Parenting and family news covering child development, family health, education tips, and resources for parents and caregivers.
This commentary argues that rising child drowning deaths in the US are largely preventable through multiple layers of protection, including supervision, swimming lessons, pool barriers, and life jackets. It emphasizes that drowning is often quiet and not as depicted in media, and calls for updated public health measures.
The commentary argues that popular narratives blaming screens for adolescent mental health crises outpace current evidence. It suggests that one-size-fits-all screen time limits are ineffective, and that managing digital media use should consider developmental milestones, parental mediation, and the context of children's online activities.
This commentary argues that the popular narrative blaming screens and smartphones for an adolescent mental health crisis runs ahead of the evidence. The author contends that one-size-fits-all solutions are not effective and that managing digital media use should consider developmental milestones, parental behavior, and how children use screens to connect and learn.
This commentary argues that the trend of pregnant women proudly displaying their bellies reflects a generational shift toward body positivity, contrasting with past norms of hiding bumps under loose clothing. It suggests that social media and celebrity influence have normalized this style, empowering women to embrace their changing bodies.
The author reflects on how digital life and parenting intertwined, arguing that constant screen use—whether for work or social media—made her less present for her children. She contends that the same distracted face, regardless of purpose, affects children's perception of attention and connection.
The author recounts her traumatic experience with placenta accreta and emergency surgery after childbirth, arguing that the emotional and physical aftermath of such complications is often overlooked. She contends that families are not necessarily safe after the immediate crisis, highlighting the need for better postpartum support and awareness.
This commentary argues that maintaining relationships with loved ones despite deep disagreements is possible through patience and commitment. It uses the story of a mother and daughter navigating a rift over the daughter's sexuality to illustrate how love can coexist with differing convictions, suggesting that prioritizing connection over being right can heal divides.
This commentary argues that common parental phrases like 'Fine. Do whatever you want' teach children passive-aggressive behavior. It contends that such indirect communication masks true feelings and suggests more direct, honest alternatives to foster healthier emotional expression in children.
This commentary argues that emerging research on male preconception alcohol consumption suggests potential risks to fetal development, challenging the common focus on maternal drinking. It contends that both parents should consider abstaining when trying to conceive, based on animal studies showing effects on offspring.
This commentary argues that autistic children face a significantly higher risk of drowning and that adaptive swim lessons can reduce this danger. It suggests that traditional swim instruction often fails to meet the unique needs of autistic learners, and calls for specialized training for instructors and practical safety strategies for families.