If you’re in the middle of raising a big kid, then you know living with someone in the throes of raging hormones is not for the weak. Happy one moment and outraged the next, parenting a tween or teen is a roller coaster of emotions that can leave you exhausted and confused. The good news is, in what might be the most challenging stage of parenting (toddler parents, we see you—wait a few years), there are ways to communicate effectively with your kids, even when they throw major shade your way. Dr. Lucie Hemmen, an adolescent and parenting expert who explained in a previous TikTok video that there’s a biological reason for teens being mean to you, offers three ways to respond when your kid is super rude.
Stone-cold silence speaks volumes. In truth, tweens and teens don’t have the emotional intelligence to react maturely a lot of the time. When you engage with your kid after they’ve been rude, you’re turning it into a situation between you and them instead of it being just them. Hemmen says that staying silent allows for whatever they say to “just sit there, unobscured.” Which, in turn, puts the ball back in your court.
#2. Say something short and sweet.
If an immediate response is a must, Hemmen suggests keeping it simple. As in one word, like “ouch,” that relays to your big kid you’re hurt by their words but you also refuse to engage. So keep it brief and check out this list of what not to say to an angry tween or teen to avoid other communication pitfalls when dealing with big kids.
#3. Wait a bit, then validate their feelings and express your own.
This response is one of the best things you can do when dealing with a rude kid because you can calm down and think about what you want to address, and it allows the child time to reflect on their actions.
Nobody thinks well when emotions are running high, and Hemmen explains that teens have an even harder time. “They have a big struggle with this because of the state of their brain development: Their prefrontal cortex really shuts down; they are all emotion. It’s almost like talking to an intoxicated person,” she says.
The key is not to engage with them when emotions are high but to recognize and validate their feelings when you know they’re listening. Hammen suggests speaking with your child later when everyone has had an opportunity to reflect. What should you say? “Hey, remember when you felt really disappointed because I said no about whatever? You told me you hated my guts and I’m the worst parent in the world. You know, I just want you to know I get that you are frustrated. I get it sucks to be disappointed. I really, really understand that,” Hammen says.
Then you can explain that while they have a right to their feelings, they don’t have the right to be rude. In truth, they’ll be more likely to absorb that concept at a future time, even if they don’t admit it. It can go something like: “Will you try to memorize this as an opportunity for you to pause, take a breath, and treat me like I’m a person? I’m okay with you being disappointed, but it does hurt my feelings when you talk to me that way,” she says.
Your kid is arguing with you about going over to a friend’s house on a school night or about getting that new hoodie (that they clearly don’t need) or about why you should allow them access to TikTok. It’s extremely frustrating, especially when they won’t let it go and just pester you over and over. Perhaps it’s carry-over trauma from the argumentative toddler years that causes parents to give up and go into shutdown mode just to get the arguing to stop.
Parenting expert and psychologist Dr. Lucie Hemmen recently explained why we should see arguments with our older kids as opportunities to teach them important life skills and not simply an act of defiance. “The reality about human interaction is that our teens need to learn how to argue,” shares Dr. Hemmen. “They need to learn how to get in people’s faces, hopefully skillfully, so that they don’t get walked on [and] so that they have a voice in their adult lives. And so where did they learn how to do that? They’re learning it from you.”
If your child resorts to bugging you over and over until you give in against your will, they are being rewarded. You are reinforcing this disrespectful arguing technique and setting them up for failure in the future. “What would be better… would be for that teen to have learned way before the teen years that that technique was going to get her nowhere,” Dr. Hemmen says.
Take the opportunity to show your kid that this arguing technique is causing you to shut down and that the answer is still “no” when this happens. Dr. Hemmen explained how this worked when her teen daughter wanted to go to a large concert: “[W]hat I would do is I would say, ‘Okay, I want you to anticipate all of my concerns and all my questions and I want you to write something up.'” Once her daughter did that, Dr. Hemmen would be able to address the concerns and make an informed decision that wasn’t under the pressure of an argument. “That way she [her daugher] was actually learning a technique that would be really helpful to her in other parts of her life and through adulthood.”
In another TikTok, Dr. Hemmen shares three reasons that teens argue with you:
Brain Development: The part of their brain that governs logic and reasoning has had a growth spurt, which spurs them to practice their new skill.
Autonomy: Your teen becomes an individual by differentiating themselves from you. Little kids want to be just like you; teens want/need to become their own people.
Empowerment: Teens have their own ideas and opinions. To grow into functioning adults, they feel a need to take more control.
The crux of the message is this: Don’t wait until your kids are teens to start developing these positive argument skills. Start addressing them with your elementary school-aged kids when they arise so that they’ll be one step ahead when the teen years roll around.
It’s no surprise that pediatricians recommend reading to your kids from an early age. Doing so regularly “stimulates optimal patterns ofbrain development and strengthens parent-child relationships at a criticaltime in child development, which, in turn, builds language, literacy, andsocial-emotional skills that last a lifetime” according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. But if you’ve ever tried to read to a baby, you know that it’s not the calm, snuggly experience you’re hoping for.
When you picture a parent reading to their young child, the image that probably pops up in your head is a baby sitting on a parent’s lap with both of them facing the book. But this sitting position often leads to babies squirming out of your arms, tearing at the book pages, or getting distracted. Turns out, there’s a better way: The key to engaging them is turning them around to face you. “Your baby needs human interaction with the book to remain interested,” says speech-language pathologist Moira Chrzanowski. “The words and pictures themselves aren’t likely to do it yet like they can with older children.”
On her TikTok account @rooted.in.language, Moira modeled how this would look and also provided some other tips that will give you a much better reading experience with your baby.
Face your baby. Hold the book like a teacher would when reading to their class. This way your baby has both the book and you to look at when you are reading.
Get physical. This could be anything from touching them to getting in their face and smiling at them.
Add sound effects. Animal sounds, different voices, and truck noises are a few options.
Don’t read every word. You’re not trying to get them to memorize the story. It’s the interaction that you provide that is important, not the actual words on the page.
If you are looking to add to your baby’s library, this list of books for newborns has some of our favorites that would work well for this reading method, like Indestructibles: Touch Your Nose! by Amy Pixton and Crinkle, Crinkle, Little Star by Justin Krasner.
Nutritious, prepared meals directly to your home? Yes, please! These meal delivery services make it easy
Meal delivery is a parent’s best friend, especially this time of year. You can put in as much or as little effort as you’d like and still get dinner that’s mostly homemade on your table (or your lap—let’s be honest!). It’s 2023 and we’re working a lot smarter (and far less hard). We asked the country’s savviest moms to dish on the best meal delivery services so you can find one that’s right for you.
Did we mention most deliver throughout the United States? They’ve figured out how to pack, ship, and deliver your goodies so even when they travel across the country, they can still show up at your door like you swung by the grocery store yourself (which is definitely something we’re trying to cut down on here). Read on for amazing meal planning ideas so you can cut down on the time in the kitchen and spend more time where it counts: with your family.
Bite-Sized Finger Foods for Little Ones Learning to Self-Feed: Nurture Life
Nurture Life
Why we love it: If you're tired of yogurt drops and dinosaur nuggets, Nurture Life is the meal delivery service designed just for babies and toddlers (though the food's good enough for mom and dad, too).
What makes it unique: Choose from four categories when placing your order: Kid's Meals, Finger Foods, Mighty Bites Snacks, and Smoothies. The kid's meals include tried-and-true favorites like chicken and mac, as well as ones they know are winners with picky eaters like penne bolognese. Finger foods are ideal for little ones who have just progressed beyond purees as they are soft enough to mash, small enough to prevent choking, and easy to pick up. Get your kids hooked on their Mighty Bites Snacks since they look like the cookies cookies but are full of good-for-you ingredients.
For a Service That Actually Grows with Your Kids: Little Spoon
Little Spoon
Why we love it: You may know Little Spoon for their direct-to-consumer organic baby food. Good news for parents out of the baby food stage: they also offer Plates—meals for toddlers and big kids. Plates are healthy and nutritious, heat-and-eat meals made with the quality ingredients Little Spoon is known for. Plates has lots of different kiddo-approved recipes with a focus on seasonal, local, and organic ingredients. Dishes include Spaghetti and Turkey Meatballs, Chicken Teriyaki, Chicken Pot Stickers, and Cauli Croquettes. And, of course, they still offer Babyblends Organic Baby Food.
What makes it unique: Baby food, finger food, big kid meals, snacks—what can't Little Spoon do? From their Babyblends Organic Baby Food, to Biteables Early Finger Food, to Plates Toddler + Kids Meals, to Lunchers Build-and-Eat Meals, to Smoothies Organic Pouches, to Snacks for a junk-free snacktime, Little Spoon grows with your little ones from 6+ months and beyond. It's also perfect for families with multiple kiddos.
What's the deal? Get 50% off your your first order (up to $40) with code NYE50
If You're Looking for Groceries That Turn into Meals: Hungryroot
Hungryroot
Why we love it: Hungryroot is the all-in-one grocery and recipe service. Browse their grocery aisles + their entire recipe catalog (that puts your groceries to delicious use). There are hundreds to choose from, and most of them cook up in as little as 10 minutes. But you're always in control. Take Hungryroot's suggestions, or choose exactly what you want, same as you do when you're grocery shopping at the store.
What makes it unique: Start by taking the Hungryroot quiz and telling them about yourself (your goals, how many people you're feeding, dietary needs, what you and your family like to eat for dinner). They'll create a cart filled with suggested groceries and recipes that fit your needs. Go ahead and check out, or edit your cart to create a box that works perfectly for you. All of it comes straight to your door.
What's the deal? 30% off + a free gift in every delivery for a limited time.
For Parents Who Want to Expose Little Ones to Big Flavors: Tiny Organics
Tiny Organics
Why we love it: We all want to raise adventurous eaters, but few of us have time to add bold or new dishes to the rotation. Tiny Organics steps in to help make it happen, with the goal of introducing your tot to their 100 first flavors before the age of 2. Their organic, plant-based finger-food blends are just right for littles perfecting their pincer grasp, whether they’re chomping on Coconut Curry, a Baby Burrito Bowl, or a Bananas Foster Breakfast Bowl.
What it costs: 12 meals every one, two, or four weeks/ $4-6 per meal; 24 meals every one, two, or four weeks/ $4.66 per meal.
What makes it unique: This stuff is serious brain food. Tiny Organics is a member of the Food and Nutrition Innovation Council at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, and all meals were created with input from a team of neonatal nutritionists (as well as a chef).
What's the deal? Save $20 when you opt for the 24-pack of meals.
If You Want All Sustainable Ingredients: Sunbasket
Sun Basket
Why we love it: Sunbasket focuses on organic, sustainably sourced ingredients. All meal kit recipes are approved by in-house dietitians to comply with USDA dietary guidelines, and meals are typically between 500 and 800 calories. It offers a good variety for people on specific diets including those following paleo, vegetarian, and gluten-free meal plans. All you need is salt, pepper, and oil—the kit provides the rest, plus step-by-step instructions (and most meals take less than 30 minutes to prepare and cook). You can select two to four recipes per week to feed two to four people. You can also mix and match across meal categories, ensuring there’s something for everyone at your table, whether it’s Spicy Kung Pao Chicken with Cashews and Black Rice or Pappardelle with Pork Sausage, Brussels Sprouts, and Feta.
What makes it unique? Sunbasket ensures their packaging is almost completely recyclable and sources only humanely raised meat. If you like to support companies who “do good always,” Sunbasket could be your jam.
What’s the deal? $90 off across 4 boxes plus free shipping.
Why we love it:HelloFresh’s meal kits help you make tasty, satisfying food that’s simple without being boring. Some home cooks find their meals among the least intimidating of all meal delivery services, and dishes like Miso Peach Pork Chops or Eggplant and Creamy Tuscan Spaghetti and Meatballs are just enough out of the ordinary to be interesting without requiring a heroic effort on your part.
What makes it unique? Their back-to-school snack and meal bundles are here to save you from your school lunch rut. The snacks and bundles start as low as $3.99 and are available in HelloFresh’s recently launched HelloFresh Market.
What’s the deal? Up to $200 off and free breakfast for life when you subscribe.
Why we love it: This cook-at-home food delivery service partnered with Martha Stewart is here to help harried families discover their inner Martha. The menu features 29 choices every week and the website tags meals as family-friendly, vegan, vegetarian, and other categories. Favorites include Sheet Pan Fish Tacos and Cheesy Butternut Squash Gnocchi. The website provides big, colorful step-by-step photos for careless cooks and kids who want to help.
Why we love it: Purple Carrot’s recipes are entirely plant-based, and their team chooses meals for you, eliminating the need for you to log in by a certain date to make your own choices. Plus, they put an innovative spin on plant-based meals with dishes like Spicy Mango Tempeh with Roasted Broccoli Flatbreads with Cashew Cheese and Arugula.
What makes it unique? Don't want to cook? They have prepared meals as well!
Why We Love It: Parents rave that Gobble is the fastest and tastiest meal delivery service out there. They feature DIY dinner kits that cook in three steps and under 15 minutes (many of them in one pan). Gobble takes the prep work out by providing pre-cooked sauces, grains, pasta, pre-chopped ingredients, and/or pre-sliced vegetables and meat. It's currently available in all of the continental US except Montana.
What Makes It Unique: Watching your weight? There are also 15-minute lean and clean recipes that are 600 calories or less, low carb, and feature lean proteins and no filler grains.
Why we love it: Blue Apron pioneered the concept of sending a week’s worth of meals to your doorstep in an effort to get more people cooking by removing many hassles of meal prep. Their years of experience mean they know what they’re doing and their large size also means they’re able to take some innovative, high-tech steps to shape how food is grown, harvested, and distributed.
What makes it unique? With a decade of deliveries, Blue Apron is pretty much a sure bet for delicious meals with stellar instructions. And you might just up your cooking game while you're at it!
What’s the deal? Up to 25 free meals across 6 orders plus free shipping on the first order.
For Parents Making Specific Eating Choices: Green Chef
Green Chef
Why we love it: Whatever dietary choices you’re making at home, Green Chef has a plan for you. Meal plans include Keto, Vegetarian, Quick & Easy, Protein-Packed, Mediterranean, and Gluten Free. Plus, it’s easy to whip up the meals after a busy day because each recipe and kit bag are color-coded, so you’ll know what to grab from the fridge.
Why it’s unique: Besides offering such a diverse range of dietary preferences, it was the first and only Keto-approved meal delivery service. And, the meals come with one-of-a-kind sauces that add diverse flavors to the meals.
What's the deal? Get $250 off and free shipping on the first box.
Why we love it: With lots of tasty meal choices and customization options, Home Chef meal delivery service appeals to busy moms and picky eaters alike. Choose from meal kits like Pork and Guacamole Tostadas, Gouda Truffle Fondue Beef Burgers, or Chile Lime Butter Mahi-Mahi. You pick the serving size, meal frequency, and your family’s eating style (omnivore, meat eaters, pescatarian, etc.). We like that Home Chef specifies how long each meal kit will take to make and that you can specify if you are calorie- or carb-conscious.
What makes it unique? With meal options, delivery-day options, and the ability to add on meals, cooked proteins, and treats like smoothies and fresh fruit, Home Chef is a winner for new moms. Menus are set five weeks in advance so you can plan out your meals for weeks at a time.
What’s the deal? $30 off your first order and $10 off your second.
Why we love it: How about 100 percent plant-based, organic, non-GMO, chef-prepared entrees, soups, and juices that just show up at your front door whenever you want them to? Then look no further than Veestro.
There are no, zero, zilch animal products of any kind here, ever! Chick'n Nuggets with chipotle dipping sauce complete with veganaise will do the trick every time for your kiddos and no one will miss the meat. Veestro food is available a la carte and they also carry a surprisingly delicious weight loss menu plan. As with most vegetarian cuisine: most meals have nuts in them so be careful with a nut allergy, but all meals are completely dairy-free and don't contain other allergens.
Why we love it: Yumble has kid friendly cuisine down to a science. The New York-based company (which now ships nationwide) specializes in ready-to-pack lunches that kids won't trade in the cafeteria. PB&J croissants, mac and cheese, pizza—the stuff they usually ask for that we don't always have time to whip up and pack—delivered ready to grab-and-go.
What makes it unique: Complete your lunch by selecting 2 sides from Yumble's range of fruit or veggie inspired options, and don't forget to add a snack. Oh, and did we mention there's no refrigeration required? How easy is that?
Why we love it: Long for the microwave dinners of the old days—without the "Guess That Meat" flavor of your high school cafeteria? Freshology—also called Diet To Go—delivers chef-prepared meals, ready to reheat and eat. Freshology drops tasty, calorie-controlled, already-prepared dishes (breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, and snacks) onto your doorstep. They’re all about helping you discover nutritious and affordable meals that’ll help you lose weight or support your healthy lifestyle.
What makes it unique: There's a variety of menus, including Keto-friendly, vegetarian, and diabetes-friendly. This gives “heat and eat” a whole new meaning.
Why we love it: Tovala is perfect for the non-chef or new mama because it literally requires one minute of prep and no cutting or chopping. Order your meals (or even shop like normal), then use the signature Smart Oven to completely cook your meal to perfection. Meals cook in 20 minutes or less and you can choose from tons of options, with 14 new items being added every week.
What makes it unique: No other meal delivery services offer the ability to cook on their own! The Tovala Smart Oven allows you to scan meal cards or regular grocery store codes and then cooks each item accordingly. Currently, you can scan more than 750 grocery items from brands like Annie's, Pillsbury, and Dr. Praeger's, and use it to steam, toast, bake, and broil.
What's the deal? Save $200 during their Holiday Sale.
For Plant-Based Meals That Actually Taste Great: Splendid Spoon
Splendid Spoon
Why we love it: Splendid Spoon’s meals and smoothies come ready to eat (absolutely no meal prep here!). Their delicious plant-based meals are a great opportunity to integrate more plants into your diet without the hassle of recipe research or multiple trips to the store. Everything on their menu is vegan, gluten-free, and GMO-free, and tastes 100 percent delicious.
What parents are saying: You won’t be bored with Splendid Spoon’s variety. They offer a rotating menu of 40+ ready-to-eat smoothies, soups, and grain bowls. Meals are customizable and we love that they’re delivered cold to your door (read: if you’re at the office or out and aren’t home to accept delivery, the package won’t spoil right away). While there’s no dedicated kids’ menu, the meals and smoothies are kid-friendly. You may even get your kids to try a new flavor combo!
What's the Deal? First-time subscribers receive $105 off their first three boxes
Why we love it: HelloFresh’s latest meal delivery service is one of the newest and most affordable on the market and offers simple meals with wholesome ingredients that are totally appealing to families. Choose from 26 different recipes that change every week and include offerings like herb-crusted parmesan chicken, chicken, bacon, and gouda sandwiches, and sweet-soy glazed meatballs. If you're looking for something specific, they divide the meals into categories: spicy, vegetarian, family friendly, and customer favorites. There's even an option to choose add-ons like garlic bread, Caesar salad, and white cheddar mac and cheese.
What parents are saying: While there’s no dedicated kids’ menu, each meal (chicken sausage soup with couscous, dijon butter steak, and linguine Italiano are examples) is very kid friendly.
What's the deal? You can click on the "mystery box" to unlock a deal, and meals start at $5, so overall, it's a winner
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
When a person chooses to breastfeed or chestfeed their baby, they usually know that some basic equipment is required—like a nursing bra and nipple cream. But one thing that often takes people by surprise is how incredibly hungry they feel once they start their breastfeeding journey. Lactation requires approximately 500 extra calories and at least 65 grams of protein per day. So, if you are eating like you were pre-pregnancy, it’s likely that you are getting pretty ravenous mid-day. Bring on the breastfeeding snacks!
Snacks can play a huge part in a lactating person’s journey. Because let’s be honest—some people can’t sit down for three square meals a day and snacks become the norm during the chaotic first few months of parenthood.
As a registered dietitian working with lactating parents, I tell my clients that when choosing breastfeeding-friendly snacks, they should stick to some general criteria:
It should be nutrient-dense to help support healthy nutrient levels in your breastmilk and to support mom’s healing and overall nutritional status
It should contain some protein, fiber, and/or healthy fat to help make your snack more satiating
It should ideally take little effort to make and easily be enjoyed with one hand
It should taste good
Among the sea of snack options, I have my go-to combos that I recommend to clients most frequently. And while the occasional ice cream or salt and vinegar chips can certainly fit into a healthy lifestyle, there are some satisfying and lactation-supporting options that should make up the bulk of your food choices.
Here are my top 3 “dietitian-approved” breastfeeding snacks that I recommend most parents keep on hand when they are on their lactation journey.
1. Chicken Salad & Whole Grain Crackers
Snacks that contain high-quality protein and whole grains check so many boxes when it comes to lactation nutrition. And enjoying some simple chicken salad on whole grain crackers certainly fits the bill.
Simply shred cooked chicken (using leftover chicken from a meal will do) and mix it with a little salt, pepper, and a combo of plain Greek yogurt and mayo for a nutrient-dense and simple snack. Throw in some herbs or your favorite seasoning if you want to kick up the flavor. Scoop the salad up with some whole grain crackers for a mid-day nosh.
Chicken is one of the best foods to enjoy when nursing for a slew of reasons. Yes, it is a fantastic source of high-quality protein, clocking in at 31 grams per each 3.5 ounce serving of dark meat. But chicken is also a source of key micronutrients that are important to focus on during lactation, including vitamin B12. One 3.5-ounce serving of roasted dark meat chicken contains 11% of the recommended daily need for lactating people. B12 is important for supporting baby’s neurologic development, and not getting enough is linked to developmental regression. Since breastmilk’s levels of vitamin B12 are dependent on the lactating person’s intake, including foods like chicken is important during this stage.
Chicken also contains choline, a nutrient that is important for a baby’s brain development. A lactating person’s intake influences breastmilk levels. A 3.5-ounce roasted skinless chicken breast is a good source of choline, providing about 15% of the daily needs of lactating people.
2. Hard Boiled Egg & Fruit
Do yourself a favor and hard-boil a batch of eggs once a week. Once they cool, store them in the shell in your fridge for up to a week. You will be jumping for joy to have a nutritious grab-and-go snack option when those hunger pangs hit and you need something ASAP. And since one large-sized egg contains 6 grams of high-quality protein, enjoying one mid-day is an easy-breezy way to get in this important macro, plus a host of micronutrients, too. And don’t skip the yolk. The colorful part of the egg is where you will find plenty of breastfeeding-friendly nutrients like choline and iodine, both of which support brain development. In fact, two large eggs provide more than half of a lactating person’s choline needs for the day.
Pair your egg with a piece of fresh fruit for a simple snack that packs a punch in the nutrition department and requires zero mess in the kitchen—something all new parents can appreciate.
3. Cranberry Smoothie
Smoothies are the ultimate snack when you have no time to eat and only one hand to do it with—which is basically every day when you have a newborn in tow. Smoothies are hydrating, packed with antioxidants, and are simple to sip on when you’re juggling all of the things.
Using cranberry juice in your postpartum smoothie is one way to add some satisfying taste to your drink while supporting urinary tract health.
To make a cranberry smoothie: blend 1/2 cup 100% cranberry juice, 1/2 frozen banana, 1/2 cup vanilla Greek yogurt, and a handful of ice in a blender and blend until smooth. Cheers!
Lauren Manaker is an award-winning registered dietitian, lactation counselor and author. Lauren's work has been featured in numerous publications and demostrates her committment to sharing evidence-based nutrition guidance that simplifies healthy eating. When she is not writing, Lauren can be found boating with her husband, daughter and rescue pup on the waters of Charleston, SC.
As a dietitian, it’s no surprise that I’m a smoothie lover—and I’m always cooking up new smoothie recipes for kids. These blended bevys are versatile, easy to whip up, absolutely delicious, and provide a healthy dose of nutrition. Smoothies are also my secret weapon for brightening up cranky moods after a nap—and my kids are over the moon when I turn them into smoothie bowls with rainbow sprinkles. Who wouldn’t want to feel like supermom every time the blender roars?
What you might not know is that smoothies have their own superpowers, too. These handy drinks can be used to address several everyday challenges that kids encounter. The ingredients you toss in your blender can ease constipation, support healthy weight gain, or help balance their moods. And when your kid comes home with their fourth stuffy nose of the month, grab your trusted blender from the pantry because it’s smoothie time! Here are some of my favorite kid-approved smoothie recipes that can turn these challenges into tasty triumphs.
1. The Smooth Move Supports: Constipation
If your kid’s bowels seem to have gone on strike, this fiber-packed smoothie might just get them moving. In addition to balancing blood sugar and increasing satiety, fiber also combats constipation. Adding high-fiber foods such as chia seeds, ground flaxseeds, and leafy greens can help stimulate the bowels and make it easier to go. If you’re worried your child won’t like chia or flax, rest assured that they have a nutty flavor similar to peanut butter. Prunes are also well-known for their laxative effects (just don’t add too many—you don’t want any accidents at the kitchen table!).
Ingredients:
1 cup frozen mixed berries
1/2 tbsp chia seeds
1/2 tbsp ground flaxseed
1 cup Greek yogurt or kefir (bonus: probiotics!)
A handful of spinach
1-2 prunes (optional)
Milk of choice, thin to desired consistency
Directions and Notes:
Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.
Start by adding a small amount of milk to the blender. Nothing is worse than a watery smoothie!
Try frozen mango or pineapple instead of mixed berries for a tropical twist.
In a hurry to catch the school bus? Pour leftover smoothies into reusable pouches for your kiddo to finish at school.
2. Pink Immuno Blast
Supports: The Sniffles
Backpacks filled with art projects and homework aren’t the only things coming through the door now that school is back in full swing; kids are also bringing home pesky classroom germs. While the sniffles, coughs, and sore throats are basically rites of passage for school-age children, adding some vitamin C-packed smoothies can make stay-at-home-with-mom days a bit more bearable. Dragon fruit, berries, walnuts, and hemp seeds may not cure your little scholars, but they pack a ton of immune-supporting nutrients, including omega-3s and protein. Plus, adding dragon fruit will transform this smoothie into a vibrant shade of pink, adding a touch of magic while your kid is curled up on the couch.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup frozen dragon fruit
1/2 c frozen strawberries
1 tbsp walnuts
1/2 tbsp hemp seeds
1 tbsp honey
Milk of choice, thin to desired consistency
Directions and Notes:
Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.
Swap out half of the milk for pomegranate juice to give your smoothie an extra punch of immune-supporting antioxidants.
Freeze leftover smoothie blend into popsicle molds as the cooling effect will work wonders to soothe sore throats.
3. Nutrilicious Delight
Supports: Picky eating and poor weight gain
During those frustrating bouts of fussy eating or when your kid could use some help with weight gain, the key is to focus on foods that are rich in nutrients and packed with energy. Nut or seed butter, coconut oil or milk, bananas, rolled oats, Greek yogurt, and dates are ingredients that make every sip count. Want another helpful tip? You can toss some veggies into the smoothie—not to sneak them past your kiddo (we want them to trust us!) but to prove that vegetables can actually be delicious in different forms. Opt for mild-tasting options like spinach and zucchini to make sure they don’t compromise the flavor.
Ingredients:
1 frozen banana
1/4 cup frozen zucchini or a handful of spinach
2 tbsp nut/seed butter
1/4 cup oats
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1 tbsp coconut oil
2-3 pitted dates
Whole milk or coconut milk, thin to desired consistency
Directions and Notes:
Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.
If your kid is craving something chocolatey, toss in 1-2 tbsp of cocoa powder.
Looking for a time-saving hack? Get ahead of the game by prepping a week’s worth of smoothies. Simply fill silicone or ziplock bags with all the ingredients (minus the liquid) and toss them in the freezer. When you’re ready to whip up a smoothie, just grab a bag, add your milk, and you’re one step closer to mom of the year!
4. Strawberry-Banana Brain Booster
Supports: Focus and blood-sugar balance
What do iron, protein, and fat have in common? They all play a crucial role in helping our kids bring their A-game. Iron supports brain development, while protein and fat keep blood sugar balanced, sparing us from cracky moods and wipe-out level fatigue. Now that it’s back-to-school season, these nutrients can be a game-changer for kids trying to stay focused and energized in the classroom. So, if you’re thinking of sending them off to school with a smoothie, go for one that’s iron-packed with pumpkin and chia seeds, plus almond or cashew butter for the extra protein and fat kick. Don’t forget to include some vitamin C from strawberries, which helps the body absorb all those iron superpowers!
Ingredients:
1 frozen banana
1 cup frozen strawberries
1 tbsp pumpkin seeds
1 tbsp chia seeds
1 tbsp almond or cashew butter
Nut milk or coconut milk, thin to desired consistency
Directions and Notes:
Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.
Since calcium from dairy can inhibit the absorption of iron, this one works best with non-dairy milk.
Consider a fun cup or straw that features a sports team or a character they love, like Paw Patrol or Elsa.
Get your kids involved in the kitchen by turning smoothie-making into a fun family tradition!
For parents who are currently screaming into their pillows, here’s what to know and how to react to your teen
If you have a teenager, you already know how it goes. They’re learning their way around the world and becoming independent, fully formed humans—but with that comes some pretty freaking obnoxious habits that will drive you up every wall of your house. When you’re at your wit’s end, hit play on this TikTok video and listen to what a psychologist has to say about some of the most rage-inducing teen habits and how to handle them.
Dr. Lucie Hemmen makes content that helps families navigate their relationships with one another, and this video is no exception.
“Five really typical things that teens do that drive parents crazy,” she says to introduce the video.
The first one won’t surprise any parent of a teenager: staying in their room all the time. Dr. Hemmen explains this is because teens are establishing their own identities away from their families.
“The best way to deal with it is to honor that and let them know that ‘when it’s dinner time, you’re coming out of your room’,” she says. “That way, they know you’re meeting them halfway.”
The second habit is teens’ tendency to be “emotionally intense.”
“It’s really not their fault,” Dr. Hemmen explains. “It has to do with their brain development. Their feelings are on full blast, and discernment, as far as how intense the feeling needs to be given the situation at hand, is not so great.”
Unfortunately, the only way to handle this one is time.
“It’s something you need to make space for and wait out,” Dr. Hemmen says.
No. 3 is that teens are irritable, she says, but this is also part of their normal development. The best thing parents can do is try not to take it personally and let things go, but “call out what you need to.”
Fourth on the list is that teens are “self-absorbed,” according to Dr. Hemmen.
“That’s not who they’re gonna be when they’re an adult, necessarily,” she says. “It’s very age-appropriate when you’re a teen, especially a younger teen.”
And finally, “Everything seems like an argument.”
Dr. Hemmen reminds parents that it’s “not because they disrespect you, it’s because they’ve had a burst of brain development and they know how to argue better. They feel more empowered and they want more separateness.”
At the end of the video, Dr. Hemmen notes that it was hard to narrow the list down to just five teen habits—something else that will help parents of teens feel seen. Parents, hang in there!
For couples that co-parent together, the strength of their partnership and how they treat each other (through good times and bad) are essential ingredients to building a strong and steady foundation for their kids. While occasional disagreements between partners are inevitable (and totally normal), when those disagreements escalate to the point of no return and are aired out in front of children, the exchange of harsh words can have lasting negative effects on the family dynamic. Children need to feel a sense of security and stability, and parents who undermine each other can cause confusion, anxiety, and even long-term emotional damage. For couples looking to maintain a united front and respect for one another, and foster a healthy and supportive family environment, here are 10 things partners should never say to each other.
1. “Why can’t you do a better job with …”
Whether it’s complaints about changing diapers or playing too rough with the kids, criticizing your partner’s parenting style or abilities in front of your children should be verboten for couples. An international study found that children of all ages, from infants to adolescents, can show signs of disrupted early brain development, sleep problems, anxiety, and other serious problems as a result of living with severe or chronic inter-parental conflict.
2. “Remember the last time when you …”
It’s important to avoid bringing up past mistakes or disagreements in front of the kids, which can make them feel uncomfortable or caught in the middle. Focus on the present and the future, and encourage children to do the same.
3. “You’re being an idiot.”
Using insults and hurtful language to describe or address your partner is never acceptable—especially in front of your children. Name calling, even in a moment of anger, sets a bad example and can cause children to believe that it’s OK to disrespect others, too. Studies have also shown a correlation between men who insult their intimate partners and a higher incidence of domestic violence.
4. “You’re driving me crazy!”
Yelling or shouting at your partner in front of the kids can be scary and intimidating, and can create a stressful and unpleasant home environment. Long-term studies on the impact of yelling at home have shown a link between harsh verbal discipline and children’s conduct problems and depressive symptoms.
5. “Why are you always such a sensitive crybaby?”
Dismissing or belittling your partner’s feelings or concerns can cause them to feel unimportant and unheard. Children may feel similarly dismissed and belittled, and the negative mental health consequences of children experiencing fighting parents have been well-documented.
6. “You’re acting just like your [overbearing mother].”
Criticizing or making negative comments about your partner’s family or friends can cause tension and resentment, and can create a hostile environment for kids.
7. “We’re getting a divorce!”
Even if a couple is going through a rough patch, threatening to end the relationship in front of the kids can cause unnecessary stress and anxiety for them, who may feel insecure and unsure about the future of their family as well as their own future.
8. “We can’t afford anything with how much money you spend.”
Financial issues can be a major source of conflict in relationships, but it’s important to avoid discussing them in front of the kids, who shouldn’t have to deal with the stress or anxiety related to financial matters. Learning how to talk to children about money starts early and helps to set good habits and values for the future.
9. “If you don’t do …, it’s over.”
Making ultimatums or demands can cause tension and conflict in any relationship, but doing so in front of children can create an unstable and unpredictable environment for them. Experts say parents should take a step back, give each other the benefit of the doubt, and remember they are on the same team.
10. “S#&^!”
Avoid swearing or using inappropriate language with your partner in front of your kids. Does a curse word occasionally slip out here or there in everyday life? Sure. But using them regularly in conversation is offensive, lazy, and teaches kids that they don’t need to find the right words to properly express themselves.
Baby toy subscription boxes take the guesswork out of toy shopping
Looking for activities your littles will love delivered right to your home? Of course you are. Even if you didn’t know it, we’re betting there’s a good chance the idea sounds awfully appealing. There’s no shortage of baby and toddler toys out there, but finding ones that are curated and expert-approved? That can be tricky. Nurture your child’s brain development with a baby toy subscription box of educational (and fun!) toys that build physical, social, and cognitive skills. Here are five toy subscription boxes that make it easy for you by delivering age-appropriate developmental gear straight to your door.
KiwiCo Panda Crate
KiwiCo
Age group: Birth to 24 months
What you get: Each shipment includes brain-building toys and activities as well as a guide for parents that explains what skills your child is developing at their age and how you can best support them. You’ll also receive activity cards that explain ways to use the items in your crate as well as cards that give you simple, new ways to play and bond with your little one.
What we love: The crates' contents are tailored to kids' ages and stages, with developmentally appropriate activities you'll enjoy doing together. It's all backed by in-house experts and partners who specialize in child health behavior and development.
What you get: With this Montessori-inspired subscription box, you receive a box every 2-3 months (depending on your little one's age). Designed by child development experts, the goodies inside are created to build brain development and nurture and encourage your child at every age and stage. Toys include books, card sets, first puzzles, bath-friendly playthings and, much more. Useful products like a drinking cup also arrive right when your kiddo is ready to try them.
What we love: Lovevery takes a science-based approach to choosing the right items to spark neural pathways, hone motor skills, and encourage interaction. The baby-safe toys and materials are made with sustainably sourced wood and 100% organic cotton, and the shipping is carbon neutral. If your child has special needs, contact Lovevery for recommendations on which kits would work best.
What you get: Each playkit is packed with Montessori toys that are age-based and specifically created to stimulate learning (on top of having fun, of course).
What we love: Every toy in the Babysteps Playkits are pediatrician-approved, so you know the research has been done for you. Plus, each toy is designed to last, so hang onto them for your next kiddo.
Make sure to capture all those playful moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
These gentle parenting books can help you foster trust, empathy, and respect with your kids
When it comes to parenting there’s no one right way to do it. But if raising kids with empathy, respect, and kindness is at the forefront of your parenting strategy, gentle parenting just might be your thing. It focuses on positive communication, and encourages parents to trade discipline and punishment for kindness and understanding to shape behavior and support kids through some of those tougher stages (we’re looking at you, terrible twos and threenage years). Trust, respect, and open communication are the pillars of this theory. The end goal is mutual respect and trust between kids and parents. Curious to learn how you can incorporate these strategies into your everyday? Break open one of these gentle parenting books and get reading.
1. The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson
If you’re parenting a toddler we bet you’ve figured out that using logic to temper their tantrums is about as effective as renaming broccoli “magical trees” to get your kid to eat a vegetable. In The Whole-Brain Child, neuropsychiatrist, Daniel J. Siegel, and parenting expert, Tina Payne Bryson, team up to explain brain development in kids in an easily accessible way for parents. They also offer 12 key strategies to raising happier, calmer kids.
2. Parenting with Love and Logic by Charles Fay & Foster Cline
The Love and Logic approach to raising responsible kids isn’t a new one. In fact, it’s been around for 45 years. But even if you’ve read this one before, a refresher never hurts, especially since the Love and Logic principles can be applied from toddler through teen years. Focused on empowering children to make their own decisions without ceding parental authority, what you’ll find in these pages helps you pair natural consequences with empathetic listening.
If you’re looking for a different take on parenting, try The Conscious Parent. Dr. Shelfali Tsabary explains that although many parents believe it’s our responsibility to mold our kids through discipline and consequences, it’s actually quite the opposite. In this book she show that “our children are born to us to create deep internal transformation within us.” One read will help you embrace a more mindful, conscious approach to parenting.
4. Peaceful Parent,Happy Kids by Dr. Laura Markham
The subtitle of this book says it all—how to stop yelling and start connecting. In it, mom and clinical psycholgist, Dr. Laura Markham, uses brain science and experience to give parents practical tools that help them develop strong, loving connections with their kids. If you’re looking for that Aha! parenting moment, the strategies outlined in this book can lead the way.
5. No-Drama Discipline by Daniel J. Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson
Written by the same team that brought you the first book on our list, No-Drama Discipline gives parents the tools they need to help their kids learn from their mistakes and develop self-control. It provides an “effective, compassionate road map for dealing with tantrums, tensions, and tears—without causing a scene.” Sounds too good to be true, right? Give it a read to find out.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
