, your family cooking session will likely result in a mess. Therefore, we don’t recommend introducing your kids to the kitchen right after you’ve swept and mopped the floors. Instead, start with a tidy-ish cooking area, and surrender to the inevitable chaos. While cleaning as you go is a wise habit to encourage, it’s not feasible for some kids. And if this sounds familiar, simply put on your aprons and have your kids help clean up at the end. Pile on the Praise To encourage and uplift your children, make sure to pile on the praise for their culinary endeavors. Let your partner know that your child helped with the meal, and point out specific ingredients they chopped or dishes they prepared. Doing so will make your child’s face light up, and they’ll be so proud of themselves and their accomplishments. You could also ask your little ones if they want to make a treat for someone else — like grandma and grandpa. Then, when you drop it off, make sure to gush over how helpful your children were throughout the process. Manage Your Expectations While we all want our children to be culinary connoisseurs, it’s important to manage your expectations. Instead of asking them to help you prepare an elaborate dinner party, start by letting them cut banana slices during snack time. Keep in mind that younger children have shorter attention spans, and it might take a few kitchen sessions before they really get into it. However, with a little patience and gentle encouragement, we’re confident that your little ones will become excellent sous chefs. The Bottom Line Getting kids involved in the kitchen is an adventure in itself. And while it might seem daunting, there are many rewarding benefits and lessons that come from cooking with kids. If you’re struggling to get started, know that you’re not alone. And these tips for cooking with kids will surely point you in the right direction. Want more parenting tips and resource guides like this one? Head to the parenthood section of our website.

Easy Crafts to Keep Your 10-Year-Old Busy and Creative

Hannah Connors November 6, 2023

Whether it’s summer break and your 10-year-old has seemingly endless free time, or you need some ideas on how to keep them entertained on rainy days (besides screens), having a list of easy arts and crafts ideas on deck is always a good idea. Fun crafts are a great way to engage your kiddo’s creativity, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills, plus they’re a ton of fun and leave them with an artifact showcasing their hard work. If your kiddo is bored of friendship bracelets, it’s time to mix it up with some new craft ideas. Fear not if you’re not the artsy type and struggle to come up with craft projects yourself, because we’ve compiled a list of simple crafts that are suitable for 10-year-olds, along with step-by-step instructions. No craft kits required, and you likely have some of the art supplies needed already laying around your house. You and your little artist will be crafting in no time! Tissue paper flowers are one of the best art projects for kids of all ages, and your kid is sure to love creating a beautiful bouquet that rivals the real thing. Older girls especially love making elaborate bouquets with lots of gorgeous colors! Materials you’ll need: Instructions: Acrylic pour painting is a unique technique that can lead to fun and unpredictable results. The focus isn’t on perfection, but instead on creating something abstract through an exciting process. It’s a fun way to be creative that younger and older kids alike will enjoy! Materials you’ll need: Instructions: 3. Paper Lanterns Paper lanterns are a sweet paper craft. They’re simple to make, and they leave you with a charming artifact you can use on summer nights. Materials you’ll need: Instructions: 4. Finger Painting Masterpieces Finger painting is a classic, sensory arts and crafts project for little hands that’s also so much fun. Kids love the permission to get a little messy and let their imagination flow freely. Materials you’ll need: Instructions: 5. Craft Stick Picture Frames This easy project is a delightful way to showcase a family photo or another piece of your child’s art. Enjoy creating and framing memories with this craft! Materials you’ll need: Instructions: 6. Watercolor Bookmarks For the bookworm kid, a watercolor bookmark is a craft they’ll use and appreciate all the time. Plus, watercolor painting is a ton of fun and a great way to experiment with blending techniques. Materials you’ll need: Instructions: Enjoy crafting! Whatever the final product looks like, remember to emphasize to your child that the most important part of crafting is to have fun in the process and celebrate their creativity. Have fun tapping into your imagination together and creating something uniquely yours!

Why You Should Never Compare Bump Sizes

Dani Wolfe October 29, 2023

The truth is, vocally comparing bump sizes is a natural response. But you might be shocked to find out these seemingly harmless comments can actually hurt a mom-to-be. From a specific uterus position and a woman’s body structure to gestational age and even abnormal conditions, you never know what’s going on. Learn what causes different bump sizes, why you should never compare them, and some comments to avoid in this critical guide. What Causes Different Bump Sizes? Expecting moms can have different bump sizes for many reasons. Some you may have never even heard of. Let’s take a look at each reason below to help gain an understanding of why bump comments should be avoided. Gestational age The most obvious reason: women are at different stages in their pregnancy. Typically, someone 32 weeks pregnant will have a larger bump than a woman who is 17 weeks pregnant. This is because the baby, fluid, placenta, and weight gain gradually increase as a pregnancy progresses. Baby’s position How babies position themselves in the womb can have a significant impact on how a bump looks. A baby head-down and low in the pelvis usually presents a lower and more compact bump. On the other hand, if the baby is feet down, a bump may appear higher and wider. Also, keep in mind that the baby will change positions throughout the entire pregnancy, and the bump shape will follow right behind. Pre-pregnancy size An expecting mom’s frame plays a major role in how they carry the baby. “A woman with a slender build may have a more prominent bump, while a woman with a broader build might have a less noticeable one,” says Michael Green, MD, a board-certified ob-gyn in Lake Arrowhead, California. Essentially, every woman’s body is unique, and so are their bumps. Number of pregnancies In most cases, due to tighter abdominal muscles, first pregnancies tend to produce small baby bumps. That’s what my midwife told me at one of my prenatal appointments when I asked why I wasn’t showing yet. She advised me that women who’ve had multiple pregnancies will have more relaxed abdominal muscles and ligaments, making their bellies easier to stretch–hence a larger and more noticeable baby bump. Number of babies When a woman is expecting twins, triplets, or more, the uterus naturally expands further to accommodate the additional babies. This results in a larger and often more prominent bump. In contrast, moms expecting a single baby typically have a smaller, compact bump. Uterus position Some people don’t realize that uteruses aren’t created exactly the same, either. The position and specific tilt of a woman’s uterus can majorly affect the appearance of a baby bump. “For example, a retroverted uterus tilts backward, which may result in a smaller-looking bump,” says Green. Abnormal conditions Different circumstances like gestational diabetes, hyperemesis gravidarum, or other growth conditions can cause a deviation from the typical progression in pregnancy. In gestational diabetes, mothers can have a larger bump from the excess amniotic fluid. And with hyperemesis gravidarum, bumps can be much smaller due to excessive nausea and vomiting, leading to weight loss. In my case, doctors suspected a fetal growth restriction diagnosis–a condition where the placenta isn’t working well enough to provide the baby nutrients–resulting in a smaller baby bump. Why You Shouldn’t Compare Bump Sizes Making unsolicited comments on anyone’s body, pregnant or not, is something we should all avoid doing–even if it seems innocent. “You don’t know how anyone relates to their own body or if it makes them uncomfortable to receive comments about it,” says Green. And when it comes to comparing bump sizes, it’s best to say nothing during this sensitive and intimate time since you genuinely don’t know what’s going on in their pregnancy. When I received comments on how small my baby bump was, it reminded me my body wasn’t good enough to supply my small baby enough nutrients to grow. Bump-related comments to avoid Here are a few comments many expecting women hear throughout pregnancy that should be avoided. When Should I Be Concerned With My Bump Size? Although every bump is unique and grows at its own pace, there are some things you should look out for. “Rapid, significant changes in the size of the bump, whether it’s a sudden growth or shrinkage, should be evaluated by a healthcare provider,” says Green. Keep in mind that during your routine prenatal checks, your provider will monitor the progress by measuring your bump and assessing whether the baby is developing appropriately. Your healthcare team knows exactly what to look for in growing bumps and will speak up if they see anything abnormal. Experts in this article: Michael Green, MD, is a board-certified ob-gyn in Lake Arrowhead, CA. He attended St. Louis University of Medicine, where he received his medical degree and has been in practice for over 30 years since. Dr. Green is now a Chief Medical Officer at Winona and an OB hospitalist and site director at Northridge Medical Center.

How To Tell Your Kids No (Without Actually Saying No)

Dani Wolfe October 26, 2023

It’s easy to become accustomed to saying no to your kid. But does it actually teach them right from wrong effectively? Experts don’t think so. Conquer your reactive “no” habit with better alternatives from a licensed family therapist and social worker. Here’s everything you need to know about parenting with increased emotional intelligence. What Happens When You Overuse The Word No A child’s executive functioning skills–aka self-control and ability to follow multiple-step directions–don’t noticeably grow until ages 3 to 5, with a continued improvement throughout adolescence and early adulthood. For example, when you tell a child “no climbing,” they need the executive functioning skills to think about what they should do instead. “This takes a lot of brain power, and the younger the child, the less resources they will have,” says Bryana Kappadakunnel, LMFT, a licensed marriage and family therapist and owner of Conscious Mommy. In fact, it’s common for children to burn out on the word “no”–creating a less significant association with the term. This is why it’s often more effective and helpful to tell your child what they should do instead. Yet, when you examine a child’s brain from a neuroscience perspective, something else is going on. “NO signals danger in our nervous systems and can create tension or anxiety,” says Amy Armstrong, LISW, PCI, a licensed independent social worker, certified parent coach, and co-owner of The Center for Family Resolution. So, in some cases, a seemingly harmless and quick “no” might trigger a stress response in your child. When Is It Okay To Say No? However, there is definitely still a time and place to say no. “Save a hard “no” for health and safety issues–and the no will retain its impact,” says Armstrong. This means reserving it for situations that involve danger or physical safety to your child to grab their undivided attention. “If they’re reaching for something hot that could burn them or something sharp that could cut them, your “no” needs to startle them enough to get them to pause and look to you for direction,” says Kappadakunnel. When it’s okay to say no to your child: 5 Alternatives To Saying No It’s never too late to change how you react to your children. But it will take some practice to get it right. If “no” is automatically engraved into your brain as a response, you’re not alone. And to swap your “no’s” out for something more effective and mindful, you need to know what to say instead. Licensed marriage and family therapist Kappadakunnel and licensed social worker Armstrong give a few examples on how to tell your kids no without actually saying it. Situation #1: Throwing Food So your child just threw the dinner you made them on the floor–totally on purpose. It can be a bit upsetting. But instead of instinctively blurting out “no,” try this instead. “Looks like you’re done eating,” suggests Armstrong. And don’t forget to follow up with this next important step. Actually, have your child get out of their chair and help pick up the food off the floor. “If they’re throwing food because they’re all done, have them pick up the food, put them back in their seat, then model saying all done for them–consistency is key,” says Kappadakunnel. Situation #2: Drawing on the Wall As a parent, you probably already know what a kid and a rogue crayon can do. The key here is to take a breath and stay neutral. Kappadakunnel suggests swapping “no” for “We draw only on paper with our crayons,” followed by “It’s time to clean it up. Let’s go get a washcloth.” After the squiggles are all cleaned up, Armstrong recommends grabbing a sheet of paper for your child and saying, “Here is your perfect place for drawing.” And remember, washable crayons and markers are your best friend. Situation #3: Hitting their Sibling Hitting is a more significant situation than throwing food and drawing on the walls. Taking the right steps and using effective words will go a long way in stopping this behavior from happening in the future. If your child starts hitting their sibling, Kappadakunnel suggests saying, “Stop your body. I cannot let you hit–hitting is not safe.” Then, check in with the sibling who was hit, asking if they are okay. Once everyone has calmed down, have both kids sit together. “Help them share what each side of the problem was, and help them practice a more agreeable solution,” says Kappadakunnel. Situation #4: Ripping Pages out of a Book Ripping up books is common among young children. But it’s important to address it quickly and correctly before you end up with destroyed books in the house. “I like to read all the pages, let’s only rip scrap paper” is a great “no” alternative that Armstrong recommends. Also, take it a step further and have your child find some old newspapers they can rip up. Or, Kappadakunnel even recommends inviting your child to reconstruct the ripped book pages with tape. Situation #5: Climbing on Furniture It’s important to note that climbing is critical to each child’s development. So before you discourage it entirely, it’s best to leave some areas as “climb safe” zones. “I’d recommend having a hard boundary around climbing on tables, sinks, etc., and redirecting the child to a more appropriate place to climb while leaving open some reasonable climbing on couches,” says Kappadakunnel. This is especially true if you don’t have any other kid-friendly climb structures in the house. But there definitely is a time when climbing on the furniture can get dangerous. If you notice your child climbing and it’s becoming unsafe, try the following. “You love to climb high and jump! Let’s climb on the jungle gym this afternoon at the park,” says Armstrong. Alternatives to “No” Cheat Sheet Instead of this: Say this: “No throwing food!” “Looks like you’re done eating–let’s pick up this mess.” “No, don’t draw on the wall!” “We only draw on paper with our crayons–let’s clean this up

What to look for when enrolling your kids in school

10 Things Every Mom Should Know Before Enrolling Kids in School

Dani Wolfe October 21, 2023

Enrolling your kids in school is a significant decision every mom faces at some point. But what makes it that much more complex is knowing your choice can impact your child’s overall development and future success–choosing the right school is critical. That’s why it’s so important to know what to look for when enrolling your kids in school. As a mom, it’s important to dive into all the factors to consider for new school enrollment before making this major decision. From assessing the school’s curriculum to building safety and security measures, some essential aspects must be considered. We have everything you need to know right here to choose the best schools for children. Firstly, What Types of Schools Are There? Thankfully, today’s educational landscape offers a diverse range of school options. Whether you’re exploring traditional public schools, private schools, charter schools, magnet schools, or even considering homeschooling, many great choices exist. Traditional Public Schools Public schools are your traditional government-funded institutions where your child can receive a free education in their zip code. These schools are typically operated by local school districts and follow a standardized curriculum set by state education authorities. They offer a structured educational experience on various subjects to better prepare them for college, trade school, and beyond. Magnet Schools A magnet school operates within the realm of public education. But unlike traditional public schools, magnet schools are designed with a specific educational focus or theme in mind. You can find magnet schools with a focus on arts, sciences, technology, and other areas tailored to different passions. Magnet schools are known for encouraging creativity and hands-on learning, making them a great choice for families seeking a personalized and engaging educational experience for their child. However, keep in mind that admission to magnet schools may be very competitive and limited. Charter Schools A charter school technically belongs to the public school systems group. But they differ in their ability to customize their curriculum, facilities, and school focus–since they are operated by independent organizations separate from the local school board. While they still have to meet basic state requirements, charter schools may choose to focus their education on college prep, a Montessori curriculum, fine arts, and more. Unlike traditional public schools, you can send your child to a charter school without needing to live in the school’s zip code. Private Schools A private school is an educational institution that’s independently funded and operated–utterly different from public schools. These schools are typically run by private organizations, religious institutions, or individuals and charge tuition fees for students to attend. Private schools have much more autonomy in their curriculum, teaching methods, and admissions processes than public schools. This autonomy allows them to offer specialized programs, smaller classes, and an extensive range of extracurricular activities. For example, a boarding school falls in the category of a private education. Homeschool Another option is homeschooling. This educational approach lets parents take on the primary responsibility for their child’s education. It involves designing and delivering a customized curriculum tailored to your child’s individual learning style, interests, and pace of learning. Homeschooling offers flexibility, allowing families to adapt to the learning environment and run on their own schedule. It’s important to note that this schooling option requires commitment, planning, and sometimes adherence to state or local homeschooling regulations. 10 Things to Consider When Choosing a School for Your Child 1. Teacher Qualifications Depending on what type of particular school you choose for your child, teachers often spend as much time with them, if not more, as parents themselves. That’s why looking at a school’s standard qualifications for their teachers is critical when it comes to education for your child. Most schools require teachers to have a Bachelor’s degree in an education field before they can begin teaching. But, some schools only hire teachers with a Master’s degree–giving them that extra bit of schooling to perfect their skills before mentoring your child. Another valuable teacher qualification is a certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). This certification signifies that a teacher has met rigorous standards set by their peers regarding their knowledge, skills, and commitment to excellence in teaching. This means your child’s teacher has gone above and beyond basic requirements for education. Lastly, look at the school’s policy for teacher continuing education. Are the teachers actively participating in professional development workshops, seminars, or courses to stay updated with the latest teaching methodologies? This ongoing learning ensures your child’s teachers have fresh ideas and strategies to enhance their classroom instruction. 2. The Commute As a busy mom, it’s important to make sure the school you choose for your child doesn’t cause major disruptions to your family’s routine. That might mean choosing a good school located only 10 minutes away compared to another great option an hour away from your home. Here’s another curveball: How much earlier will you have to leave in the morning to get your child to school or leave work to pick them up based on the school’s location? Also, check in to see whether the school provides transportation options. Many schools offer bus services, eliminating the need for you to personally drop off and pick up your child, and giving you more flexibility with your schedule. 3. Academic Performance Record (for 9th grade+) Truly find out a school’s quality of education by digging into their stats. Depending on the age of your child and school level, you can review a school’s dropout rate, standardized test scores, graduation rate, and college enrollment rate. This can help you make an informed decision about your child’s needs and education based on actual numbers. Important stats to know: 4. Teacher-to-Student Ratio Research shows that students in smaller classes perform better in all school subjects, participate more in class, and have a decreased crime-dependence outcome compared to kids in larger classes. Essentially, the smaller a teacher-to-student ratio, the more individualized attention they get to excel–this is especially great for kids with special needs who might

2023’s Best Thermometers For Your Family (with fast shipping)

Dani Wolfe October 14, 2023

As a mom, having a reliable and accurate thermometer at home is now more important than ever. A sick child is nothing to take lightly. If you’re dealing with a fever, you need to know how it’s progressing and what the exact temperatures are so you can make the decision to give medicine or seek help if the time comes. Knowing the importance of tracking a fever, we’ve scoured the market to bring you a handpicked selection of the most trusted, reliable, and fastest-shipped thermometers available. From your traditional thermometers to contactless and even smart digital ones with app integration, we’ve considered every aspect to ensure you find the perfect fit for your family’s needs. How to Choose a Thermometer for Different Ages When selecting a thermometer for your family, age is a significant factor. Not only are certain thermometers easier to use at different ages, but doctors also have specifics on what types little ones need to use. So before purchasing a new thermometer, take a look at the guidelines below from the Mayo Clinic on what type of thermometer is best for each age. Choosing a thermometer is easier when you know what type your family needs. You may even need to get two different thermometers if you have various ages in your home. Keep reading–this roundup will give you options for all your temperature-taking needs. 2023’s Best Thermometers For Your Family Best Overall Thermometer: iHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer With a 1-second reading time and non-touch design, there’s no wonder this iHealth thermometer made our list as the best overall family thermometer. Infrared thermometers are an excellent solution for families looking for easy temperature reading, no matter your kid’s age! Parents can also appreciate the silent notification feature on this thermometer. There are no beeps, dings, or sounds, just a gentle vibration when the reading is complete–perfect for sleeping babies! With over 164,833 reviews on Amazon and a 4.4/5 star rating, in our eyes, this family thermometer is a no-brainer. What we love Things to note Shipping: Amazon Prime ✔ Shop now Best Oral Thermometers Best Oral: Vicks ComfortFlex Digital Thermometer Vicks has been in the health game for over 125 years. Their products are reliable, durable, and straightforward. And their ComfortFlex digital thermometer matches right up with their brand pillars. If you want an oral thermometer that gets the job done quickly and accurately, this is for you! Not a pro at figuring out temperature baselines? When you have a sick kid on your hands, you’re stressed enough as it is. That’s why we absolutely love the color-coded temperature indicators on this thermometer. A green display suggests a normal temperature, yellow signifies an elevated temperature, and red indicates a high temperature. What we love Things to note Shipping: Amazon Prime ✔ Shop now Best Oral Runner-Up: Boncare Digital Oral Thermometer No more rushing to grab your thermometer only to find out it’s dead because you forgot to turn it off last time. Boncare saves parents the headache of having to remember to turn their thermometers off with their auto shut-down feature, ultimately saving battery life. We also love that it’s a 3-for-1 thermometer. Whatever your favorite method is to take a temperature reading, you can use it orally, rectally, or under the arm. What we love Things to note Shipping: Amazon Prime ✔ Shop now Best Non-Touch Thermometers Best Non-Touch: DISEN Non-Contact Thermometer Non-contact thermometers are great at helping prevent sickness in the family by avoiding cross-contamination. This DISEN thermometer not only made our list because it’s more sanitary, but it also holds up to 35 historical temperature readings so families can track any major temperature changes. Find out what a normal range baseline is for your child, or spot if a fever worsens over time. Not only that, but you can check how hot the water is or the temperature of any room you are in. Kind of a bonus feature of this thermometer! What we love Things to note Shipping: Amazon Prime ✔ Shop now Best Non-Touch Runner-Up: GoodBaby Digital Infrared Thermometer With ultra-sensitive sensors and the latest smart chip with an optimized algorithm, this thermometer delivers reliable readings and ensures excellent performance for your family. It’s fast, reliable, precise, and hygienic. Track your family’s last reading with up to 35 sets of data history held in your thermometer’s memory. Plus, a large backlit LCD screen display allows you to easily read temperatures day and night! What we love Things to note Shipping: Amazon Prime ✔ Shop now Best Underarm Thermometers Best Underarm: Kinsa Smart Thermometer If you’re looking for an underarm thermometer that does it all and more, this one’s for you. Not only do you get super-fast 8-second temperature readings, but you can also track every family member’s history in the Kinsa app. Set everyone up with their own profile and have all readings logged onto their personal charts. It even gives you suggestions for care and next steps based on temperatures. This thermometer is the perfect option for modern and techy parents. What we love Things to note Shipping: Amazon Prime ✔ Shop now Best Underarm Runner-Up: Safety 1st 3-in-1 Nursery Thermometer Safety 1st is a popular thermometer choice recommended by many hospitals. We love this thermometer because it’s simple, accurate, and super affordable at less than $6 to purchase. You can also choose your own way to check temperatures when your family isn’t feeling well–under the arm, orally, or rectally. But the flex tip is also something to note. Its comfort and flexibility are appreciated by both kids and parents. What we love Things to note Shipping: Amazon Prime ✔ Shop now Best Rectal Thermometers Best Rectal: Easy@Home Baby Rectal Thermometer When it comes to rectal thermometers for babies, you want speed, accuracy, comfort, and ease. The Easy@Home baby thermometer checks all those boxes. In only 10 seconds, determine if your baby is in the green, yellow, or red zone based on their temperature. Parents are also raving about this

Why Snack-Shaming Kids Is a Problem for Parents

Dani Wolfe September 28, 2023

Moms are linking arms and deciding to squash snack shaming once and for all after a 3-year-old was shamed for bringing a cup of Pringles to his son’s school. Yes, you read it correctly. Kid snack shaming is a real thing. Megan Peavey on TikTok recently sent her little boy to school with a snack-sized Pringles cup, only to have the words “Please help us make healthy choices at school” written in Sharpie on the package he brought home. “They snack-shamed my 3-year-old, they snack-shamed me, by writing that passive-aggressively on his trash,” Megan responded. As a mom of a toddler myself, this whole situation hit home. Of course, we try to provide healthy snacks like whole grains, granola bars, and low-fat dairy products. But when you’re juggling raising a kid, extreme picky eating, considering very age-appropriate snacks, holding down a career as a working mom, laundry, cleaning, planning family activities, and your own personal time, sometimes throwing in a Pringles snack cup into a lunch box is the mental break we need. When it comes to what we, and the adults in our kids’ lives, say in regard to food, we need to pay attention. Kids are like little sponges—soaking in everything and learning every single day. What’s said to them can easily affect their mental health and play a big role in how they develop. That’s why we want to dive into the effect snack shaming can have on children and tips to promote a more positive and inclusive attitude towards food. Snack shaming can contribute to eating disorders and an unhealthy relationship with food. Today’s parents, school officials, and preschool directors need to understand that labeling foods as “bad food” or “junk foods” can have the opposite effect, leading children to view certain foods as forbidden and more desirable. Instead, promoting a variety of foods, including healthy snacks, in a positive manner is the best way to encourage healthy eating habits. Megan’s follow-up videos on social media, including TikTok users’ comments and fellow parents’ support, highlight the need for schools to reconsider how they address food choices. Rather than a passive-aggressive note on an empty Pringles container, a phone call or a conversation with parents could be more effective. Additionally, schools should focus on teaching children about balanced eating without stigmatizing certain foods. The Negative Impact of Snack-Shaming Children Kid Snack shaming–or food shaming–can have a big impact on a child’s healthy relationship with food. Once we start labeling food as good or bad, we need to take a step back. We love how Michele Fumagalli, RD, a registered dietitian, puts it. “Food is food and has absolutely zero mortality.” And she’s 100 percent right. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and registered dietitians emphasize that a child’s appetite and body size vary, and children need to learn to listen to their own choices. Addressing childhood nutrition in a holistic manner, considering both physical and emotional needs, is crucial. Mental health counseling and support from family groups can also help children develop a healthy relationship with food. Michele also explains on her nutrition blog that “When we label something good or bad, feelings of guilt or praise arise, including food. Why should we feel these feelings every time we put food into our mouth and more importantly what toll does this take on our relationship with food, self, and our body?” According to another fantastic registered dietitian and clinical nutritionist, Alana Kessler, MS, RDN, notes that labeling food as good or bad can lead to: 28.8 million Americans will have an eating disorder in their lifetime. And on top of that? Eating disorders are linked to the highest risk of death from any mental illness. Knowing what food shaming is can be the first step to flipping the script. Examples of Kid Food Shaming In my experience as a mother, I have heard it all. My daughter is 1.5-years-old and I’ve already heard a handful of negative comments on her eating habits. “She needs more meat, she’s too skinny.” Or, “You’re really going to let her eat ice cream?” and even when I thought I was doing something right “She’s eating too many vegetables, where’s the good stuff?” Other kid food shaming examples include: Food shaming is either calling attention to what someone is eating or how much they are eating. And yes, it’s also still considered food shaming even if that person isn’t old enough to understand words yet. Promoting an Inclusive Attitude Toward Food For those looking to change their ways or start off on the right foot with their little ones when it comes to nutrition, here are two powerful tips from registered dietitians to promote a healthy outlook on food. Flipping the script Michele recommends rewording how we talk about food. “Good & bad” can be switched to “very nourishing & not-as-nourishing.” This takes the morality of food out of the picture. “Once we are aware of which not-as-nourishing foods, aka the food that make us really happy, but not our body, the key to balancing the amount we have of these foods comes down to self-respect, care and trust,” she notes. All food is nourishing–some just more than others. Don’t be overly restrictive Alana suggests avoiding being too restrictive towards food. The more you make a diet limited, the more likely you or your kids will develop a strained relationship with food. It’s okay to “treat” your family to ice cream and cake if it’s done in a positive setting. The key is balance and a good mindset. As moms, of course, we always strive for healthy choices when it comes to nourishing our kid’s bodies. But sometimes choosing to throw some chips into your child’s lunchbox for a school lunch over cutting up bite-sized fruits and vegetables is our small break for the day. And while even though some snack shaming is aimed at today’s parents, the kids are the ones being hurt the most. Rewording how we talk about and act around food with our kids can make a huge difference

Here’s Why More Women Are Freezing Their Eggs

Dani Wolfe September 27, 2023

Did you know women’s eggs have an expiration date? In fact, women who menstruate may lose about 1,000 of their eggs each month, which might be why more women are freezing their eggs these days. Thanks to decades of research and reproductive medicine, women can now freeze their eggs to extend their fertility. In 2019, more than 36,000 women in the U.S. froze their eggs. And that number of women has significantly risen each year since. But it turns out there’s more to it than just preserving a woman’s fertility. Freezing eggs is becoming a “social” trend instead of historically being medically focused. We’ve dug deep into why more women are freezing their eggs–keep reading for all the information! Reasons Why More Women Are Freezing Their Eggs Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, used to be mostly for medical reasons like cancer treatment, autoimmune diseases, and endometriosis. But nowadays, more women are choosing social egg-freezing for various personal reasons. Here’s why egg freezing is becoming a popular option for women. You haven’t found the right partner Finding the right partner to start a family with is a big decision. Many women know they want a family but just haven’t met the right person yet. Egg freezing offers peace of mind, allowing them to preserve their eggs while they continue their search. You want to focus on your career For many women, establishing a career before starting a family is important. They might want to achieve certain job titles or career goals first. Egg freezing lets them delay parenthood until they feel ready. This is also true for women who have children young and want to climb the professional ladder before having more kids. You’re Unsure If You Want Kids (or more) Some women aren’t sure if they want children, or more children if they already have some. With the biological clock ticking, freezing eggs takes the pressure off deciding right away, keeping their reproductive options open for the future. You want to be financially stable Financial stability is crucial when planning to raise children. Freezing eggs allows women to work toward their financial goals first, like buying a house, saving money, or paying off loans, before starting a family. The Egg Freezing Process Freezing your eggs takes a bit of preparation and consists of multiple steps. In totality, the process from start to freeze takes a couple of weeks. Seem a little longer than expected? That’s because time, preparation, and patience is the key to retrieving healthy eggs. The egg-freezing process consists of five steps, according to the experts at Johns Hopkins Health System. 1. Hormone injections This initial phase focuses on getting the body to produce a healthy batch of eggs. To do this, women have to self-inject themselves with two to three hormones each day for 10 to 12 days. These hormones stimulate a woman’s ovaries to produce multiple eggs, rather than just one naturally per menstrual cycle. 2. Ultrasounds During these hormone injections, doctors want to track the development of your eggs to see how they are progressing. During this period, you can expect four to six ultrasounds, blood work, and frequent check-ups. 3. Egg retrieval Once the ultrasounds and blood work results show your eggs are mature, it’s time to collect them. This involves an ultrasound-guided surgical procedure under anesthesia to carefully retrieve the eggs. The process normally takes between 20 and 30 minutes. 4. Egg examination An embryologist, or trained doctor that examines female eggs, will verify the eggs are mature enough and have the potential to become successfully fertilized at a later date. 5. Vitrification The fertility specialist will take healthy mature eggs and start them through a process called vitrification–a method of putting eggs into a quick deep freeze. Once they are fully frozen, they’re stored in liquid nitrogen tanks in an embryology lab until they are ready to be fertilized with a partner’s or a donor’s sperm which is done in vitro fertilization–or a laboratory dish. How long do frozen eggs last? Your eggs can essentially last indefinitely while frozen. However, most women typically use their eggs 5 to 10 years after freezing. A fertility center in Texas noted that babies have even been born from eggs that were frozen for more than a decade. The time frame is really a personal preference! Success Rates of Egg Freezing On average, women who thaw more than 20 mature eggs have a 58 percent chance of live birth. It’s also important to note that the younger a woman’s age is at freezing time, the more of a chance they have of successfully reaching birth. SO Women who freeze their eggs under 38 years old typically achieve a 70 percent live birth rate. Plus, the success rate remains unchanged regardless of how long the frozen egg storage time is. Egg Freezing Considerations When it comes to deciding to freeze your eggs, there are some considerations. Taking the time to thoroughly think through these factors will ensure you’re making an informed and well-prepared decision. Your age Age is one of the most important factors when it comes to freezing your eggs. The older you get, the lower the chances of finding healthy eggs for fertilization become. Doctors at Johns Hopkins Fertility Center note that women who freeze their eggs before age 40 have a higher chance of achieving pregnancy. But the golden age range for freezing eggs is usually between 32 and 38 years old–this is when it seems the most logical and balanced according to The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. Potential Side Effects of Egg Freezing It’s common for women to experience some mildly uncomfortable side effects from both the injection and retrieval parts of the egg-freezing process. This is why it’s important to know what you can expect before starting. Let’s take a look at each. Hormone injection side effects: Egg retrieval postoperative side effects: All of these side effects are very common and are typically not too severe. Most women help these subside with over-the-counter medicine, heating pads, and warm baths. Your fertility doctor will help you find

Strengthen the Bond Between You and Your Child [An Age-by-Age Guide]

Dani Wolfe September 25, 2023

No matter where you are on your parenting journey, bonding with your child is crucial for their emotional development and overall well-being. In fact, studies show that the stronger a parent-child relationship, the better social and academic skills your child will have. Whether you’re new parents, other family members, or a primary caretaker trying to connect with your infant, or a seasoned parent looking for new ways to bond with your teenager, there’s something here for everyone. In this age-by-age guide, we’ll explore different strategies and activities that can help you build a stronger connection and close relationships with your children in the early years and at each stage of their development as they grow up. Why Are Parent-Child Relationships Important? Parent-child relationships are vital for a child’s overall development. They provide a secure base from which children can explore the world, develop healthy self-esteem, and regulate their emotions going forward in life. Benefits of strong parent-child bonds: Choosing to invest time and effort into building a strong connection with your child will lay the foundation for their well-being and future success. Bonding exercises don’t have to be a chore. If you do it right, it can also be a rewarding experience for parents! Bonding With Your Child by Age Newborn (0 – 3 months) During the newborn stage, your new baby is beginning to explore the new world around them. While they may not understand your words yet, they rely heavily on your presence and responsiveness for a sense of security. Essentially, bonding with your newborn consists of touch and sound at this age. These gestures are extremely important to their development and one of the few methods they use for bonding. Bonding Activities: Infant (3 – 12 months) As your baby transitions into infancy, their world expands, and their interaction with you becomes more active. This is a great time to establish a stronger bond in new ways. Cognitive and social skills start to take shape, and they are more aware of their surroundings. This is an exciting time filled with new discoveries, milestones, and more opportunities for bonding. Bonding Activities: Toddler (1 – 3 years) Toddlers are bundles of energy and curiosity, to say the least, eager to explore the world around them. Every interaction is a learning opportunity for these young children. Nurturing your bond through new experiences, learning, and playtime during this stage will be the foundation for a secure relationship in the long run. Bonding with your child as a toddler involves play, affection, and setting time aside for learning. Bonding Activities: Preschooler (3 – 5 years) Preschoolers are becoming more independent and developing their own personalities each day. At this age, you will start to see their self-determination blossom. Strengthening the bond during this stage involves respecting their growing autonomy while still staying emotionally connected. Bonding Activities: Child (5 – 10 years) During this stage, your child is growing more rapidly than ever, both physically and emotionally. They are now developing their own identities, preferences, and hobbies like never before. Strengthening your bond now requires adaptability and support for your young adult. Bonding Activities: Young Adolescent (10 – 13 years) Your child undergoes significant physical and emotional changes in the young adolescent phase. Their bodies prepare for puberty and go through new, sometimes uncomfortable, shifts. Nurturing bonds with older children during this time involves providing support and understanding. Here are some things you can do to build your connection. Bonding Activities: Teenager (13 – 19 years) The teenage years can be challenging for both parents and young adults. But building and maintaining a strong bond during this time is crucial for supporting their emotional well-being, and simultaneously making the days less difficult. Bonding with your child as a teenager involves respecting their autonomy, open communication, and celebrating big milestones. Bonding Activities: Nurturing a Bond for Life Building a strong bond requires time, effort, and dedication regardless of your child’s age. But it doesn’t have to be challenging. Understanding their developmental needs and tailoring your parenting approach accordingly can create a lasting and loving connection with your child. Keep this age-by-age guide in your back pocket to reference the key activities for fostering a deep bond that will benefit you and your child throughout your lives.

First Night Out Without Your Baby? A Mother’s 7 Tips To Put Your Mind At Ease

Dani Wolfe August 30, 2023

Since day one, you’ve nurtured and cared for your baby. And now it’s been a while since the first day you brought baby home. You may feel the need to take some time out for yourself and to reconnect with the world outside of parenthood. There’s one problem. The thought of leaving your little one behind for a date night, meeting up with friends, or a business trip gives you crippling anxiety–I’ve been there too. Don’t let anyone make you think it’s not a big deal. I’m what they consider a classic worrywart mom. And if you are too, no shame to you. I’ve been there and done that, and now have seven essential tips that have personally helped me so I can share them all with new moms. With a little preparation, the first night out without your new baby can be a smooth and worry-free experience. Let’s get into the seven tips–I’m laying out all the pro insights! 1. Run through your usual nighttime routine the day before and make a list of essentials. The first thing you should do is walk through your baby’s entire evening routine and write down everything you use and need as you’re going through the motions. When you rub lavender lotion on your baby before bed, write it down. Turn that special ceiling projector night light on, and write that down too. Don’t forget about the necessities for night feeds either. From baby’s diaper stash and bottles to favorite toys and pajamas, write down everything your baby could possibly need while you’re out. After your evening routine is over, you should have a solid list of baby essentials for your night away. Making a list of these necessities will help you pack and set up appropriately and avoid last-minute panic or forgotten items. Meaning, a happier and more relaxed mom! 2. If you can, don’t travel too far. Sometimes you just can’t help what your first night away from baby looks like, especially for work trips. But if you can control it, staying close to home–or wherever your sitter happens to be–helps lessen any anxieties you might have. I personally only went out 15 minutes away from my baby. Whatever the distance is, it’s important that you’re comfortable with it, if you can be. You’ll get more of a sense of security and comfort knowing you’re only a short drive away in the event you need to pick your little one up or head home. This gives you more time to relax and enjoy your much-deserved time out. 3. Ask for pictures, often. Asking for pictures is not a sign of overprotectiveness or distrust. It’s a natural and healthy way to stay connected with your baby while you’re gone. I texted my sitter every 45 minutes asking for pictures on my first night out–and I don’t feel bad either. Please don’t hesitate to bug your babysitter, family member, or trusted friend. When you’re out and about, receiving pictures of your little one definitely brings a sense of comfort and reassurance. A new mom’s mind can be… well, a bit overwhelming. But when you physically witness your baby’s happiness and safety from a photo or video, you’ll get a big breath of relief. Just the sight of their cute smiling face or peaceful slumber can help put your mind at ease. 4. Don’t be afraid to write out instructions. Write out a whole book if you have to. This tip saved me so much worry and anxiety about steps being missed or major routines being forgotten. Even if your sitter has experience with newborn babies, every kid is unique and may have specific needs or preferences. Don’t feel bad listing everything out. Providing clear and detailed instructions for your sitter will ensure they have all the tools they need to take care of your little one. Then you can enjoy some much-needed time for yourself knowing your newborn baby literally comes with a manual for everything they need. 5. Don’t plan too much. If you’re having anxiety about being away, try not to overload your schedule with too many activities. Funny enough, my dad actually gave me this advice. The first time he and my mom were away from me they planned dinner, bowling, and a movie. Long story short, they only made it through dinner and quickly headed back home to me. Keep your night out simple if you can, and leave room for flexibility. Remember, if you’re having a hard time you can cut the night short anytime you want, even if it’s just a couple of hours–there are no penalties. 6. Have backups of everything. When it comes to baby essentials, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. I’m sure you know by now that diaper blowouts aren’t that rare. And that accidentally spilling a bottle and wasting milk isn’t out of the question. The best thing you can do is prepare an extra set of clothes, diapers, bottles, and milk. Plus, here’s your little reminder that breastfeeding parents will need to pump double breast milk too. Having backups will give you peace of mind and ensure everything goes smoothly, even if messy situations arise. 7. Trust your gut – spell out your list of no-nos. As a parent, you know your baby best. Whenever you are uncomfortable or don’t want your babysitter to do certain things, please let them know. This was on my no-no list for my first night out: Don’t feel bad giving your sitter this list. Trust your instincts and clearly communicate your preferences. Getting everyone on the same page will help create a positive and safe experience for both you and your baby. Hey Mom, you’ve got this! The first night out without your baby can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for new parents. But trust me, with these seven tips in your pocket, your night will be less anxious and more relaxing. Know your little one is well-cared for because you did