May 23, 2024

The latest in parenting news, tips, and trends:

How some parents are guilty of “golden child syndrome” and may not even know it. Good news: Change is possible.

Father's Day is on the horizon and we're thinking of these Dope Black Dads, "Dadurdays," and the bathroom worries #girldads face.

The (unnecessary) judgment one mom faced for how she deals with postpartum rage — and the kind of support that could change the game in the future. 

How scientists figured out how much energy it really takes to carry a baby. We’ll be taking that nap now, thanks.

Why exposing your kids to sarcasm can actually be a good thing. Surprise, surprise. 

PS: This new program helps get diapers to babies who need them most.

Last week, we asked you to vote on a question to answer. The winner was:

My child is shy. When do I push them into social situations and when do I hold back?

FEATURED EXPERT:

Tasha M. Brown, PhD

licensed clinical psychologist and founder of TMB Psych Services.

Think about frequency: It’s a good idea to help children feel as comfortable as possible in situations they’ll be in and with people they’ll be around often, says Brown. 

Two places to start: 

• At school. That’s because not only will they be there often, but they’ll also have to navigate it without you, she says. One counterintuitive way to do that: Get to know other children and parents after school hours. "The more opportunities to socialize with children who will be in a similar school setting, the more comfortable your child will be in that setting," says Brown.

• At sports and activities. “For example, if your child attends a dance class after school and they are going to be around their classmates two to three times a week, you can encourage and push your child to make friends, speak to people, and initiate conversations.” 

’Tis the season to soak up every possible second outside. For us, that means experimenting on the grill and eating dinner al fresco as much as possible. So here’s some inspo for when your fam’s craving something other than (the also very delicious) hot dogs and burgers: grilled quesadillas, kebabs, stuffed peppers, lamb meatball gyros, and pizza. And when you’re ready for dessert? Grilled peaches and (ice) cream are a guaranteed hit. 

If you need a grill — or grill pan, or tongs, or spatula — to get going, Wayfair’s Memorial Day Clearance is the time to grab them. Shop now through May 28 to save up to 30% on grills, up to 50% on outdoor furniture, and up to 70% on other updates for your patio, backyard, and beyond.

We have thoughts. This week, we ranked the must-haves for flying with kids, from 0–10. No science, just snark.

Hard pass 

1/10.  Buying unnecessary products, like an airplane bed, seat extender, or footrest pillow. It takes up valuable real estate — plus you’ll have to carry, deflate, and re-pack it. No, just no.

2/10. Holding your baby in your lap. We love the money this saves, but it comes with other costs like tired arms, your comfort level, and possibly your child’s safety.

Ehh

5/10. Bringing your child’s lovey on board. On one hand, it gives kids a sense of comfort and helps with plane naps. On the other, if you forget it on the plane you should just turn around and go home.

More of this 

10/10 All the snacks. Use them as a distraction to stave off hanger or boredom, or as a bribe during airline delays. (PS: One mom calls this one her secret weapon.)

10/10 Screens. Let’s keep it real: Downloading their favorite show or apps on an iPad keeps kids entertained — and you more relaxed. Plus, screen time doesn’t count when you’re in the air. Permission granted.

PS: This travel stroller and bag are our favorites for getting around the airport and keeping your stroller scratch-free after gate check. 

We get how tough it can be to navigate friendships while figuring out motherhood, so let us help.

Every week, Skimm Well delivers the latest health news, expert-backed tips, and scripts with conversation starters to help you navigate weirdly hard life things, like making adult friends.

What Do You Get the Dad Who Has Everything? 

It’s tough, but with Father's Day coming up, we have a few gift ideas that might help.

Get this for the dad who… 

Loves building…a full body customizable MineBrick figurine. Just upload a photo of him and this service will design a matching character, including clothes and hairstyle. Bonus: He can assemble it himself.

Just wants to start a fire…the Solo Stove Mesa tabletop fire pit. It works with either wood or pellets and is small enough that it’s great for apartment balconies or backyard tables — just be safe.

Appreciates a good steak…two USDA prime dry-aged porterhouse steaks from the iconic Peter Luger’s, shipped to you. It comes with their signature steak sauce and chocolate coins. Plus, you can add bacon, too.