We’re breaking down the pregnancy and baby trends that will make waves in 2022. As we enter the second year of the ’20s, a focus on mental, emotional and physical well-being is a dominant force across all industries, especially when it comes to expectant mothers and their babies. From calming childcare facilities and nurseries that spark creativity to low-intensity exercises that are ideal for moms-to-be, read on for the top trends you’ll see popping up in the bump and baby world this year.

Nursery Trends: Bring On the Prints & Patterns

Last year Japandi designs (a mix of Scandinavian and Japanese style) emerged in a big way, and the trend trackers at Etsy saw it coming. This year those same trend experts are using their search data to predict the next of-the-moment design choices. So, what trends will parents see everywhere as they search for nursery design inspiration? Let's start with going green! Bringing nature indoors started catching on in 2021, and it's continuing to gain steam this year. From Etsy's choice of emerald as the major hue for 2022 to Sherwin-Williams, Behr and Benjamin Moore all choosing various shades of green (specifically, Everygreen Fog, Breezeway and October Mist) as their color of the year, don't be surprised if the green paint chips at your local hardware store are out of stock.

By definition, trends don't stick around for long. But they do resurface and, inevitably, the old becomes new again. Vibrant, intricate floral and ancient Indian block prints are suddenly sprouting up everywhere. We love that you can easily incorporate this theme into your nursery with textiles and accessories. Another hard-to-miss trend for 2022 is curved furniture. A reason to add this gorgeous Stokke crib to your cart, perhaps? Lastly, designing a space that sparks creativity is more important than ever. So searches on Etsy for fairy items and mythical creatures are up as parents look to turn their kiddos' spaces into magical realms where they can emphasize make-believe and inspire imagination in their little ones. 

Calming Classrooms

iStock

Making the transition back to classrooms and childcare facilities as relaxing and positive as possible for little ones is a theme we'll see grow in 2022. As kids reconnect with their community outside of their homes, a focus on calming spaces is at the forefront for educators. Pinterest reported that trending search terms include classrooms with nature, forest and sunshine themes, as well as eucalyptus decor. Think mini mediation lessons and nature walks during recess to round out this, hopefully long-lasting, trend. 

The Name Game

Gladfolk via Etsy

Baby-naming trends have enduring effects (as every Jennifer born in the 80s, with three other Jennifers in their classroom, can attest!), and that's why it's so fun to highlight them every year.

So, what do names like Bear, Baby, Ziggy, Buddy, Gigi and Honey have in common? They're playful and fun—and will be highly popular in the year ahead. In addition to wanting more carefree and playful names, new parents are giving a nod to the National Parks they've visited recently by choosing names like Sequoia, Reef, Zephyr or Horizon. Our love of adventure and wanderlust for travel has also skyrocketed lately, causing names like Banyan, Capri, Bali and Dune to move up the popularity list. Get in on the trend with these  50 names inspired by travel and geography. There's something special about choosing a retro name that's equal parts cool and old-fashioned, and 2022 babies will benefit as a trend towards vintage names like Etta, Frank, Polly, Mae and Sally make a comeback. 

Parties for Life’s Undercelebrated Moments

iStock

In bump and baby land, we're used to seeing parties thrown for big moments like baby showers and first birthdays. However, a welcome trend for 2022 is a shift to celebrating both the obvious milestones and honoring the magical mundane parts of life (parenthood has quite a few of those!). So get ready to throw an "altbash" for life's undercelebrated moments like "just paid off student loans" or "made it through baby's first meltdown" or one of these everyday victories. A reason to celebrate is right around the corner in the new year! 

Physical/Mental Health Takes Priority

As we enter the third year of an international health crisis, it's no surprise that two out of three consumers are more conscious than ever of looking after their physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. For expectant moms who are self-caring for two, the trend toward "flexercise" is a perfect option. Searches for daily stretches and walking in nature are up significantly on Pinterest as low-impact exercise and more mellow ways to move your body become important to everyone. From dancing in your bedroom while the baby sleeps to a morning stroller walk out in nature, a shift toward opting for your own low-key exercise routine is mom-approved. 

Babymoons were always popular for new moms and will reach new heights in 2022. Travel will become a form of stress management, and there's no better time to do it than before your little one arrives. All-inclusive travel is also making a huge comeback as more and more people want to escape and not think of anything on their to-do list.  

Wellness extends to spirituality too, it seems. The question "how to protect your energy" saw searches up by 60%, while searches for "how to raise your vibration" jumped by 145%. 

 

Goth Baby Clothes

Oh my goth! Yes, according to the data gurus at Pinterest, goth is making its way to the mainstream across all ages, including the 0- to 12-month set. Searches for goth baby clothes are up 120%—which means you may be seeing a few more skull and crossbones onesies in the coming year. There are a few adorable and subtle pieces, like this one, that might inspire you to dab your toe into the trend.  

—Aimee Della Bitta

featured image: iStock

RELATED STORIES:

Awesome Gifts for Any New or Expecting Mom

The Best Strollers of the Year

Tried & True: Classic Baby Names for Boys & Girls

We all know parents are warriors who can work miracles on very little sleep. But we’re also human, and humans need support sometimes. These online resources can connect you with experts, answer your questions, calm your mind, and provide valuable help to you and your baby.

iStock

The Lactation Network
Get the breastfeeding support you need, including 100% health insurance-covered consultations with lactation consultants (in-home, in-office or telehealth), help choosing a breast pump, and lots of useful articles to support your nursing journey.

New Kind
Get one-on-one newborn support from certified postpartum doulas with years of experience in feeding, sleep and postpartum issues. Pick a plan, then get matched with an expert and meet them by video call.

Pregnancy After Loss Support (PALS)
This nonprofit organization provides parents expecting rainbow babies with online support groups, in-person local groups, and an app with a milestone tracker, community support, self-care and coping tools and more.

pumpspotting
This breastfeeding app gives you access to experts for virtual consultations and connects you with a community of parents living that nursing life. Read articles tailored to your experience, based on baby's due date and the date you go back to work. There's even a crowdsourced map of places to nurse and pump, with ratings and photos.

Cluster
Get answers to all your questions about feeding your baby on Cluster, in a judgment-free, peer-powered community. Brought to you by baby nutrition company ByHeart, Cluster can set you up with appointments, classes and events with experts in the field, along with ways to connect with other parents with similar feeding concerns. Whether you're bottlefeeding or breastfeeding, you'll find answers about feeding and sleep, breast issues, setting schedules, baby digestive issues, bonding, self-care and more.

Motherfigure
This maternal wellness startup is committed to supporting mothers through pregnancy, childbirth and raising children through providing them access to care and education. Find childbirth education classes (online or in person); search for doulas, lactation consultants and more in your area; shop for maternity and nursing clothes; and read lots of first-person accounts and reviews.

smiling Black mom with white baby - money-saving tips
iStock

Exhale Parent
This educational resource gives new parents and parents-to-be the legal and financial information they need. If you have questions about topics such as maximizing paternal leave, writing a contract for a caretaker for your child, budgeting, creating a will or choosing a 529 plan, Exhale Parent can help. The site breaks down topics so they're easier to understand and lets you know the steps involved so you can tackle them efficiently.

boober
Founded by a doula, this online marketplace helps expectant and new parents find high-quality classes on childbirth and postpartum support (topics include infant CPR, pumping and newborn sleep), as well as vetted, expert maternal care providers, including lactation consultants, doulas and mental health therapists. Sessions are held in-person or virtually and include free live webinars.

Postpartum Support International
This organization offers online support groups, helplines & text services for new and expecting moms to help manage postpartum stress, isolation, anxiety and depression. Call or text the helpline 24/7 to leave a message that will be answered by a trained volunteer. There are weekly online support meetings for a variety of groups, including: pregnancy mood support, perinatal mood support, NICU parents, military moms, pregnancy and infant loss, and black mothers. Dads can also call for support or attend the monthly Just for Dads chat.

Parent Lab
Parent Lab offers online parenting courses (online or audio) on a variety of topics geared toward new parents, including dealing with anxiety, increasing quality time, screen time guidance, sleep, and coparenting. The team of experts includes child development experts, behavioral experts and parent coaches.

Nurture by NAPS
Founded by two labor-and-delivery nurses, who are also moms, Nurture by NAPS is a subscription service that offers evidence-based, instructional content on pregnancy through the first year of a child's life, including videos from medical professionals, live webinars, weekly live Q&A sessions, and the ability to ask nurses questions and receive an answer within 24 hours.

Herney via Pixabay

Tinyhood
Tinyhood is an app and website that provides advice and support to parents and parents-to-be. Through live online parenting classes and one-on-one consultations with experts, Tinyhood tackles a ton of topics, including developmental milestones, sleep, introducing solid foods, breastfeeding, your postpartum health and more. The experts range from certified lactation consultants and sleep consultants to pediatric nutritionists and potty-training specialists.

Major Care
If you need support as you care for your new baby, consider a doula service like Major Care. This organization matches moms with a certified postpartum doula that can provide 24/7 virtual postpartum care and support. This includes lactation, pumping, perinatal body care, vaginal healing and mood disorder screening and resources. You choose whether you want the services to begin before or after your little one arrives.

Tot Squad
This service offers virtual sessions with experts on home safety, sleep issues, lactation, car seat installation checks and doula services (prenatal, early labor and postpartum).

FoodSafety.gov
This government website lists exactly which foods pregnant women should avoid and why. There's also a handy graphic you can print out to make it easier.

Oleg Sergeichik via Unsplash

La Leche League International
This nonprofit organization provides education, training and advocacy around breastfeeding. There's extensive information on the website on issues related to breastfeeding, including food allergies, biting, caffeine, alcohol, mastitis, oversupply, reflux, tongue ties, vitamins and weight loss.

Kelly Mom
Kelly Mom provides tons of helpful, evidence-based information around breastfeeding, parenting, health and nutrition. Founded by a lactation consultant, the site is organized by topic (including pregnancy and ages & stages), so you can find the information you need.

Healthy Children.org
This website from the American Academy of Pediatrics hosts articles prenatal and baby information on a variety of topics. It covers milestones, nutrition, emotional wellness, immunizations, safety, family dynamics and health issues, all from a medical perspective.

Heal
Talk to doctors using phone or video chat. The video chat happens within the Heal app so there's no additional software to download aside from the app. Doctors can order labs, write prescriptions, and refer you to specialists, making it easy for you to get remote care from the comfort of your own home. Heal also provides mental health services from doctors of clinical psychology. Covered by many health insurance plans (check for yours on the Heal website). Currently available in the following states: Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington and Washington, D.C.

—Eva Ingvarson Cerise

RELATED STORIES:

10 Pregnancy & Parenting Podcasts to Start Listening to Now

26 Cheat Sheets Every Pregnant & New Mama Needs

Advice to New Moms from Moms Who’ve Been There

Did you or your partner get pregnant during the pandemic? Looking to stay safe but hoping to capture your pregnancy or newborn with a photo shoot? No problem! NYC area family photographers are stepping up to help your family capture these important events while you’re keeping close to home. Book a virtual photo shoot via Zoom, FaceTime, etc. Read on to learn how it all works, and see actual pictures taken via remote sessions!

Pivot!

Michelle Rose Photo

Like so many other businesses, photographers have taken things online. The modified professional photo shoot involves a pro serving as a consultant and guide to a client before, during and after a photo session."We plan out the shoot from top to bottom: decorations, outfits, locations you name it!," says Michelle Rose of Michelle Rose Photo, who launched her remote milestone shoots in April of last year. "They send photos of their space for me to take a look at and I point out where the best spots would be to take photos, just like I do when I enter a clients apartment for the first time."

Yes, in most cases you are the one taking the actual photo (probably with your phone), but it's with the input of a professional via Zoom, Facetime, etc. Perhaps not the ideal situation for your big shoot, but the good news is that probably not surprisingly, rates are significantly less than those for in-person sessions. 

In addition to guiding you during the actual shoot, these photographers will help you style your shots, recommend colors and/or props and retouch your favorites to make them super pro. Sessions are typically about 30 minutes to an hour, and basic tech needed is a phone and a wifi connection. 

Karen Haberberg Photography

Karen Haberberg Photography

Karen Haberberg is doing maternity, birthday and infant shoots virtually, providing a portfolio of three to five retouched photos from the sessions.  For her photo shoots, she is the one actually taking the photo, capturing frames via FaceTime, while she coaches parents on elements such as angles and lighting. 

Haberberg was also moved to do pro-bono portraits for essential workers and their families over the last year as a way of saying "thanks." Learn more about that project here.

Online: karenhaberberg.com

Michelle Rose Photo

Michelle Rose Photo

For her remote shoots, Rose schedules the sessions to take advantage of when an apartment is receiving the best natural light. And, she makes sure you're prepped. "The day before the session I send over a checklist for each client individually so they have everything they need the next day for the shoot. Nothing is out of the ordinary and should already be in the home, except for maybe some cake smash decorations and the cake." (Order in, folks!) 

Contact Rose for rates, which are significantly reduced from those for IRL sessions.  

Online: michellerosephoto.com

Stylish & Hip Kids Photography

Stylish Hip Kids

This photo from Stylish & Hip Kids Photography proves the yes, you can get a lovely newborn shot (with an assist). For all remote sessions, owner Mariliana Arvelo consults with the parents about outfits, lighting in the home, and the basics of setting up a camera; she also provides a gallery of images to use as a reference. Sessions are 30 minutes and produce a gallery of 10, retouched photos. The cost is $300, a significant break from the standard rate of $900 for an in-person session. 

Online: stylishhipkids.com

Featured image: Karen Haberberg Photography
—Mimi O’Connor

Essential, Cool & Unusual Delivery Services To Make Your Life Easier

Online Parenting Classes: Birthing, Breastfeeding & More

Our Complete Online Virtual Event Calendar

 

These words have become a familiar refrain: stay home, stay safe and socially distance. But while most of us were hunkered down during the first few months of the pandemic, these parents (and kids)  knew if they socially distanced themselves from those in need countless others would struggle to survive. These amazing individuals decided to do what they could to stay safe while also reaching out their hand (figuratively) to those that needed help. Here are some of those parents – and one kid – who have made a difference in the DC metro area.

photo: courtesy of Peggy Morgan Tyree

Peggy Morgan Tyree with PPE Donations

Peggy has always operated under the principle that if there is something she can do to help out, she should do it. So when Covid-19 hit and everyone was feeling helpless, she jumped at the chance to make a difference. In her role as a Loudoun County Elementary Instructional Facilitator, she had been teaching about 3D printers and authentic uses for them, such as restoring coral reefs and preserving artifacts. She immediately saw another use for the printers and with the full support and permission of her school’s principal, she took the 3D printers home and got to work making PPE. Peggy and three other moms, all while working and raising their children (some young, some teens), ran the printers nonstop since March., creating 7,000 shields from home. Their husbands and children assisted with assembly after the shields were printed. They sent them to local facilities like hospitals, dental offices, preschools, group homes and fire stations. But they also shipped them to other states and even to a hospital in Mexico.

How you can help: You can donate to Peggy’s efforts below or try your own hand at 3D printing at your local library.

Online: gofundme.com

photo: Courtesy of Colby Samide

Colby Samide of Desks for Distance

This teen isn’t a parent, but his parents made a difference by raising a kid who put his woodworking skills to generous use with his project, Desks for Distance. Colby was inspired by the Desks by Dads initiative, a couple of dads building desks for students in their community in MD, to do the same for students closer to his home. Colby launched his Desks for Distance Facebook page in early Sept. as a solo project and quickly caught the attention of both donors and collaborators. With the help of MOSS Building & Design, Colby and Desks for Distance plan on building 50 additional desks in a single day on September 28th!

How you can help: You can donate via the Facebook link below to help Desks for Distance raise additional funds for materials. While Colby does  not take any profit from this project, he wanted us to inform readers he is not an officially registered nonprofit.

Online: facebook.com/DesksforDistance

photo: courtesy of Jamila Larson 

Jamila Larson of Homeless Children’s Playtime Project

After 17 years of offering in-person services, Jamila Larson had to quickly pivot to providing contactless services that would still help children and their families feel as if someone cared about them in the middle of a pandemic. The Homeless Children’s Playtime Project now offers Playtime to Go kits to kids living in shelters, as well as play costumes, diapers, groceries, and other emergency supplies homeless families may need.

How you can help: Jamila and her staff are working remotely during the crisis, but if you want to get involved, you can make a donation that will help them continue to provide the above mentioned items to kids and families in need.

Online: playtimeproject.org

photo: courtesy of Rachel Bailey

Rachel Bailey of Rachel Bailey Parenting Academy

Feeling the weight of parenting during a pandemic? Rachel Bailey is there to help! Parent coach Rachel Bailey has been providing private coaching and online parenting tips in the DC area for over a decade. Her Facebook group, “The Parenting Long Game” Podcast community, is free to join and offers support and advice to DMV parents. She’s coined the term “Yuck” for all those times your child may display signs of being uncomfortable—from feeling hangry to throwing tantrums—and doles out ways to peacefully parent your child and restore order in your home. Now, more than ever, kids (and their parents) are feeling a nasty case of the yucks from technology hiccups to virtual classroom frustrations on top of the all-consuming pandemic yucks. Rachel (virtually) holds parents hands and helps them navigate everything from distance learning to post-pandemic parenting stresses.

How can you help: We’re all struggling with Yuck these days. Take a deep breath and check out Rachel’s podcasts for distance learning tips and healthy ways to deal with pandemic-related stresses.

Online: facebook.com/groups/RachelBailey

photo: Sam’s Club via Yelp

Corrine Cannon of Greater DC Diaper Bank

Though she created Greater DC Diaper Bank nearly a decade ago, the need for Corrine’s services has tripled during the pandemic. She opened the bank when she realized that diapers were falling through a crack in the systems designed to help low-income families and children survive. While there were options that provided food, formula, and medical care, none ensured that parents could buy diapers. So Corrine stepped up and filled that gap. The Greater DC Diaper Bank offers more than just diapers these days, though. They also offer other baby needs, including certain types of gently used baby gear, as well as feminine hygiene products.

How you can help: While volunteer operations have been suspended during the pandemic, you can still get involved. With more than 140 drop locations throughout the greater DC area, you can easily drop off diapers, formula, or any of the other items they accept for distribution.

Online: greaterdcdiaperbank.org

—Wendy Miller

featured photo: courtesy of Desks for Distance

RELATED STORIES: 

13 Ways to Give Back: DC Charities That Want Your Old Toys

The Best Places to Volunteer with Your Kids in DC

10 Volunteer Vacations You Can Take with Kids

Fall is here! With its beautiful ever-changing scenery, apple picking and oh-so-important “what should I be for Halloween?” decisions kids face, along come the coughs, colds and ear infections that cooler weather brings. Already cringing thinking about worry-filled late nights, endless searches in online parenting groups and dreaded visits to crowded urgent cares with long wait times? Oh, we get it, and we’ve found the solution: TytoCare is transforming the doctor’s visit as we know it by making medical exams, diagnosis and treatment available from the comfort of your couch! Read on to learn more about what makes TytoCare one-of-a-kind and why we love it.

For a limited time, TytoCare is offering $50 off for Red Tricycle Subscribers! Use Code TYTOTRI

What Is TytoCare?

Developed by a father of young kids, TytoCare was built with parents in mind. This handheld exam kit connects people with doctors for on-demand medical exams from the comfort of home. TytoCare uses cutting edge technology and impressive innovation for in-depth exams, including capturing vital signs like heart rate and temperature—as if the doctor is home with you.

Now you can skip the crowded waiting room! TytoCare handheld exam kit and app let you perform guided medical exams with a healthcare provider or by yourself with the guidance of the app’s TytoAcademy tutorial to ensure accurate exam data is captured.

The exam kit, together with TytoApp™ (android or iOS), enables you to examine your child’s ears, lungs, heart, throat, skin, abdomen and temperature, to share with a board-certified physician for a quick diagnosis. As needed, the doctor can send a prescription to your local pharmacy —it’s the quickest, safest and easiest doc visit you’ve ever experienced!

 

What’s in the Kit?

Answer: Everything you need to keep your family healthy and put your mind at ease! Just download the TytoApp to connect with a healthcare professional, and use the simple tools the kit provides:

  • Tyto Device with exam camera and thermometer to relay the necessary info straight to the doctor
  • Otoscope adaptor for investigating the ear canal for ear symptoms
  • Stethoscope adaptor to examine coughs and congestion symptoms
  • Tongue depressor adapter to investigate sore throat symptoms

Together with TytoCare and your virtual doctor, you’ll also be able to monitor heart sounds for abnormalities, measure body temperature, assess skin conditions and listen for abdominal issues.

Why We Love It

When it comes to making, keeping and physically showing up to doctor appointments, now more than ever there are so many obstacles in the way. With work and school being remote in order to keep people safe, it only makes sense that healthcare would follow suit.

While telemedicine isn’t completely new, TytoCare’s method is! Their innovative and comprehensive approach, from appointment to virtual visit to care plan is not only time saving, but also stress saving. Now you don’t need to worry about risking your family’s health by sitting in a crowded, germ-filled waiting room or being in person at a doctor’s office.

More than just a video chat with a doctor, TytoCare provides medical exams whenever you need them, whether it’s 2 p.m. or 2 a.m. It’s also incredibly efficient: Your child can be examined, diagnosed and prescribed treatment without having to travel. No more debates about whether or not to rush to urgent care, with TytoCare, you’ll know immediately if action needs to be taken or if you can (hopefully) go back to sleep.  Also, it’s completely secure. TytoCare uses a HIPAA-secure platform that only you and the healthcare provider can access, so you can be certain your information is safe and secure.

 

Bottom line: TytoCare is peace of mind and that, like our health, is priceless.

 

 

Learn more about TytoCare!

 

For a limited time, TytoCare is offering $50 off for Red Tricycle Subscribers! Use Code TYTOTRI 

 

 

 

Disclaimer: The Tyto Stethoscope is FDA cleared and all TytoCare devices comply with FDA regulatory requirements.

 

 

—Jamie Aderski

 

Editor’s note: Our Spoke contributor, Jen Lumanlan at Your Parenting Mojo, wrote this piece in March of 2019 but we are republishing it as its a timely and relevant discussion to have right now. 

Photo: monkeybusinessimages/iStock

 

My four-year-old daughter and I read a book about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., recently, which told the typical story about social segregation (a cursory skim of lunch counters, water fountains, schools, followed by “I have a dream…”). But like most children’s books on this topic it left much unsaid.

When young children learn about Dr. King they are usually left with the impression that because social segregation is now illegal, structural racism no longer exists. So after we finished ours we talked about less visible but far more pernicious political and social segregation and how these continue today.

My daughter said she thought we should try to help black people through a donation of some of her pocket money portioned off for “Giving,” so I augmented her $4 with a larger sum of my own and shipped the total off to Black Lives Matter.

We’ve done our part, right?

Realizing I have white privilege in parenting

If you had asked me a year ago if I (a white mother of a biracial but white-presenting daughter) had white privilege in my parenting I would have said “Um, I don’t think so. What is that, anyway?”

The first inkling that I got of white privilege in parenting came from listening to a podcast in which the black host said that a lot of black parents—and particularly parents of black boys—would not feel safe allowing their child to have a tantrum in a public place.

I felt like a massive window had opened through which an incredibly bright light shone. The light prevented me from seeing anything else—yet—but I knew there was more to be discovered.

Of course my daughter has had tantrums in a public place. Of course I felt judged—like the passers-by were thinking that I should be able to control my child—but at no time did I ever feel like she nor I were unsafe: and nor did the thought that we might be unsafe ever even occur to me.

This, I learned, was what white privilege in parenting looks like.

An ongoing journey

Once I started looking for my privilege, I found it everywhere:

  • My daughter can take a snack into a grocery store and her lovey into a toy store and not be accused of stealing.
  • Unless we specifically look for books, TV shows and movies featuring diverse characters, any media we view is likely to feature characters that look like my daughter.
  • If my daughter and her friends want to play with Nerf guns then I don’t have to worry about her getting shot by a police officer who mistakes her for being a threat.
  • My preparation for going on vacation involves booking travel and a place to stay, not checking to see whether our destination is safe for my daughter.
  • My daughter’s preschool gives preference to families who already have friends in the school. It was very handy for us when we needed a spot at the last minute. Now I see it also makes it harder for non-white families to get in.
  • If my daughter is ever rejected from a place in a school or program, I can be pretty sure it’s because they don’t have space, not because “she just won’t fit in.”
  • I can choose a school based on the high test scores its students achieve and know that most of the children at the school likely look like my daughter and that the educational environment is set up for her success.
  • I have networks of friends, colleagues and even online parenting groups that are mostly white who share information on how to gain access to resources in the school system.
  • My daughter will be able to break rules like “no hoods up in school” without fear of detention, cumulative detentions leading to suspension and cumulative suspensions leading to expulsion.
  • I know that my daughter’s teacher will understand her when she speaks and that her contributions in class will be seen as valuable. Because of this, I know that if she is referred for special education services it is likely because she has a learning disability and not because the teacher doesn’t understand her or because she is perceived as ‘acting out’ in class.
  • If I believe that my daughter’s intelligence is at least average, I can probably get her admitted to a Gifted & Talented program where she will be surrounded by children who mostly look like her and where she will take classes that increase the chances she will be accepted into an elite college and later a high-paying job.
  • When my daughter learns about history, she will see the many contributions that people who look like her have made in the world.
  • When my daughter interacts with healthcare professionals, she will be believed if she says she is in pain.
  • If my daughter ever interacts with the criminal justice system, I can be reasonably sure that the consequences will be minimal—especially if I appear in court to show my support.
  • If I choose not to teach my daughter about prejudice or structural racism, there will be no serious consequence for me or for her.

By remaining silent about privilege, I am helping to perpetuate my child’s advantage in life. Because there’s only a certain amount of advantage to go around, right? Surely, if I help another child, then my own child’s chance at getting into an elite school and a high-paying job afterward must be necessarily reduced?

But getting good grades won’t be enough for success in the future: our children will need to know how to solve problems alongside people from many backgrounds. They will have to think critically, not just memorize names and dates. They will need to creatively innovate solutions to enormous problems, not just optimize the number of widgets sold. Our work to reduce our privilege—and allowing our children to see and understand this as we’re doing it—will be the thing that both benefits them and all children in the future.

What you can do when you recognize your own privilege

You can’t just read a book and consider your work with privilege to be ‘done.’ The work of understanding and mitigating your privilege will be a life-long practice. Here are three practical steps you can take in the short term:

Examine your own privilege, so you can truly see the injustices you have perpetuated, even if unintentionally. It’s only when you deeply understand your own role in the system that you can take steps to right the wrongs that your privilege has created. Layla Saad’s Me and White Supremacy workbook is an excellent resource to help you do this work (it’s available for free but please, pay her).

For resources specifically related to parenting, listen to my podcast episodes on white privilege in parenting and white privilege in schools (more episodes on related topics will follow in the coming weeks – if you subscribe, you’ll be notified when they’re released).

Look for areas of your life where you have power and focus your first attempts to reduce your privilege there. Write or call organizations with policies that give you an advantage and ask for the policies to be changed. If your child is offered a place in a free summer camp but you could afford to pay for a private camp, then send your child to the free camp and set up a scholarship at the private camp.

If you or your child witnesses prejudiced words or racist actions, don’t just withdraw your child to a ‘safe’ environment: make it clear that these words and actions are not to be tolerated. Talk with your white friends about privilege and about steps you can take together.

Listen to the voices of people of non-dominant cultures and lift these up (without making your voice louder than theirs). Make sure they can speak—and be truly heard—at PTA meetings. Don’t write their concerns off as ‘invalid,’ even if they are expressed in a different way than you express your concerns.

Elect them to positions of power. Help them to achieve their goals. You just might find that in doing this, you will take action that benefits all children.

Jen Lumanlan fills the gaps in her parenting intuition through research, via a Master’s in Psychology (Child Development) and another in Education.  Her podcast, Your Parenting Mojo, provides rigorous yet accessible information on parenting and child development to help parents tame the overwhelm and raise resilient, thriving children.

These are strange, and yes, occasionally trying times. Even if you’re “New York Tough,” you still need some help, support and possibly some pizza or toys delivered. We’ve been doing our best to find all of the above for New York City kids and families in the age of corona. As we head into an NYC summer the likes of which none of us have ever experienced, we’re rounding up all of our current resources in one place so you can have them at your fingertips. (More to come!) And don’t forget to check out our full and updated calendar of virtual events and online classes for kids here!

Where to Go For an Urban Hike in NYC

The Greenbelt Conservancy

Go for an urban hike with the kids. We found treks in along the Hudson, in historic cemeteries, through parks in northern Manhattan and beyond. Click here to find your NYC kid-friendly hike! 

To Host a Virtual Birthday Party

Magic Evan

Everybody's doing it! We found entertainers, kits delivered, cooking parties, magicians and more. Click here for NYC online birthday party planning! 

For Online Art Classes and Activities

Barking Cat Art Studio

Join a class, get a crafting kit delivered, tackle a project—these NYC businesses will help keep your kids engaged and creative! 

To Get Garden Supplies & Plants Delivered

Grow some veggies, plant a flower box, start some seeds. These NYC garden centers and hardware stores can help you! 

For a Special Remote Photo Shoot

Michelle Rose Photo

Yes, you CAN get a first birthday cake smash photo, have a maternity photo shoot or special birthday portrait during COVID-19. These professional photographers will capture your special moments via Zoom and FaceTime—at a reduced rate! Click here to find out how! 

To Practice or Learn a New Language With the Kids

Bilingual Birdies

For little ones or bigger kids, there are virtual singalongs, online classes in French, Spanish, Mandarin and more. Click here to see our favorite online foreign language classes and activities for kids from NYC folks! 

For NYC Pizza Delivered

Fornino

The pies are still coming out of the ovens, and many of the best pizzerias in the city! Click here to find yours! 

For NYC-themed Rainy Day Entertainment

IMDB

Too hot or too wet to get outside? Hit the couch and watch one of our favorite movies for kids featuring NYC. Click here for our recs! 

For Online Parenting Classes, Breastfeeding Support & More

Birth Day Presence

Expecting? Congrats! Didn't expect to prep for birth online but looking for some virtual birthing classes, or maybe some breastfeeding support or newborn care classes? These experienced providers are here to help! 

To Tour NYC Virtually

Giulia S. via Yelp

Check out Times Square, The Highline, the Manhattan skyline from near or far via these remote cameras. 

To Get Some Toys Delivered

Boomerang Toys

Whether you need to refresh your puzzle stash or LEGO kits, want some new outdoor toys for summer fun or are looking for a few good board games, these NYC toy stores are here to help! Click here to find toy stores delivering, offering curbside pickup or reduced shipping. 

For Online Activities, Events & Classes From NYC Providers

New Victory Theater

We rounded up some options for virtual classes and fun (much of it free) right here early on. Many of these peeps are still going strong, such as the New Victory Theater and its "Arts Break" (shown here), which has a new theme every week! Click here to explore more online fun for kids!

To Get Inspired By Your Neighbors

Alyson Vitticore

See how other NYC kids and families are passing the time and having fun—and steal some ideas for your own PAUSE routine. Click here to be inspired by your fellow New Yorkers! 

 

—Mimi O’Connor

feature image: Piccoliny via Yelp

RELATED STORIES:

Reach Out: NYC’s Top Parenting & Support Groups

How to Throw a Birthday Party at Home While Social Distancing

100+ Indoor Things to Do with Kids

 

Congratulations to the below San Francisco Bay Area businesses who are the local winners of the 2011 Totally Awesome Awards!

— ARTifact Studio: Art Classes

— Giggle: Baby Boutiques

— Sparky’s Balloons: Birthday Party Supply Stores

— Playland-Not-at-the-Beach: Birthday Party Venues

— Asqew Grill: Cheap or Free Eats for Kids

— Au Pair Care: Childcare Agencies and Resources

— Marin Kids Consignment: Consignment Retail Shops

— Goody Goodie Dessert Salon: Cupcakes, Bakeries, and Candy Shops

— Small Fry Dance Club: Dance, Movement, and Theater Classes

Absinthe: Date Night Spots

The Creative Learning Loft: Drop Off and Childcare Spots

— Children’s Choice Pediatric Care: Family Dentists

— Nancy Alcott Photography: Family Photographers

— Smitten Ice Cream: Ice Cream and FroYo

— Playland-Not-at-the-Beach: Indoor Playspaces

— Zocalo Coffeehouse: Kid Friendly Coffee Shops

— Princeton Seafood: Kid Friendly Restaurants and Cafes

— Fiddlesticks : Kids Clothing Retail Stores

— Tot Tank: Furniture and Gear Stores

— Alexander G.: Kids Hair Cuts

— Lango Kids: Language Classes

Tinkerlab: Local Blogs

— Nest Maternity: Maternity Stores

— Comadres Midwifery: Midwives and Doulas

— Kendra Stitt Robins (Project Night Night): Mom Run Businesses

Baby Boot Camp: Mom’s Fitness Programs

Southern Marin Mother’s Club: Mom’s Groups

— Bay Area Discovery Museum: Museums

— Music for Children: Music Classes

— Raising Happiness: Parent Education Programs

— California Pacific Medical Center: Places to Give Birth

— International School of the Peninsula: Schools

— Paresh Martial Arts: Sports and Fitness Classes

Kookle Toys: Toy Shops and Book Stores

Totally Awesome Stuff Winners:

— Tiny Prints: Announcement, Birthday & Holiday Cards Suppliers

— Clementine Art Supplies: Art Supplies

— Manny and Simon: Au-Natural Toys

— 4Moms Mamaroo: Baby Stage Must Haves

— Yikes Twins Hooded Towels: Bath Toys

— Baby DeeDee Sleep Nest: Bedding, Accessories and Room Decors

— LEGOLAND California: Big Amusement Theme Parks

— Wishbone Bike: Bikes, Trikes, Scooters, and Movers

— Zoku Popsicle Maker: Can’t Live Without Kitchen Gadgets

— Orbit Baby: Car Seats

— City Threads: Clothing and Fashion Lines for Boys

— Nohi Kids: Clothing and Fashion Lines for Girls

— PetitNest: Coolest Cribs and Beds

— Ju-Ju-Be: Diaper Bags and Backpacks

— Eebee’s Adventures: Educational Toys

— Great Wolf Lodge: Family Resorts and Hotels

— Great Wolf Lodge: Family Water Parks

— SweetSeat: Feeding Supplies

— Itzy Ritzy Snack Happened Bags: Green Kids Products

— Ella’s Kitchen: Healthy Snacks

— Piggy Back Rider: Kid Carriers and Slings

— Alphabet Rockers: Kids Music and Artists

— Hanna Andersson: Kids Pajamas

— See Kai Run: Kids Shoes

— My True Nature: Kids Skincare Products

— Travel Tot: Kids Travel Accessories

— Playland-Not-at-the-Beach: Little Amusement Theme Parks

— Easy Lunch Boxes: Lunch Gear

— More of Me: Maternity Fashion or Products

— ThredUP: New Way to Consign, Swap and Recycle

— Yummy Spoonfuls: On The Go Prepared Meals

— MoonJar Savings Bank: Preschooler Age Must Haves

— Bow Allure: Rainwear, Hats, and Other Accessories

— Squaw Valley USA: Ski Schools and Programs

— Orbit Baby: Strollers

— Dapper Snappers: Toddler Years Must Haves

— Basic Grey Storage Barrels: Toy Storage and Organizers

— Springfree Trampoline: Toys and Gear For Backyard Fun

— Monterey Bay Aquarium: Zoo and Animal Parks

Totally Awesome Online Winners:

— LilSugar: Celebrity Baby Site

— Parents Connect: Community Posting Board Sites

— Deals4Dummies: Coupon and Saving Sites

— Mamabargains: Deal Sites

— Fooz Kids: Family and Kids Apps / Games

— A Little Yumminess: Food and Recipe Sites

— In The Know Mom: Gear and Product Review Sites

— DrGreene: Medical Advice Sites

— Chic & Cheap Nursery: Nursery and Decor Sites

— It’s a Preemie Thing: Online Shopping Sites

— Happy Healthy Mom: Parenting Advice Sites

— Guncles Online: Parenting Blogger Sites

— BabyCenter: Pregnancy Sites

— Poshbrood: Travel and Vacation Sites