From the moment you find out you’re pregnant, many moms-to-be start to notice changes in their bodies. Morning sickness, thicker hair, even varicose veins are among the list of culprits that can show up and disappear. But what if they don’t? It turns out, your baby isn’t the only thing you’ll get from those nine grueling months—there are lots of body changes after pregnancy, too. These not-so-cuddly gifts may stick around long after your baby bump goes away. From wider hips to bigger feet, vision changes to sudden (or disappearing) allergies, many new moms will find these changes are part of their postpartum body.
Your Feet Grow
Your baby’s not the only one who's going to need new shoes. Many new moms add half a shoe size—or more—after pregnancy. Blame the hormone relaxin, which loosens the ligaments in your body to help prepare for birth (that pelvis has to widen, after all), which also causes the bones to spread in the feet.
Doctors say there is a chance your feet will go back to their old size after several months, but if your feet still feel cramped in your favorite shoes, it may be time to go shopping (as if you needed a better excuse).
Note: Call your doctor if your feet have swelled up suddenly, as this may be a sign of potentially dangerous preeclampsia or blood pressure changes.
Your Hips Get Wider
You know those glorious hips that widened to let your baby squeeze out into the world? They may never go back to the way they were (even if you had a C-section). Same goes for your rib cage, which also had to open up to make room for your growing child. For most women, these enlarged bones go back to their original place by about 18 weeks postpartum, but some women keep the extra girth permanently.
"My hips stayed permanently wider which was great for me because I had no shape before," said a Reddit user. "I was built like a teenaged boy, lol."
"My hips? Wider yes and not back to normal," said another mom. "But I have embraced it and now have a more hourglass figure with larger bust, slim waist and wide hips."
"I hope my hips get wider during pregnancy. Wide hips are beauty beautiful," said another.
While pregnancy’s powerful hormones will likely bump your bosom up a few cup sizes, once your milk-making machines dry up, you may end up with smaller breasts than you had before you were pregnant. “You lose a lot of breast elasticity,” Los Angeles–based OB-GYN Pari Ghodsi told Health magazine. “They’re not as full as they once were.”
That said, some women report larger breasts after pregnancy (even after nursing), so it's anyone's guess where your post-baby bust will be.
“I was a C pre-pregnancy, was a DD in my second trimester," said a Reddit user. "I never measured postpartum but they were pornographic while I was pumping, and then once I stopped pumping they vanished into thin air and I’ve got A’s now."
“After nursing 6+ years with four kids, they didn't shrink......just deflated,” said another. “I can go out braless bc I can tuck them into my damn waistband.”
"Once my son was eating adult food they went back down to one cup size larger than they were pre-pregnancy," said another.
Your Hair Changes Color, Curl, or Texture
Pregnancy packs a wallop on your hormones, with these changes wreaking havoc on your body all the way to the tips of your strands. Some steadfastly straight-haired mamas get suddenly wavy locks post-baby, while some women with curls may suddenly go straight. (And this is in addition to losing the lustrous hair you likely grew while your baby was cooking.)
Sometimes, the hair goes back to the way it was months later; some women have changed tresses forever. Whatever your look, embrace it as your new mom style.
"I'm Asian and had thick, pin-straight hair before pregnancy,” said one mom on Reddit. “After I gave birth, it went all frizzy/weird, curly but not actually curly; beachy waves, but not nice beachy waves. Like an insane lion that had a bomb go off next to his head.”
“Got my first grey eyebrow hair 7 months along,” said another mom. “Hair is def not the same.”
“My wife was blonde her entire life, and is now a brunette after giving birth to our son,” said another Reddit user. “It’s crazy!”
Your Periods Change
As if you didn’t endure enough down there, postpartum periods tend to be permanently heavier or more painful after pregnancy. According to the Cleveland Clinic, these changes may relate to a larger uterine cavity causing more endometrium (mucous lining the uterus) to shed.
But it’s not all bad news. Some women actually experience lighter, easier periods after childbirth.
“The bottom line is that periods can change after having a baby,” OB-GYN Diane Young said in this article. “If you are concerned about your periods, make an appointment with your OB-GYN. There are medical therapies to help.”
That Dark Line that Points to Your Nether-Regions May Not Go Away
Pregnancy doesn’t just change your shape; it also changes your skin. Take the linea nigra: It’s the dark line that appears during pregnancy and runs from the middle of your belly to your pubic bone. A common hyperpigmentation that develops mid-pregnancy, it usually fades about three months after childbirth, but it can stick around permanently (as can darkened areolas, which also happens during pregnancy).
If the line bothers you, talk to your doctor. While it can’t be removed completely, there are skin-lightening creams and laser treatments that could make it less noticeable.
Your Allergies Disappear… or You Suddenly Have New Ones
Do you suddenly have a perpetually runny nose? Did your lifelong allergy to celery suddenly cease? Hormones are to blame for that, too. In fact, pregnancy can cause all sorts of changes in your immune system, which can alter your sensitivity to allergens. Experts say the most common newly occurring post-pregnancy allergies include seasonal allergies, food sensitivities, and PUPPP rash, a skin condition characterized by small pink itchy bumps on the abdomen.
"Hormonal fluctuations impact your allergies because estrogen and progesterone have an impact on your mast cells (allergy cells)," allergist and immunologist Purvi Parikh of the Allergy and Asthma Network said in this Parents magazine article.
Pregnancy isn’t the only dramatic hormonal shift that can trigger allergies, he added. “New allergies can emerge during periods of significant hormonal shifts, including puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, and menopause.”
You Have Stretch Marks…in Places You Never Thought You Would
Stretch marks on the belly are a veritable right of passage into mommyhood. But stretch marks on the thighs? Breasts? Buttox? Sorry, but it’s a thing. Stretch marks—which appear as red, pink, or black lines (their color depends on your skin)—are actually small scars that happen when sudden weight gain (i.e. your little miracle) tears the fibers of the skin. Up to 90 percent of pregnant women get them, with most common areas affected being the belly, thighs, hips, butt, and breasts. They can even happen in the upper arms and back.
And while you can’t get rid of (or prevent) stretch marks completely, most fade significantly after several months. In addition, there are some treatments—including chemical peels, lasers, radiofrequency, microdermabrasion, and microneedling— that may make them less noticeable.
My stretch marks are all over my legs!” said one Reddit user on this thread. “Nobody talks about this...my calves, thighs and hips got ‘em for sure. Interesting how everybody’s different.”
“I got zero stretchmarks until after I gave birth,” said another. “And then suddenly they were everywhere! Even behind my knees, under my arms, and on my pubic bone!”
Your Pelvic Floor Muscles Weaken
Sorry, but sneezing may never be the same. The strain of pregnancy and childbirth can weaken your pelvic floor muscles (those are the muscles that support the bladder, uterus, and bowel). This can cause mild to severe urinary incontinence or other pelvic floor disorders including problems related to your bowel or sexual functioning.
The good news? There are exercises you can do to improve things, with daily Kegels being your best first step. If you’re noticing excessive leaking—more than just a little squirt with a sneeze or “Oops” on the trampoline—you may want to talk to your gynecologist about regular physical therapy to improve symptoms (Don’t worry; it’s less embarrassing than it sounds).
Ah, hormones—Is there any part of the body you don’t control? Apparently not. If you’re not seeing your ABCs like you used to, you’re not alone. Up to 20 percent of women experience vision changes after pregnancy, Optometrist Dr. Arian Fartash said on her website. This is because pregnancy hormones cause water retention, which can cause swelling in the eyes.
“Your feet don’t only swell, but your eyes can swell, too, and that makes your vision change,” Fartash said in her video blog, “Ask an Eye Doctor.” “These changes can stay until after you’re done breastfeeding—or it can stay until the rest of your life.” Consequently, Fartash recommends getting your eyes checked after pregnancy to see if you need a new prescription.
You Have Phantom Baby Kicks
Yes, phantom kicks are a thing. Your tummy may not be growing a baby anymore, but it’s not uncommon to feel those familiar baby flutters even long after childbirth. According to Texas OB-GYN Tiffany Woodus, phantom kicks are the perception of fetal movement in the abdomen weeks, months, or years after pregnancy has ended. And it's experienced by more women than you'd think.
Experts aren’t sure why women experience phantom kicks, but according to an online survey done in Australia, women who experience them do so for an average of 6.8 years postpartum, with one mom in the survey reporting phantom kicks up to 28 years later!
My daughter is 7 and I STILL get them!,” said a Mama in this thread.
It freaks me out every time. I'm so glad I saw this post, it's had me guessing a lot,” said another. “My son is nearly three and I've been getting them for the last 6 months. A part of me thinks it's my body teasing me because I do want a second now.”
“Same thing happens to me,” said another. “I even took a pregnancy test to confirm I'm not going crazy even though there was zero chance of pregnancy.”
If your face looks splotchier than it did in your child-free days—or if you suddenly have a blanket of freckles all over your nose, you probably have melasma, a common condition caused by pregnancy hormones (it can also happen with the start of birth control pills). The condition, categorized by splotches or freckles of darker skin, usually occurs mainly on the cheeks, forehead, chin, and above the upper lip.
For some women, it goes away a few months after their baby is born (or after they stop taking the pill); for others, the change is permanent. But don’t despair: There are several treatments that may help, including lightening creams and laser light therapy.
A Final Note
While it may seem daunting to learn about all the uncomfortable or potentially permanent side effects of pregnancy, try to keep things in perspective: After all, you just added a human to the world. Those are battle scars you're earning!
And anyway—stretch marks, vision changes, and splotchy skin equals new baby, plus a lifetime of love and purpose. We'll take it.
We all have an idea of what we’ll be like as parents, whether it’s influenced by a favorite social media expert or that trendy book on Scandinavian parenting. But you never really know what your parenting style will be until you welcome your first child—and so many factors can influence whether you stick to your plan or it all flies out the window. Seeing the world through your little’s point of view can inspire you to explore your own, and one fun way to do that is by diving into your unique natal astrology. While it’s just one piece of the complex puzzle that is your birth chart, your sun sign—the zodiac sign that the sun was moving through when you were born—can tell you a lot about your priorities, values, self-image, and confidence.
As an astrologer and the author of Raising Baby by the Stars: A New Parent’s Guide to Astrology, I’m passionate about teaching parents how to use astrology to learn even more about themselves. After all, getting to know yourself better can help boost your confidence as a mom or dad, and who doesn’t want a little more of that? So let’s dive in and look at each sun sign to explain how it colors your parenting style.
This fire sign is ruled by Mars, the planet of action and energy, so Aries are passionate, competitive, athletic parents who would ideally prefer to move through life at lightning speed. Keen to be seen as a trendsetter, you’re usually one of the first in your friend group to try the latest baby gear. And as the first sign of the zodiac, your youthful spirit also makes you a kid at heart. You find it easy to strike a playful note with your little one, diving headfirst into all kinds of games—ideally, ones where you can get moving, like relay races or Simon Says—or sending them into a fit of laughter with slapstick comedy. And should your child scribble on the wall with a marker or throw a toy at their sibling, you’ll swiftly let them know that you’re majorly aggravated. But you have zero interest in dwelling on problems that arise, so you’ll work with your kiddo on a solution and move on to the next thing ASAP.
Parents you’ll click with: Fellow fire signs Leo and Sagittarius share your adventurous, go-getter vibe, while air signs like Gemini and Aquarius can keep up with your zippy pace.
Parents you may butt heads with: Your direct, no-nonsense, speedy nature could clash with more emotionally sensitive Cancers, balance-seeking Libras, and slow, steady Capricorns. Whether you’re planning play dates with these parents or figuring out a carpooling schedule, you’ll do well to slow down a bit and remember that you’re more effective when you work as a team.
Taurus (April 21-May 20)
Born under Taurus, the fixed earth sign, you’re known for being loyal, dependable, and grounded. You move through life at an unhurried but steady pace and excel at working towards goals one pragmatic step at a time—whether you’re planning a family vacation or potty training. You enjoy being in nature and soaking up the world around you and your kiddo in a mindful way, using sight, smell, touch, taste, and sound to hear the birds and feel the breeze at your family’s favorite picnic spot or playground. And because Taurus is ruled by Venus, the planet of art, beauty, and relationships, you’re a people person who can easily befriend other parents in your child’s class and a dedicated friend who makes it a priority to keep in touch with your nearest and dearest for decades. As one of the fixed signs, you’re resolute and will see any parenting challenge through. But you can also be stubborn. Once you’ve honed in on a game plan for working with your kid on a milestone, it might be challenging for you to switch things up. That said, at times, making an effort to nurture your adaptability can make for smoother sailing, especially with your partner.
Parents you’ll click with: Fellow earth signs Virgo and Capricorn are pragmatic and enjoy making actionable, rational plans just like you, so together you’ll feel seen and productive. Meanwhile, water signs Cancer and Pisces share your appreciation for fostering heartfelt or creative moments with your kids.
Parents you may butt heads with: Anyone with their sun in the other fixed signs—spotlight-loving Leo, emotionally intense Scorpio, and group-oriented Aquarius—might be as hardheaded as you, which can set the stage for friction. But when you connect and collaborate with these parents, everyone can learn to be a bit more flexible and open-minded.
Gemini (May 21-June 21)
Since this air sign is ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication, Geminis are curious information gatherers. You revel in learning and sharing what you’ve learned with others, including your kiddo, with whom you’re bound to have super-animated conversations from the time they’re tiny. You’re also an adept listener, so as they grow up, you’re eager for them to fill you in on everything going on in their world. Storytelling and reading books with your child—perhaps about travel, given that Mercury rules transportation as well—has likely always been a beloved pastime. And because you thrive on lively interaction, you love making parenting a social experience, whether it’s signing up for group baby classes, FaceTiming with grandparents, hosting regular backyard BBQs, or taking a leadership role for your tween’s soccer team. As one of the mutable signs, you find it easy to switch gears, ditching an activity that just isn’t going anywhere for one that gets your kid all fired up. At the same time, you can struggle with indecisiveness and may be better off focusing your excitable energy on one task at a time.
Parents you’ll click with: You’ll find fast friends in fellow air signs Libra and Aquarius, who are equally sociable and cerebral, while fire signs Leo and Aries share your joie de vivre and action-oriented style.
Parents you may butt heads with: Fellow mutable signs Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces are just as adaptable as you but tend to have priorities that feel quite different from your own—Virgo is very invested in details, Sag cares about the big picture, and Pisces is deeply emotional. For that reason, you could struggle to connect, but tap into your endless curiosity, and you may find that seeing the world through their eyes proves enlightening.
Cancer (June 22-July 22)
If you were born under the water sign Cancer—ruled by the moon, which oversees emotions, intuition, and how a person nurtures and wants to be nurtured—you’re a natural-born caregiver. A sentimental and loving homebody, you crave a solid sense of security with your child and other family members. Cozy activities like baking, tending to pets, reveling in family traditions, or just plain snuggling up together tend to boost your well-being. Your friends can rely on you to be a compassionate listener with stellar advice on navigating parenthood, especially the emotional side of it. And working through tough issues with your child is definitely your forte. In fact, given your intuitiveness, you’re often capable of getting an accurate read on their experience and holding space for them to move through big feelings. That said, when you have sensitive moments, you might want to withdraw into your shell, pulling back from caring for others to look after your own emotional well-being. Being by or in the water can be especially therapeutic for you, given your element. As one of the cardinal signs, you’re a go-getter who naturally takes the initiative when something needs to get done, whether that’s working on the family budget or refreshing your kiddo’s wardrobe for a new season.
Parents you’ll click with: You’ll find you have lots in common with fellow family-oriented, empathic, emotionally intelligent water signs Scorpio and Pisces. And earth signs Taurus and Virgo share your passion for mindfulness and nurturing others.
Parents you may butt heads with: Fellow cardinal signs like airy Libra, lightning-paced Aries, and ambitious Capricorn are go-getters like you but tend to go about their initiative-taking in ways that aren’t nearly as emotionally charged as yours. However, by being open to a different approach and joining forces, you can accomplish a lot.
Leo (July 22-August 22)
Born under the fire sign Leo and ruled by the sun, which orients your self-image, you’re a parent who’s charismatic, confident, fun-loving, and driven. Whenever you’re faced with any challenge, whether it’s helping your kiddo process big emotions or setting important boundaries, you generally tap into your seemingly endless reserve of optimism and fierce motivation. At the same time, since Leo is associated with the Fifth House of Romance and Self-Expression, you find it easy to be playful, creative, spontaneous, and even theatrical at times. Because you revel in the spotlight and leadership positions, you’re often the entertainer of your parent-friend group and the one taking the reins on major PTA projects. With the sun’s influence, you’re passionate about encouraging your little one to proudly embrace who they are and feel empowered to share their opinions and feelings. You take great pride in holding space for your child to explore their identity and grow into the unique person they’re meant to be. As one of the fixed signs, you can get attached to certain ideas and routines, whether it’s your child signing up for certain extracurriculars or the family hitting a go-to summer vacation destination each year.
Parents you’ll click with: Fellow fire signs, Aries and Sagittarius, excite you with a take-charge, zippy, passionate approach that is much like your own. And air signs Gemini and Libra are as interested in being on the go and connecting with others as you are.
Parents you may butt heads with: Parents with their sun or other placements in the other fixed signs—slow-and-steady Taurus, intense Scorpio, and community-minded Aquarius—are all apt to dig their heels in like you, which means you could find yourselves at an impasse due to a lack of flexibility. Doing your best to be open to compromise is key.
Earth sign Virgo is ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication and information gathering, so you’re a research-savvy, thoughtful, detail-oriented parent with a penchant for planning (you’ve got the lists to prove it!) and taking pragmatic steps to hit your goals. You’re excited by diving into all the studies and articles you can find on a given parenting subject, from the best double stroller to ways to prevent summer slide. And for that reason, your friends and loved ones often lean on you for your advice. Associated with the Sixth House of Wellness and Daily Routine, you’re analytical and health conscious, confidently prioritizing everyday details—like making colorful, healthy meals for your kiddo and working with them to keep their space tidy—to help improve your family’s overall well-being. You also show you care through simple, thoughtful actions, like putting a sweet note in your child’s lunch. And given your Mercurial influence, you’re a bookworm at heart and likely have been since you were little, so you aim to share your love of language with your child through bedtime reading sessions or even making up your own stories together. As one of the mutable signs, you can be indecisive and worrisome but often navigate challenges by tapping into your innate adaptability.
Parents you’ll click with: Fellow earth signs Taurus and Capricorn are on the same page when it comes to being practical, goal-oriented, and, well, down to earth. You’ll also see eye-to-eye with thoughtful, nurturing Cancers, and analytical Scorpios.
Parents you may butt heads with: Parents with their sun or other placements in the other mutable signs—buzzy Gemini, philosophical Sagittarius, and spiritual Pisces—are as flexible as you but might also have priorities that are counter to your own. Giving yourself permission to focus on the forest instead of the trees could boost mutual understanding.
Libra (September 23-October 22)
Libra is an air sign ruled by Venus, the planet of art and relationships, which makes you an incredibly social parent who deeply values balance and beauty. You will go to great lengths to keep the peace and avoid conflict with your child and other loved ones. So, if your kid is having a complete meltdown, you’re generally a pro at keeping your cool and speaking in a calming, hushed tone (to a point, of course). You’re also quite conscious of how your child’s space contributes to their emotional well-being, so you put a lot of thought into the color of their nursery or the art hanging in your tween’s room. And because Libra is associated with the Seventh House of Partnership, you’re naturally inclined to connect with your kiddo, your partner, or your bestie one-on-one. You love any opportunity to join forces with another person and work towards hitting a goal together. In fact, as one of the cardinal signs, you’re more of a go-getter than you might initially let on. You’re particularly driven to bring people together, hosting super-memorable birthday parties or neighborhood gatherings. And your parent friends can count on you to plan a playdate for the kids that’s enriching and fun, whether it’s a fun painting project or a trip to that pretty new cafe in town.
Parents you’ll click with: Other air signs, Gemini and Aquarius, are equally social and cerebral, so you’re practically guaranteed some lively conversation. And with their eagerness to connect with other parents and engage with the world around them, you’ll also find fire signs Leo and Sagittarius enlivening.
Parents you may butt heads with: You can appreciate the initiative taken by other cardinal signs—direct and sometimes brash Aries, sensitive Cancer, and industrious Capricorn—but you’re not quite sure you’re on the same wavelength.That said, you could also be impressed by their unique motivations.
Scorpio (October 23-November 21)
You’re driven, private, shrewd, family-oriented, and capable of swimming in the deep end of your emotions as a parent, having been born under the fixed water sign Scorpio, which is co-ruled by action-oriented Mars and transformative Pluto. Given that Scorpio is associated with the Eighth House of Emotional Bonds, you’re capable of setting the stage for meaningful bonding time with your little one as a result of your emotional intelligence, ability to feel viscerally and deeply, and desire to connect with those you cherish on a heartfelt level. As one of the fixed signs, you’re dedicated to loved ones, which means you always have a group of parent friends who you’ll lean on for advice and who lean right back on you. You’re also steadfast and resolute, the flip side of this quality being that you might find it tough to divert from a set game plan or tradition. If you had your mind set on your child playing a certain instrument or the whole family celebrating the winter holidays in a particular way and shake-ups occur, you could end up really frustrated. Finding ways to go with the flow can boost your inner peace.
Parents you’ll click with: Cancer and Pisces, the other two water signs, are equally intuitive and in tune with their emotions, so you’ll easily hit it off with them. Earth signs Virgo and Capricorn are similarly astute and motivated to move toward a successful endgame.
Parents you may butt heads with: While you respect how other fixed signs—slow-and-steady Taurus, fiery Leo, quirky Aquarius—are as apt as you to dig their heels in, being equally obstinate can make for gridlock. If you can make room for each of your unique styles, you’ll be quite a productive pair.
Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)
Born under the mutable fire sign Sagittarius, ruled by Jupiter, the planet of abundance and fortune, you’re a gregarious, free-spirited, glass-half-full, adventurous, and fun-loving parent. You deeply value soaking up knowledge as well as broadening your horizons by moving beyond the mundane and comfortable. This means you’ll often be the first parent to bring your little one along with you on vacation—even long-distance trips—or to sign your child up to learn a different language. Globe-trotting is something you absolutely daydream about and prioritize, so you enjoy trying a wide variety of world cuisines with your kiddo and taking advantage of any opportunity to learn about other cultures. You’re a straight shooter who tells it like it is, which can be helpful in setting expectations for your kid. The only thing is, if you have a sensitive child, you may do well to opt for a softer tone. As a mutable sign, you’re endlessly adaptable and up for going with the flow, but might also benefit from experimenting with sticking to a set game plan and holding definitive boundaries.
Parents you’ll click with: Fellow fire signs Aries and Leo share your excitability and passion for life, so you’re sure to have a blast together. You’ll also connect with Libra and Aquarius parents who are always down for some lively socializing.
Parents you may butt heads with: The other mutable signs—lighthearted Gemini, service-oriented Virgo, and deeply empathic Pisces—are flexible like you but might confuse you with their different focuses. If you trade notes, though, you could find you have more in common than you realized.
Capricorn (December 22-January 21)
Traditional, pragmatic, driven to succeed, and eager to put your nose to the grindstone to achieve whatever you set your mind to, you were born under the earth sign Capricorn. Accordingly, it’ll come as no surprise that Caps are ruled by Saturn, the planet of hard work, commitment, and boundaries. As a cardinal sign, you excel at taking the initiative, whether that’s signing up to coach your kid’s softball team or managing ticket sales for the school play. And since you’re associated with the Tenth House of Career and Public Image, you appreciate being recognized by your peers for your persistent efforts. This trait also means you’re especially capable of modeling diligence and work ethic for your littles. And given your Saturnian influence, setting and holding boundaries is also a strength. Your child will feel particularly secure and safe because of the rules you set and stick to. Since you respect and admire your elders, teaching your little ones about their roots and family history is important to you—and can greatly benefit their eventual self-exploration.
Parents you’ll click with: Fellow earth signs Virgo and Taurus are similarly dedicated to rational thought and tackling any parenting issue with a practical, step-by-step plan. And you’ll find that water-sign Scorpios and Pisces inspire you to get in touch with and tap your emotional and spiritual side to turn your aspirations into reality.
Parents you may butt heads with: Fellow cardinal signs—fast-paced Aries, sentimental Cancer, and social Libra—might also love to hit the gas on new undertakings, but their strategies differ a great deal from yours. That said, by working together and leaning on one another’s strengths, you’ll go far.
Aquarius (January 22-February 18)
Quirky, humanitarian, forward-thinking, and science-minded, you were born under the fixed air sign Aquarius, co-ruled by Uranus, the planet of rebellion, revolution, and sudden change, and Saturn, the taskmaster planet. You’re incredibly proud to be individualistic. But as airy and progressive as you may be, your fixed quality can pop up in the form of black-and-white thinking that can leave you feeling a bit stuck. Leaning on others could be the solution to moving through that feeling, given that Aquarius is the sign associated with the Eleventh House of Groups. You value team efforts, community, and connecting with a diverse group of parent friends, so it’s very important to you that you find your village. And when you’re not leaning on others and working as part of a group (think: organizing a nanny share for you and your neighbors), you’re leaning into your tech savvy to solve problems using the latest apps. This may also mean that you prioritize trips to science museums, STEM activities, and reading with your kiddo about famous scientists like Katherine Johnson and Albert Einstein. And because community is so important to you, you’ll also want to empower your child to use their unique voice to make a difference, bringing them along with you when you dive into volunteer and charity work.
Parents you’ll click with: Fellow air signs Gemini and Libra get your intellectual, people-oriented style, so you’re at least apt to strike up some stimulating conversation. And you’ll also find harmony with on-the-go Aries and jubilant, free-spirited Sagittarius.
Parents you may butt heads with: While you appreciate that other parents with fixed signs—comfort-craving Taurus, self-focused Leo, and intimacy-seeking Scorpio—are as resolute as you are, you might feel like they’re just not on your wavelength. Still, working to be more flexible can set everyone up for a win.
Pisces (February 19-March 20)
Intuitive, sensitive, perceptive, and a bit psychic, you were born under the mutable water sign Pisces, which is ruled by Neptune, the planet of spirituality, and Jupiter, the planet of luck and abundance. You’re innately artistic and can easily channel your deeply felt emotions into a creative project, whether that’s painting, dancing, singing, or playing an instrument, and this is a skill you’ll be excited to model for your child. One of the mutable signs, you’re able to float from one activity to the next with your little one, but you might struggle to pin down a set routine or schedule that could benefit you all. Your Neptunian influence and Pisces’ association with the Twelfth House of Spirituality also makes you something of a dreamer at heart, so any opportunity for escapism with your little one—like watching a fantasy movie or reading a book bursting with whimsical, magical themes—brings you a great deal of joy. You’re also highly adept at picking up on your child’s emotions, doing your best to offer a helpful solution when they’re struggling. You’ll do well not to overidentify with stress that isn’t your own, as you could easily lose yourself in that experience. Offering yourself the same kind of tender loving care you unconditionally give others is a must.
Parents you’ll click with: Fellow water signs Cancer and Scorpio are in tune with their deepest-rooted emotions, which makes you feel truly understood when you’re spending time together. Earth signs Taurus and Capricorn might be more pragmatic than you but inspire you to make your dreams a reality.
Parents you may butt heads with: You and other mutable signs—social Gemini, analytical Virgo, and philosophical Sagittarius—might share the ability to change course at a moment’s notice, but you feel like you have different priorities. Still, you’re all very open-minded, which means that as long as you’re willing to listen, you can learn a lot from one another.
It’s hard to believe that little one, who used to fit snugly in the crook of your arm, is finally ready for kindergarten… or are they? Maybe you should wait another year? After all, what is the right kindergarten age? Especially since the practice of “redshirting” kids—giving them an extra year before starting kindergarten (making them one of the oldest as opposed to the youngest)—has risen in popularity. But like most trends in the parenting world, it leaves parents wondering if it is a good idea. That’s why we looked at the studies and asked experts to weigh in on what is the right age to start kindergarten. Here’s what we found.
Getting Kids Started in Kindergarten
The preschool years are over and it’s time to start kindergarten. But where do parents start? Where we do with all things—online and by asking other parents. Now is the time to check out your local school’s website or find and join parent Facebook pages or other social media accounts associated with the school. Other suggestions include talking to parents with older kids and asking your preschool teacher about local schools and expectations. There are lots of resources out there for parents with inquiring minds.
Kindergarten First-Year Enrollment
Although kindergarten enrollment varies from state to state, parents can expect to encounter some similar requirements no matter where they live. Here are a few universals:
In most states, kids must turn five years old by a certain date, usually September 1.
Many schools require kids to have certain vaccinations before starting school; check with your district about specific requirements.
Most will ask for proof of residence. A utility bill or other piece of mail works fine.
You may be asked to provide a copy of your child’s birth certificate to enroll.
What Do Kids Learn in Kindergarten?
Although the curriculum varies from district to district across the country, parents can count their kindergartners learning the alphabet, sight words, phonics, and basic sentence structure as part of Language Arts. Math covers basics like number recognition, counting, addition and subtraction, measurement, and basic geometry. Additionally, hands-on activities and play-based learning help kids learn about real-world concepts like weather, plants, and animals. But many would say the most important things kids learn in kindergarten support their social-emotional growth (or soft skills) like building relationships, solving conflicts, and developing empathy and self-awareness.
What is the difference between Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Transitional to Elementary School (TES)?
Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is a two-year public school program designed for kids who turn 5 between September 2 and December 2 of the school year. It provides an additional year of instruction, focused on developing social-emotional skills, language and literacy, math, and physical development, to support kids who may not be ready for kindergarten.
Transitional to Elementary School (TES) is a program offered by preschools or childcare centers to prepare children for kindergarten. It typically focuses on language and literacy, math, social-emotional development, and basic self-help skills so kids can successfully transition to the academic and social expectations of kindergarten.
Your kid will (probably) be more willing to sit still if given an extra year.
Whether or not your five-year-old will sit still during circle time or stay on task at writing centers (or at home) may depend on their age, since younger children generally have a harder time doing both. Studies have shown that kids are often misdiagnosed with behavior problems in kindergarten when in fact, the behaviors are just a matter of being younger than classmates. And, according to this Stanford University study, children who wait a year to enroll have significantly lower levels of inattention and hyperactivity—with results continuing even at age 11.
Your kid may be misdiagnosed with ADHD if they start too early.
All those wiggles in the classroom may have some unintended consequences for kids regarding the right age to start kindergarten. A 2018 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that kids who turned five the month before starting kindergarten were more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than those who started the month that they turned six. "Our findings suggest the possibility that large numbers of kids are being overdiagnosed and overtreated for ADHD because they happen to be relatively immature compared to their older classmates in the early years of elementary school," said study author Timothy Layton, an assistant professor of health care policy at Harvard Medical School, in this article for Education Week.
An older child will probably have an easier time saying goodbye to you.
Younger kids—especially those who haven’t attended a preschool program—may have a tougher time saying goodbye in the morning (and we all know how hard it is to leave a tearful tot at drop-off). Giving your child more time to become independent may help her let go when it’s time for the school day to start. with the in-home model of learning most schools will use this year, it may be challenging to start a drop-off situation mid-year should children resume in-class learning.
Their fine motor skills will be more developed.
Older kids usually have an easier time with fine motor activities (holding a pencil and using scissors, for instance). Doing these things can help build confidence and make a kid more excited about their accomplishments at school.
They have more time to be kids; you have more time with them.
Waiting to start formal schooling gives kids more time to be kids, to enjoy a more leisurely day, and to play freely (which, studies have suggested may be more valuable than academics for young children). Delaying kindergarten also gives you one more year with your child. If you're lucky enough to be home with your kiddo, you'll be glad you got that time.
An older child may be taller than their classmates; that matters (especially in middle school).
You may not be thinking about the teen years yet, but let’s not forget: A child who is the oldest kid in kindergarten will also be the oldest in her middle school grade—and that’s no small thing, especially when puberty hits.
They may be bored (and consequently misbehave).
This study has suggested that kids who delayed kindergarten were twice as likely to drop out of high school. Researchers think this is because they reach adult age sooner, which is when kids are legally allowed to quit school on their own (most state laws require kids to stay in school until at least age 17).
That extra year may be expensive.
If you’re a working parent, delaying kindergarten means another year of paying for childcare or preschool. And, with the average cost of preschool as high as more than $10,000 per year in some states (according to this study from the Economic Policy Institute), it’s an expensive wait.
They may not find peers on their level (initially).
A year can make a big difference when you’re only still in your first decade of life. This means a calm, more introverted six-year-old may have trouble finding like-minded peers in a kindergarten class full of rowdy five-year-olds.
It may not matter in the long run.
Despite conflicting research and strong opinions on both sides, it is still unclear whether “redshirting” makes any difference in the long run. Some studies even suggest that, whether your child starts school a year early or a year late, it all levels out by the middle school years.
With all that information, you’re probably still wondering: What is the right age to start kindergarten? The answer: Both. It depends on the kid.
“Kids should be with developmental age peers as much as possible since kindergarten builds not just academics but social skills, too,” said Deanna Lapen, a Los Angeles-based school psychologist and former kindergarten teacher. “With that being said, every child is an individual. Parents should think about why they would consider redshirting.”
Lapen said parents should talk with their child’s preschool teacher (if applicable) as well as look at the kindergarten curriculum for whatever school their child might attend. Then ask: “Is the upcoming kindergarten class a place where the child will thrive socially and academically?”
If so, don’t delay. And, as always—trust your instincts.
In our teen years, skincare meant using the St. Ives apricot scrub a few times a week and lathering on a mud mask complete with cucumber rounds for a relaxing at-home spa session. And we might have even slathered on Hawaiian Tropic tanning oil once in a while (we’re sorry! We knew nothing!). Looking back as adults, there are plenty of things we wish we hadn’t done—and we’re not the only ones. Even doctors regret how they treated their skin in their youth. In a recent TikTok, dermatologist and teen skincare expert Dr. Brooke Jeffy shared three of her biggest skincare mistakes from her teen years, and we feel seen.
3 Things I Wish I Knew as a Teen ☀️ NOT to tan! I worked at a tanning salon and have since spent a lot of time and money repairing that damage. Now, I just have to sit and wait for my skin cancer because it feels inevitable. 💧 Oily skin doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use moisturizer. Lack of moisture can actually cause your skin to produce more oil in an attempt to hydrate itself. 🌀 Less is more with exfoliating. I remember using all sorts of scrubs and sugar on my face, which was way too harsh. #Dermatologist#Derm#TeenSkincare#TweenSkincare#SkincareTips#SkincareRoutine#SkincareForBeginners
This is Jeffy’s biggest skincare mistake. Not only did she tan, but she worked at a tanning salon and now says she’s spent a lot of time and money fixing the damage done to her skin. “I just have to sit and wait for my skin cancer because it’s coming,” she laments.
And she’s got reason to worry: Hours of lying out in the sun or in a tanning bed have devastating consequences for the skin. The truth is, there’s no such thing as a “safe” tan, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. One out of every five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, and if you saw the inside tanning bed before the age of 35, there’s a 75% increase in the risk of developing life-threatening melanoma.
Despite what’s being marketed to us (ahem, St. Ives), less is more when it comes to exfoliating, Jeffy explains. She says she’s as guilty of this skincare mistake as the rest of us: “I remember using all sorts of scrubs and sugars on my face. Way too harsh.”
What’s extra worrisome right now is that teens are embracing a bunch of unnecessary skincare products. Jeffy has commented on the safety of viral skincare products teens are using, and guess what? Not a single exfoliator or serum gained her approval. So have your kids stick with the three tried-and-true products—face wash, moisturizer, and sunscreen—and they won’t be dealing with as many skincare mistakes and health risks (sunspots, wrinkles, cancer scares) as we olds are today.
Got extra storage space? We’ve got a side job for you
You love your kids, but let’s be honest: They’re not the best bosses. So if you want a job that doesn’t involve picking up toys or tiptoeing around tantrums, there are plenty of gigs out there that’ll earn you extra cash while letting you keep “Mom” or “Dad” as Job Number One. So, whether you want to put your style sense to work, hang with a furry friend, or throw a few more items in your shopping cart, here are the best side jobs for moms right now.
Do Other People's Laundry
iStock
If the idea of more clothes to wash doesn't stress you out, working with LaundryCare—a nationwide company that will pay you to do other people's laundry—might be your perfect side gig. All you need to do is supply the washer & dryer, plus the soap and fabric softener, and the company will pay you by the bag to wash and deliver to homes in your neighborhood.
What it pays: According to the site, laundry washers can get paid about $20 per bag of laundry.
Do you have dozens of beautifully arranged Pinterest boards? Do you follow current lifestyle, food, and decor trends? Offering up your services as a Pinterest manager for a company might be for you. Instead of creating pins for your boards, you'll create and manage pins to boost engagement for businesses. You will need to analyze data, report on trends, prompt customer engagement, and have knowledge of how Pinterest works, so be sure you know how to do those things before reaching out to clients.
What it pays: As a freelancer, you can charge what you want based on your skills, and according to Zip Recruiter, a WFH Pinterest manager can make up to $67K a year.
Where to apply: Check job sites like Zip Recruiter, Upwork, and LinkedIn for leads.
Advertise On Your Car
Wrapify
If you don't mind driving a rolling advertisement (and your kids won't die of embarrassment when you pick them up from school with a car that screams, say, "Fillows Creme Filled Cereal"), you can get paid for wrapping your car in ads. With Wrapify, you can get paid $450 a month to just go about your everyday business—you know, drive the kids to school, drive to soccer games, drive to parent meetings, etc.—while your car is "wrapped" in advertisements. You'll make the most money with a "full wrap" (meaning your car's whole exterior is an ad) or opt for just the doors and windows.
To qualify, you need to pass a basic background check and drive a 2010 or newer; Coupe, Sedan, SUV, pickup truck, or minivan without significant body/paint damage.
What it pays: $264-$452 for a "full" wrap; $196-$280 for a "partial" wrap; $181-280 for a "lite" wrap.
Are you a computer whiz and want to teach kids a thing or two about coding? Or maybe you're a Potterhead and want to design a spell-making class fit for Harry or Hermione? The only prerequisite to being an Outschool teacher is that you have expertise in something that may be of interest to kids and teens. It's free to list or teach a class—you just have to be willing to give Outschool 30% of what you make through enrollment (you can set the class cost at whatever you deem fit).
Note: If you've got a teaching credential, the Web is your oyster. Check Teachaway for a comprehensive list of online teaching jobs.
What it pays: About $50 per hour, according to Outschool (but it can be more or less, depending on how many students enroll and what you charge for the class).
You know that feeling of freedom you get at the grocery store alone? Turn that glorious solo time into pocket cash by becoming an on-demand grocery shopper for companies like Instacart and DoorDash. The perks? Flexible hours (work whenever you have free time), a fairly easy side job for moms, and direct deposit of your earnings. To be eligible, you need to have a car, a valid driver's license (and insurance), and be able to lift between 30-40 pounds without help.
What it pays: About $15 an hour, according to Indeed.com.
Ready for The Sleepover's big comeback? After two years of social distancing, maybe now's the time to get a gig organizing the coolest slumber soirees ever! Companies like Elite Teepees will provide you with all the supplies and information needed to license its brand and start organizing teepee sleepovers (forget simple sleeping bags on the floor; these sleepovers are in a league of their own!). Of course, any franchise comes with startup costs—starting an Elite Teepee business takes an initial investment of up to $7,500—but you'll have the potential to earn thousands more, depending on how much you put into it.
What it pays: Anywhere from $26,000 to $54,000 as a part-time business, according to the Elite Teepees website.
Got some extra room in your attic or garage? Don't leave it empty! People are willing to rent those corners and crawl spaces to store their overflow of stuff. Neighbor.com lets you list your garage, driveway, or basement exclusively to store other people's things (like their cars, storage boxes, bikes, etc.). Listing your space is free; Just set a price, post some pics, and then wait for people to e-mail you. It's easy money, especially if you've got an extra parking spot in a city where parking is sparse.
If you're nervous about being a Lyft or Uber driver because you don't want to pick up strangers and drive who-knows-where, how about letting someone else do the driving and just getting paid to supply them with the car? Sites like Turo or Hyrecar let you list your car or truck for other people to rent (it's like Airbnb for cars). You lay the ground rules for what you do and don't accept (no dogs, smoking, etc.), set a calendar for when your car is available, and wait for prospective renters to roll in (Note: HyreCar works specifically with rideshare and delivery drivers, while Turo works with tourists and those looking to test out specific car brands). It's a great option if you've got a second car that's just gathering dust in the garage.
Both Turo and Hyrecar's fees include insurance (you pick the level of protection)—and drivers also must have insurance (their own or a policy offered by the company), so you don't have to worry about your car getting damaged while someone else is driving it.
Note: If you've got a Jeep Wrangler or a Tesla, you've got the potential to make big bucks, as those are two of the most popular cars to rent from Turo!
What you can make: According to Turo, car owners can make an average of $706 per month, assuming their car is rented at least 12 days per month; meanwhile, Hyrecar claims you can make up to $1,200 a month to Uber, Lyft or delivery drivers (that's assuming your car is being rented for most of the month).
You don't have to sell the clothes off your back, but how about the clothes in your closet? If you've got cool outfits just collecting dust, now's the time to unload! Just send your unwanted threads to secondhand clothing companies like Poshmark, Crossroads, and Thredup, and they'll pick and choose what's good enough to sell (they can send back your clothes or donate the things they don't choose). The company gets a piece of your sale, but you won't have to do all the hard stuff like packaging and sending out goods to the customers.
What it pays: Varies, but more if you've got designer duds to sell—a Gucci handbag, for instance, will get you 90% of the listing price (about $286) on Thredup, whereas a pair of Old Navy jeans will only get you about 5% (that's about 55 cents in your pocket).
Are you good on the phone? Do you have the patience to engage with a not-so-cheerful caller? Companies use customer service agents for a variety of tasks, including answering customers' questions, making travel reservations, and providing tech support. All you need is a phone line and good internet access.
What it pays: $19/hour or about $39,000 a year, according to ZipRecruiter.
Where to apply: Browse customer service jobs on Indeed or Remote. Amazon also has remote customer service job openings—check them out here.
Want to get rid of your CD or DVD collection? Got an old cell phone or video game console you've long since abandoned? Time to unload!
For CDs, DVDs, and video games: Try sites like Decluttr or Eagle Saver, where you can sell your old DVDs and Blu-rays without having to worry about shipment costs or listing the items yourself.
For electronics: Decluttr buys cell phones, tablets, video game consoles, and textbooks (in addition to CDs and video games); and Amazon's trade-in program accepts things like cell phones, Kindle E-readers, tablets, video game equipment, and books. Amazon pays for the shipment costs and lists your item for you. You get paid in Amazon credit—or use your trade-in to upgrade to new Amazon devices.
What it pays: Varies, depending on what you're selling and how much you've got to sell. At Amazon, for instance, you'll be paid via an Amazon gift card equalling the appraised value of your device (plus you may get credit toward a new, upgraded device).
If you have a background in writing and editing, there's a huge demand for written content all over the web. Whether you want to write about your personal experiences or be assigned topics as needed by the publication, look for jobs at job sites like Indeed and Remote or on media-specific sites like Mediabistro.
What it pays: Varies by publication
Where to apply: Browse listings for "Writer" or "Freelance writer" on Flexjobs, Mediabistro, Indeed, and Remote, or look under the "Jobs" sections of your favorite websites.
Are you a fast typer? Use your skills for extra income! Sign up to be a transcriptionist at TranscribeMe!, which will pay you to transcribe audio clips. You can work as little as an hour or two—whenever you've got the time. It's monotonous work but an easy job.
You don't need to know another language to teach English, and most online ESL companies provide complete lesson plans that make your job easy. All you need to do is apply, sign on, and start connecting with kids from around the world. Note: This is a great gig if you're looking for something to do when your kids are asleep, since your students may be in a different time zone.
If you've ever used Amazon Prime Now, you know the wonder of needing a pack of diapers RIGHT NOW and receiving them on your doorstep in just minutes. The magic behind the on-demand service? Drivers who are willing to pick up your orders and get them to you pronto. It's good for the drivers, too, who can work when they want (turn on the app and start taking orders). As for pay, drivers get paid depending on which jobs they take, with more urgent items (those that need to be delivered in an hour or less) offering the highest pay. The only catch? You've got to live near an Amazon warehouse to get the gig. Find participating cities here.
If you've always wanted to write the Great American Novel (or maybe just a cute bedtime story). Amazon makes it easy to do it on your own. Just get writing, and then log onto Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing to upload your book. The site will convert your creation to an ebook and/or have it available as a printed book. You don't have to pay a cent! Every book is printed only when ordered (so there's no need to prepay for books). You'll be a published author before you know it. The KDP site offers free tools to help you write, illustrate, and organize your masterpiece.
What it pays: It depends on the price and size of your book and whether it's in color or black and white—but according to the site's royalty calculator, a 200-page 6X9 book without color will get you $2.75 per copy sold if you set the book price at $10 (which is, by the way, way better than the 10% royalty most mainstream publishers offer new authors).
Do you have a law degree? Are you a nurse or a doctor? Whether your know-how is in medicine, law, cars, or home improvement, cash in on your knowledge by answering questions for Justanswer.com. Anyone can apply to be an expert; you make money if your answer is voted the most helpful.
What it pays: Anywhere from $20 to $100 an hour (but that’s, of course, only if you’re giving the “best” answers… and lots of them).
Did you know you can burn 200 calories an hour just walking man's best friend? Go! Cancel your gym membership, and spend your mornings palling around with pooches. This is a perfect side job for moms who want to get out of the house, whether your kiddo comes along in a stroller or spends the morning at preschool.
Pssst: Want more than just a 20-minute Fido fix? Get yourself listed on Rover, and turn your home into a crash pad for pups (and maybe cats, too). You get paid by the day or hour, depending on the setup.
What it pays: Up to $25 an hour (or about $60 per day for pet-sitting)
If you're one of those stylish mamas who hasn't ditched the high heels and still carries a brand-name purse instead of a dirty diaper bag—Stitch Fix might be the perfect work-from-home job for you. Stitch Fix is a clothing delivery company that sends you personalized wardrobe choices based on your preferences, lifestyle, and price point (you fill out a questionnaire to determine these bits).
Behind this service, of course, is a team of work-from-home stylists who pull together the outfits, client by client. Stylists get a rundown of the customer, then scramble to find something fabulous. Stylists must commit to working 15 to 30 hours per week and be available for a remote training session.
What it pays: About $16 per hour according to Glassdoor.
Channel your inner artist and sell your goods online at sites like Etsy and Amazon Homemade. Both sites take a commission, with Etsy taking a 6.5% commission as well as a 20-cent listing fee, and Amazon taking a 15% cut and a $1 referral fee (this covers payment processing, marketing, seller support, and fraud protection).
What it pays: It depends on what you're making and how much of it you sell.
Ride the rails, set sail for adventure, take in the big city, and so much more
We know that families are eager to get out there and see the world—and 2024 is going to be the year that they do it in a major way. We expect to see lots of families taking those big trips with both domestic and international destinations on the agenda for 2024. Airfare prices continue to remain high but there are more and more ways to find cheaper flights including a bunch of lower-cost airlines that have added US routes this past year. Road trips aren’t going away either as families pretty much have these down by now. Where will 2024 take you?
Low-Cost Airlines Can Get You Where You Need to Go for Less
istock
Chances are you are familiar with low-cost domestic airlines like Southwest, Frontier, and Spirit but did you know that there are low-cost airlines that will take you to Europe, Tahiti, Japan, and loads of other spots beyond the U.S.? Airlines like French bee, PLAY, Norse, and ZIPAIR have been adding routes from the U.S. in recent years and they are a great option for families looking to spend less on airfare.
We've flown French bee to Paris and Tahiti with kids and found it to be very comparable to other carriers like American Airlines and United. Just make sure you know what is included in your fare and what will incur an additional cost (like checked baggage, seat selection, and meals) before you book with these airlines so there are no surprises.
Credit Card Points Offer a Way to Hack the System
Not everyone is interested in playing the credit card points game but those who know how to work the system often share that they can get some pretty great deals using signup bonuses. Websites like The Points Guy and NerdWallet are great places to start learning about what credit cards work best for travel and what deals are on the horizon. If you time your credit card sign-up right, many programs will gift you enough miles for free tickets. Plus, these travel cards often offer perks like free Global Entry or TSA PreCheck which are key in making your travel experience the best it can be.
Families Want to Ride the Rails
Wendy Altschuler
According to Pinterest, 2024 brings slow travel to the forefront. After the busyness of 2023 with everyone getting back into travel in a big way, 2024 will have families slowing it down and looking for more mellow ways to travel. We predict that this will lead to more families will riding the rails for their next vacation. Nobody has to drive, your sleeping quarters are included, and you get to see some of the most gorgeous areas of the country. Bonus: it's super eco-friendly. From trains that take you to five national parks, to those that take you from New England to Florida, there's so much exploring to do.
All-Inclusives Are Worth the Money
Club Med
Once thought of as a honeymoon-only extravagance, families are turning toward all-inclusive properties for vacations, especially when traveling with grandparents. Nobody has to cook, you know what you're going to spend in advance and kids will love getting to order mocktails from the swim-up bar. Some of our favorite spots: Club Med Miches Playa Esmeralda in the Dominican Republic, Villa la Valencia Beach Resort & Spa in Los Cabos, and Margarita Beach Resort Ambergris Cay in Belize.
Cruising Is Back in a Major Way
Cruising has seen a major uptick in the past year and we are looking forward to checking out new ships like Royal Caribbean's new Icon of the Seas in 2024. Set sail for Alaska to catch the salmon run or book your vacation on the Disney Wish for a trip that's full of character breakfasts and kid activities.
Those looking to cruise on a smaller scale should look to adventure cruise companies like UnCruise and Adventure Canada where you can expect small ships, small crews, and only a few hundred passengers. Bonus: Families will find that expedition cruising offers a level of personalization that you can't get on other cruises.
Back to the Big City
Kate Loweth
The last few years have seen road trips and national parks vacations getting their time in the spotlight. According to Expedia, cultural capitals like Edinburgh, Lisbon, Tokyo, Dublin, and Sydney are going to see a lot more travel focus for 2023. We can get on board for that!
Spend Some Time in a National Park
istock
With over 400 national parks in the United States, chances are there are quite a few nearby that you have yet to explore. According to Airbnb, national parks travel will be a huge focus for 2024 and we can understand why. National park trips are particularly fun for families as they give kids (and parents!) a little history lesson and a big dose of fresh air at the same time. Check out these national parks that are particularly kid-friendly from California all the way to Maine. While you are at it, check this list to see what days are free at the national parks for 2024.
Road Trips (Still) Reign Supreme
The past few years really brought back our love of the road trip. If you are itching to find a new destination for 2024, check out this list of our favorite road trips in the U.S. and find unique Airbnb rentals you can reserve along the way. Before you head out, peruse this list of road trip hacks to get your crew prepared for the long journey, and download some of our favorite podcasts for kids so you don't have to fight over the radio station.
We want to go big with our travel plans but the actual planning of the trip is most definitely not part of the fun. Leave the planning and execution of your trip up to experts like Exodus Travels. You can book a private trip for your family, or join in a small group with other families that have similarly-aged kids to make it even more fun. Whether you go self-guided or have an expert there to show you the way, this type of travel is definitely the way to go for families.
Many of us have developed our love of the great outdoors these past few years and we'll be looking for off-the-grid adventures for our 2024 trips. Think about a kayak trip in Yellowstone or a ranch vacation complete with a hot spring pool in Idaho. There are tons of awesome options out there with no WiFi in range.
Ride Off into the Sunset in an RV
Kate Loweth
While most of us never considered RV travel as a fun option for a family, it has exponentially increased in popularity in recent years and we expect this trend to continue into 2024. If you are a total RV newbie, we suggest leaving the planning to the experts when you book your first RV trip. Think you can handle it on your own? Rent an RV, grab yourself a WiFi hotspot, and head out on the road to give road schooling a try. You can even try out the rad stylings of a camper van!
Cozy Cabins to Get Away from It All
There's something so restorative about a weekend in the woods. Cabin rentals have become super popular and we don't expect that to change in 2024. They offer families time together, many times without WiFi, and you can even bring your dog.
Make It a Micro-cation
If time and money are tight (hello, inflation), consider a micro-cation for your next family trip. These four-day-or-less trips allow you to see someplace new and get a break from everyday life. It's a good way to get the kids used to traveling without having to pack a ton of gear for everyone. Surprise the kids with a last-minute trip and see a new part of the country.
Take the Family Glamping
Mendocino Grove
Glamping gives you the best of both worlds—the smell of a campfire in your hair and an actual bed to sleep on. You won't have to schlep all of your camping gear with you, everyone gets a better night's sleep, and you still get time out in the woods away from WiFi and civilization. Check out some of our favorite spots for glamping including loads of options in California.
Just wait until you see these incredible holiday treats
Nothing says “Happy Holidays” quite like a box full of delicious sweet treats—and they taste even better when they’re delivered straight to your front door. It’s definitely the season where we would all use a little less stress, right? And, with straight-to-your-door delivery being the norm now, having the option to ship our favorite goodies is definitely a win. Afterall, you have enough on your plate (pardon the pun) between parties, gift shopping, and hosting.
We’ve rounded up our favorite companies that make it easy for you to send a loved one the sweetest gifts. There’s just something about food gifts that can feel a little more personal, and they’re perfect options for when you’re shopping for the person who seems to have everything. From flavor-packed mini cupcakes to hot chocolate bombs, and even some gluten-free and vegan options, here are our favorite services that deliver holiday treats guaranteed to put a smile on anyone’s face.
For a Gift They Can Customize: Sugarwish
Sugarwish
Instead of choosing people's treats, why not let them pick for themselves? Sugarwish is an online shop that allows gift-givers to send loved ones a "sugar wish." After choosing from varying-priced packages such as the Mini, the Medium, and the Grand, simply enter the recipient's email address, and he or she will get a sweet surprise in their inbox. After receiving the Sugarwish—which is essentially an e-gift card—recipients get to fill their virtual bag with whatever candy will satisfy their sweet tooth. They also offer customized cocktail boxes! Choose from drinks like rum old-fashioned, smoky margarita, Moscow mule, and more.
With so many festive flavors to treat all season long, these delectable mini cupcakes are the perfect way to share sweets without going overboard. Whether you want 100 for a class party or just a box of six to gift a friend, Baked By Melissa offers several sizes of their assorted holiday cupcakes for Christmas and Hanukkah. Flavors include White Chocolate Hot Cocoa, Vanilla Fluff, Christmas Sugar Cookie, Snowcap, and many more.
The Jinglebread Lil' Dipper Box comes with twelve classic gingerbread cookies and your choice of buttercream or cream cheese frosting. Or, opt for one of the Cookie Gift Boxes of 12 or 24 cookies in a festive box.
Who doesn't want to receive a red velvet cake in the mail? Daisy Cakes will send through Gold Belly to a lucky recipient one of their homemade four-layer cakes like their seasonal special is this Spiced Gingerbread and Eggnog cake, plus their classic, year-round flavors. They even have gluten-free and vegan options. Cakes arrive frozen, so you can store them until you need them before thawing and enjoying them.
For a Taste of Union Square, Anywhere: Breads Bakery Chocolate Babka
Goldbelly
Our Editorial Director raves about Breads Bakery Chocolate Babka, and she's never led us astray. Another delivery courtesy of Goldbelly, the braided loaf-shaped cake known as babka is at its best in New York City—and now your home!—thanks to Union Square’s legendary Breads Bakery. Dark chocolate chips. Nutella. French cultured butter. And in a 3-pack, shipped a few hours after being pulled from Breads Bakery's oven. How could you possibly go wrong?
Being gluten-free doesn't mean you have to forgo the holiday treats. Tate's Bakeshop has a wide variety of gluten-free cookies, dessert bars, and gift baskets, like the Gluten-Free Merry Christmas Gift Basket. They also offer several non-vegan holiday gift options.
Edible cookie dough? Yes, please! This unique dessert company has several flavors of cookie dough (like sugar cookie, nuts for nuts, and cake batter) that come in pints, and you can build your own four or six-pack. Or, spring for a party pack or any of their cookie + dough combo boxes. They have build-your-own cookie cake mixes and already-made cookie boxes too.
What started in the East Village in 2008—Christina Tosi’s Milk Bar—has now blossomed into a bakery with a cult following. And good news for those who don’t live near a storefront: they ship nationwide. Check out their holiday gift shop, which features over-the-top delectable goodness like Peppermint Bark Cake and Chocolate Mint Chip Cake Truffles. Or, opt for their popular goodies like Milk Bar Pie or Classic Birthday Cake.
Bake Me a Wish has a ton of variety when it comes to having holiday treats delivered. You can order chocolate cakes, key lime pies, New York cheesecakes, cookies, brownies, and even fruit and nut trays. They also have treat towers and holiday-themed gifts like jumbo holiday cupcakes and candy cane cookies.
For Old-World Goodies Everyone Will Love: European Deli
European Deli
A surefire way to create a merry holiday season is enjoying hard-to-find food items that make your loved ones feel like they've been traveling in Europe. European Deli as the one-stop gourmet destination for delicious specialties from Germany and nearby countries. Fans of Lebkuchen-Schmidt (gingerbread cookies and pastries) are in for a serios treat. European Deli is the exclusive partner in the U.S. and imports the Lebkuchen fresh from Germany. You won’t find it in stores. These goodies are also packaged in the most gorgeous tins and boxes they'll love displaying.
For Utterly Thick, Soft Cookie Perfection: Taylor Chip
Taylor Chip
Soft cookie lovers, this one is all for you. Taylor Chip creates sinfully (but in a good way) thick, soft, chewy, dense cookies that are the size of your palm (we aren't kidding). These are the cookies we think of when we think of Christmas cookies, and with flavors like Mocha Peppermint, Gingersnap, and Toasted Coconut, it's basically a box Santa himself wouldn't be able to turn down. Trust us when we say whoever you gift these to will be talking about them way beyond the holidays.
To Wow with Color: Baked in Color's Holiday Colors Chocolate Chip Cookie Tins
Baked in Color
Freshly-baked and beautifully colored cookies like the ones from Baked in Color are sure to brighten anyone's cold winter day. If you'd rather do something with more of a holiday theme, check out the Christmas Cookie Tin or the Hanukkah Cookie Tin. Naturally, Baked in Color is available via Goldbelly.
Harry & David boasts delicious seasonal fruit, cookies, and pastries, and their well-known Harry & David pears. They have a really impressive selection for everyone. Check out their holiday gifts here.
The holidays are a time for everyone to indulge—not just people without dietary restrictions. Enter Karma Baker, the scrumptious treat delivery service that only bakes up vegan and gluten-free desserts. From gingerbread houses to cupcake jars and cookie dough cakesicles, Karma has anything and everything sweet for your gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan friends. And if you happen to live in or around Los Angeles, local pick-up is available. Treats (for everyone) on demand? Yes, please.
Stand out during the season of cookies, cakes, and cupcakes by sending a gingerbread house. But not just any old gingerbread house—a customized gingerbread house. Whether you want to keep it simple and personalize your gift with the recipient's name or go big with a full-on customized gingerbread house—The Gingerbread Factory has you covered.
For an Underrepresented Dessert: Fairytale Brownie
Fairytale Brownie
Let's face it: Brownies are woefully underrepresented in the dessert world. Change that with an ooey-gooey brownie delivery from Fairytale Brownies (Seriously, when was the last time you saw someone upset about opening a box full of brownies?). All of the brownies are made from scratch, and you can even customize wooden boxes or tins in which to deliver the goods. Recipients will be thrilled to tear into an array of irresistible brownies with flavors such as cream cheese, raspberry swirl, and pecan blondie.
For Not Your Mother's Rice Krispie Treats: Treat House
Treat House
Just when you thought Rice Krispies treats couldn't get any more delicious, Treat House ups the ante. The all-American snack comes in flavors like birthday cake, cookies and cream, and caramel and sea salt. A perfect sweet treat for anyone on the list, they even have a holiday shop. Also, if you have friends or family members with food allergies, Treat House has you covered with nut-, dairy-, and gluten-free options.
Dylan’s Candy Bar has several impressive gift basket towers, including one for chocolate lovers, a gummy sweet treat tower, a Best of Dylan’s Candy Bar Bucket, and even a Movie Night bucket! If you want something specific for the holidays, opt for the classic Christmas Tackle Box or the Snow Many Sweets Paint Can.
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.
We’ve rounded up the most popular kids’ Halloween costumes of 2023 (for kids of all ages!)
Halloween is right around the corner, and that means it’s time to start thinking about kids’ Halloween costumes! Movies, TV shows, video games, and some tried and true classic Halloween costumes always seem to inspire the year’s most popular costumes. So, of course, we’ve got Barbie, Mario, Stitch, and Thor, along with lots more favorites. We’ve also made sure to divide them up by age and popularity, but there aren’t any rules. After all, it’s Halloween. These are also the costumes that tend to fly off the shelves the fastest, so unless you plan to make your own costumes this year, you’ll want to snag one of them before it’s too late.
New Kids Halloween Costumes for 2023
'Super Mario Bros.' Mario Costume
HalloweenCostumes.com
With the hit movie making waves this past spring, the '90s kids' fave Super Mario Bros. is more popular than ever. Available in kids sizes 4-12 and includes a jumpsuit, hat, pair of gloves, and, of course, a mustache!
Hi, Barbie! You had to know the iconic Cowgirl look from the hit Barbie Movie would be here, but we're not at all mad about it. This set comes with a jumpsuit and bandana, but keep an eye out for the matching cowboy hat that's coming soon!
Officially licensed and covered with the perfect details, this Captain Marvel costume will make your little one feel like they can take on the world (because of course, they can). It comes in sizes S-XL and includes the jumpsuit, belt, and mask.
Aliens are sort of having a moment this year, but we're also into one-and-done easy kids' Halloween costumes. It inflates fast and stays that way, so all they have to do is step into it and go!
It's hard to argue with a beautiful costume that only requires a fork as the perfect accessory (though you could totally add this awesome wig or this beautiful 2023 Ariel wig to create the whole mermaid vibe). This costume includes the sparkly dress and is available in sizes XS-XL.
It's the Season of the Witch, and they simply never go out of style. This one from PBK is designed with a cool web pattern on the hat and dress that glows when the lights go out, and 3D spiders crawl up the cape (why doesn't this come in adult sizes, we ask?!). The set includes a dress, cape, and hat and is available in sizes 3T-8Y.
Kids will always love ninjas and some of them dream of using their skills for good. Keep them agile with this Ninja Warrior costume, and consider using their costume choice as a chance to explain what being a ninja entailed historically. Encouraging research and learning leads to kiddos who are dressing as a historical figure/character versus a culture. How a costume is worn matters, according to Yuko Kaifu, president of Japan House in Los Angeles. This costume comes in sizes XXS-L and includes a jumpsuit, mask, belt, and throwing star.
Among Us has been popular for a long time, so it's no surprise it made the list again in 2023. This costume self-inflates fast and allows for vision and free hands, too! Comes in 4 colors/characters.
If you have a little slugger on your hands or just a kid who's all about girl power, Dottie Green is an easy pick! It's also a super cute group costume idea. It comes with a dress, hat, belt, and socks in sizes XS-XL.
Their favorite L.O.L. Surprise characters are here just in time for Halloween! They can pick between Diva and Queen Bee. Diva (pictured) comes with a dress, underskirt, belt, headband with bow, wig, and surprise gift!
2023 is seriously the year for blockbuster movies our kiddos can't get enough of, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are back and better than ever. The Donatello costume comes with a jumpsuit, mask, elbow pads, knee pads, shell backpack, and a belt. It comes in sizes XS-L.
What kiddo doesn't want to save the day? Whether they choose Chase or one of the other Paw Patrol pups, they'll be cute and cozy, too! It comes with a jumpsuit (that includes mitts and shoe covers ) and a backpack. Available in sizes 4T-L.
This dino fave comes with battery-operated LED lights in the spikes on the head for a legendary costume. It's available in sizes 2T-6 and comes with a jumpsuit and headpiece (though you can be extra and add this fabulous matching prehistoric treat bag!)
Everyone loves Stitch, and this sweet costume is just as plush as the character! We also love that it's a one-piece jumpsuit that just requires a zip-up.
There are so many reasons to love Ms. Marvel, and her shape-shifting powers are no match for her foes. The costume includes a tunic with an attached scarf, pants with boot-tops, and an eye mask.
God of Thunder (or maybe your little lightning bolt)? We got you covered with this costume. It includes a full cape, an armor belt, a pair of gauntlets, and a jumpsuit.
Your Space Ranger's imagination will soar to "infinity and beyond" in this Buzz Lightyear costume. It features all the intergalactic essentials needed to defeat Emperor Zurg in no time, including light-up wings! Includes bodysuit, wings, gloves, and headwear.
We're pretty sure Minions will be one of the most popular costumes for kiddos for a long time, and with good reason. This little union suit is great for younger kiddos since it's another one-and-done.
If you've been humming 'The Family Madrigal' for months, then Encanto is probably a family favorite. The Mirabel costume includes a beautiful dress and signature glasses.
Too cool for just one name, she is known as Gwen Stacy, Ghost-Spider, and Spider-Gwen. Whichever name your kiddo prefers, this authentic Marvel Spider-Gwen costume will help them launch Halloween into the Spiderverse. This one comes with a hooded bodysuit, mask, and gloves.
T'Challa may be the Black Panther, but even powerful superhero brothers need their little sisters to help them out of sticky situations every now and then. It comes with a bodysuit, armbands, and gauntlets.
Another year, another popular Minecraft kid's Halloween costume! These blocky looks aren't going anywhere, and we really appreciate the square helmet to give the cubic look they love without a mask (that they might love a little less). It comes with an authentic 3D top, pants, and headpiece in kids sizes S-L.
Sisters! Perfect as a group costume or let them pick their favorite from Winifred, Mary, or Sarah Sanderson. Costume includes a sleeveless tutu dress with add-ons available to create the perfect look to put a spell on everyone they meet.
The lovely Ladybug from Miraculous is as heroic as she is awesome! This costume comes with a jumpsuit, gloves, eye mask, and iconic blue wig. Since the full-feature movie just dropped on Netflix, we're betting this kids' Halloween costume will be everywhere
Your little Maverick will be totally ready to take flight in this costume! Add a pair of aviator glasses to the flight suit and let them pick from the included interchangeable patches.
Most Popular Kids’ Halloween Costumes for Ages 10-13
'Fortnite' Drift Twofer
Spirit Halloween
Let them dance their way into Spooky Season with this Drift Twofer costume, including the signature kitsune mask. Add the included jacket and gloves and they're ready to go.
They'll be able to dance dance dance from house to house trick-or-treating in style with this ruffly party dress inspired by our favorite braided beauty, Wednesday Addams. This set comes with a dress, belt, socks, and braided wig and is available in sizes 4-13 years.
Robin totally rocked the Video Stop on Stranger Things and managed to defend Hawkins in her spare time. This kids' Halloween costume comes with a jacket + attached vest and a tie.
In true Addison style, this costume lights up for a true out-of-this-world style. The set has a printed jumpsuit, light-up skirt, and belt. We love the great wig, too (sold separately here!).
These fun stick figure kids' Halloween costumes have become super popular; probably because they look great at night. The costume comes with a jumpsuit, mask, gloves, and battery pack.
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.
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!
What hope is there for a healthy self-image when the body-shaming is coming from inside the house?
If you’re a fan of the Bravo Real Housewives franchise and you’ve ever struggled with your body image, you may have experienced how triggering the shows can be. When the women aren’t flaunting their million-dollar homes and stacked closets—they’re obsessing about their looks. From med-spa visits to deep tans that aren’t found in nature to obsessive body talk, this series is a recipe for disaster for anyone struggling to accept their beautiful selves just the way they are.
This week, Milania Giudice, 17-year-old daughter of Real Housewives of New Jersey star Teresa Giudice, appeared on her mom’s podcast and talked about losing 40 pounds between middle school and high school. She referenced middle school as her “weird era” and compared her physique to “a pumpkin.”
“Do you remember me in middle school?” she asked her mom.
“She was, what would you say? A little bit thicker,” Teresa responded.
“And then one day it hit me, I was like, ‘That’s it,'” Milania said. “I literally felt like suffocating with my own body. I was like, ‘No, no, no, I can’t do this anymore.’ So one day I told my mom to get me a nutritionist and she did, and I ate three meals a day, and they were literally the healthiest meals… I ate it and I woke up before school and I worked out 30 minutes. I woke up like at 5, waiting for school because my school starts early. So I woke up before school. I worked out and then after school, I would work out again. And in two months, I lost 50 pounds.”
That’s a very large amount of weight. In two months. At the age between middle school and high school—so roughly, age 12? 13? Around the same time that weight gain is normal and expected, “as the body stores fat to prepare for the rapid growth and changes associated with puberty,” notes bestcare.org.
At this point in the podcast, Milania remembers her “heaviest” weight before middle school. “My heaviest was 150, and when I was done, I was like 110… I was so skinny after that, I was literally sick I was so skinny, because I worked out. But I felt good. But then I gained it back and now I look like… I don’t know.” At that point, the co-host asks, “So you actually felt something, though? You were like, ‘Yuck… was it like, because you saw yourself on the show?” Reminder: this is an adult woman talking to a 17-year-old child.
Milania replies, “Oh, no. My mom would be like—she’d never say anything to me—she’d be like, ‘Are you gonna have another ice cream?’ and I’d be like, ‘I don’t care if I’m fat. Listen, it’s my life. If I want to have ice cream, I’m going to have another ice cream. When I want to lose weight, I’m going to lose weight. And she knew it. And one day it just clicked. And I did it.”
Passive-aggressive remarks about a child’s ice cream intake do the talking for you—you don’t have to specifically say “don’t eat that” for your message to be heard. And yet here Teresa adds, “They have to want to do it themselves. You can’t force them. I didn’t want her to have a complex or anything. And I thought she looked adorable. She was just a little thicker.”
“My sisters would always throw jabs at me,” Milania explains. “But it was fine.” She went on to add, speaking about what she perceived as her heavier body, “When I was in elementary school, it was cute, but when I got to middle school, it was… not right.”
This conversation, consisting of two adults talking to a child about her weight, is not funny. It’s not light. It’s not cute. It’s not podcast entertainment. “Weight teasing predicts weight gain, binge-eating, and extreme weight control measures,” per data from a 2016 study about eating disorders in adolescents. And “the best-known environmental contributor to the development of eating disorders is the sociocultural idealization of thinness,” research has found.
Which brings us back to the Housewives universe. This isn’t the first time conversations about weight surrounding children have been front-and-center in the series. Yolanda Hadid exhibited infamously problematic behavior toward her daughters, Bella and Gigi, as she repeatedly pressured them to diet to be prepared for their inevitable supermodel futures. “You can have one night of being bad, right,” Yolanda said in one clip from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, where she was chiding Gigi for wanting one bite of cake at her birthday party. “Then you gotta get back on your diet, though. Because, you know, in Paris and Milan, they like the girls just a tad on the skinny side.”
It’s all so unacceptable. It’s well-documented that mothers who make frequent comments about weight are “more likely to have daughters who use extreme weight control behaviors.” I struggled with a three-decade-long eating disorder that started when I was 12. Twelve. In Milania Giudice’s case, any doctor would be alarmed by a two-month, 50-pound weight loss, but the two adult women she’s chatting with, one her own mother, are taking it with a grain of salt.
Body-image issues and eating disorders are dangerous. They are predictors of additional mental health struggles like anxiety and depression. And while I don’t in any way think that Teresa Giudice has sent any of these messages intentionally, impact is always greater than intent.
And when the impact is the risk of sending our kids into decades-long struggles with body image, it’s something we really need to think about more.
