Slack, email, text messages, DMs—it doesn’t matter the medium, my millennial self never shies away from the addition of a casual “lol.” No, I’m not laughing out loud, but rather inserting it as more of a personality check. It’s a way to soften the delivery of any given statement, whether I’m messaging my best friend…or my boss.
 
A quick search of my text messages confirmed: I’d used lol a whopping 19 times in the past couple of weeks alone. For example, to joke with my sister about the length of a recent trip (“long drive lol”). Also, in discussion with a friend about an irritating exchange (“not that I’m disgruntled about that lol”). Heck, I’d even employed it to talk about the state of a recent work assignment (“I’d welcome your edits lol!”).
 
For the record, Gen Z is over our use of it. “Millennials use ‘lol’ like STOP at the end of a telegram lol,” one X user wrote. It’s true: When I searched my texts, I noticed I wasn’t the only millennial typing lol on repeat. A teacher friend (also a millennial) texted about my 8-year-old: “He’s not supposed to grow up this fast, lol”. I also got this from a pregnant millennial mom friend sharing her current state of being in her first trimester: “extreme fatigue and nausea lol”.

But as TikToker Anna Gaddis recently stressed: Our “lol” isn’t a boisterous, exuberant laugh. Dr. Albert Bonfil, who is the director of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Los Angeles, likened the use of lol to a nervous tic. In a recent interview with The Guardian, he said it can serve as a “digital form of body language,” both softening a statement and conveying friendliness. That tracks.

I’ll admit that after being assigned this story, I was even more conscious of my reliance on “lol.” But as I looked at my use cases, I felt a bit of forgiveness toward myself—and millennials everywhere—for our frequency in typing it.

After all, and FWIW, millennials didn’t always have virtual communication methods at their fingertips. That transition to texting and email happened in real time (I was in college when I opened my first email account). The process of adapting how I expressed myself for digital formats included a ton of education about tone. (Ask me about my first Boston-based internship and the rule book we had about reading—and re-reading—every single piece of digital correspondence.) No wonder millennials go to great lengths to account for the subtext of our text messages, specifically how they land.

As one user said in reply to Gen Z and in the comments section of Gaddis’s TikTok—which has since racked up 6 million views: “These youths better stop telling the generation that shaped internet and texting culture how to be on the internet & text.” (Here, here.)

Still, why do I lean on it so heavily? Is it the conversational equivalent of saying “like” too much or—worse—undermining my own credibility, assertiveness and feelings rather than owning them outright?

I’m going to definitively answer my own question and say…no. For millennials, lol is an effort to keep things lighthearted; to not be a downer; to infuse digital interactions with levity and nuance, the same way we’d do in real life. (The trade-off is that you want to stay cautious about how you employ it in more serious digital communications—i.e. it’s probably best not to use it all that often at work unless you truly mean you’re laughing out loud.)

Will I adjust my frequency of use? Perhaps. But while Gen Z can come after our side parts and skinny jeans, when it comes to lol, I stand affirmed in my use.

Is the Gen Z Breast Rest the New Millennial Teapot Pose?

• Value: 18/20
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TOTAL: 95/100

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and some items may be gifted to us. Additionally, PureWow may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here.

Traveling becomes a lot more daunting (and cumbersome) when you have a baby in tow. Even quick day trips can feel like a project when you’re hauling all kinds of gear, managing feeding and naptime routines and, you know, just trying to enjoy life with minimal meltdowns.

When we heard that SlumberPod, the company behind the PureWow Happy Kid Award-winning, PureWow100-vetted (and Shark Tank-featured) sleep tent, was launching a travel crib, we got curious. Especially when we learned that the crib, called the SlumberGo, is designed to be lightweight (under 18 pounds) and fold up to fit in a TSA-friendly backpack that fits into overhead bins when flying, we had to test it out. Aly Owens, our senior director of social strategy and mom to a nearly 7-month-old, tried it out ahead of the SlumberGo’s launch. Here’s her honest review and photos, so you can decide for yourself whether it’s worth ordering before your next trip.

What Is the SlumberGo?

aly owens

Simply put, the SlumberGo is a playard that folds up to a TSA-compliant 23-inch by 9-inch rectangle and comes with a travel case, so you can tote it like a backpack. It’s designed to be used on its own, but it also fits under the SlumberPod, so you can create a fully portable sleep nook to help your baby wind down, no matter where you are.

Our Review of the SlumberGo

It Takes the Stress Out of Traveling

Traditional playard vs. SlumberGo, for size comparison (Original photo: aly owens)

Owens was immediately impressed with how easy setup and teardown was. “It was the easiest process I think I’ve had with any baby item, to be honest,” she shares. It took her one minute and 48 seconds to set it up out of the box—including the time it took to read the instructions—and every time after that, 45 seconds or less.

“I feel like packing up is always the most daunting part, because things never seem to go back to being as compact as they were upon initially opening them, but the process was super straightforward and simple,” she says. Owens timed that too, and the first time, it took two minutes—and actually went back to its original folded size, without issue, and after that, it took just one minute and 30 seconds. “As a new mom, any task that takes less than two minutes is great in my book.”

The Mattress Is Breathable *And* Comfy

aly owens

But what about comfort? Of course, ease of setup means nothing if your kid can’t stand actually being in the playard. SlumberGo exceeded expectations on that front too.

“It feels very sturdy, and I particularly like the mattress,” she says. “I feel like the mattresses in most pack-and-plays I’ve used are so flimsy—and seem so uncomfortable. This mattress feels thicker but is still firm and safe for sleep.”

On that note, the SlumberGo features a Bedgear-designed Air-X mattress, which is engineered to maximize airflow and breathability, preventing overheating. It also features mesh on all sides, with a zippered door at the front to make it easier to pick up your baby without having to lean over the side of the playard.

One Thing Worth Noting

aly owens

Price-wise, the SlumberGo is comparable to other travel cribs on the market. However, while it is compact, it’s not the lightest out there. At 17.2 pounds, it’s a bit heavier than the Guava Family Lotus ($300) and BabyBjörn Travel Crib ($230), which clock in at 15 pounds and 13 pounds, respectively. It’s something to consider as you weigh your options, though in our book, its overall portability, sturdiness and quality of the mattress more than make up for the extra weight.

The Bottom Line: SlumberGo All Out

aly owens

On its own, the SlumberGo makes for a great travel crib and playard. If you travel frequently or your baby is having issues sleeping, it could be worth going all out for the Baby Dreams Bundle, which includes the SlumberPod to pop over the playard and create what’s essentially a private nook for your little one. (The bundle is also 24 percent off right now, saving you $117.50 for the duo.)

The Stroller Accessory Every Bougie Baby in NYC Is Rocking This Season

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New parents, I see you. As a second-time mom to a now 16-month-old, I honestly blocked the all-too-common marital squabble that afflicts parents of young children: the debate about which parent is the most sleep-deprived. (Hint: It’s mom. It’s always the mom.)

No, there isn’t math involved. No one is keeping formal sleep logs. It’s more anecdotal and something that hits in the form of a morning-after tabulation: “I am so tired,” the parent who logged the most sleep utters. “Oh, really? You’re tired?,” the parent who clocked much (much) less retorts.

But here’s the thing: This type of passive aggressive back-and-forth isn’t meant to be unkind. Instead, Melissa Paul, LCSW, a licensed couples therapist and the founder of MLP Therapy Group in Brooklyn, New York, says it ladders up to a more important question that needs to be addressed: Are you mad at each other or are you mad at the baby? It can be helpful to talk out.

After all, the baby is the person who caused you both to break your typical sleep routines. “No one wants to get mad at their child for waking them up, but we can displace our anger onto a partner who is sleeping soundly while we’re up in the middle of the night,” Paul explains.

In fact, the coping mechanism of displacement moves our feelings toward a safer target. “Your baby’s needs become your husband’s fault.” Recognizing where your next-day reaction is stemming from can help you shift from a place of anger toward acceptance that this is what your child needs from you right now. (It’s not forever, le sigh.)

There is an element of reading the room, of course. But sleep is a basic biological need and if we aren’t getting enough, it takes a toll on our ability to function—and be civil to each other (oops).

Yes, it’s irksome to hear someone who managed to get seven of their typical 8.5 hours of slumber lament the hardship. But just because it feels like a personal attack (you were up every hour on the hour consoling a teething baby, after all), the resentment is likely stemming from somewhere else, per Paul. (The loss of your own routine, how tired you truly are, how much you want your own sacrifice to be noticed, just to scratch the surface.)

After all, middle-of-the-night wakeups are grueling, especially when they’re cumulative. A better approach with your partner is to come up with a strategy that works for everyone before the night begins. “Maybe you alternate nights or one partner covers the first half of the night while the other takes the morning shift, so everyone gets at least one solid block of sleep,” Paul suggests. Heck, you could even spot each other for next-day naps. “Having clear expectations can help eliminate passive-aggressive tension and allow everyone to go into the evening—and morning after—with a sense of a plan rather than dread and annoyance.”

And if blaming the baby feels like saying the quiet part out loud, be kind to yourself. It doesn’t mean you don’t love them any less. It’s more a way to articulate exactly where your frustration is coming from. Healthy marital communication goals, unlocked.

Marriage Counselors Want Couples to Ban These 2 Words from Their Arguments

On a recent afternoon post-school pickup with my son, he wanted to take a bit of a detour in order to walk home side-by-side with his friend. My mind immediately started doing mental calculations. I have to pick up his brother from daycare, make dinner, prod my child to do his homework, but OK! If we walk just one block in the wrong direction, then course-correct a few blocks later, we won’t sacrifice too much time. Done.

But as I chatted away with his bestie’s mom, things took a turn. Our two boys suddenly found a couple of super cool sticks (a rarity on a Brooklyn sidewalk) and paused to begin chiseling away at a few epic mounds of icy snowfall. “We’re carving rocks!” they shouted ahead. “Come on, kids!” I encouraged, gently at first. But soon I was applying more pressure: “We need to pick up your brother. I need you to start walking…now.” (I wasn’t yelling, just using the sternest public-facing mom voice I could muster.)

This is also the exact moment I joked with my friend: “So much for slow parenting, I guess.” Externally, I was laughing, but inside, I felt nothing but mom guilt.

What Is Slow Parenting?

At its core, slow parenting is defined rather simply: It’s centered around the art of slowing down. Less plans, less extracurricular activities—the goal instead is to let kids play, explore and experience the world at their own pace. Think of it this way: Grown-ups are always rushing and pressed for time. Rather than pressuring kids to match our rhythm, slow parenting encourages us to make an effort to match theirs, prioritizing quality over quantity and being present and intentional above all else.

In fact, the slow parenting movement is so popular, searches for “slow motherhood” saw a 310 percent increase in growth for 2026, according to Pinterest’s first-ever Parenting Trend Report.

Here’s Why It’s Unrealistic

As a movement, slow parenting is beautiful in theory, but in practice it’s something else. Don’t get me wrong: I’d love to celebrate the beauty that is two kids carving out imaginary ice rocks in the freshly fallen Brooklyn snow, but at 5 p.m. on a weeknight, the realities of child-rearing (especially in a world with limited and expensive childcare options) rear their ugly head.

After all, if I’m late to daycare pickup, I pay overtime; if I don’t get dinner on the table on time, homework is delayed, and thus, so is bedtime. Working full-time adds to the pressure: Unless I outsource the laundry, the meal prep and the actual meal making, I’ve got to find time for it all, on top of being accountable to every paycheck-driven deadline, not to mention keeping tabs on the school emails, the doctor’s appointments and summer camp bookings. It’s a lot.

In order to stay on top of it all, I find myself facing frequent moments where I have to hurry my son along; also, a need to over-schedule his time. Of course, I would love to give my kid time to go at their own pace and stumble upon their own interests as they arise. But keeping an iron-clad routine that inevitably exposes my kid to soccer practice on one day and sculpture making on another serves a dual purpose: It bridges the childcare gap when moms are under maximum pressure and there are a million moving parts.

BTW, boundary-setting is another piece that’s inherent to the slow parenting movement and one that has me scratching my head. It dovetails with ‘gentle parenting’—the idea that respect, communication and empathy (no threats or yelling) should always come first. Slow parenting, in theory, yields more time to see this through and, most importantly, hold the line. But, again, with all that parents are juggling these days, sometimes survival mode—i.e. caving to avoid the power struggle—has to kick in. (No, this doesn’t make me a bad parent, per Psychology Today.)

Don’t Get Me Wrong—I Love the Movement

I get it, life increasingly is over-scheduled—not just for parents, but for kids, too. But unless we want to address the systemic problems of way-too-expensive childcare and the rising costs of inflation that make the cost of living sky-high, too, slowing down and juggling less in order to stay more present with our kids still feels aspirational to me.

In a perfect world, motherhood shouldn’t be rushed. It would be a dream to release the pressure valve that materializes as the mental load so that family logistics didn’t feel like a cornerstone of every mom’s brain. After all, the quiet, unrushed moments are my favorite moments; they remind me why I became a parent in the first place. I truly enjoy my kids and the effort that goes into raising them. It’s the greatest privilege of my life.

All I’m saying is that moms need a bit more backup in order for slow parenting to authentically be carried out. (A rich partner? A trust fund? Speaking of privilege, it really does feel like a movement born from that.)

There Are a Few Intentional Changes I’d Like to Make

Like I said, this doesn’t mean I’m rejecting slow parenting; I aspire to achieve it—realistically. There are things I can do right now to take steps in the right direction. For one thing, I can remove things that zap my attention (a constantly pinging phone on the walk home from school, channeling confidence when it comes to saying ‘no’ to things that aren’t worth my time). I like the idea of deliberately resisting the noise, but again, that has to be within reason. (If I have to take a work call from the playground, so be it.)

Additionally, I can be more intentional about dedicating reliable space for family time. Just this week, I talked to my husband about putting our phones on the charger between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. every night in order to be more present and attentive with our kids. Or making every Sunday a ‘yes’ day for our children and seeing where it leads. (Again, within reason.)

At the end of the day, it does matter that I notice the good stuff. My 16-month-old’s effort to form words, which results in the most adorable amalgamations. My 8-year-old’s burgeoning efforts at friendship and kindness. (He really notices people and their interests—it’s the sweetest and something I never want to miss.) 

But if slow parenting is the exception and not the rule in my household, that’s OK, too.

Two Days of Gentle Parenting Nearly Broke Me

I, for one, am entirely in favor of this kind of government intervention—if for no other reason than that the rules I attempt to impose in my own home are so easy for my kids to disregard; I don’t have the resources or the power to make such a sweeping decision with any success. That said, I don’t see a similar bill being passed stateside anytime soon, so I went to a licensed psychologist with the nagging question du jour: How do you effectively teach kids digital literacy skills? Read on for her hot take on the breaking news out of Australia, plus her actionable advice on how to ensure that our kids engage with social media safely.

Meet the Expert

Dr. Bethany Cook, PsyD, MT-BC, is a licensed clinical psychologist and author of For What It’s Worth: A Perspective on How to Thrive and Survive Parenting. She's a sought-after therapist and quoted media expert who brings accessible, real-world guidance to families of all socioeconomic and mental health backgrounds, based on more than 20 years of clinical experience in the field.

Is a Government-Sanctioned Ban on Social Media a Good Idea?

From AI to new social media platforms, technological developments are happening so rapidly that it’s hard for most of us to even catch up, let alone predict and respond to the unintended consequences of this “progress.” Government restrictions on access to technology are quite controversial for a number of reasons. (Censorship and governmental overreach come to mind.) Still, there’s a compelling case to be made for this kind of action—and, at the very least, it’s a debate worth having. I asked Dr. Cook what she thought about the social media ban in Australia, and here’s what she said:

“I believe placing a ban on social media for vulnerable youth is a responsible and forward-thinking decision,” she says. “We now have far more research than we did when social media first became widely accessible to children. Long-term studies are showing consistent links between heavy social media use and rising rates of anxiety, depression, sleep disruption, body image issues, attention difficulties and increased risk of self-harm in youth. The adolescent brain is still developing, particularly in areas related to impulse control, emotional regulation and reward processing. Social media platforms are intentionally built around instant feedback, comparison and dopamine driven engagement. That combination makes young users especially vulnerable.”

As the risks involved with social media has become clearer—with research backing it up—"governments have a responsibility to respond,” Dr. Cook shares. “We regulate alcohol, tobacco and gambling because developing brains are more susceptible to harm. The same logic can apply to digital environments that show measurable psychological impact.”

Essentially, countries that choose to limit youth access are not rejecting technology. They are recognizing that innovation without guardrails can carry unintended consequences. When a nation places mental health and human development above monetization, it signals a long-term investment in societal stability.

How to Teach Kids Digital Literacy Skills

At this point, if you’re reading this from anywhere outside of Australia, you’re probably wondering how you can protect your kids in the absence of a major government intervention. Below, you will find Dr. Cook’s top strategies for teaching digital literacy skills, starting from the toddler age all the way through the tween and teen years.

1. Create Device-Free Zones and Times

Set clear boundaries such as no phones at meals, no devices in bedrooms overnight and a consistent screen cutoff time. This protects sleep, reduces power struggles over screen time and models healthy limits. Even if your child is too young to be interacting with social media—the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends waiting until at least age 13—you still want to get a headstart on setting screen-time rules across the board. (Trust me, it’s really hard to go backwards.) Rules work best when parents follow them too.

2. Teach Them How Platforms Are Designed

Have an honest conversation about how social media makes money. Explain algorithms in simple terms. Help them understand that apps are designed to keep them scrolling, liking and watching. When kids understand that they are being influenced, they gain power; awareness reduces manipulation.

3. Separate Self-Worth from Metrics

Talk openly about likes, followers and comments. Make it clear that numbers are not a measure of value. Show them how people can ‘pay’ for likes or followers and much of what they see is a facade. Ask questions like, “How did you feel when that post didn’t get many likes?” Help them notice emotional reactions and reframe them. Reinforce that real life relationships matter more than digital approval.

4. Teach Critical Thinking About Content

Ask guiding questions when scrolling together. Who made this? What are they trying to sell or promote? Is this realistic? Is this edited? This builds skepticism in a healthy way and strengthens media literacy. Children should learn that not everything online reflects reality.

5. Practice Emotional Check-Ins

Encourage children to notice how they feel before and after using social media. Energized or drained? Connected or left out? Confident or insecure? Helping them track their emotional patterns builds internal awareness, which is a core digital literacy skill.

6. Set Clear Privacy and Safety Rules

Teach them never to share personal information, location, school details or private photos. Go through privacy settings together. Explain screenshots and permanence. A helpful phrase is, “If you wouldn’t want it on a billboard, don’t post it.”

7. Roleplay Difficult Situations

Practice what to do if they see bullying, receive inappropriate messages, or feel pressured to send images. Give them scripts. For example, “I’m not comfortable with that,” or “I’m logging off.” When children rehearse responses, they are more likely to use them in real time.

8. Keep Communication Open and Non-Reactive

The goal is not surveillance, it is connection. Let your child know they will not lose access immediately if they come to you with a mistake or concern. If children fear punishment, they hide problems. If they trust the support, they ask for help.

5 Signs Your Child’s Social Media Habit Has Turned Toxic (& What You Can Do About It, According to Experts)

Reader, it’s a rare moment when you meet a bag that’s not only perfect for travel, but also something that (stylishly) reduces the back-breaking burden of mom life. At least, that’s how I felt when I met the Nik carry-all from MZ Wallace.

At the time, I wasn’t planning a review—I was simply another parent trying to get a grip on the expansive range of things I needed to carry on a trans-Atlantic—and bucket list—vacation to London, Paris and Copenhagen with an infant and 7-year-old by my side. On past trips, I’d of course tested backpacks or more kid-friendly packing options to help keep my family organized, but for this two-week getaway, I wanted a bag that allowed me to both pare down and have an organized space for every essential. Think passports and pacifiers, but also a good book and an iPad fully loaded with Bluey. (That barely scratches the surface of what I was able to ultimately fit, but it gives you an idea.)

When it came time to finally start loading up this carry-all, I was floored. Not only by the sheer number of compartments—there are 16 in total—but also how light the bag remained no matter how many items I stuffed into it. (It helps that, when empty, it clocks in at just over 2 pounds.) There’s more: The padded handles, the luggage sleeve, even a detachable pouch that clips on the inside (you better believe that’s where I tucked my most critical item—ahem, the pacifiers).

As I carried the Nik onto the plane to Heathrow, then the Chunnel to Paris, then finally, on a short flight to Copenhagen, it stayed pretty and chic—but most importantly, I saved myself countless minutes rustling around in my bag in search of so many miscellaneous—yet must-have—items.

The Specs

MZ Wallace

The Nik measures 7 inches wide and 12 inches tall with a nearly 17-inch length (yes, it easily accommodates a 13- or 16-inch laptop). It also features an adjustable strap—with an extended length of up to 50 inches—and a handle that has an 11-inch drop.

It’s made from MZ Wallace’s signature material (called REC Oxford Fabrication) and it features an Italian leather trim. But most important of all, it includes nine interior pockets—designed to accommodate everything from a laptop or iPad to sunglasses to your phone—as well as seven exterior pockets, which can handle a water bottle, even an umbrella. Last, but not least, there’s a detachable pouch that clips onto a dedicated clasp on the interior.

The entire bag zips fully closed.

What Makes It Such a Stand-Out

Rachel Bowie

As I mentioned, there are a few stand-out details about the Nik that make it such a beloved carry-all tote:

• How light it feels, even fully loaded
• The padded straps
• The sheer number of compartments (16 in total)
• The sanity-saving effect of having a pocket for everything

I’ll start with the bag’s aesthetics. It’s sleek and sophisticated—i.e. I could just as easily carry this on an international trip to Europe with a drooling baby and kid who wants snacks, the iPad, something to do, stat, as I could carry it on a day trip sans my family. I’ll admit that I am the person in my family that keeps track of all the details. I carry the passports, the change of clothes, the various water bottles and, of course, magazines for my own in-flight entertainment. I was blown away that there were enough pockets to dedicate to individual members of my family and found myself reaching for essential items so seamlessly when the need arose. (Passports at security? Those are right here; the iPad while we get ready for take-off? Let me cue that right up.)

As our journey continued, the Nik also became a welcome spot to stash memorable and nice-to-have items—my son’s travel journal that he began taking notes in whenever we had down time, but also ticket stubs and other mementos that I knew I might want to hold onto down the road. It’s a bag that yields an “everything in its place” kind of feeling while simultaneously being the one I voluntarily carried. (“You’ve got the suitcases, right? I’ll get this one and the kids!” I’d say to my spouse.)

It’s true that traveling with kids more often than not leaves parents feeling frazzled. The Nik alleviated that feeling for me, both as I navigating the varying needs and emotions of my own clan, but also in the confidence I projected as I moved throughout my travels. It’s such a nice feeling to know exactly where the phone charger is; ditto my kid’s Instax camera that he loves to tote whenever we take a special trip.

For moms especially, the mental load is so real. The Nik gave me a chance to physically manifest it in a way that left me feeling stylish, but most importantly prepared.

I’ve Flown 34,863 Miles with Kids on My Lap—Here Are the 11 Items That Saved Me

“You’d like some juice, please,” she said, stressing the word please in a way that made it clear this was not a suggestion.

My son had his headphones on and looked up, slightly embarrassed, and tried again. Politely. She then turned and delivered the same manners refresher to his sister sitting next to him.

And let me tell you—I was thrilled.

Not because I think my kids are absolute terrors (they certainly can be, but in a normal way…I think?). But because someone else—an adult stranger with authority—had stepped in to help me do the exhausting, endless work of raising non‑jerks. To which I say…thank you!

It’s a moment that has stuck with me and echoes a video I saw on Instagram recently where soft skills expert Grace McCarrick argues that one reason Gen Z allegedly lacks “common sense” is because sometime in the 90s, adults stopped parenting other people’s kids. The result, she says, is a generation that understands what’s normal inside their own family unit, but not necessarily what’s expected out in public.

As an example, she notes that back in the day, if you wore a baseball cap indoors, an adult would tell you to take it off. You didn’t debate the philosophy of headwear. You just took it off.

And sure, you can argue about whether hats indoors are a hill worth dying on. But the main point is this: Somewhere along the way, we quietly agreed that correcting someone else’s child is taboo. And I’m not convinced that’s a good thing.

Parenting has become radically individual at the exact moment when it’s also become unbearably hard. We talk wistfully about “the village,” but flinch the second anyone actually tries to act like a villager.

Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt explains this shift in his bestselling book, The Anxious Generation. In the 80s and 90s, repeated news stories about child abuse rightly led to better reporting and awareness. But the unintended side effect was a growing belief that other adults, in general, couldn’t be trusted around children.

This led to more fearful parenting with fewer unsupervised kids in public spaces and fewer adults intervening with children who weren’t their own.

“But when adults step away and stop helping each other to raise children, parents find themselves on their own,” writes Haidt. “Parenting becomes harder, more fear-ridden, and more time-consuming, especially for women.”

Now, there are plenty of things that would make parenting a little bit easier, calmer and less time-consuming. But here’s one suggestion: Let other adults step in! Take it from me, it’s one less thing for you to do—not to mention highly effective. I felt this deeply at a playdate recently when my daughter grabbed her baby brother from behind and started to drag him by the neck. Not malicious—just rough play she absolutely knows is too rough.

Before I could even open my mouth, the other dad stepped in.

“Nope,” he said firmly, walking over to her. “You know better than that.”

She stopped instantly without debate or tears. (A minor miracle!) Because here’s the thing: Other people correcting your kids often works better than when you do it yourself. It’s faster. It’s clearer. There’s no power struggle.

So yes—please tell my kid to say “please” and “thank you” at the restaurant. Tell them to wait their turn at the playground. Remind them to use an indoor voice. Correct my kids gently, firmly, and appropriately.

I promise that I won’t be offended. I’ll be grateful.

Because raising decent humans was never supposed to be a solo sport. And frankly, I could use the backup. We all could.

How to Teach Kids Manners: Parenting Tips for Polite Kids, According to a Child Therapist

I recently hosted a playdate for my 8-year-old son and one of his new friends from school. One minute they were listening to music in the kitchen on our countertop Amazon Alexa device; the next, they were having a full-blown conversation with it, prompting the virtual assistant—now powered by generative AI—to place bets on who might win a hypothetical dinosaur battle.

Was it fun? Sure. But it also made me feel weird that Alexa so easily filled the role of a third playmate. In fact, after chatting with other parents, I found a consensus: We don’t know if we need guardrails around screen-free AI. I reached out to the experts at the Child Mind Institute to see what they had to say. Here, their sensible advice.

About the Expert

Dr. Dave Anderson is a senior psychologist in the ADHD and Behavior Disorders Center as well as Vice President of Public Engagement and Education at the Child Mind Institute. He frequently lectures and leads workshops for caregivers, educators and policy-makers on topics such as school- and community-based mental health support, stress management and coping skills, relationships between technology and mental health and behavioral intervention across home and school settings.

1. Put the Device in a Place Where You Can Hear It

“The trepidation is real, but at the same time, kids have to learn how to interact with all forms of technology—Alexa included—in order to be a part of a digitally literate society,” Dr. Anderson explains. He suggests placing your countertop AI assistant in a public location (or anywhere where it’s still within earshot) so that parents can easily keep tabs on kids’ interactions. “Ask yourself: ‘How are my kids communicating with this? What content are they calling up and what is the appropriateness? Can I help them with critical thinking skills around how they are using it?’”  

2. Make Sure Your Child Treats the Device with Respect

“Alexa is not a person!” I’ve said in exasperation more than once, a reference to her increasingly natural conversation skills. Still, treating her like one isn’t the worst idea as we encourage our kids to practice kindness and respect. What does this look like? First, no calling Alexa “stupid.” (Yes, this came up during the hypothetical dinosaur battle.) Second, say “please” and “thank you.” Does it feel a little silly to thank the Google Home Mini for telling you the weather? Maybe. Does it help ingrain the habit for the next time a person answers your child’s question? Absolutely.

3. Encourage Family Discussions Around the Things It Tells You

Just because Alexa says the T. Rex was the most powerful dinosaur that ever walked the Earth doesn’t mean it’s the truth. (I’ve heard her confidently give me the wrong date for the Oscars on more than one occasion.) Rather, by keeping your device in a central place, you can invite conversation about everything from knowing (and trusting) your sources to how to fact-check the information you receive. “At the end of the day, whatever space we as parents can make to experience these tools with our kids will help them map risks around content and will no doubt be worth it,” Dr. Anderson explains. It also never hurts to remind your kids to pause before asking Alexa every single question on their minds. (Call me a dinosaur, but I love encouraging my son to reach for his prehistoric-themed encyclopedias—or his own brain—as a first source for dinosaur facts.)

4. Activate Parental Controls Where You Can

Depending on the device you have, there are a variety of parental controls you can activate to help screen the content served to your kid. For example, set up voice recognition so it knows when it’s a child it’s interacting with versus an adult. You can also set up Amazon Kids, which allows you to toggle off certain features—like explicit lyrics or voice purchasing—to help keep unwanted stuff out.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Unplug

Dr. Anderson liked that I eventually cut off the Alexa/dino debate. “You’ve got two kids who are in a public space—your kitchen—who are using this device for a limited period of time as part of the play. That’s great.” But it’s also OK to set a limit. “It’s the same way [our] parents might have said, ‘Hey look, you kids can have a little bit of time on Super Nintendo, but then you’re going to turn this off and you guys are going to go outside. It all comes down to balance.”

Is the ‘Executive Functioning’ Craze Just More Work for Moms?

In a marital argument, it’s easy to reach for absolutes. You always forget to put the lunchboxes in the dishwasher. You never remember to pick your towel up off the bathroom floor. Of course, word choice typically isn’t the thing you’re thinking about when there’s a sink full of dishes or car with no gas in it. But the problem with using words like “always” and “never” is that they lack clarity. I asked a couples therapist to explain.

About the Expert

Melissa Paul, LCSW, is a licensed therapist and the founder of MLP Therapy Group in Brooklyn, New York, which specializes in relationships and couples therapy. Specifically, she supports her clients through communication challenges, intimacy issues, parenthood transitions and the emotional patterns that lead couples to feel stuck. Her approach is relational and evidence-based with a goal of helping individuals and couples reconnect, strengthen trust and create meaningful, lasting change.

1. The Problem with ‘Always’ and ‘Never’

When you reach for words like ‘always’ and ‘never,’ your partner hears all the things they’re doing wrong in perpetuity, Paul explains. The result? Defensiveness instead of listening and an escalation of emotions. “As a couples therapist, I think a lot about the content of an argument—say, a focus on a poorly loaded dishwasher—versus the process of what we mean by that,” Paul says. “For example, when someone says, ‘You never empty the dishwasher the way I want’ what they actually mean is, ‘Hey, I’m overwhelmed right now and I need some help.’”

2. It’s Better to Focus on the Feeling

This is where “I” statements come in. “When you move toward the feeling space, this is when we can actually be heard,” Paul explains. “It’s the difference between ‘you never empty the dishwasher’ and ‘I feel really overwhelmed with all the tasks I have to deal with.’ The second statement encourages your partner to respond in a way that turns toward the other person versus against.”

Another way to look at it: Is it ever constructive to tell your spouse that they never do something right? Probably not. This is why focusing on the feeling—not the task—counts. “In a couple, we often find ourselves fighting over the same action—a dirty bathroom, the way the lunch gets packed—over and over again, but that’s hardly ever what we’re talking about,” Paul adds. In fact, words like always and never are really just a misidentification of what we’re actually feeling. In the moment, they’re employed as a release more than anything else. (“In a lot of ways, it’s similar to when people curse,” says Paul.)

3. A Better Practice

Consider what you’d say if you approached your partner an hour after you unloaded the dishwasher to talk through the same situation. It might be something like, “Hey, I was emptying the dishwasher and realized it’s continually stressing me out. Can we talk about why and how we can figure out a plan moving forward?”

Additionally, if emotions are taking over, find a way to pause. “Go wash your hands, put your hand on your heart, find something to fidget with—these are all tactile cues that that bring you back to your body and help you move through the feeling,” Paul says. “It’s about finding a way to take a breath.”

The 1 Thing Marriage Experts Are Begging Couples to Do During Fights

• Thermal Retention: 20/20
• Ease of Use: 18/20
• Value: 19/20
• Quality: 20/20
• Style: 19/20

TOTAL: 96/100

I was hurriedly crossing Tenth Avenue one morning when I first saw her. Expensive brunette hair flowing under a Moncler beanie with Celine sunnies, a The Row trench, Veja sneakers and an oversized Acne Studios scarf. She maneuvered over the New York City sidewalks like a seasoned pro, dodging tourists while pushing her Bugaboo Fox 5 with the ease and agility of an F1 driver.

As a new parent myself, I clocked her immediately; she was a masterclass in how to look chic in the dead of winter. A cool mom, no doubt. Her babe was bundled from head to toe in what appeared to be a pint-sized sleeping bag, tiny nose barely visible amongst the faux fur appliqué. On the outside read a label, “7AM Enfant.”

I took out my phone and began to Google.

Turns out, it was the cult-favorite Blanket 212 Evolution—"the Canada Goose of stroller blankets,” my mom group quickly informed me—and as the weeks went by, I spotted it strapped to the strollers of well-dressed women all over town, from Cobble Hill to Manhattan West. As a city expat living in the suburbs, my interest was piqued.

Unsurprisingly—based on my observed sample size—the Blanket 212 comes with a pretty hefty price tag ($218 - $264), but after seeing it all over the stylish streets of NYC, I had to know if it was worth the splurge. With my eight-month-old in tow, I gave it a whirl during one of the Northeast’s coldest winters on record. Here’s everything you need to know if you’re looking to buy one yourself.

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What Is the 7AM Enfant Blanket 212 Evolution?

The Blanket 212 Evolution is the best-selling footmuff from 7AM Enfant, a French-inspired high-end baby brand, that’s designed to keep babies and toddlers warm when riding in a stroller or car seat. Perfect for cold-weather climates and walkable cities, this cozy cocoon features a water-repellent shell, poly insulation and a soft, plush lining, along with adjustable features that allow it to grow with your child from infancy to preschool.

What is a “footmuff,” you ask? A footmuff (or bunting bag) is an insulated, weather-resistant, hooded sleeping bag that can attach to your car seat or stroller via an integrated harness opening. Unlike a normal blanket that can be jostled by uneven terrain or blown off in the wind, a footmuff will not budge, no matter how much your little one loves to kick.

Beloved by many, the Blanket 212 is best known for its longevity—meaning your kid won’t outgrow it in a matter of weeks. Thanks to two extension pieces, this one-size wearable can be used from six months to four years and features an anti-slip, removable back panel for ideal stroller and car seat safety. Reviewers also love that it’s durable, machine washable and can stand up to extremely cold temps.

Fast Facts

• Sizing: One size ranging from 6 months to 4 years. Expands in length with two extension pieces, as well as in width, with two position center zippers
• Measurements: 38” x 17” (without extensions; fitting 6M to 9M), 43” x 17” (one extension, designed for babies 9M to 18M), 48” x 17" (using both extensions, designed for 18M to 4T)
• Temperature Rating: up to 4°F/-20°C
• Stroller/Car Seat Compatibility: Universally adapts to all strollers and car seats with hook and loop attachments
• Care: Machine washable, water-repellent outer shell
• Additional Details: Available in multiple designs ranging from faux fur to sherpa

My Review of the 7AM Enfant Blanket 212 Evolution

Normally, I’d wait for a particularly cold day to test a product like this (you know, to really put it through its paces). But in this case, I didn’t have to hold off. Most of January was spent well below freezing, with a handful of snowstorms thrown in, so I had plenty of opportunities to bundle up and head outside.

The Set Up

Original photo by Catrina Yohay

The Blanket 212 arrived in its very own miniature-sized garment bag, something I’ll definitely be holding on to for easy storage come spring. Adjusting the blanket’s size was step one of the set-up process. After a bit of trial and error, I eventually figured out how to unzip one of the two extension pieces and stored it away for future use, knowing my adorably chunky eight-month-old would fit nicely in the toddler size (which 7AM Enfant says should fit most nine- to 18-month-olds).

Step two involved attaching the resized garment to my stroller (a Silver Cross Wave 3), which truly couldn’t have been easier. While my infant babbled in his highchair, I nestled the footmuff into the seat and threaded each section of the five-point harness through the prefabbed holes. The grippy back panel helped keep everything in place, and after bundling my son in his hat and jacket, we were off to the races.

The (Chilly) Experience

Original photo by Catrina Yohay

We took many walks over the course of a few weeks to test out the Blanket 212’s effectiveness, all during varying degrees of freezing (like I said, this winter was rough). During each jaunt, my baby showed no signs of being cold (or too hot), and I loved how the footmuff fully cocooned him, blocking out any harsh wind thanks to the neck collar and adjustable hood. Style wise, I chose the classic all-black version that featured a super soft plush interior, and my son seemed to love the cozy feel as well as the discovery of a new tactile experience.

Upon return, I was nervous my little one would be a sweaty mess (how many layers is too many layers?), but when I unzipped the blanket and lifted him out, he seemed perfectly content, no moisture in sight. The Blanket 212 quickly became a permanent fixture on our stroller, not only protecting my baby from the cold, but also helping to cut down on the prep time required for any outdoor adventure—a major win for mom.

The Bottom Line: Is the 7AM Enfant Blanket 212 Evolution Worth It?

Original photo by Catrina Yohay

Before discovering the Blanket 212, I would often grab a standard baby blanket to cover my son before venturing outside, internally stressing about whether it was thick enough to actually keep him warm. Whether from wind, an uneven sidewalk or my kid’s propensity to kick, said blanket would almost always end up on the ground, covered in mud, or worse, accidentally abandoned on the side of the road. It’s clear the footmuff is a seasoned mom’s secret to surviving winter, and thanks to the high-quality design and grow-with-me features, I find this version to be a worthy investment.

Now, if only it came in adult sizes…

I’m a Second-Time Mom and I Finally Found the Holy Grail of Diaper Bags

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

Brace yourselves. This is a 2 minute and 11 second-psychedelic EDM disco rage with just two words: chicken banana. Press play on the music video at your own risk.

The song was released in February 2025 by the Swedish dance/electronic music production group Crazy Music Channel , whose discography includes tracks like "Techno Duck," "Christmas Banana" and "I Got a Pig Under My Arm," all set to thumping beats—though "Chicken Banana remains their greatest hit, with multiple riffs. It has, unsurprisingly, made the rounds on TikTok.

So does "chicken banana" mean anything? When PureWow Editor-In-Chief Jillian Quint brought up the phrase to her children, she reported, "Both my kids started singing it when I brought it up, so it's a thing. It’s like a chant." And when she inquired as to its definition, they replied: "It doesn’t mean anything! Kids are silly!"

Parents, beware of the imminent banana takeover. Per PureWow's Vice President of Editorial, Candace Davison, and her kids, "banana banana meatball" (no commas) is coming for you, too.

From ‘Basic’ to ‘Boujee,’ Here Are 29 Gen Z Slang Terms To Keep in Your Back Pocket

• Absorbency: 18/20
• Leakproofness: 20/20
• Materials: 20/20
• Fit: 18/20
• Value: 18/20

Total: 94/100

As a toddler mom, I've gone through tons of diapers. From the newborn days to the horrible blowout phase, some days it feels like I can't keep enough in stock. At the rate I've reached for them, I've tried my fair share—and that's when Kudos flew onto my radar. Their 100 percent cotton and plastic-free topsheet was a big draw, because my daughter has eczema and we're always fighting a rash. I wanted to see how they held up compared to the Huggies Skin Essentials (which was our top choice after a year-long testing period) and the Coterie diapers (which we loved, but are a bit outside our budget). Here's my honest review of the Kudos cotton-lined diapers.

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Kudos

What Are Kudos Diapers?

Kudos is a diaper brand founded by Amrita Saigal, a material scientist, engineer—and mom. Its mission: Make diapers as plastic-free as possible. Kudos's diapers have a 100 percent cotton topsheet, so that babies' skin doesn't come into contact with plastic. They're also free of latex, parabens, phthalates and chlorine, making them hypoallergenic and more eco-friendly.

Fast Facts

• Size range: 1 (7 to 12lbs) to 6 (32+lbs)
• Absorbency: 12 hours

How I Tested Kudos Diapers

I spent a year trying out almost every brand of disposable diaper you could think of: Huggies Skin Essentials, Pampers Cruisers, Huggies Little Movers, Huggies Overnights, Coterie, Baby Bello, Honest, Pampers Swaddlers, Kirkland Signature, Kudos...you name it, I was there, testing sizes newborn to size 4. Every week, I chose a different brand to see how they'd stack up against each other. While conducting my research, I considered the following factors: Leakproofness, ability to withstand blowouts (IYKYK), absorbency, value, comfortand the smell (yes, really).

The Design Is Thoughtful + Performs Well

Original photos by Pamela Masin

I really like the design of the Kudos diapers. They feel substantial (not flimsy) and are wide, hinting that that they would be absorbent. I also immediately noticed the wide inner and outer ruffles, which again was a promising sign that these were going to prevent leaks.

When I put them to the test on my 14-month-old, they definitely lived up to the brand's claim that they were leakproof. Synthetic materials tend to hold liquid better, though, and I noticed these were slightly more damp than other diapers I've tested. This wasn't an issue for me, but something to be aware of if you're transitioning to natural materials.

The last big plus for me was that Kudos's diapers are unscented. Some diapers have an almost perfume-like scent, and I hate it. I just can't deal with any type of fragrance on a product like diapers. Maybe some people like that, but to me, it's like those scented garbage bags. So having a nontoxic, scent-free option is a major draw.

Consider Sizing Up

Due to the 100 percent cotton topsheet, the material is a bit more stiff than your average diaper. This means that the tabs don't stretch as much across the waist. If your child is on the higher end of a size bracket, I would size up.

I personally found the lack of stretch a positive thing because the waist remained snug, helping to ensure nothing splashed out. With other diapers I've tested, I've had to really stretch the material across the waist to get a good fit. However, if your baby has a wide waist, I could see the lack of tab stretch being an issue.

Premium Materials Are Worth the Upgrade

What I really like about these diapers is the materials. While they are not fully biodegradable (the cotton is, but not the tabs), I appreciate that Kudos is trying hard to make diapers with more natural materials. My daughter has sensitive skin and deals with eczema. These diapers kept her skin smooth, and she had no adverse reactions. While other diapers use a topsheet that's made of plastic, Kudos's 100 percent cotton topsheet stands out among its competitors. You will notice that there are brown specks in the diaper, which is due to the 70 percent unbleached cotton materials.

Cost Comparison

Original Photos by Pamela Masin

When it comes to pricing, Kudos is a more luxe option on the diaper market—over double the price compared to the budget-friendly Costco Kirkland options. Kudos comes in at 45 cents/diaper, while Kirkland is 18 cents/diaper. Though, it only out-prices mid-range and mass market brands like Pampers Swaddlers (35 cents/diaper), Honest (42 cents/diaper) and Huggies Little Movers (47 cents/diaper) by at maximum just over ten cents.

While this was a consideration for me, I did take into account the premium materials. If that's important to you, these diapers are comparable to Coterie diapers (which saved me during the blowout stage at 2 to 4 months old). Kudos' liner is 100 percent cotton whereas Coterie's liner is made of Polypropylene. It's also worth noting that in terms of subscriptions, Kudos is the better deal ($84/month for 210 diapers at 40 cents/diaper versus Coterie's $95/month for 150 diapers at 63 cents/diaper). Both brands do offer discount codes or special offers at various times of the year, which is much-appreciated by any parent who spends hundreds of dollars on diapers a year. Another thing to note, Kudos diapers are available for purchase à la cart at 45 cents a diaper or through a monthly subscription, whereas Coterie is subscription-only. While both brands make it easy to pause, change or cancel the subscription, I appreciate that I could try Kudos first without having to initially sign up for recurring shipments. Because if you're like me, you may end up with a shipment of over a hundred diapers that no longer fit your baby because you forgot to change the subscription.

The Bottom Line

Kudos diapers are great for parents who want to limit their children's plastic exposure, and/or are dealing with sensitive skin. After a year of testing all manner of diapers, I think that Kudos's earns their premium pricing thanks to the 100 percent cotton topsheet, snug fit and absorbency. And for that, it gets my toddler mom stamp of approval.

The Tin Can Landline Unlocked My Kid’s Conversation Skills

Meet the Expert

Dr. Bethany Cook, PsyD, MT-BC, is a licensed clinical psychologist and author of For What It’s Worth: A Perspective on How to Thrive and Survive Parenting. She's a sought-after therapist and quoted media expert who brings accessible, real-world guidance to families of all socioeconomic and mental health backgrounds, based on over 20 years of clinical experience in the field.

Why Is Maternal Rage So Much More Visible Now?

There are numerous contributing factors that explain why angry moms are being represented more in popular culture. Per the expert:

“Movements like Me Too have brought to consciousness for many women how much silence, abuse and emotional labor they have been conditioned to accept as normal. When anyone spends the majority of their life swallowing their own reactions and deferring their needs to others around them…resentment builds,” she says.

“Covid was like an accelerant to this awakening. Families were pushed to the brink, and social media platforms like TikTok gave women a place to narrate what was happening in real time. Suddenly, for the first time, women around the world saw each other's shared experience of exhaustion, imbalance in relationships, resentment and burnout.  Once women realized they weren't alone in their struggles, the shame associated with the suffering was validated and space was created for anger to surface and be expressed.”

To be clear, the increase of maternal rage isn't about rejecting motherhood. It is about rejecting a narrow, idealized version of it. When women are told there is only one acceptable way to be a “good” mother while carrying most of the emotional, logistical and often financial responsibility, it doesn't take a genius to see why so many are rageful. Still, we are not often rewarded for our emotional honesty.

“Expressing this rage has often resulted in strong backlash from those benefiting from the silent self-sacrifice of women,” says Dr. Cook. “Mothers who spoke out or shared their experiences were given negative labels in an effort to ‘push them back down,’ such as dramatic, ungrateful or mentally unstable. This sent a clear message to women: Don’t complain about how heavy it is…you asked for this when you wanted equal rights.”

What Does Maternal Rage Look Like in Pop Culture…And Will the Trend Continue?

Needless to say, being told to shut up when you’ve finally found your voice is a hard pill to swallow. The result is a pressure cooker of rage—and by 2025, that ever-building pressure needed a release, and found it in pop culture.

Stories like The Handmaid’s Tale resonated with many women—namely because “it accurately reflected the fear many women experience; reduced to a role rather than seen as a whole person,” says Dr. Cook, adding that “just because a woman wants to be a mother doesn’t mean she must surrender her identity, ambition or autonomy.”

Then there are strong public figures like Taylor Swift who are modeling the attitude of “I’m done being kind at the expense of myself.” While not a mom—though some fans refer to her as “mother”—her refusal to soften or apologize for anger reflects the broader cultural shift. Dr. Cook thinks this trend will hopefully guide us to a more peaceful place going forward:

“When rage becomes more visible and normalized, women are validated in their experience as they realize they aren’t alone. When someone feels validated and seen, the anger often shifts from emotional explosions to useful energy for problem-solving. So in 2026, I predict we will have less viral venting and see more conversations about boundaries, systems and sustainability. Less ‘I’m losing it’ and more ‘this setup doesn’t work, how can we change it?’”

What Does This Mean for Us in 2026?

Like Michael Jackson said, moms, you are not alone. But how do we actually turn our rage into something productive?

First, Dr. Cook says it is important to understand that rage does not mean you are failing; it's just data letting you know something isn’t working. “Remember that rage is often the most visible emotion, but you need to look deeper to what’s underneath the anger,” Dr. Cook advises.  Think of it as the tip of the iceberg. Beneath the anger are primary emotions like sadness, disappointment, grief, fear or frustration. “When you identify what’s actually driving the anger, it stops feeling so chaotic and you’re able to start making sense of things and move forward in action. The majority of mothers are being asked to be successful in impossible conditions with minimal structural or relational support.”

Bottom line: The first step isn’t calming down, it's continuing to seek validation and find more like-minded women. Per the expert, this kind of acknowledgment allows the nervous system to settle enough so you can move out of survival mode—and that’s when you’re able to think clearer and solve problems. After all, relief from maternal rage doesn’t come solely from regulating yourself; it comes from changing the conditions that made the rage necessary to begin with.

So, start by asking yourself some questions that help you really pinpoint the source of your anger. “You need to name it. Write it down. Look at the whole landscape,” says Dr. Cook. “Then separate what you can realistically change today, tomorrow and set long-term goals.” From there, you can find a more fulfilling release from all that pent-up frustration.

Hey, moms, I think this sounds like a New Year’s resolution that we can all get behind.

I’m Raging, You’re Raging: How to Deal with Mom Rage in a Non-Murdery Way

This past weekend, my mom-of-two monologue went like this: I need to dig out the snowsuits. Do my 7-year-old’s boots still fit? Gosh, New York City looks so beautiful in the snow. Wait—that news alert says someone was shot in Minnesota. My heart is breaking. We are going to see my son’s first Broadway show—The Lion King—how fun. I need to pick up Aquaphor for the baby. Is Mufasa actually the villain of The Lion King? What do we do about real-world villains? What’s the number to call my state rep again?

All in a day’s work when it comes to motherhood, right? I’m here to definitively say, no way.

The pressure on moms—and parents in general—as they navigate daily life of child-rearing juxtaposed with an increasingly alarming news cycle is, to use the most overused word of the past decade, unprecedented. Yet parents keep waking up before the sun to pack lunches and say, “I love you.” Time that should be spent square breathing has been replaced with protesting and checking on our neighbors. If we were to measure the scale of our current worries, it’s off the charts.

Yet, we somehow keep showing up.

But is this sustainable? As I said to my therapist recently, “Every day, I take steps forward and hope that there’s solid enough ground to meet my feet.” And a recent New Yorker cartoon making the rounds in my mom chats accurately sums up our collective state: A child throwing a tantrum gets a single-word response from his mom. “Same,” the caption reads. After all, aren’t we full-on hypocrites for telling our kids to calm down when we feel anything but?

But that’s the problem: The cognitive dissonance of trying to raise the next generation while at the same time taking on the crippling stress, anxiety and anger over what’s happening in Minneapolis and across the nation. Add to that the overwhelming guilt of enjoying my snow day while footage rolls in of an American citizen being murdered on the streets.

It’s all too much.

At the same time, I refuse to throw up my hands or tune out the horrors, and I’m heartened to see it’s the moms who are the ones rolling up their sleeves. It’s friends—like my former colleague and mom-of-two—who are taking to Instagram to show how to actually (and easily) make your voice heard. It’s the social-media-poets (like parenting influencer Daily Tay) who are standing up for the basic tenets of our democracy. It’s the moms in my school message board, who are volunteering to help shuttle any kid to school so their caregivers don’t have to feel like targets. 

Will our efforts be for naught? Or will the next generation turn the tide back to a core value we should all be able to agree on: “Love thy neighbor”? I certainly hope so.

So on that note, here are some things I’m doing to both manage my stress and stay engaged with the world. I’m calling my reps (5 Calls really simplifies the process, supplying phone numbers—and scripts—when you enter your location). I’ve also turned off push notifications. (No, this doesn’t mean I’m ignoring the news cycle, I’m just choosing the times I engage with it—a necessary boundary.) Also, this might sound silly, but I am projecting as much genuine kindness into my daily interactions as possible. It’s worth it to me to ask the guy at my neighborhood bodega how he’s doing; to hold the door for a stranger even when I’m a rush; even just taking a moment to acknowledge the efforts of my child’s teachers. I don’t want to ever take for granted how much goodness there is around me. Staying present enough to notice it feels like an action step all in itself.

At the end of the day, these steps are important, but the immensity is still breaking us. The grief feels insurmountable. The leaders, absent. And yet, we keep having the courage to show up for our kids and tuck them in at night. We will always be there to kiss their foreheads and tell them, “It will all be OK.” The question, of course, is will it? 

How to Talk to Kids About Fear

Before we dive into what ‘Call Taylor’ means, I will give you a scenario in which this was running through my own daughter’s mind (though she didn’t say it, exactly). My 11-year-old tween has a very keen interest in art and attended an art camp where she was one of the youngest participants. She got a bit of an aspirational-friend-crush on a 15-year-old girl at the camp who was just “so cool in every way” and “insanely talented at figure drawing.” I could tell she wanted to make friends with this girl and learn from her, so I said, “why don’t you just go up to her, compliment her art and ask her if she could give you some tips to improve your figure drawing?” What followed was a huge eye roll and a sarcastic, “yeahhh, OK, mom.” Translation? “Call Taylor.”

Indeed, the anecdote above can serve as a working definition of ‘call Taylor,’ a slang phrase that kids use when their parents are giving them what they think is completely unrealistic or out-of-touch advice. It all started back in 2016 (yep, you really are that out of touch) in an episode from the 12th season of the reality show Keeping Up With the Kardashians, in which Kris Jenner and Kim Kardashian were discussing the ongoing feud between Kanye West and Taylor Swift. Kris’s advice? Why don’t you just call Taylor up and try to make amends? As you can see, if you watch the clip above, Kim took a hard pass on that suggestion.

In short, if your child says ‘call Taylor’ to you, it’s a parody of your parenting that is most likely inspired by the fact that you are trying to fix a problem for them with a solution that sounds ridiculous. Let’s just say that Kim’s response to her mother in this episode of Keeping Up With the Kardashians resonated with a lot of people, and not just Gen Alpha kids. There are tons of TikToks (with text overlay and reality show audio) in which Gen Zers give examples of times a parent gave them absurd advice.

The takeaway? If you don’t want your offspring to tell you ‘call Taylor,’ then you should probably just keep your two cents to yourself.

I’m a Tween Girl Mom: Here’s Why I Can’t Stand Taylor Swift

The Fight

“Our 3-year-old daughter and my husband regularly ‘roughhouse’ play together. Recently, she wound up accidentally hurting him (very minor), but it shocked my husband and he shouted at her. She became very upset (he has rarely ever raised his voice to our daughter) and I comforted her, which he thought meant I took her side. It was an accident and he overreacted, but I felt he owed her an apology for shouting at her. I told her she didn't deserve that reaction, which he felt was undermining him. Basically, I became mama bear! I want my daughter to know that adults will make mistakes, but they still need to apologize. He thinks we need to be a united front. Who is right?”

Meet the Expert

Lisa Brateman is a psychotherapist, relationship specialist, media commentator and author. Lisa earned her master’s degree from New York University and has written two books, What Are We Really Fighting About? How to Transform Conflicts into Conversations and The Courage to Walk Away: Move On after Infidelity by Mourning What You Lost, Identifying Your Relationship Needs, and Empowering Yourself for the Future. She has appeared on TV and in numerous print articles in places including The New York Times, The Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, CNN, Forbes, GQ, U.S. News & World Report, MSNBC, WSJ, Vogue, BBC, Harper's Bazaar, Money Watch, Rolling Stone, The Independent, New York Magazine, Cosmopolitan, PBS, New York Daily News, Brides Magazine and The New York Post.

Who is Right?

“They’re both wrong!” says Brateman, who is quick to note that, in most arguments, there’s not one blameless party. “I mean, she’s more right than he is, but they’re both wrong because their focus is on each other rather than the child. He feels betrayed because she didn't support him. And she's running in to save the day and helicoptering without asking any questions.”

How could they have handled it better?

Brateman says the first step would have been to separate the daughter and the husband so he has time to cool down and Mom’s focus can be on comforting the kid. “I think everybody needs to take a breath.” Then, after the calm-down period, it’s time to come together as a couple to decide what the fight was really about. Was it actually about the roughhousing incident? (And if so, do they need guardrails around roughhousing?) Or was it about a power struggle within the marriage?

And that’s where Brateman thinks Mom was in the wrong: by being prescriptive rather than curious. “This is the time for her to ask, ‘What was that response about? What is going on here? And what do you think we can do about it?’ If she just starts by instructing him to apologize, he's going to get defensive. But if she tries to understand where he was coming from, then he will be more open to hearing suggestions on how they can work together to find a resolution for both now and in the future.”

In other words, our reader isn’t wrong that her spouse should apologize, but she’s not setting anybody up for success by immediately demanding it of him.

One More Takeaway

Brateman thinks both spouses should use this as an opportunity, first and foremost, to think about what’s best for the child. “Try saying, ‘We're grown-ups. But what is in the best interest of her at her current age?’ Then ask, ‘What do we want her to learn? What do we want to show her?’ It's OK when kids see us fighting, because fighting is normal. It's how we resolve it that matters most.”

36 Micro Boundaries That Will Make Your Life Easier

Then, my second child was born 27 months later and I realized that helicopter parenting for two was exponentially more difficult. My instincts towards this parenting style were causing me extreme stress and it was becoming rapidly apparent that I couldn’t sustain it…and that most other people around me were much more laissez-faire. I also realized that I was teaching my kids how to live in a constant state of fear. (I openly named one climbing structure at our local playground ‘the death trap.’)

It’s taken me many years to shed this neurotic parenting style, but I can proudly say that I’m a (mostly) reformed helicopter parent now. Granted, making that change became a lot easier as they got older and less accident-prone, but I have to take some credit for learning, over time, how to appropriately identify situations in which my assistance was needed, as opposed to those that were safe enough to just let my kids learn from mistakes and gain some independence in the process. In doing so, I learned that my kids will come to me if they actually need me. (Psst: it’s called lighthouse parenting.)

So how did I make this change, you ask? Well it wasn’t easy and my progress happened in fits and starts. I started by talking to my therapist about anxiety and how it makes me focus on disastrous, albeit unlikely, outcomes. He told me to start doing reality checks. So everytime I wanted to intervene and say something like “you’re going to break your neck!” I would do a reality check and first ask myself, “what is the real probability that something bad will happen in this pretty benign situation?” 

To slow myself down, I also started pulling my kids aside and asking them “do you think this is safe?” I had them think about it and, if they said yes, I took a deep breath and decided to trust them. Sometimes, I would also turn to the nearest parent for reassurance and ask, “do you think they’re OK?” The confidence of other parents also works as a reality check in these moments. (I still do this regularly when my kids come near that death trap climbing structure!) There were and still are instances when my knee-jerk helicopter instincts were too hard to suppress, but I have gradually improved and every time I successfully triumph over my anxiety, it gets easier.

Now, my ten-year-old daughter takes toast out of the toaster without me jumping up to help, uses knives to help with meal prep, walks home from school alone with her eight-year-old brother. When my younger one wants to pour himself a glass of water from a pitcher that’s way too heavy for him to manage, I let him try; if he spills, I tell him to get a step stool so he can reach the paper towels and clean up the mess. And I have to say that this new, more laid-back approach is truly liberating. 

The energy I conserve by not rushing in to help with every little thing has made it easier for me to actually enjoy the time I spend with my kids. I used to dread going to the playground because I saw danger everywhere. Now, I find a parent and strike up a conversation to help distract me from that tendency to catastrophize and intervene when I’m not needed. Power struggles with my kids have been reduced, too—namely because I’m less controlling and alarmist, so when I say that something isn’t safe, they’re actually inclined to listen. I will confess that even as I have changed, my legacy of helicopter parenting lives on to a certain degree. (I.e., now my youngest has a helicopter older sibling.)

The takeaway? Helicopter parents are much-maligned, because we look a little ridiculous to those who have already figured out how to play it cool. However, I think most parents actually start out as helicopters, simply because the responsibility of becoming a parent for the very first time is truly intimidating. You’re handed a fragile bundle of joy, and it’s sink or swim from there. 

Some of us gain confidence in our judgment and our children’s abilities sooner than others; the helicopters are extra cautious—and there’s nothing wrong with that, except as children age that anxiety starts to become contagious. I recommend making a concerted effort to  try to let go sooner rather than later because, when you do, you’ll find parenthood to be far more rewarding and your children will be all the better for it. Plus, I’ve still managed to keep my kids alive since making the shift, so it might not be as scary as it seems.

Stop Helicopter Parenting and Start Panda Parenting, Say Experts

Oof. Cut to later that night when I recapped my chat to my husband: “I feel like our efforts to do more have led to him doing less.”

But as I looked for ways to increase his executive functioning, it all felt like a massive time suck. More than that, it felt like work.

Just Me? Or is Executive Functioning Everywhere?

There’s a reason everyone in your mom group is suddenly texting about executive functioning. In recent years, it’s come into the kid-psychology space as a skill that’s critical to academic success and goal achievement with thought-leaders like Dr. Becky Kennedy speaking to its ability to “transform behavior” and celebs like Ed Helms and Simone Biles speaking to their own executive functioning challenges.

At its core, executive functioning serves almost like an air traffic control system for your brain. It helps you plan, organize, initiate and self-monitor progress and emotions as they relate to a given task. Think of it as the ability to resist impulsivity and stay focused, hold information—such as instructions—all while maintaining flexible thinking. So it’s executive functioning that enables a child to pick up the homework packet from the bin, bring it home, understand the assignment and due dates, then actually sit down to do the homework and return it to school the next day.

Per Dr. Kennedy, it’s a skill that develops over time (for example, elementary kids are ready for more responsibility, but still need supervision and reminders). It’s also one that can be taught.

While difficulty with executive functioning skills can be a marker of ADHD, it’s generally more closely tied to organizational challenges, and hence is more common in both kids and adults than the latter, which might also be a reason for its increased buzzworthiness. (ADHD typically speaks to hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity, according to the A.D.D. Resource Center. Unlike executive functioning difficulties, ADHD also requires an official diagnosis.)

In other words, most humans have, at some point in their life, struggled with executive functioning. And as parenting experts and influencers—from Dr. Aliza Pressman to The Mom Psychologist—begin to highlight the issue, it’s easy to spot the challenges for your own child and want to address them. Of course we want our kids to project manage their own lives. And of course most of them need our help doing that.

High Executive Function = High Mental Load

But here’s the rub: Even before I thought about my son’s executive functioning I, as a person with stellar executive functioning skills myself, was well-versed in taking on too much—planning the vacations, prioritizing the housework, organizing the calendars. And I took pride in initiating and delegating these tasks, staying emotionally regulated and self-monitoring progress. It makes me feel good. It makes my family feel successful. And according to Julie Wayne, a professor at Wake Forest University whose research pertains to the invisible family load, that’s not necessarily a bad thing: “The upside is that you’re the leader of the family. If you’re the person organizing and it all goes well, you get to have this over-arching sense of fulfillment.”

The downside? I was both running myself ragged and robbing my kid of the opportunity to practice his own executive functioning skills. Instead of him learning to think through the items he needs in his backpack for school each day, he relies on me to pack it for him. Instead of considering his after-school checklist (take off your shoes, hang up your coat, wash your hands), he waits for me to prompt him and—should he forget—swoop in to help.

You’d think teaching him to do better would lessen my burden. You’d be wrong.

More Teaching Means More Work for Me

You see, the effort to teach executive functioning is a workload all in itself. You have to help your kid hang up their coat. You have to remind them to pack their backpack when they forget. You have to nudge them to sign up for the SAT class on their own. And you also have to remember that you can’t fix everything all at once. This means both more work and more frustration for millennial parents who, unlike the generations before them, have historically relied on a highly hands-on parenting approach. In order for a child to develop executive functioning skills, we’re told, we now have to embrace a mix of doing and coaching all at once. Do you have time to teach a person how to log into the homework portal, how to do the work in the portal and how to submit the work in the portal, all while making sure the damn assignment gets done on time? I sure don’t.

Plus, it’s unclear if it’s even necessary. Did the kids who were raised with less oversight fail to learn to plan, organize and manage their time? Probably not. (Research is sparse, but a technology-free upbringing is another factor that likely led Gen X to become more self-reliant when it came to their own executive functioning.) But now that we’re stuck in this “intensive” loop, it feels like my son’s success rests on the level of effort I put in.

In other words, whether I hang up his coat or prompt him to do it himself, it all adds up to more work for me. Yes, I’m hoping to teach him valuable life-skills. But in the meantime, I’m just a mom—who already has zero extra minutes in her day—who now has to stay up late just to make my child a color-coded door chart.

Will I make the damn chart? Of course I will! But is there a world where letting him figure it out on his own helps both of our sanity? You betcha.

Mom Tested, Mom Approved: How the Skylight Calendar Changed My Family’s Approach to Organization

Reader, I didn’t. Instead, I was gripped by paleontologists Alan Grant (Sam Neill) and Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern) and their quest to get off the dinosaur-inhabited island-turned-wannabe theme park. The suspense of scenes like the T. Rex’s escape from the confines of its no-longer-electric fence. (The water cups!). And I regularly laughed out loud when iconic lines of dialog were uttered. (“It’s a UNIX system. I know this,” is a quote my sister and I still use in conversation to this day.)

But would my 7-year-old (who turns 8 next month) feel the same way? TBH, the Jurassic World spin-off films were already becoming the subject of cafeteria lunch conversation amongst his peers. But I wanted him to start with—and appreciate—the movie that started it all. Here’s his honest review (plus, my perspective watching him view it).

First, a Bit About His Cinematic Taste

Like I said, my kid loves dinosaurs. And not just your basic variety—since he was 3, he has been well-versed on the differences between a Pachycephalosaurus and a Parasaurolophus. He’s also not one to dote too much on the T.Rex (“it’s in my top 10,” he reminds me, a nod to his favorites). Rather, an Ankylosaurus has been his most beloved dinosaur since he was first introduced to the subject matter. (He’ll happily discuss the prowess of this veggie-eating dino’s creative battle tactics, any time, any place.)

Still, when it comes to dinosaur content, his TV/movie watching has been limited. Dinosaur Train was a favorite during his toddler years, but beyond that, there hasn’t been a ton of other content he’s consumed. (He’s a bit skittish about scary movies, but his favorite character is always the villain—an interesting dichotomy.)

His Thoughts on ‘Jurassic Park’

Universal Pictures

Three words: He loved it. And the moments he most appreciated—and felt scared during—were unexpected. First, I’ll admit that the original film comes with a bit more setup time in terms of the premise. We had to pause to explain some of the larger concepts (the now debunked myth that a T.Rex couldn’t see you if you stood still; what it meant to retrieve dino DNA), but the minute the kids showed up on-screen, the movie was instantly more relatable. (I loved seeing my son’s tensed-up shoulders soften a bit.) Their presence—and humor—made it all feel a bit more fun. Let’s just say that prior to their arrival, my son was very confused about why on earth Dr. Grant wasn’t that into kids. (“Who doesn’t like kids?” he wondered aloud.)

But in terms of a fear factor, here’s what most surprised me: As we watched, I did my best to prep my son for any upcoming “scary” scenes. (This is his preference—to be given a bit of a head’s up.) I was certain the velociraptor scene at the end in the kitchen with the kids would take the cake; that scene terrified me when I was little. But, instead, the scene my son was most bothered by was the T. Rex one. Mainly, the moment when the goat disappears, then when its remains land on the roof of the kids’ car. Also, when the T. Rex pushes the car over the edge into the ravine surrounding its pen. (“Pause it! Pause it!” he yelled out of fear.) A quick parental perspective: I do think the soundtrack—and Williams’ score—plays a role in what I call delicious suspense.

We did a bit of fast forwarding through some of the more bloody parts—like when Ellie thinks she’s finally reunited with Mr. Arnold (Samuel L. Jackson) in their effort to manually turn on the power, only to realize he’s dead. But this was only on first watch: My son has now watched the film a few more times since. (He mainly skims to the bigger dinosaur scenes, but still.)

Discussing It Afterwards Was the Best Part

Universal Pictures

After watching the film, he definitely felt proud of himself and—my favorite part—Jurassic Park only served to cement his love of dinosaurs even more. He relished the chance to re-hash the scary scenes over and over again with us (“What part were you afraid of?”) but also to ask bigger picture questions (“Wait—they left the island, but where are the dinosaurs now?”). His face when I told him California, a reference to The Lost World sequel.

Is that film next on our list? Perhaps.

Laura Dern Teases ‘Jurassic World: Dominion’ and Its Release Next Summer

Disney World is a bucket list destination. It also often feels like a daunting trip to plan. (A recent Instagram post from a friend declared that this was finally the year they were taking the kids to Orlando alongside a plea: Where on earth should she start?) Lucky for you, I’ve found the answer: Evermore Orlando Resort will not only minimize the overwhelm, but it’s designed for families seeking convenience, luxury and, most importantly, space. Here’s my honest review.

I’ve Been to Disney World Before

On a trip two years back, which I loved, I stayed at an official Disney resort. It was on the Monorail. It had character dining. But a standard room adds up quickly and, given that it’s pretty common for Disney-bound travelers to visit as part of a larger group, it’s nice to find a spot for families to gather, but also with space to spread out.

Evermore Orlando Resort, which I had the chance to visit this past fall, is perfect for that. The thoughtfully-built destination is anchored by two unique experiences: Conrad Orlando, a more traditional luxury hotel, and Evermore Residences, which offers premium vacation homes built specifically for large families and gatherings (one home accommodates as many as 26 people). The best part? This first-of-its-kind resort encapsulates places to eat, sleep, play and swim open only to guests—all about a 15-minute Uber ride away from the Magic Kingdom, Epcot and more.  

Evermore Is an Experience You Have to See to Believe

Rachel Bowie

Ahead of my stay, I had a chance to speak with the architect behind Evermore’s design. A range of homes (the aforementioned Evermore Residences) on-site at the property feature as few as five bedrooms, but as many as 11. (Accommodations aren’t limited to houses either—a range of four-bedroom flats are also available and located mere steps from Evermore Bay.) Still, there was a core detail that struck me during our conversation, but also my experience checking out one of the houses myself: These are homes designed for vacation. In other words, they’re laid out with a goal of encouraging guests to congregate. Less function, more fun if you know what I mean.

But that’s a small part of what makes the Evermore experience so great, and frankly, family-friendly. What you’re paying for is the all-in-one experience that is also customizable in terms your needs. A stay at Evermore doesn’t lock you in to limited dining options or a singular pool. The beauty is in the “something for everyone” range offered on-site.

More About My Visit

Rachel Bowie

Upon arrival at the resort, we were whisked to our house—luggage included—on a super-sized golf cart; we passed the resort’s 20-acre white sand beach and crystal-clear Evermore Lagoon (it’s not a pool, but rather an artificial lagoon that features sparkling blue water and activities ranging from paddleboarding to kayaking).

There’s a centrally-based market on-site for essentials (think everything from scoop-your-own candy to sunscreen), not to mention a la carte dining options, no reservations required. (My kid devoured the pizza; my husband was partial to the to-go wraps and cocktails.) There’s golf and fancier sit-down restaurants, too (for example, from Ceiba, which was not only delicious, but has a view of the Disney fireworks if you time it right). All the while, our experience felt rooted in ease and convenience, something parents—myself included—are desperate to come by.

Rachel Bowie

Take the house we stayed in, for example. The outdoor area alone featured a private pool, hammock, grill, outdoor bathroom and shower, even an oversize Jenga game. (We spent hours hanging out as a family outdoors and prioritizing relaxation together as a result.) The interior featured a spacious kitchen that was outfitted with dishware and all the tools you’d need to make a home-cooked meal. (If something was missing, I’m sure you could ask for it—Evermore is that kind of experience.) Evermore also offers the option to dial in dinner delivery. (After an extra-long day at Epcot, we came home to a lasagna in the fridge, plus re-heating instructions—a dream when you’re tired and the last thing you want to do is sort take-out orders or cook.)

But as I said, this is a property built for hanging out. Features like a movie theater, game room, even a pool table, maximized opportunities for my family to simply spend time together. As a parent, I liked the feeling that—once the kids were in bed—there was a natural space to prioritize entertainment and conversation. Evermore also prides itself on being ultra-safe and secure. (Our house had its own custom entry code.)

Top-Notch Service Is the Defining Feature

One of my favorite parts of a stay at Evermore was the ability to tap into a concierge service that I could text to handle any and all questions that cropped up. Like the morning I was rushing to get to one of the Disney parks extra early, but couldn’t find a hair dryer. Or when I was curious about what was involved with receiving an Amazon delivery (my son forgot a pillow he loves to sleep with) or the status of the Evermore Lagoon re-opening after a thunderstorm. Each time, I was able to message a real person and get an immediate and useful response. (This was a service best tested when, upon packing up to leave, I realized I had misplaced one of my wedding rings, eep! I had to get to the airport, but also had an immediate point of contact who tagged in a team to search. They located it—and called me to collect shipping info—right as my plane was taking off.)

Lesson Learned: Family Travel Requires Simplicity

Rachel Bowie

Throughout my stay, my husband and I chatted about exactly why Evermore felt so great. In a lot of ways, it felt like we had the best of both worlds—action-packed days at the Disney parks, then an oasis to come back to that still had plenty of options left to enjoy. (I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the giant water slide and an opportunity to roast s’mores on the beach.)

If a family vacation doesn’t make things easier, is it even worth it? Yes, a resort experience tends to be designed for that, but combining that with having your own house to go home to meant that my family truly had a place to log off, unwind and connect. And one that was big enough to fit my entire extended family should I so desire.

Bottom line: Evermore offers an experience that combines the luxury of a resort with the space—and chill vibes—of staying in a house. I can’t wait to go back.

I Spent Weeks Prepping My Disney World Packing List—Here’s What I Brought

2023 might have been Barbie's moment, when the year felt drenched in fuchsia and optimism was coursing through our veins. But the doll, which has been around since 1959, proves that the brand is forever evolving—and becoming ever more inclusive. Case in point: Mattel, the company behind the playtime icon, recently launched a Barbie with autism.

As part of the Fashionistas collection, this new addition aims to represent the autistic community and the ways that they communicate with others, experience the world and process their ideas. Mattel spent 18 months developing the doll in partnership with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), which is "a non-profit disability rights organization run by and for autistic people that aims to empower the autistic community."

Activists and advocates in the community were also consulted and involved in the campaign.

“Having an autistic Barbie means people like me can see ourselves," says Aarushi Pratap, Autistic Fashion Designer and Visual Artist, "Autism is my superpower because I  think differently. This Barbie can help autistic people feel understood. We can do amazing things, and I want others like me to feel proud and express themselves.”

This Barbie has several distinct features, including "articulation  at the elbows and wrists, allowing for stimming, hand flapping and other hand gestures, which some members of the autistic community use as a way to process sensory  information or to share excitement," Mattel shared. Her gaze is also shifted to reflect how some people with autism avoid eye contact.

Of course, it's not Barbie without killer accessories, and this time around, she's equipped with a fidget spinner, headphones and tablet, with a screen that displays Augmentative and Alternative Communication apps (AAC).

Mattel

The new doll is now available at Target, Amazon and Walmart, though is selling out quickly. Of the doll's creation, Precious Mirage, Autism Advocate, Content Creator and parent shared, "Autism is often invisible and seeing a doll that truly represents parts of the spectrum makes us feel understood. When other families see this Barbie, I hope it helps bridge the gap. I hope they feel included in the conversation and in the spaces where neurotypical individuals already belong. Because we belong here too.”

Yep, There’s Another Barbie Movie on the Way (But This One’s Taking a Very Different Turn)

When it comes to my family’s (one husband, two kids) organization, I’ll admit: I’m a paper calendar gal all the way. But there’s one problem with that approach—writing it down commits it to memory for me and me only. Over the years, I’ve found that a digital (read: shareable) method is required for visibility, but more importantly, accountability. (It’s also the only chance at truly diminishing mom’s mental load.)

That’s why the Skylight Calendar intrigued me. At first, when I saw a cool mom friend celebrate the device’s debut on her kitchen countertop with an enthusiastic unboxing video, I scoffed: A bit over the top… But then, curiosity took hold: Was this a device that could finally solve family organization once and for all? I decided to try it out.

First Things First, What Is the Skylight Calendar?

Skylight

At first glance, it’s a color-coded fantasy—a “smart” scheduling hub that’s equipped with a touchscreen and an organizational approach that serves as a catch-all for every aspect of family life. In other words, there’s a place for scheduling, meal planning, to do lists, even photos. You can add items via the tabletop display in your kitchen or via an app. (Each entry then updates in real time creating a life solve for busy families who are desperate to track everything from who’s handling after-school pickup to soccer practice and school spirit days all in one place.)

My Favorite Features

I already mentioned this one, but the touchscreen. The Skylight Calendar is available in three different sizes (10-inch, 15-inch and 27-inch). The version I tested is the 15-inch, but even at that more medium size, I was impressed at how quickly my 7-year-old figured out how to navigate it. The touchscreen is a huge reason it’s so easy. He loves nothing more than assigning emojis to each item on his to-do list, then ceremoniously checking them off.

Other standout features to love include the easy setup. To get started, all you really have to do is download the app, create a login and you’re good to go. The Skylight also seamlessly syncs with other calendars, so you can integrate everything from Outlook to your Google Calendar within the device. (It’s worth noting that this syncs from multiple calendars if you want it to, an action that’s incredibly time-saving.)

The calendar view is color-coded by family member, which is helpful when you want to get a view of everyone’s schedule at a glance. It also showcases the daily weather and—via the Plus Plan, which comes with an added fee—allows for use as a meal planning tool (you can even upload recipes), which has been one of my favorite features.

Also with the Plus Plan comes the ability to use the Skylight as a digital photo frame. (Who doesn’t love having photo favorites in a slideshow format as a screensaver?)

My Experience Testing It Out

It’s been six months since I set up the Skylight Calendar in my home and the most important part of its arrival has been that everyone reaches for it and feels savvy enough about the interface. One of the biggest challenges of other tools we’ve tested—Trello, a shared Google cal—is out of sight, out of mind. The Skylight takes up physical space in the way an oversize wall calendar would have. That is enough to cue everyone to regularly use it.

We mainly use it the calendar and meal planning features, but my 7-year-old loves using it to track his to-do list. Yes, he enjoys adding items of varying necessity (everything from “kick around the soccer ball” to “do homework”), but gets a thrill out of checking each one off. (Did I mention that beyond general family organization, the Skylight absolutely helps with teaching executive functioning skills?)

Even more important, it enables me to cue my husband—who has long felt left out and missing information when it comes to my paper calendar methods—to take more of a lead on family logistics. (As the cook in our family, he especially loves the meal planning and Magic Import feature, which allows him to upload recipe ingredients with the snap of a photo.)  

The Only Downsides

Beyond the cost of the calendar, the Plus Plan requires an additional investment of $39/year. I feel it’s worth it since we use the meal planning feature so frequently, but it’s worth considering. Some parts of the interface are a bit clunky. For example, when my son is trying to add an emoji to his tasks, he has to scroll through all of them to find what he wants vs. being able to type a theme into the search bar. Finally, a Wi-fi connection is required…but so is a plug. (That was a big reason why we didn’t invest in the larger size since we couldn’t find an area in our kitchen that was big enough to hang the frame that was also next to an outlet.)

Bottom Line

Skylight

The Skylight calendar is an investment worth making for overall organization, but also for parents who are looking to simplify logistics while also encouraging a bit more task ownership from their kids. In my test, both missions were accomplished. Mental load=reduced.

The One Phrase That Finally Got My Husband to Take Over the Family Calendar

The problem? My 11-year-old son most certainly does not ascribe to this philosophy, leaving breadcrumb-like trails of socks and used tissues around the house and sooner going hungry than lifting a finger to make his own food. (In fact, he’s stealthily found a way to convince his sister to make snacks for him, and I often catch her hustling around the kitchen preparing two trays of pre-dinner crudités.)

This is troubling from the stance of equity and learned helplessness; why do boys inherently feel absolution from the mental load? But it’s doubly troubling, because I fear my husband and I have encouraged this unequal dynamic by subconsciously holding our children to different standards.

Meet the Expert

Laurie Kramer, PhD, is Professor of Applied Psychology at Northeastern University. Kramer served as Founding Director of the Family Resiliency Center and as Associate Dean of Academic Programs at the University of Illinois, where she is now an Emeritus Professor. She is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Illinois. Her research, which centers on enhancing children’s sibling relationships, has been highlighted in national and international media.

The Problem of Aptitude

Of course, most parents don’t try to hold their kids to different standards. And of course, my husband and I think boys and girls should be held accountable in equal measure. But the fact remains: Most of us expect more from the people who have previously exhibited aptitude and less from those who have not.

Case in point: If the coffee table is littered with seltzer cans and school supplies, my instinct is to ask my daughter to clear it, even if her brother was the one who made the mess. After all, if I ask her to clean things up, I know it will get done without conflict. And sometimes Mommy is just…tired.

But this cycle isn’t healthy, says Laurie Kramer, PhD, a professor in applied psychology at Northeastern University and an expert on sibling dynamics.  

“We tend to expect that girls are to going be much be more nurturing than boys,” she says. “They’re the ones we ask to help out around the house or to get the diapers. Whereas we expect boys to be a protector of younger siblings or to be the fun one, the good play partner.”

The issue isn’t that we’re wrong. Girls are often more conscientious and attentive to detail, Kramer admits. The issue is that it does a disservice to boys, who “have the potential to be just as conscientious, even if those characteristics don’t emerge until a little bit later.” Plus, it puts an awful lot of pressure on our daughters and can extend to burdens beyond chores and housework.

“This [inequity] applies not just to tangible behaviors that we do at home,”—the dishes, the laundry—"but also the things that we don’t see, the emotional labor,” Kramer says. “Because sometimes we are implicitly asking a particular child to be the counselor, the empath, the one to carry the bad feelings.” (As well as the crudité plates.) And if that child is always the daughter, that teaches a particular lesson to both children.

Equity vs. Equality

So, what can parents do if we notice ourselves assigning more work to one kid over another? Or if our children point out a perceived slight? The first thing is to talk about it, Kramer maintains. “Everyone in the family makes up their own interpretation of what’s going on, and those things often don’t match up across family members. So, we have to have clear communication so that kids can tell their parents, ‘Hey when you did this to my sister and not to me, it felt really bad.’”

She also thinks we need to worry less about tit-for-tat and more about recognizing each of our kids for who they are and what they’re good at—and then working those skillsets into our expectations. Is your son a foodie? Get him cooking Sunday supper. Is your daughter technologically inclined? Have her update the Skylight Calendar each week.

“Differential treatment isn’t always a bad thing,” says Kramer. “Kids want to be treated in ways that recognize who they really are, that appreciate their skills, talents, interests and goals.”

Next, make sure you and your spouse are modeling non-stereotypical chore and caregiving behavior yourselves. Does he do all the driving? Do you send all the Christmas cards? Kids notice this stuff! “Watching a dad do things that a woman typically does in our society?” Kramer says, laughing. “That’s priceless.”

And finally, acknowledge that there are just some chores that nobody wants to do, but need to get done regardless. In other words, it may be time to channel my son’s love of soccer into washing his own uniform. But he also needs to bus his own damn dishes.

The One Piece of Parenting Advice That Deserves a Permanent Time Out

“Friction-maxxing” started popping up on my social media feed during the school vacation week—which, parents can attest, felt extra-long this year. And the same time, all my conversations concluded with the same guilt-ridden admission: “At this point, we’re just relying on screens.” Boredom felt interminable, and parents were tired of serving as staycation cruise directors on the heels of an already action-packed holiday month.

But boredom is healthy! I said to myself as I simultaneously longed for kid-free time to put my feet up and scroll mindlessly through my phone. Enter Kathyrn Jezer-Morton’s piece in The Cut about friction-maxxing and why we all need more of it in the new year.

What is friction-maxxing exactly? According to Jezer-Morton, it’s not just about reducing screentime—it’s the idea of building up our collective tolerance for “inconvenience” (by which she means “the vagaries of being a person living in a world with other people in spaces that are impossible to completely control”). The goal is ultimately to trust the process. There’s fun to be had in not always resorting to digital fixes to escape experiences that used to be commonplace, but we’ve now dubbed the “hard stuff”.

After all, Jezer-Morton maintains, it feels like there’s a tech solve for everything that might go awry in our day-to-day life (a delayed train; an awkward IRL social interaction). And if kids and adults could learn to sit with that discomfort, they’d become better at solving their own problems.

For instance, I recently met up with an old friend at a cozy café. As we sat down, I realized that there was no cell service inside. “Do you have a Wifi password?” I asked the hostess, internally panicking about the fact that I’d be unreachable to my spouse. When her answer was no, I was left with two options. 1. Walk down a couple blocks to get a signal and let my husband know I’d be out of pocket 2. Enjoy breakfast.

I went with the latter and everyone was fine. (I emerged to a flurry of texts about a missing game that everyone wanted to play.)

The best part? In that time spent logging off, I was actually present with my friend and my family actually dealt with the momentary friction of looking for the game themselves. (Spoiler: They found it.)

So what does friction-maxxing look like for kids? Well, it might be having them pay with cash instead of tapping an app. Or it might be encouraging them to meet a new friend group for pizza instead of a Snapchat interaction. In a lot of ways, the benefits of friction-maxxing dovetail with Jonathan Haidt’s argument from his viral book, The Anxious Generation, about granting kids more autonomy (and delaying access to smartphones). This, he says, helps them build resilience, coping skills, risk assessment and critical thinking—not to mention stronger emotional regulation and reduced anxiety. (Hey, if a crisis occurs and there’s not an app for that, don’t you want to trust that your kids can figure it out?)

To be clear, friction-maxxing isn’t about suffering. It’s about the healthy challenges that are ultimately character-building. There’s value in that for us, but especially our kids.

7 Trends That Will Be Everywhere in 2026

Shopping for a stroller is one thing, but purchasing a car seat is an entirely different puzzle, with so many pieces to consider. Is it safe? Adjustable? Easy to clean? Well, when it comes to Nuna car seats, the answer is "yes" to all of the above. Luckily, the Nuna Rava (from $500; $450) is the total package, according to moms who rave about everything from its easy setup to its durability. And while parents swear it's worth the $500+ price tag, the viral car seat is currently discounted to the lowest price I've seen it since Black Friday.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

The versatile, steel-framed car seat is marked down to just $450, though it's worth noting that the deal only applies to the Sterling gray colorway, sold at Nordstrom. Otherwise, it's the same Nuna Rava hundreds of reviewers rave about. (But if you had your heart set on the classic black "Caviar" colorway, you can find that version on sale for a slightly steeper price—$480, normally $580—at Bloomingdale's.)

Of course, you have to be wondering: Why are people so obsessed with this car seat, given that it's pricier than many others out there—and very rarely goes on sale? It's not a status thing; if you ask TikTok, the 25- by 16- by 19-inch seat checks off all the boxes, from growing with your baby to meeting FAA aircraft compliance standards.

First, its adjustable design suits kids from 5 pounds to 65 pounds, so you don't need to buy a new model every other year. Second, it's constructed to provide ventilation to keep kids from getting sweaty on long rides, and is wrapped in a machine-washable knit fabric that's free of toxic flame-retardant materials, providing added peace of mind. As if that weren't enough, it offers ten-position recline and various head support options, as well as side-impact panels and energy-absorbing foam to help keep your little one safe.

As much as parents love this car seat, the real question is: Will your kid? All signs point to yes, based on the reviews. Beyond the ventilation and adjustable seating, the brand says it can provide up to two additional inches of legroom (when rear-facing) and even more support when forward-facing for a comfy experience all around.

Just take it from this parent, who was glad they chose it over other brands: "I researched car seats for weeks once I realized my baby was looking a little squished in her car seat. [It was down to two options], but the Nuna just seemed so [much] comfier for long trips, and I loved all of the little details like the pop-up cup holders, strap holders, etc," they rave. "The real test was [my] baby liking it, and not only does she seem perfectly content, but she easily falls asleep in it and doesn’t get fussy if we are in the car for a few hours, which means she’s comfortable."

Pottery Barn Kids

The best part? It comes complete with a no-rethread, five-point harness that you can adjust with just one hand. 

The $50 discount won't be on forever, though, so if you've got a baby on board (or are expecting one soon!), you better hurry to snag this holy grail of car seats for less.

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

This inspired a LEGO storage project for our own playroom upon return—anchored by color and creativity.

When we got home, I bought these wall pockets from West Elm, which are large enough (approximately 14 inches in diameter) to hold quite a stash. I spent a Saturday organizing by color (a system which may or may not last) and now, my son beams any time he walks into his playroom and sees his LEGOs.

Rachel Bowie

I’m also fond of the quick clean-up effect; I’ve found that I can basically scoop up the pieces by dragging the wall pockets across the floor.

More than anything, this simple set-up immediately whisks me right back to the Copenhagen LEGO store and a zillion projects built over cardamom pastry-ridden breakfasts. The best.

12 Lego Storage Ideas That Will Change Your Life (and Save Your Feet)

In the video, entrepreneur and family coach Scott Donnell shares the quirky ritual his family of six uses when they go out to eat: the kids order for the entire table.

Sounds…chaotic? Maybe. But maybe not. As Donnell points out, this exercise teaches kids all kinds of valuable skills including communication, memory and public speaking. To pull it off, your kid has to look the server in the eye, speak clearly, use their pleases-and-thank-yous and—crucially—pay attention.

Curious to see if this works but without any immediate plans to take my own kids out to dinner, I asked PureWow’s VP of Editorial Content Candace Davison to test it out with her 7-year-old daughter. (FWIW, Donnell suggests starting this with kids at about age 5 or 6.)

“She wound up feeling proud of herself for relaying everyone's order correctly, and now that she's done it a few times, she looks forward to taking the lead at restaurants,” Davison noted. Meanwhile her husband added, “I think it's a fun opportunity to give her real-world experience and build confidence, with relatively safe parameters. We practice what she'll say a few times, and at first, she was nervous, so we talked about speaking clearly and confidently.”

So there you have it: a side of executive functioning served right alongside your kid’s chicken tenders.

How To Raise Confident Kids, According to a Clinical Psychologist

Meet the Expert

Dr. Sanam Hafeez is the founder of Comprehend the Mind in New York City She is a pioneer in neuropsychological assessments, reshaping its clinical model and best practices. Dr. Hafeez received her doctorate from Hofstra University and completed her post-doctoral work in neurodevelopmental psychology at Coney Island Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. Dr. Hafeez is a New York State licensed psychologist and a New York State certified school psychologist and is an expert in trauma, learning problems, ADHD and autism.

What Is Pregnancy Brain?

Pregnancy brain is a term used to describe changes in memory, focus, and attention that can happen during pregnancy. It is caused by hormonal shifts, changes in sleep, and the brain preparing for the future task of caring for a baby. Per the expert, some telltale signs include forgetting simple things (appointments, for example), misplacing items, or struggling to concentrate on tasks and follow conversations. Generally speaking, “feeling mentally slower or more distracted than usual is common,” says Dr. Hafeez, adding that “some also notice mood changes, like increased irritability or frustration, along with forgetfulness.”

Why Does Pregnancy Brain Occur?

Pregnancy is no picnic, and a lot of physiological changes take place during the process. These physical changes have a direct effect on the brain. Why, you ask? Well, we touched on this already, but the expert emphasizes that rising levels of estrogen and progesterone can influence memory and focus. Furthermore, “the brain reorganizes itself to prepare for caring for a baby, which can temporarily make some tasks harder,” explains Dr. Hafeez. Additionally, “sleep changes and fatigue during pregnancy can make it more difficult to concentrate, as can stress and worry about the pregnancy or the future.”

When Does Pregnancy Brain Start (and How Long Does It Last)?

According to Dr. Hafeez, pregnancy brain can start as early as the first trimester when hormone levels begin to rise, and often continues through the second and third trimesters, though the intensity can vary. As for when you can expect it to end? Well, the jury is out on that one. “For many people, it gradually improves after giving birth, but some notice lingering effects for a few months while adjusting to life with a newborn,” says Dr. Hafeez.

Indeed, research from a 2021 study published in Brain Sci. shows that gray matter in the brain is actually reduced during pregnancy and only partially bounces back postpartum. In other words, don’t be surprised if your “pregnancy brain” persists after birth. Some of the findings within the study even suggest “the possibility that pregnancy-induced brain changes are permanent.”

How Can You Cope with Pregnancy Brain?

So you’ve learned that pregnancy brain might have a longer lifespan than the name suggests, but don’t despair. The expert has some handy tips that will help you adapt and effectively navigate the fog.

• Keep a planner

Writing down appointments, to-do lists, and reminders can help reduce forgetfulness. That said, a planner is only an aid if you actually take the time to check it daily. Do this, and the two habits together will “make it easier to stay organized and feel in control,” says Dr. Hafeez.

• Get enough rest

It's a tall order when you’re also caring for a newborn, but try to sleep as much as you can, when you can, since being tired can make memory issues worse: “Taking short naps during the day can give your mind a break. Rest helps your brain work more clearly and stay focused.”

• Stay physically active

Per the expert, light exercise, like walking or stretching, can improve blood flow to the brain, which helps keep your mind alert and supports overall health. Bonus: regular activity can also boost energy and reduce stress.

Pregnancy Brain: When to Worry

The expert tells me that most forgetfulness and absent-mindedness during pregnancy is normal and not dangerous, unless it becomes severe and starts to seriously interfere with daily life. Also, she cautions that, “sudden confusion or trouble recognizing familiar people are warning signs that need immediate attention [as are] persistent headaches, vision changes, or unusual mood swings. Bottom line: Pregnancy brain is very much a thing, but if you’re starting to feel like something else is going on, it’s very important to talk to a doctor who can rule out other medical conditions that can affect cognition and determine if further testing is needed.

The 15 Best Pregnancy Must-Haves, According to Moms Who’ve Been Through It

Every time I visit my friends and family in Sweden with a new baby in tow, there are a few things that seem to blow their minds. Firstly—they are fascinated by the fact that most American moms swaddle their babies, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Secondly, they think that this pacifier is hilarious (apparently, being able to see into the baby’s mouth is a novelty?). And finally, they’re astonished that all three of my babies have (mostly) fallen asleep on their own.

You see, in Sweden sleep training is very much not a thing. Babies nap outside in their strollers—rain, snow or shine—something that’s believed to improve both sleep and immunity. And at night, co-sleeping is the norm. A 2020 survey of 3,590 Swedish infants found that at 3 months old, 43 percent slept in their parents’ bed; by 6 months, a third still did. As one study put it, “co-sleeping in Sweden is perceived as a normal family activity.”

Meanwhile, American parents have a whole sleep-training industry at their disposal: cry-it-out, Ferber, Chair Lady—you name it. There are books, podcasts, entire online communities devoted to the cause. But in Sweden? Nothing of the sort exists. When I mention “Ferberizing” to my Swedish cousins, they look at me like I’ve started speaking Klingon. In fact, across the Nordics, the very idea of letting a baby cry it out is foreign. One Norwegian study found that none of the mothers endorsed it. Instead, researchers noted, “Norwegian mothers want to foster their infants' independence and freedom to choose,” and “letting infants cry themselves to sleep is not accepted, instead the infants’ needs for security are emphasized.”

So, why the difference? Parental leave is one obvious factor. Swedish parents get 480 days of paid leave per child, split between both parents. American parents, on average, get just 10 weeks—and not always paid. When you have to be back at work by month three, the pressure to get your baby “sleeping through the night” early is real. Swedish parents simply don’t have that same urgency.

But I think there’s more to it. Scandinavia is deeply family-first—a culture that builds family life into its infrastructure. There are family lines at airports, family parking spots at shopping centers, changing tables everywhere you turn. Kids are allowed to just… be kids. And by extension, babies are allowed to be babies. If they cry, well, that’s what babies do. If they want to sleep in your arms or wake up every hour, that’s not a problem to fix—it’s part of the job description.

As someone who’s tried it all—gentle methods, tough ones and everything in between—I’m the last person to judge how any parent gets their baby to sleep. But if you’re in the thick of a regression or wondering if you’ll ever sleep again, maybe there’s comfort in this: The Swedish approach isn’t about teaching babies to sleep—it’s about trusting that they eventually will.

The Swedish Trick to Sleeping Better Makes So Much Damn Sense

Meet the Expert

Colleen Slagen, author of Naming Bebe, is a former nurse practitioner turned professional baby name consultant and content creator. Her work has been featured on NPR, ABC News Today, The Washington Post, and more. She lives in the Boston area with her husband and 3 children.

One-Syllable Names

Short, but sweet names are still on the rise, Slagen says, because they have a minimalist, modern aesthetic. They avoid the issue of unwanted nicknames and have an effortlessly chic vibe.

1. Beck

An Old English topographical name meaning “brook” or “stream.”

2. Mack

This name has Gaelic, Scottish and Irish roots and is a shortened version of Malcolm and Mackenzie that means “the greatest.”

3. Wells

This name of Old English origin was originally a surname meaning “stream.”

4. Jones

Here, a name of Welsh and English origin that means “son of John.”

5. Cal

This short and cute masculine name has multiple origins and meaning. In Latin, it means “bald,” but it also has Hebrew origins with a meaning of “faithful and devoted.” (We’re rooting for the latter.)

6. Kit

Kit is a unisex name of Greek and English origin, and a common nickname for both Christopher and Katherine, which mean “bearer of Christ” and “pure,” respectively.

7. Gwen

This sturdy but feminine moniker has Welsh origins and a meaning of “holy,” “fair,” and “pure.”

8. Maeve

This strong and seductive name of Irish origin has mythological roots and a meaning of “she who intoxicates.”

9. Liv

Liv can be used as an abbreviation for Olivia or as a standalone name of Scandinavian origin meaning “life,” “protection” and “shelter.”

10. Elle

Elle has French origins (it’s a pronoun meaning “she/her”) and Greek origins with an alternate meaning of “sun ray” or “light.”

11. Scout

This name was first popularized by Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. It has French and Old Latin origins and a straightforward meaning of “to listen, explore and discover.”

Saved by the ‘90s

90s trends aren’t just influencing the fashion world. Slagen sees parents reaching for 90s names–especially boy names–for something that feels familiar but still original for kids born in the 2020s.

12. Jordan

This gender neutral name of Hebrew origin means “to flow down” or “to descend.”

13. Zachary

Here, a masculine moniker of Hebrew origin that means “God has remembered.”

14. Scott

No surprises here. This masculine name has Scottish origins and simply means “of Scotland.”

15. Austin

This name of English and Latin origin has a lofty meaning of “great, magnificent and majestic.” 

16. Jesse

“God’s gift” and “wealthy” are the meanings of this gender neutral name of Hebrew origin.

Heartthrob Names

Think: The Summer I Turned Pretty. These are strong, yet gentle names—ones that are easy to picture on a baby, but age well.

17. Ambrose

In ancient Greek mythology, ambrosia was the healing drink of the Gods. It’s a symbol of eternal life with a meaning to match: “divine” and “immortal.”

18. Conrad

This preppy-sounding name of German origin has a meaning of “brave advisor,” or “bold counsel.”

19. August

Or Auggie if you want to be cute. This name of Latin origin means “magnificent,” “great” and “venerable.”

20. Russell

Perfect for a ginger—this name of Old French origin means “redhead” or (even more adorable) “little red fox.”

21. Cassian

This name of Latin origin has a stately ring to it, but not such a flattering meaning: “vain” and “hollow.”

22. Anders

This popular masculine name of Scandinavian origin has ties to the Greek name Andreas, meaning “manly” and “warrior.”

Dog Names

People often comment “that’s a dog name” to names Slagan suggests. Her question: why are people giving dogs such good names? “What happened to Spot? I think people find cutesy, nickname-names to seem like dog names. But what’s really happening is that people are starting to forgo the ‘formal name’ and are just naming their children what they want to call them.”

23. Arlo

Arlo is a name of Germanic and English origin with a topographical meaning of “fortified hill.”

24. Teddy

A shortened version of the Greek name Theodoros—this one means “gift from God” and “wealthy protector.”

25. Gus

Here, a shortened version of the name Augustus (see above) with a like meaning of “venerable.”

26. Millie

“Gentle strength” and “strong in work” are the meanings of the sweet feminine name of German and English origin.

27. Goldie

This diminutive version of the Yiddish name Golda has a meaning to match the sound: “made of gold.”

28. Daisy

In Old English, this feminine name translates to “day’s eye.”

Rodeo Ready Names

Not a new trend, but a trend that is only just getting started and appears to have staying power, says Slagen. People are loving names that evoke a rugged aesthetic. If it’s got western or country vibes, you can expect it to be big in 2026.

29. Stetson

An Old English name meaning “fist fighter” and “cattle dealer.”

30. Wilder

“Untamed, wild and free” are the meanings of this name of Old English and Germanic origin.

31. Cade

Cade is a gender neutral name of Old English and Welsh origin that means “barrell” or “stout.”

32. Townes

One of my favorite country singers (Townes Van Zandt, duh!) and an adapted surname of English origin meaning “from the town.”

33. Tate

This cute-as-a-button single syllable name has a cheery meaning of “joyful and bright.”

34. Josie

This diminutive of Josephine has Hebrew origins and a meaning of “God will add.”

35. Della

Della is a feminine name of Germanic origin with a grand meaning of “nobility.”

36. Betty

Here, a common nickname for Elizabeth with English origins and a meaning of “God’s promise.”

37. Loretta

A variant of Laura, and a feminine name of Latin and Italian origin that’s related to the laurel plant—a symbol of honor, distinction and triumph.

38. Tilly

A shortened version of Matilda, this name of German origin has a fierce meaning of “mighty in battle.”

150 Uncommon Baby Names to Help Your Child Stand Out from the Crowd

Whether it’s talk of the economy (the unemployment rate lately rose to 4.6 percent, according to a delayed U.S. labor report) or simply the repeated waves of budget cuts at the office, Glassdoor’s 2026 Worklife Trends report is no surprise. Per its research, we’ve entered the era of the “forever layoff,” i.e. a more rolling experience of staffing cuts vs. a one-and-done tsunami-like moment. The bad news: No matter which way you slice it, layoffs in any form never feel good.

But for those left in the driver’s seat of a new job search, a soup-to-nuts resumé and career coaching service may turn out to be the best possible investment, especially if you’re struggling to find a way to stand out (and to ensure your resumé isn’t automatically screened out). 

Enter TopResume’s new full-service, concierge-style job placement program that is designed to support you end-to-end—from resumé building to applications, interviews to job offers—until you’re officially hired. Like I said, in today’s job market, you can’t put a price on this level of hand-holding, not to mention expertise. But is the service (and it’s à la carte options) as laser-focused and constructive as it promises? I put it to the test to find out.

First and Foremost, We All Need Someone to Challenge Us on Our Career Goals

We pay a therapist to keep us emotionally grounded—why not do the same when it comes to shepherding our professional hopes and dreams along? As I kicked off my own coaching experience, defined as TopResume’s Get Hired Now package, I was prompted to fill out a brief survey about my career goals—past, present and future—for greater clarity before I could talk to a live person. So I did! It wasn’t a huge time suck, but it did challenge me to think more honestly about my aspirations and long-term path. This set the stage for what came next: Access to a dedicated coach (hi, Linda!) for one-on-one sessions, who requested my resumé and set up a call.

I’ll admit, I went into my first phoner expecting a rushed and formulaic conversation. This person, while assigned directly to me, likely has a zillion calls like the one we were about to have. Like the resumés we repeatedly send out during a job hunt, it’s easy to feel like one in a million. Rinse, repeat. But immediately, Linda—and the caliber of TopResume’s services—caught me off guard.

Our first call, like therapy, was dedicated to getting to know me and lifting the hood on my professional journey. What did I love? What did I hate? What were my short- and long-term objectives? What was a job title that made my heart sing? Job interview, this was not. Instead, it was a chance to really sink my teeth into my accomplishments, but also shed light on the areas where I felt a lack of personal clarity, which provided a valuable learning opportunity. And this was only the introductory call.

Enter the Resumé Writing Team

FYI, TopResume offers a range of à la carte-style packages that enable you to flexibly access career support based on your budget, which always bears considering, especially after a layoff. This means whether you’re simply looking for a resumé overhaul (prices start at $179) or more ongoing one-on-one support (starting at $2,495), targeted options based on your needs abound. For the latter, TopResume will automatically set you up with unlimited professional-level coaching and support, not to mention help with your personal branding (think cover letter, LinkedIn profile and more). There’s job search support, coaching to help you navigate your interview and subsequent job offers (yep, you should probably negotiate those)—truly, anything you could possibly run into during your hunt is covered. Still, the resumé service, available on its own or as part of a bigger package, is a premium offering worth shouting out. A professional writing team will work with you to help you really drill down your career objective, grammar, opening summary and more.

They’re also highly familiar with the industry and resumé screen-out processes, eliminating phrases or date structures that have the potential to automatically get you tossed out. In my case, I was stunned to learn that two-page resumés are now A-OK, something I fact checked with Linda, who explained it all depends on experience level. I had no idea.

Bottom Line: Every Job Searcher Deserves a Support Team

The best way for me to put it is that we all need a Linda in our lives. But TopResume, as a package, offers so much more. At its core, it’s like having a support structure; scaffolding that cheers you on as you work to articulate your professional package. (Hey, I’d rather have a coach prompt me with questions that we can workshop together than feel like a deer in headlights when asked the same questions in a Zoom interview with a hiring manager, wouldn’t you?)

Whether you’re in the midst of a job search, in need of some career coaching or just want to update your resumé with the help of a professional, this is a service that is worth the investment. The ‘forever layoff’ era never saw TopResume coming.

The Number 1 Resume Mistake You’re Making, According to Hiring Experts

• Value: 19/20
• Quality: 20/20
• Ease of Instructions: 20/20
• Ease of Use: 20/20
• Nostalgia Factor: 20/20

TOTAL: 99/100

I’m going to kick this review off by saying something rather bold: The Tin Can might be my favorite family-related product that I’ve tested all year. I first heard about it from, surprise, surprise, the Gen Zers in my office: They were all curious whether I, a millennial mom, had snapped up the landline-meets-walkie-talkie alternative to a smartphone.

As the parent of a 7-year-old (and 1-year-old, who is thankfully eons away from this debate, but who I’d let play around with a Tin Can the minute he learns how to talk), I’ve never Googled anything faster in my life. While it resembles a traditional landline, it includes special features that set it apart from the screen-free phones we grew up with.

Here’s what Tin Can promises: An easy setup (no losing hours of time on the phone to a provider’s customer service department) and crystal-clear parental controls (kids can call friends who also have a Tin Can or you can pay $10/month to add non-Tin Can numbers via an app). It’s also a total throwback. More about my testing experience below, but the Tin Can flashback (one of two options) comes complete with that twirly cord that, no matter how far you stretch it, still keeps you tethered to a wall.

As an alternative, Tin Can also offers a Wifi-enabled option that’s as cute as it is candy-colored. (Don’t get me wrong, it’s still a throwback to the ‘80s, but one that feels Instagram-ready.)

Speaking of social media, that’s the beauty of the Tin Can: It’s retro in all the right ways and without an app or screen in sight. More importantly—and the part that’s left me the most gobsmacked—is how my son took to it immediately, leveling up his conversation skills (and confidence) in the process.

How the Tin Can Works

Tin Can

Like I said, there are two versions of the Tin Can: The Tin Can Flashback and the Tin Can. The Tin Can Flashback is the most nostalgic-feeling (and closely mirrors my own landline experience as a kid). It’s also the device we primarily tested, plugging it into our home internet router via an Ethernet cord (which comes included) instead of a phone jack and attaching it to the wall in our kitchen. To use it, parents simply have to set up the app which gives them full control in terms of who kids can call, i.e. the numbers for other Tin Cans only or external numbers for a monthly subscription fee of $10/month.

On the flip side, the Tin Can is the brand’s Wifi-enabled option. It connects to your home Wifi, no Ethernet cord required. The app usage is the same, allowing parents to manage contacts and control who your kid can ring up.

Other features worth calling out: A paper phone list where you can write the numbers of friends and family and post it to the wall. (This has been a game-changer in terms of getting my kid to learn phone numbers by heart, something that’s so helpful for safety.) Kids also have to wait for a dial tone before plunking in the numbers (I told you it was old-school) and you can set “quiet hours” also within the app (perfect for long-distance cousins who live in a different time zone and might call at all hours of the night). Also, worth noting: In an emergency situation, calls to 911 always work.

How I Tested It

Tin Can

I’ve been testing the Tin Can for a few months now, mainly via my 7-year-old son. When it arrived, we anchored it to the wall in our kitchen and—full disclosure—my husband also invested in an extender cord in order to give him a slightly longer tether as he wonders around the kitchen chatting up his Grammy or cousins in California. Speaking of his cousins, they also own a Tin Can (and, TBH, more and more friends are getting one, so his pre-approved phone list is ever-expanding), but we quickly added the “party line” plan for an affordable $10 monthly fee so that he could call all his grandparents, too. I’m not kidding when I say that he gets home from school and the Tin Can is the first thing he wants to reach for.

Initially, he was also rather clunky with it. He didn’t understand that it’s best practices to kick off a conversation with a salutation, such as “hello! How are you?” Also, the fact that when you’re done talking, you don’t just…hang up. I overheard him mid-conversation with his nana, then suddenly, he just slammed the phone down. “Are you upset? What happened?” I asked. “I didn’t have anything else to say,” he replied. (Cue our conversation about conversation skills.)

There’s more: What began as five-minute phone calls to friends and family now have morphed into conversations that can stretch to half an hour, sometimes longer. It’s incredible.

How It’s Changed My Life (No, But Really)

Tin Can

The smartphone debate has felt like a scary parenting pain point for years now. From my kid’s days as a toddler and on, I’ve frequently found myself quizzing parents about their own practices and stress-reading Jonathan Haidt’s assessment that our efforts to curb kid’s smartphone use has reached a critical—and life-altering—point.

But as my kid dialed up the numbers connected to so many core relationships in his life, he unlocked a new level of independence for himself, along with conversation skills that are rooted in confidence and curiosity.

“How was school today?” I heard him ask his cousin. “I have a list of things I need to tell you about,” I heard him tell his nana. I quickly realized that my anxiety about phone use wasn’t about phone use at all. It’s about screens and social media only. A phone—which at its core purpose allows my kid to connect with friends and loved ones, and laugh and talk as little or as long as he wants about his day—is a beautiful thing.

Add to the fact that as we’re cooking dinner and the chaos of life is swirling around us, we get interrupted by that old-school bring bring sound of a landline without the knowledge—other than our app approvals—of who’s on the other end? It’s a thrill that I totally forgot existed. (Also hilarious, how often he gets tangled up in the cord.)

Bottom Line: The Smartphone Debate Is Missing an Important Point

No, the Tin Can doesn’t solve the issue of kids needing phone access forever—I know a smartphone or smartwatch is ultimately in my future—but it does extend the length of time before my kid requires one. It also grants autonomy and independence and, even safety, if you will. Case in point: Not only does my son now have a way to phone his friends and family on his own, he can call us, too, say, if he has a question while home with a babysitter. (This brings him a ton of comfort, FYI.)

But more importantly, the Tin Can is a healthy gateway to phone usage that feels positive instead of anxiety-provoking. It’s not confused by texting capabilities or apps. Instead, it’s a chance to practice core social and conversation skills, which in just a few months’ time, has bolstered his confidence and his relationships, too.

Should Kids Have Cell Phones? An Expert Weighs In

But my excitement soon turned to anxiety as my family prepared for our first cruise aboard the Disney Destiny: Would my, ahem, very active two-year-old, who prefers to run everywhere he goes and can’t sit still for more than 15 minutes, be too young to handle this trip? It’s a question I hear from every parent: What’s the right age for a kid to go on a Disney cruise? Now, I was asking it myself, as I dreamed of catching the new Hercules stage show—while simultaneously mapping out an exit strategy if, 12 minutes in, he had a meltdown. I was excited, but I also wanted to be prepared.

And if you’re reading this, you probably do too. So, from a parent’s perspective, here’s my full review of the new Disney Destiny cruise ship, including what I wish I knew before booking, what I highly recommend doing—and the one thing I’ll be sure to do next time.

What Sets the Disney Destiny Apart

candace davison

Beyond being Disney’s newest ship in the fleet, the 15-deck vessel can host up to 4,000 people—but it’s spacious enough that things rarely feel crowded. (It's a credit to Disney's careful engineering of spaces, ensuring things don't bottleneck too much, much like they do with the layouts of its theme parks.)

Leaving out of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the Destiny sails to the Bahamas and Caribbean, with stays ranging from three nights to seven. Though, as stunning as the crystal clear waters and white sand beaches are, the ship itself is a destination too. Or rather, several.

The Destiny is a series of immersive experiences, all stitched together with a heroes and villains theme. You don't just pose for a picture with Rapunzel or Loki; Destiny offers character “meet and plays” throughout the day, where the stars take the time to chat with kids, sign autographs and tell stories.

In effect, there's always at least one storyline at play, and there's no fourth wall. You're part of the plot. Cruella De Vil might critique your outfit during her runway show; you may turn a corner to see Spider-Man and Loki bickering from different sides of the Great Hall.

Even the dinner experiences are just that: experiences. At the Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King, you’re treated to a full performance of the movie’s hits as you dine, and at Worlds of Marvel, the fam can test their superhero knowledge during a restaurant-wide game of trivia as they wait for their appetizers to arrive.

The Destiny impressively walks the line between offering kid-friendly fun (like an inflatable Incredibles obstacle course) and luxury amenities (such as Frette sheets—the brand known for gracing five-star resort beds, like the Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris—and yes, I checked).

original photo: candace davison

The key to creating such an immersive, “they thought of everything!” experience, I’ve found, is the crew, which Disney calls cast members. When I walked into 1923, a more formal dining room on board the ship, for lunch, I immediately started worrying my toddler would be too squirmy. But this isn’t Disney’s first rodeo (er, voyage). Every restaurant featured kid-friendly meals, which were brought out early, and when my son started eyeing the door, our server, Rhom, showed him a magic trick—which also got him to eat his carrots! My son wound up as starstruck by Rhom as he was by Stitch and Mickey, talking about the disappearing nickel for days afterward.

Every detail is considered, to the point that the crew provides things for you before you realize you need them (for example, when we requested a pack-and-play for my son to sleep in, they also brought in and set up a Diaper Genie). That, to me, helps justify the price tag.

With prices starting at $3,447 for a three-night cruise for four people—$3,753 if you spring for the Verandah room—it’s an investment. But it also makes for an experience unlike any other. It’s the kind of vacation that relieves the mental load while creating core memories. Not many places can do that.

What Are the Rooms Like?

original photo: candace davison

I was prepared for cramped quarters, where I could stretch my arms out and touch both walls. Thankfully, that wasn’t the case, though admittedly, we stayed in one of the larger staterooms. Our family of four fit comfortably in a Verandah stateroom, which features a balcony with two chairs and a side table—and wound up being my favorite spot on the ship. It was a nice getaway to stay within earshot but still hang out after the kids went to bed. (Plus, is there anything more relaxing than the sound of waves?)

The room itself was surprisingly sound-resistant; I never heard a peep from my neighbors, or even kids racing down the hall. Built-in closets and shelving kept all of our belongings out of the way, including our car seat, stroller and large checked bag. And, beyond the queen-size bed, there was a small sofa that could convert into a bed—or bunk beds—which our host, Christa, set up for us each day. That was one of my kids’ favorite features of the entire ship—especially the surprise constellation art that’s revealed only when the bunk beds are in use. (Disney really does consider every detail.)

As for the beds themselves, I was pleasantly surprised—and I’ve spent 15 years covering mattresses and bedding as a home editor. The mattress was medium firm, with enough cushioning to support and cradle your body but not so much that you sink into mush. (Or worse, the opposite, making you feel like you’re resting on a wooden plank.)

What’s the Food Like on Board?

original photos: candace davison

You’ve got three immersive restaurants—Pride Lands, Worlds of Marvel and 1923—to choose from, though there’s also the buffet-style Marceline Market and a whole range of quick-service options at Mickey’s Festival of Foods, if you’re not feeling a sit-down, multi-course meal.

Each features a solid variety of dishes, though the menu at Pride Lands truly stood out for its flavor-packed menu. (The shrimp curry with jasmine rice is a must-order; it’s mildly spiced but still robust, with a light sweetness and lingering tanginess.)

original photo: candace davison

At Worlds of Marvel, someone at the table must order Pym Doughnut Sundae. While the key lime pie was custardy and zingy, as it should be, and the chocolate ice cream rich, it was this sundae that everyone at my table wished they’d ordered. It features layers of dulce de Leche ice cream, a blondie and caramel sauce, crowned with whipped cream, sprinkles, a chocolate-frosted mini doughnut and a Pym Technologies-branded chocolate. It's decadent in all the best ways.

While my kids practically lived off of the pepperoni pizza at Mickey’s Festival of Foods—a string of kiosks serving dishes alfresco-style near the pools—I’d urge everyone to stop by the barbecue stand at least once during their stay. The brisket was absurdly tender; the ribs fall-off-the-bone juicy, and the collard greens and mac and cheese? Well, it could rival some of the best smokehouses I’ve visited.

What Should Adults Check Out?

original photo: candace davison

The lounges are a must-visit, even if you don’t drink (many offer impressively balanced mocktails). But really, you’re there for the experience, because each one is like stepping into another world.

De Vil’s is a dalmatian-speckled, red velvet-draped piano bar, where jazzy music and dim lighting create a more sultry than sinister vibe. Given cruisers’ tradition of attending 1923 restaurants on other ships in roaring ‘20s attire, this lounge is a fitting accompaniment; it’s worth stopping by for pre- or post-dinner drinks to really lean into the theme.

If you’re more of the pub type, head to Cask & Cannon, where you can enjoy a pint and wings in a Pirates of the Caribbean-style setting.

original photo: candace davison

Marvel fans will get a kick out of The Sanctum, a Doctor Strange-inspired lounge. Its entire menu is designed to surprise and delight (and be shared on Instagram), from the bubbling Vapers of Valtor (a vodka-ginger beer combo that gets a purply hue courtesy of butterfly pea) to the Stoli-and-strawberry-based Mirror Dimension, served in a glass that shoots blue streaks of light up the sides when you touch it.

My favorite haunt, fittingly, was the Haunted Mansion Parlor. It features nods to the iconic Disney ride with a seafaring twist, like the same purple-eye wallpaper, moving portraits and ghosts in the mirror. There are even singing spirits—only this time, they’re skeleton fish in the room’s focal point: a massive aquarium.

The drinks are equally entertaining and eerie, like the Chilling Challenge, a smoking margarita presented inside a wooden box—and served with a death certificate, once you’ve downed your final sip.

And, if you need a moment for yourself, there’s also a full-scale spa, a salon and barbershop and an adults-only bar and pool.

What’s the Entertainment Like?

Disney

I’ve been on three other cruise lines, and nobody’s shows hold a stage light to Disney’s. They truly are Broadway caliber, from the talent to the costumes to the set design. Frozen has earned rave reviews over the years, and Disney Destiny’s take is no exception.

But the real star is its new take on Hercules, offering a gospel spin with voices so powerful they’ll give you goosebumps—and featuring updated jokes that bring the story into 2025.

The Destiny also features Disney’s renowned pirate night, so yes, prepare your outfits accordingly. If you play it cool, you’ll be bummed you didn’t bring an eye patch (though your stateroom host will hook you up with a bandanna, so you’re not totally left out). The night kicks off with a rock-fueled dance party on the upper deck, featuring a literal drop-in from Captain Jack Sparrow and fireworks to boot.

What the Kids Can't Miss

Honestly, I worried the Oceaneer Club, designed for kids aged 3 to 10, would be a run-of-the-mill babysitting service, but it wound up being the highlight of my 7-year-old daughter’s stay. “We get to play all kinds of games, and there’s a swirly slide you go down to get into the club that’s so much fun,” she says. “But the coolest part was actually when a bad guy invaded the club! We had to follow clues to track him down, and when we saved the day, Black Panther appeared and made us honorary heroes.”

The Club spans several rooms, each intricately designed, from a craft room inspired by Tangled to an area that looks pulled from Beauty and the Beast’s library (where, I’m told, Belle is known to stop by to read a story to the kids).

There are also age-appropriate clubs for tweens and teens, as well as a nursery for little ones three and under. (The nursery, it’s worth noting, costs $10/hour, though it’s loaded with activities for little ones, along with cribs for naptime.)

Kids are checked in and out via a Disney Magic Band, so if you have one, pack it. If not, you can borrow one and have a $25 charge placed on your account, which is removed when you return the band before the cruise’s end.

original photo: candace davison

Beyond that, there’s plenty of programming to keep kids entertained, including an Incredibles inflatable obstacle course, AquaMouse water coaster (think water slide meets ultra-tame Space Mountain) and, for an additional charge, a princess makeover at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, which is every bit as magical as it sounds. Starting at $185, it’s pricey, but they truly take their time to transform kids into their favorite Disney princess (or pirate). And they’re loaded up with mementos to take home, from a tiara and scepter to a sparkly backpack laden with goodies, depending on which package you choose.

What I Would Do Differently

original photo: candace davison

The most remarkable thing about a Disney cruise is that no matter how many times you go on one, there’s more to uncover. Like the hidden Mickeys in theme parks, Easter eggs abound. A casual conversation with a guest led to uncovering a semi-secretive 5K race, where you can trot along Disney’s Castaway Cay, and upon completion, receive a medal for your efforts, free of charge. It isn’t publicized anywhere; it’s more of an “if you know, you know” moment.

Similarly, I’d heard rumblings that people decorated their doors and would leave surprises for other guests known as “pixie dusting.” At the last minute, I grabbed a Moana dry erase board and stuck it on ours, letting my daughter leave messages for fellow cruisers. I’m so glad I did—each morning, we were surprised by homemade magnets, charm bracelets and other trinkets from fellow guests. It really added to the magic and made me commit that next time, I’m going all out and spreading a little “pixie dust” myself.

What Every Parent Should Know

original photo: candace davison

OK, I’ve covered a lot of ground, but when I asked every parent I knew (and 3,317 people on Instagram) what they needed to know about Disney cruises, several common questions emerged. Here are your fast answers:

What baby gear to bring:

• You can request a pack-and-play that will be set up in your room upon arrival (they also set up a Diaper Genie next to it, ensuring our stateroom remained stink-free). When you check in before the trip, you can also request a high chair or booster seat to be set up at your table during dinner
• The bathroom features a shower/tub combo (so bathtime isn’t a struggle)

What picky eaters will love:

• The chicken tenders aren’t too “spicy” (aka seasoned), and pizza is available all day and late into the night

Where you can bring the kids:

• Children must be potty trained to go into the pools (babies and toddlers in swim diapers can only use the splash pad)

• Kids can come with you to visit the Haunted Mansion Parlor and other lounges—unless specifically noted as “adults only”—before 9 p.m.

What the kids clubs cost:

• The drop-off kids’, tween and teen clubs are all included in your stay; the “It’s a Small World” nursery cares for little ones from 6 months to 3 years and costs $10 an hour

What clothes to pack:

• The dress code is “cruise casual,” so you can dine at most places in a T-shirt

• Costumes are encouraged, so go ahead and let your kid dress up as Woody or Princess Tiana or, you know, the frying pan that Rapunzel wields in Tangled, if that’s their thing (and prepare to spot many Cruellas in honor of De Vil’s Lounge on the ship)

• Don’t forget swashbuckling gear for pirate night!

The Bottom Line

original photo: candace davison

Until this moment, I’d been lukewarm about cruises. The rooms always felt too small; the food fine but not remarkable. Old me would rather spring for a hotel on the beach, but not anymore. This was a fully contained adventure that felt like stepping into another world—one I can’t wait to visit again, and I’d wholeheartedly recommend to anyone. 

I Spent Weeks Prepping My Disney World Packing List—Here’s What I Brought

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

As such, some folks choose to create a registry that they can share with family and friends who want to give a gift but aren't sure what will actually bring the recipient joy. It's convenient—and a polarizing choice, which is why our editors wanted to know: Is making a holiday gift registry for your kid tacky or tasteful? I got the opinion of an etiquette expert and heard both sides of the debate from two moms with differing views.

Meet the Expert

Myka Meier is the founder of Mini Manners and Beaumont Etiquette, which was named as one of the Leading Etiquette and Protocol Schools of the World and is recognized for its excellence in social refinement and professional conduct.

What Moms Say: The Pros and Cons

One Connecticut mom of two told me she is all in favor of gift registries. “As a parent, I already have 800 toys, so I totally see the benefit of setting up a Christmas gift registry to ensure you don't receive duplicates or something you know your kid won't use or want," she says. "As a gift giver, I also think it makes shopping so much easier (and quicker). Plus, I stress less knowing it's exactly what the kid and parent wants—no hemming and hawing over a $60 LEGO set that may or may not be age appropriate." 

On the flip side, a New Jersey mom of one told me: “I gotta say, I'm not a fan! As a gift giver, it just feels a little tacky, presumptuous and takes all the fun out of finding the perfect present. As a parent, I can't fathom finding the time to sit down and scroll through endless clothes and toys (with the assumption that everyone else will pick up the bill). I wasn't a fan of creating a wedding or baby registry either (the stress!), so maybe this is a me thing, but it just feels like it'll end up being more work for mom during an already hectic season. The holidays are a time to be thoughtful—let people give as they choose!"

As for me, a New York mom of two—I have never made a gift registry, but I have had a lot of back and forth with close family members about what my kids would actually like and use, what their interests are, etc. in order to provide them with some guidance and ensure that money isn’t wasted on stuff that will quickly turn into nothing more than clutter.

I can appreciate how a gift registry might be useful for babies and toddlers where the best gifts are developmental toys that can often overlap. (I mean, how many stacking cup sets can one home accommodate?) For older kids, I feel like an ideas list is more appropriate than a product registry, which feels kind of icky.

What the Expert Says

So, holiday gift registries for kids: tacky or helpful? Meier tells me that making a holiday registry for your child is perfectly acceptable, but only when done, well, tastefully.

“A holiday registry for children can be thoughtful only when it’s handled privately and carefully. In general, I recommend keeping it strictly to close family members like grandparents or immediate relatives to be helpful, and only when they specifically ask for ideas,” she says, adding that “sending a registry widely or sharing it on social media can easily feel transactional, and that takes away from the spirit of giving.”

That’s really the thrust of the debate: the tension between what’s just practical and what feels genuinely loving. For this reason, Meier strongly advises against mass distribution of a registry, as doing so might make friends who don’t have the budget or desire to gift feel pressured to do so. Similarly, distributing it to a person who hasn’t requested suggestions might also take the wind out of their sails if they had an original and truly thoughtful idea of their own. 

Some thought should also be put into what you put on the registry and what you keep off of it. “When choosing items, keep the tone gracious and realistic," Meier recommends. "A mix of price points is important, but avoid stacking the list with big-ticket items. Think of it as a helpful guide rather than a shopping expectation. The goal is to make things easier for close family members who want ideas…not to curate a wish list for everyone in your circle!”

The Takeaway

After hearing both sides of the debate, mulling it over myself and getting some expert insight on etiquette, I think the takeaway here is that the best course of action is to find the middle ground. It’s okay to make a registry for grandparents who want to have their name on something under the tree but aren’t up to the task of choosing a gift themselves, but it’s good to keep this wishlist as private as possible and never give it to anyone who doesn’t specifically ask for it.

10 Gifts My Kids Got for Christmas That They’re *Still* Playing With Years Later

Teenagers are notoriously difficult to please, so it should come as no surprise that the search for gifts for teens, whether it be for a birthday or graduation, can be a challenge. In fact, you might be tempted to stuff some cash in an envelope and call it a day. But not so fast—there’s a better solution. Enter: subscription boxes for teens.

Yep, I'm sure your teen would love a Stitch Fix (from $20) delivery as much you. This list has something for every interest. Is your teen obsessed with skincare? Beauty fanatics will love the Allure Beauty Box ($25). Pop culture nerds will go nuts for a Comic Mystery Box (from $32). Meanwhile, Book of the Month (from $60) is sure to have book series for teens they won’t be able to put down. From video games to STEM projects and craft supplies, this list has it all.

Whether they’re 13 or 19, these subscription boxes for teens are sure to win you everything except the dreaded eye roll.

Want to save *big* this shopping season? Sign up for our Deal of the Day email to get all the best sales delivered straight to your inbox.

1. FabFitFun

FabFitFun

Sign your teen up for a FabFitFun box and she’ll be treated to an array of luxury seasonal scores that cover all her major areas of interest—fashion, beauty, fitness and even decorative accents. This option also boasts extra flexibility on two separate fronts: no subscription is required, and the contents of each box can be customized or kept as is, for a regular surprise.

“Fabfitfun is one of my favorite subscription boxes I’ve tried,” says PureWow Assistant Commerce Editor Natalie Labarbera. “You get tons of full-sized products, so it’s well worth its price, and if you do the annual plan you have the option to choose which items you’re getting, so you know they’ll be something you’re looking forward to actually using.”

2. Book of the Month Club (Young Adult)

Instagram/@bookofthemonth

Books are the bee’s knees and teens who read ‘em might turn out to be kinder, smarter people. (Seriously, studies suggest that reading for pleasure has a number of benefits.) Of course, it’s hard to make a teenager do much of anything, so don’t beat yourself up if you can’t pry that iPhone from their grip. But do celebrate if you have an avid reader at home and encourage the habit with a book club subscription that delivers an engaging novel every month. Bonus: It’s easy to add additional titles to this one-per-month subscription, should the young bookworm in your life make short work of the material.

“I love that BOTM introduces me to new releases, new authors and new genres I might not have picked up on my own,” says PureWow Executive Managing Editor Catrina Yohay. “Because so many of the books are new or even early releases, I feel very ‘in the know’ within the book world. The books themselves are also beautiful, all hard cover with special BOTM jackets that I love collecting. Plus, I save a ton with an annual subscription (as opposed to buying individually online or at the book store).”

3. Stitch Fix

Stitch Fix

Stitch Fix offers a monthly clothing delivery curated by a real personal stylist. The idea is that the apparel you receive will be a better match in terms of individual style and sizing, as opposed to what you’d get if you just went on a blind internet shopping binge. Plus, you don’t pay for any items they don’t wish to keep. That said, you've got to stay on top of returns (‘cause let’s be honest, your teen probably won’t) or you might end up wasting a lot of extra money on stuff that never gets worn. Still, this subscription experience is fun for young fashionistas—enough so that it might cut down on time spent at Urban Outfitters.

“I really felt like the quiz to get the box was well curated to match my style,” says former PureWow Commerce Editor Olivia Dubyak. “The stylists are great at what they do to make sure your box has things you’ll actually like. I also loved the brand variation in the box from Good American to Marc Fisher.”

4. Ipsy Box

Ipsy

“I really loved the assortment of products Ipsy sends every month,” says PureWow Editorial Assistant Courtney Mason. “It’s usually a mix of drugstore and high-end brands, which is great.” What you get: Five skincare and cosmetic samples from highly sought-after brands, neatly packaged in a chic keepsake bag. What you pay: Not quite as much as you’d expect. The entry-level version of Ipsy’s subscription box is a total steal at $14 a pop and a great way for the product-obsessed teen in your life to experiment with various creams and lip gloss shades without blowing through her babysitting money in one go.

5. Nuuly

Nuuly

For a flat fee, this clever service offers subscribers the opportunity to rent six articles of clothing from Urban Outfitters, Free People, Levi’s, AYR and more of their fave brands, for a full month. Once the apparel is returned, Nuuly sends out the next round of fresh, new threads. Fashionistas will love having the opportunity to try out new styles without the pressure to commit—although, they also have the option to buy their fave piece (or pieces) at a discount.

“There’s so much to love about Nuuly, which leans more towards everyday items like jeans, cute tops and jackets than the formal wear of Rent the Runway,” says PureWow Director of Affiliate Strategy Pamela Masin. “I’ve received new items (with tags on) and ended up buying them. The shipping is super fast (max 3 business days if you live in aa city) and you can pause anytime. I used to order every month when I was going into the office. I love that I had new office-wear (especially fun coats and sweaters that are typically pricey to buy). Now that I work remotely, I only un-pause my account when I need items for specific events, like a wedding or bachelorette party. I love that Nuuly has this flexibility and you can pause and un-pause as often as you’d like.”

6. Birchbox

Birchbox

This monthly beauty subscription will win you big gifting points with the “I am 16 going on 17” crowd (i.e., teen girls who are unlikely to get that reference). “I love that Birchbox is beauty-focused and offers a fun opportunity to try new items in travel-friendly sizes,” says Gallery Media Group Social Media Strategist Ariana Schrier. “Getting a new surprise each month feels like receiving a gift, which adds to the excitement.” Each box comes full of generously sized samples from some of the top skincare, haircare, fragrance and cosmetic brands. Best of all, the selection isn’t random, but rather customized according to the specific needs and concerns of the recipient. In other words, ultra-rich, anti-aging face cream won’t go to waste on a high schooler battling hormonal acne.

7. Scentbird

Scentbird

If your teen has started sneaking spritzes of your expensive perfume, we strongly suggest you nip that habit in the bud. (Seriously, we heard from a friend that kids as young as five can start showing interest in fragrance they don’t know how to apply and can’t afford to replace...) All joking aside, this high-end perfume subscription is a nice indulgence that doesn’t go too far—the small sample vials feel just right for teens who are interested in trying out different scents. There’s also a cologne subscription option, in case you’re the proud parent of an awkward teenage boy on the prowl.

“Scentbird is on of my favorite subscription boxes because it allows you to try a slew of perfumes, which come in travel-friendly sizes that teens can pop in their school backpack,” says PureWow Associate Fashion Commerce Editor Stephanie Meraz. “This is such a fun way for your teenager and their friends to learn which scents they prefer, and Mom doesn’t have to spend $100+ on a full size bottle that they’ll get over in a month.”

8. MATTER Science Box

matter

Possibly the coolest subscription on the list, in my opinion, and one that I’m considering getting for my own science enthusiast—this box is a treasure chest of science-related materials, including NASA artifacts, exotic specimens, fossils, lab tools and more. Past boxes have contained actual meteorites, dinosaur teeth and even a fragment of a particle accelerator. There’s so much educational value here, especially since each item comes with a super informative research card so your teen can take a deep dive into the natural world.

9. Penny and Grace Subscription

Penny & Grace

Jewelry enthusiasts will swoon for this subscription box that includes a set of three coordinating baubles, all of which boast the brand’s sleek and elegant aesthetic. The versatile, sophisticated designs and wallet-friendly price will go over well with parents and teens alike. Subscribers can also change their settings at any time to reflect a preference for gold or silver. (You can also choose to rotate.) Whatever option your teen selects, it won’t rub her the wrong way (or leave her with green rings around her fingers) because the entire line is made without nickel or lead.

10. The Hopebroidery Box

CrateJoy

As trends like Cottagecore have swept through over the past few years, it’s clear that Gen Z and Alpha have a penchant for nostalgia. And thus, embroidery, like punch needling, seems to be in every crafter’s supply cart. This is a great subscription box for teens taking an interest in the old-fashioned activity. “I have been getting these kits for years and I love them,” writes one buyer. “Hope is an awesome designer and her instructions are super easy to follow. This is great for beginners to experts and it has helped me find an awesome hobby.”

Inside is a monthly project, plus the necessary supplies to execute it. That includes fabric, embroidery scissors, floss, needle, threader and hoop. Though each month’s theme is a surprise, past boxes have taught subscribers to stitch houseplants, fruit, animals, flowers, landscapes and more. Another plus: If your teen is stuck, there’s a direct support line for questions.

11. Comic Mystery Box

CrateJoy

Newcomers and die-hard comic book fans of all ages will be thrilled by this mystery box, which features a wide selection of classic and modern titles. This subscription allows teens to start or grow their collection, since every comic book arrives new (first print). Even those who are just dipping their toes into the medium are sure to be sucked in by the bold visuals, action-packed storylines, and expertly curated offerings. There’s even room for special requests, in the event the teen in your life has a favorite character or two.

“I ordered this box as a present for my [19-year-old] brother who is super into comic books and he was thoroughly impressed with this box,” one reviewer reported. “He loved it so much I just placed an order for another box.”

12. Allure Beauty Box

Amazon

For serious beauty buffs, the Allure Beauty Box is hard to beat—namely because the selection of products sent out have been expertly curated by the magazine’s editorial staff. “Finally, products I’ll actually use from brands I’ve actually heard of,” raves one buyer. “I’ve tried many beauty boxes but this one is hands down the best so far. [The box] included full size products, making this well worth the money.”

You can expect to see three full-size products and three deluxe samples in every shipment, and usually at least one item that has received the coveted Allure Best of Beauty Award. The takeaway? This is a high-quality subscription with professional heavyweights behind it...But before you sign on, it’s worth noting that the Allure box doesn’t offer any kind of customization option, unlike some of its competitors.

13. KiwiCo Tinker Crate

KiwiCo

The KiwiCo Tinker Crate is an educational goldmine, serving up engineering projects that promise to enrich and entertain tweens, teens and even grown-ups. “These crates are so well designed—great projects for kids and adults to do that are creative and focused on learning,” raved a happy parent. These science-based crafts are challenging and sophisticated enough to pique even the interest of older kids who would otherwise be inclined to dismiss STEM activities. Every box includes a surprise project, plus all the necessary materials and an easy-to-follow instruction manual.

14. KiwiCo Maker Crate

KiwiCo

Sign up for this one and your crafty teenager may very well become the next Pinterest sensation. This subscription box is all about art and design, with a focus on hand-crafted decorative items, from hanging macrame planters to punch-needle throw pillows, sculpture and paper marbling. Truly impressive is the range of techniques covered by this subscription box, which seamlessly incorporates cool new skills into crafts that inspire both creative expression and hands-on engagement.

15. Menlo Club

Menlo Club

“If you have ever struggled with putting outfits together last minute, Menlo Club has got your back,” says one subscriber. Teenage dudes that want to look sharp—but have no idea where to start—will love the monthly gift of new threads, courtesy of Menlo. The price tag is a bit steep but trust that every piece included is high-quality, not to mention trendy and tasteful. Best of all, the recipient of this gift can customize his look by picking from one of several style profiles ranging from preppy-casual to downtown hipster (and everything in-between). Each monthly shipment includes two to three items. Over the course of the year, your teen can expect to receive a variety of contemporary menswear, athleisure pieces and footwear.

16. GlobeIn Box Builder

GlobeIn

Beautiful artisan goods from around the globe are packed in this subscription box, which has plenty of grown-up appeal, but is sure to succeed with young cosmopolitan types or anyone with wanderlust. Every month, the recipient can choose three hand-crafted items, from home décor (their dorm will be the talk of the town) to jewelry (like exquisitely crafted earrings), clothing and games. The products are high-quality across the board while showcasing other culture’s unique designs.

17. KiwiCo Eureka Crate

KiwiCo

Yet another STEM subscription box that will make your teenager swoon. The KiwiCo Eureka crate comes complete with engaging design projects that yield incredibly cool and functional creations. Previous crates have included the instructions and materials required to whip up an electric pencil sharpener, a ukulele and a desk lamp, to name a few. Not to mention, the DIY process is reliably entertaining and thoroughly satisfying.

18. Billie Smooth Operator

Billie

When Billie first came on the scene, their signature razor was met with rave reviews, all due to its reliable, silky-smooth shave. And considering what a hassle grooming can be, anything that makes shaving one’s legs a luxurious experience is an instant winner. The Smooth Operator box also includes bottles of the brand’s dreamy shaving cream and body lotion, both of which leave skin feeling and looking amazing. Plus, the jewel-toned colors of the razor and its matching magnetic holder look darn cute in any shower.

19. Finders Seekers Mystery Box

CrateJoy

The Finders Seekers mystery box has accrued something of a cult following—a nearly 5-star average accumulated over 1,700 reviews—and it’s not hard to see why. Every month subscribers receive a new box and a new mystery to solve, with the help of the clues provided. “We had a very enjoyable evening working together as a family to solve the puzzles,” one mom writes. “They were just the right level of difficulty for adults and a 13-year old. We are so excited to get our next one in the mail!” The ensuing adventure takes players on an exploration of a different city and its unique culture. Exciting and engaging from start to finish, this puzzle is one any teen will look forward to solving with a friend.

20. KiwiCo Doodle Crate

KiwiCo

Creative kids will feel like they hit the jackpot every time this monthly art subscription box arrives in the mail. Each delivery includes a new project with straightforward instructions and a selection of premium materials required to complete it. Young artists can expect to try their hand at everything from washi tape crafts to stained glass painting—and all the techniques covered are downright cool.

21. Bokksu Snack Box

Bokksu

Only serious foodies need apply here. Should you have one in your life, they’re definitely going to be delighted over this novel Japanese snack box. Each month’s curation is packed with over 20 exclusive Japanese snacks, candies and teas from family businesses. (Some have been operating for centuries.) Boxes are also packed according to a theme, of which past iterations included “Night out in Osaka” (regional street food) to “Cherry Blossom Nights” (sakura-inspired treats). Every shipment also includes a 24-page culture guide magazine detailing each food’s origins, flavors and allergy information.

22. Pura Vida Bracelet Club

Pura Vida

In case you missed it, the friendship bracelets of your youth have been given a serious upgrade and it looks like, well, Pura Vida. These bracelets—handcrafted by artisans in Costa Rica, El Salvador and India, and available in an endless variety of colors and designs—are all the rage right now. Just look at the five-star average rating with over 31,000 reviews. “Each month, my daughter cannot wait for her Pura Vida Bracelet Club package in the mail,” one parent writes. “The value is outstanding, the quality is amazing and then the style, the style is always trendy and cool! “I would 100 recommend this pack and the bracelet club to others! Such a great deal, and customer service is top notch!”

With a monthly Pura Vida subscription your teen will receive three pieces of wrist candy in every shipment—and five percent of the profits from your purchase, which supports said local artisans, will be donated to charity.

23. Monthly Anime Tee Shirt Subscription

cratejoy

The anime fan in your life will love the full color designs and original artwork on these t-shirts. Plus, rave reviews consistently remark on the high quality of both the screen-printing and the fabric itself, as well as the fact that the selection is not too obscure.

24. Try the World Snack Box

Try the World

Young foodies will go gaga for this one—a carefully curated selection of gourmet goodies from around the world that arrives on your doorstep every month. Each box features snacks from a different country, so the offerings never get stale—just keep in mind that there is no option to customize the box based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions, so you might want to pass on this subscription if your teen is a picky eater. For the adventurous type, though, Try the World is an excellent way to satisfy both snack cravings and wanderlust without leaving home.

25. SketchBox

CrateJoy

This subscription box for budding artists arrives packed with full-sized art supplies, along with an inspirational piece of art made with the very same materials to spark the imagination. Bonus: Each box also comes with access to a new tutorial so teens can practice new techniques, regardless of whether or not they choose to recreate the included piece of art. And who knows, you may get roped in, too. “This was a gift for my daughter,” writes one mom, “But I love it so much that I used it myself. Quality products and the instructional videos are great.”

26. Backpack the World Subscription Box

CrateJoy

Perhaps your teen is planning a cross country road trip to celebrate their high school graduation, or maybe they just have a natural wanderlust that could lead them, well, anywhere. Either way, you can encourage their curiosity with this carefully curated box, which includes a diverse range of goods and educational materials, like crafts, maps and recipes from around the world. “I love this box. My kids learned so much about travel and can’t wait for their next box,” one parent writes. “An experience like nothing else I’ve seen.”

27. Succulent Studios Subscription

Succulent Studios

Whether they’ve already amassed a small collection or are just getting interested in plants, your budding (sorry) horticulturalist will love a succulent subscription. Every month, they’ll receive two California-grown organic succulents in dainty two-inch pots. Great for dorms, bedrooms, desks and, you know, taking over your whole house (in a refreshing way, of course).

“I’ve been subscribed faithfully for a year now and I LOVE it,” raves one customer. ”Every month I get so excited to unbox my newbies. If I had to cancel my subscription it would hurt my heart.”

28. Vivrelle Subscription

Vivrelle

Have an Andy Sachs (post-transformation) on your hands? Then they’ll love a Vivrelle subscription, because it’s basically like having access to the entire Runway fashion closet. Nigel would lose his mind. The platform focuses on designer handbags and jewelry, so a quilted Chanel bag or Van Cleef & Arpels clover necklace can easily appear in their closet at a true fraction of the cost. How it works: Subscribers can borrow one to two items at a time, depending on their subscription tier. They can decide, month-to-month, whether they want to continue with their piece or swap it for something else—no return dates.

29. Gamefly Subscription

Gamefly

Mark our words, teens who are obsessed with video games will need a Gamefly subscription. It gives them access to thousands of games and movies, which are compatible with many major gaming systems. That includes PS5, XBox Series X and Nintendo Switch. The subscriptions are affordable, starting at $7 per month. Subscribers can rent one to two games at a time but can exchange them at any point. It’s a great way to give your gamer access to tons of games without committing to buying each one (because those add up fast).

30. CampusCube

CampusCube

Give the teenager (or college student) in your life a care package stuffed with snacks and she’ll probably be psyched. “Great pick-me up for my daughter and her roommates,” one mom raved. “I sent them two and it was enough for all four girls to relax during exams.” The CampusCube reliably features a well-rounded menu—a few sweets, plus some healthy noshes, for good measure—and at least one high-quality item that’s meant to stick around (think, a fancy thermos). Best of all, you can scope out the monthly offerings well in advance and choose to only sign up for the months that speak to you.

31. GlossyBox

Glossybox

There’s no shortage of companies competing for the title of best beauty box these days, but GlossyBox is not to be missed. “There’s always something new I wouldn’t have necessarily tried before and the products are always great,” writes one subscriber. For starters, this beauty subscription deal pulls products from an incredibly extensive list of premium brands (like Viktor&Rolf and Sunday Riley), so nothing they receive is likely to disappoint. Each box contains an assortment of five samples, although there’s no option to customize—but that’s part of the fun, right? Bonus: GlossyBox also offers subscribers an opportunity to earn credit by writing product reviews.

32. LootCrate

LootCrate

There’s a Loot Crate for gamers, anime enthusiasts and pop culture buffs, so there’s a good chance this subscription box will float your teen’s boat. No matter the theme, subscribers can look forward to receiving a comic book, a couple collectible figures, and an item from each of the following categories: wearable, household and utility. All in all, it’s a pretty good haul.

33. Casely Club

Casely Club

Give your teen the gift of fabulous fashion...for her smartphone. Yep, Casely has certainly succeeded at carving out its own niche in the subscription box market—and they might be surprised by how much fun it is to give their phone a new look on the regular. At least, I'm pretty sure the teenager in your life will agree. This subscription service includes one new phone case per month, and the diverse styles available are all pretty ‘gram-worthy, so it’s hard to go wrong.

“I loved my new surprise me case,” one subscriber raved. “As someone who gets bored of cases quickly, this is the perfect way to switch it up. I love getting one every month—I honestly watch my email waiting for it to say it’s on the way. They are always so cute and I’m always getting compliments.”

34. Candy Club

Candy Club

This one is a pretty easy sell: Give this subscription as a gift and your teen will feel like, er, a kid in a candy store. Every month, a box arrives that’s overflowing with sugary treats and the selection of candies—which includes chocolates, gummies and sour stuff—is sure to have something that suits the preferences of any teen with a sweet tooth, especially since the recipient can hand-pick them.

35. Harry’s Winston Set

Harry’s

If you’ve got a teen boy who’s just starting to shave, sign him up for Harry’s shave club. The quality of the products is top notch and the price is unbeatable. The Winston starter set includes everything your kid needs for a close and comfortable shave—a razor with a German-engineered hinge blade, three refill cartridges, and a luxurious shave cream. Plus, if you sign up for automatic refills, you can rest assured that your teen will never know the discomfort and indignity of a bad razor burn.

36. Crystal Variety Box

cratejoy

Know a teen who’s seeking spiritual growth? Help them balance their chakras with this subscription box featuring a selection of high quality crystals and minerals that can be used for meditation or simply kept as part of a collection. Best of all, each crystal and mineral you receive comes with a unique QR code that provides access to scientific (and metaphysical) information on the item.

37. Kids Gardening Club

cratejoy

Before you teach your teen responsibility with a furry friend, try them out on houseplants, which are arguably as hard to take care of and just as rewarding to have around.  This kid-friendly garden box features a new, beautiful plant and all the instructions a child needs to care for it. The plants are also specifically selected to be beginner-friendly and care is taken to ensure that the deliveries are diverse in terms of color, character and foliage.

62 Gifts for Teens That Are Actually Cool, According to Real High Schoolers

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

Christmas is upon us and if, like me, you’re already overwhelmed by the crazy amount of clutter—mostly comprised of sad, neglected toys that are still hanging around from the last holiday season—you might be wondering what you can possibly gift your child this year that they will actually enjoy for more than the time it takes you to clean up the wrapping paper. Many of the gifts that have been lavished upon my kids have had a tragically short life span, but the ones below actually have staying power. Here, 10 gifts my kids have received that they’re actually still playing with.

1. Innioasis 80GB MP3 Player

Amazon

Both my kids are obsessed with this MP3 player they got last year, so much so that my recommendation comes with a word of caution: set usage limits from the get-go! That said, my tween loves being able to listen to her own spotify playlists and my 8-year-old definitely enjoys playing games on it (hence the word of caution). I like that there are good parental controls and it is easy to banish any app that you don’t want them to have access to.

2. Foros

Amazon

Truth be told, there are very few things that my kids can agree to play together. Fortunately, Foros is one of them. This clever twist on the beloved classic, Connect 4, adds a third dimension to the equation, making it far more challenging and a great exercise for visual reasoning skills. There are multiple ways to play and this brain-teasing game can even be adapted to accommodate four players (in team mode), so it’s fun for family game night, too.

3. Barbies

Amazon

Before you even consider buying a Barbie Dream House, I strongly suggest that you closely observe the way your Barbie enthusiast actually plays with the dolls themselves. (We had a Barbie Dream House that I pretty quickly got rid of after realizing how much square footage it takes up and how little actual Barbie play took place inside of it.) Instead, I suggest adding to your kid’s existing collection with new Barbie and Ken dolls so they can grow the family/friend circle and have more narrative options available for their pretend play.

4. American Girl Doll

Amazon

My daughter’s American Girl doll is an older style, but these collector’s items have stood the test of time for a reason. I do not recommend purchasing this for your child if you want them to keep it in pristine collectible condition; the one we have might be a giant amongst her Barbie friends but she still gets as much action over a year later, and it shows. Bottom line: If you’re not planning on posting it on Ebay in ten years, I can tell you that American Girl dolls are very much a hit with kids who still like to do pretend play even in the middle school years.

5. High Quality Art Supplies

Amazon

I have never gone wrong with this one—namely because my daughter loves to make art. I have purchased countless art supplies over the years for Christmas and every single one of them gets used. If you are shopping for a budding artist, particularly a slightly older one, I highly recommend a sketching kit like the one pictured above. My daughter is still using hers and the variety of tools inside have really improved her skills. She particularly loved learning how to do shading, and continues to experiment with it all the time.

6. Brio Train Tracks

Amazon

My son was OBSESSED with trains for a solid three years and we have gotten so much mileage out of our tracks (pun intended). He’s slightly older now, but is still completely attached to them—less for Thomas the Train pretend play and more for the engineering side of it. They sometimes even play a role in his older sister’s elaborate Barbie games. The big sets and expansion packs are really quite pricey, but from my experience, it’s worth the investment.

7. Tumbling Blocks

Amazon

I got these for my kids when they were toddler and preschool age and, I kid you not, they are still very much in use. They’re good for babies, but they’re also good for building forts and can be used as props in a wide variety of games. Heck, the big square one has even served as a snack table during TV time in my house. The only drawback is that they are quite bulky, but you can stack them in a configuration that minimizes that issue when they aren’t in use.

8. Treasure Chest

Etsy

This gift is a little niche, but my son went through a phase of being really into pirate stuff, so we got him a treasure chest (and some “gold” coins to go with it). We opted to get a good quality wooden one like the one pictured above, and I’m so glad we did. Now that he’s in second grade, he’s not quite so into playing pirates, but he still loves the thing and uses it frequently to store his treasures. (I.e., things that aren’t special to me and might end up in the trash if they weren’t out of sight and kept under lock and key in a decidedly attractive storage unit.)

9. Chess Set

Amazon

If your child takes an interest, I suggest investing in a high quality keepsake set. If your child hasn’t learned the game yet, a starter game like No Stress Chess is a great way to learn and maybe find a new hobby. I’m biased here, because both my husband and I are avid chess players, but my kids have also taken an interest in learning and improving, so this gift has never gathered dust in our home.

10. Magnatiles

Amazon

Editor-in-Chief Jillian Quint and I both agree that Magnatiles are one of the few toys with real staying power. It’s a STEAM gift that kids won’t age out of because, frankly, they’re even cool for adults. The building and design possibilities are endless, and they provide a sensory experience to boot. If you’re looking for a toy that stimulates creativity, encourages open-ended play, builds critical thinking skills and never gets old, this one fits the bill.

55 Stocking Stuffers for Kids That Are Parent-Tested and Santa-Approved

Honestly, I've long just given up on stuffing my pets in coats after having them squeal and squirm in discomfort, or in the case of my current dog, immediately do his business because he's wearing warm tight clothing. But the lightweight cashmere Quince Mongolian cashmere cable-knit dog sweater ($50) has changed my mind, and I'm nominating this little affordable-luxe item the pet gift of the year.

I Spend More Money on My Dog For the Holidays Than the Rest of My Family—Here Are 13 Pup Gifts Worth Shopping

First off, it's made of 100 percent Mongolian cashmere, just like Quince's famous sweaters for humans, and has a fine cable-knit pattern that looks like something out of a Ralph Lauren Christmas catalog.The neck isn't too tightly sewn, so it's not restrictive, and the ribbed leg openings, too, are relaxed enough that they aren't pulling too snuggly across your dog's withers (aka shoulder blades).

Original photo by Dana Dickey

I ordered a large size for my cockapoo Gus, which sounded too big for him since he's under 20 pounds, but is in accordance with the 17-inch back length the size corresponds to. Turns out, it's a roomy fit, with a bias-cut design that keeps the sweater's lower half from getting mussed when Gus is tending to business. I appreciate that the knit keeps him warm not by being a heavy layer of fabric but by keeping a layer of warmth over his fur, so he's not going to overheat but also really feels the extra comfort. (I can tell, because he's eager to spend more time outside in colder weather when he's wearing his sweater.)

Best of all, he's not at all restricted by the piece, which means he's just as ready to catch his neighborhood nemeses squirrels as he is to play with the cats he's courting down the way. If I have any quibbles with the sweater, it's that it could have more brilliant colorways on offer (currently it's available in my favorite varsity red along with four neutrals) and might want to come in larger sizes, since I know a few 80-pound canines that would look swell in the sweater, but are too large for the XL size.

Finally, I propose this as the answer to the eternal question: What do you get the man or woman who has everything? A cashmere sweater for their dog, of course.

I’m a mom who does my best to prioritize Christmas magic. I live in New York City! There are holiday experiences galore! As soon as the clock strikes November, I make a point to map out a bucket list of merriment-infused Christmas moments that—I hope—will become core memories for my kids. A trip to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and the world-famous Rockettes has been on that list for a while, and this year, I set out to finally make it happen.

TBH, my dad (who is 73, btw) still gets nostalgic about his trip to Manhattan with his family at the age of 10 and the memory of seeing the Rockettes’ perfect precision and high kicks. Would my 7-year-old feel the same way? I couldn’t resist finding out.

The Plan

Rachel Bowie

I scooped my kid up after school and we hopped on the subway to get to Radio City, arriving a hair early and on the day before the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting, too. (Phew, my internal mom brain uttered knowing how lucky we were to dodge the insane crowds that trek to midtown for that iconic holiday moment.) But that’s also kind of what makes a trip to see the Rockettes such a thrill: You’re in the heart of New York City, where holiday magic—be it glowing candy cane displays or Nutcracker dolls as tall as a single story—have been rolled out on every corner. (My son, who doesn’t really like taking that many pics, was in awe and suddenly staging photo ops and asking me to snap his pic, which was already a win.)

We arrived early and got our seats, but had to use the bathroom, too. (I’ll add that it’s something I typically strategize about ahead of time as a mom in the city—when or where can we find an easy and welcoming place for a potty break.) Radio City itself was our best bet, and we had 25 minutes until the curtain went up. Plenty of time, right? Inside a venue with a capacity of nearly 6,000 people, my son put it best: “Mom, this feels like a line for a ride at Disney World!” (That said, massive credit to the staffers keeping things moving. They were better than air traffic control, and much to my kid’s delight, verbally yelled out a countdown to curtain—“9 minutes ‘til showtime!”—while he peed.)

Drones, Fake Snow & Multiplying Santas

Rachel Bowie

We took our seats and paused as my son took in the scope of the theater. Forget the capacity, Radio City is a venue I count as one of the most majestic in town. It’s also massive, which means for a show with so many visuals and over the top pageantry, there isn’t a bad seat in the house. There weren’t booster seats on offer, but my son (who is on the shorter side) was able to comfortably see over the heads of the people in front of him, occasionally adjusting to sit on his knees as needed.

Keep in mind, the Christmas Spectacular is exactly that—Christmas is the hard-core theme, whether that’s via a showstopping Nativity scene (complete with actual camels, my son excitedly pointed out) to Santa Claus as emcee (“Here Comes Santa Claus,” which has Santa multiply by the hundreds, is so showstopping, both me and my son watched wide-eyed).

But that’s the funny part: Kids will be kids. While he was uber-enthralled by the Rockettes and their high kicks (“I want to try doing that at home!” he ambitiously whispered), the razzle dazzle moments were his favorite parts. That includes what is perhaps one of the show’s most time-honored moments, “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers,” which debuted in the very first Christmas Spectacular in 1933. This number is not only intricately choreographed to help the dancers maintain their perfectly straight lines, it features a stunt known as the wooden soldier fall, where they link arms and slowly tumble, like dominoes. (This was the moment that hooked my kid.)

That’s not all: A more recently added number, called “Dance of the Frost Fairies,” features delicate and fairy-like drones that fly all around Radio City in an effort to add an immersive and interactive element. There was also a disclaimer at the start of the performance: Should any of these fairies fall, don’t sweat it—someone will quickly come to collect them and on with the show. (My 7-year-old was transfixed hoping one would crash beside us. When one came close, that was the highlight—and the part he couldn’t stop talking about when we left.)

Also, mom POV—as the show neared its conclusion, I watched with curiosity: Would my son’s love of the show’s theatrics correlate with my own parental intention of infusing the Christmas season with memorable holiday magic? When faux snowflakes started to fall, I knew at once the answer was yes.

“Mom, the flakes are in your hair!” my son shrieked as he tried to catch them, then collect them, too. He was mesmerized by the moment and so was I. “It’s like we’re in a snow globe!” I said, hoping—and feeling—like we’d maybe just unlocked core memory potential. Time will tell.

Bottom Line

John Lamparski/Getty Images

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a kid- and parent-friendly experience that holds up. (Did I mention this year marks their 100th anniversary?) And if the chance to join a “Deck the Halls” sing-along with nearly 6,000 theater-goers doesn’t put you in the holiday spirit, nothing will.

I Worked Out with the Radio City Rockettes & These Are the 3 Moves I’m Totally Stealing

Where Does Fanum Tax Come From?

Fanum tax is something that both Gen Alpha and Gen Z are familiar with, so if you’re reading this, you’re probably a fellow Millennial. Now that we have that out of the way, let’s move onto the origin story. The term was first coined by an American streamer by the name of (you guessed it) Fanum, a man whose favorite currency is apparently food. It went viral in late 2022, became a meme and the rest is history.

What Does Fanum Tax Mean?

As for its definition and usage, this phrase refers very specifically to playful food theft between friends. For example, if you’re at a fast food restaurant with your gang and you finish your fries first so you snag a few off the plate of the person next to you, that would be a Fanum Tax. If you’re out to eat and the entree you ordered looks so appealing that your friend just has to get in on it, you or I might expect to hear them ask, “Can I try a bite?” Younger generations have dispensed with that formality, so instead you might hear, “Time to pay your Fanum Tax,” as they stick their fork into your food.

The Takeaway

This sort of behavior might earn your spawn some disapproving looks from Grandma, but rest assured, today’s youth are unlikely to pull this stunt on total strangers. As such, it’s truly a harmless and playful interaction between close friends. Now that you are armed with knowledge, you should be better able to protect yourself from food theft—just keep in mind that it’s totally acceptable for a Fanum Tax to be levied when you’re not even present to witness it, so plan your restroom visits accordingly. But, hey, when it comes to issues of consent, this one is pretty benign.

WTF Is 6-7? (Plus 8 Other Gen Alpha Slang Phrases to Know This School Year)

Hurray, it’s the holiday season again! Which means, for better or worse, there is going to be compulsory gift giving, Elf on the Shelf situating and family feasting. It’s what we’re all taught is the most magical time of the year! Except, the pressures of merry-making and family time can lead to, well, being caught in old and unhealthy family dynamics. At least that’s my experience, because who knows when a little squabble over canned cranberry sauce-versus-homemade can escalate into a screaming match? Real life is no Hallmark film. As a decades-long pal texted me, “Those holiday movies where the families all have issues but everybody is still lovable if quirky annoy me. Let's see some violent meltdowns with property damage and a couple punches to the gut, ffs.” So, how do we deal when the inevitable conflicts arise?

12 Words I'm Banning From My Holiday Table This Year

Enter podcaster Mel Robbins, author of The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can't Stop Talking About, a self-help manual that recently pogo’ed up best seller lists. It’s no wonder, since Robbins’s pithy advice really hits with my contemporaries, especially helicopter parents and sandwich generation caregivers. Basically, her theory says that, whenever you find yourself upset about a family member or friend’s actions, rather than ruminate or try to persuade them to change their behavior, simply say, “Let them.”

She gives examples like her teen choosing the wrong place for prom dinner, so she’s presumably talking about minor disagreements, and naturally, she gives an exception for dangerous behaviors of tots. (Robbins’s follow-up suggestion, “Let me…” is an important next step for re-focusing the worried person’s attention on their own self-care.) Anyway, well done, Mel Robbins, you’ve repackaged codependency recovery for the ‘20s, undoubtedly helping legions and making a bag doing so.

However, what about those of us who want something extra to gird us in times of not-so-Yuletide-cheer? As a narcissist, I’d say “let them” is pretty much my set point naturally. But still I find myself rankled during holidays with the fam. Maybe it’s a holdover from growing up, when family dis-ease was thrumming always in the background, decades of family conflict resulting from political, geographic and age differences.

My holiday memories flood in acid Kodachrome: The great '80s Northern Ireland debate that led my Catholic family to silently drop me off at a bus stop. The aughts exchange (that spiraled into a Child Services investigation) in which my 12-year-old son literally tore down the Christmas tree. Another highlight was that special '90s holiday when a family member offered her insightful critique of a history channel doc: "You know, Hitler really was a bad guy." Happy holiday memories! Maybe your family conflict isn't quite so ugly, but chances are, emotionally it is.

I’ve found trying to “talk it out” is futile in most cases, especially when family member world views fundamentally are so at odds. Instead, I’ve developed an end-run around the bad feelings such exchanges stir up in me. I visualize the following three words: “Family, not friends.”

Rather than screaming at parties, even inwardly, for their actions or viewpoints, I've taken to looking at family gatherings in terms of harm reduction. Would I choose these people out of a crowd to spend an afternoon with? No, I would not. Did these people wipe my nose, feed me and clothe me as a child? And, in ways I may never understand, inform who I am today? Yes, they did. 

In addition to self-preservation moves (I always keep a getaway car ready at any gathering, stay well-hydrated, arrive well-rested and avoid inebriation, for example), I keep my little three-word mutter handy. "Family, not friends." I say it to myself, meditation style. I smile at myself in the mirror and think it.

The sentiment helps me remember that, while I won't always (or usually) agree with my in-laws, parents, siblings or cousins, I don't have to. A few hours once or twice a year isn't the time to change their worldview with incisive paragraphs of ideology—that's what famous viewpoint-changer Facebook is for. I just have to get through holidays with the fam, and remember to keep that boundary in my head: "Family, not friends." And I bring my own can of Ocean Spray, just in case.

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