From prenatal yoga to grocery store runs, these maternity workout clothes will keep up with you

Maternity clothes have come a long way from the shapeless dresses and empire-waist tent tees that used to dominate the industry. Designers have realized that we mamas want to be comfortable, of course (duh), but aren’t always necessarily interested in covering all the way up. More fabric doesn’t always equal comfort. In fact, it can even mean feeling downright awkward. Instead, we’ve started rocking maternity workout clothes!

Whether you’re an avid athlete, dedicated gym-goer, or someone who just prefers a sporty vibe, activewear is a go-to! And that doesn’t have to stop once you’re expecting. Of course, with a doctor’s okay, prenatal exercise is hugely beneficial. Considering all the changes a pregnant body undergoes, staying strong, flexible, and energized matters a whole lot. But even if you’re not big on formal workouts and just prefer a daily hot girl walk, athleisure is the trend. It’s comfortable. It’s easy to mix-and-match. It’s ultra-layerable, seasonally versatile, and super cute if you know where to look. And it just so happens that you’re looking in the right place, right now. We’ve put together some fabulous on-trend maternity workout clothes that are both fashionable and functional. We even added some shoes and accessories, and your water bottle go-to list is right here!

Workout Wear

Ingrid + Isabel Active Rib Crop Top + Leggings

Adjustable crop top and matching leggings grow with you during your pregnancy and beyond.

Ingrid + Isabel Active Rib Crop Top ($64.00)—20% off with code ADVENTURE through 1/16—Buy Now

Ingrid + Isabel Active Leggings ($88.00)—20% off with code ADVENTURE through 1/16—Buy Now

Ingrid + Isabel Ribbed Full Length Bodysuit

With a zero-bulk under-the-bump seam and comfy straps, you can wear this to the gym or under a cardigan to run errands!

Ingrid + Isabel Ribbed Full Length Bodysuit—20% off with code ADVENTURE through 1/16—Buy Now

Ingrid + Isabel Active Side Zip Jacket

Thanks to the side zipper, you can adjust this jacket from bump to beyond. Choose from black (worn by Meghan Markle!) or ribbed neutral putty.

Ingrid + Isabel Active Side Zip Jacket ($88.00)—20% off with code ADVENTURE through 1/16—Buy Now

Ingrid + Isabel Cooling Longline Nursing Sports Bra

Extra support and nursing access? This sports bra is a winner in our book.

Ingrid + Isabel Cooling Longline Nursing Sports Bra—20% off with code ADVENTURE through 1/16—Buy Now

Maternity PowerChill Light Support Cross-Front Nursing Sports Bra

Super soft with removable pads, this one will stay in the rotation for sure.

Maternity PowerChill Light Support Cross-Front Nursing Sports Bra ($19.97)—Buy Now

Maternity UltraLite Rib-Knit Racerback Tank Top

From workout to weekend, you'll want to live in these tanks!

Maternity UltraLite Rib-Knit Racerback Tank Top ($8.97)—Buy Now

Maternity Sleeveless PowerSoft Performance Swing Dress

A little sweet, a little sassy, a little sweaty. This swing dress does it all.

Maternity Sleeveless PowerSoft Performance Swing Dress ($55.00)—Buy Now

Maternity Full Panel Leggings, Capris, & Biker Shorts 3-Pack

Everything you need in one set. Boom. Easy-peasy.

Maternity Full Panel Leggings, Capris, & Biker Shorts 3-Pack ($45.00)—Buy Now

Quince Tencel Jersey Maternity Lounge Joggers

We adore Quince for their ultra wallet-friendly and sustainable goodies, so these soft and relaxed Quince Tencel Jersey Maternity Lounge Joggers are one of our favorites!

Quince Tencel Jersey Maternity Lounge Joggers ($29.90)—Buy Now

Quince Ultra-Form Performance Maternity & Postpartum Leggings

These leggings from Quince are friendly for both over-the-bump and under-the-bump wearers, but the best part (other than the support and exceptional quality) is the pockets!

Quince Ultra-Form Performance Maternity & Postpartum Leggings ($29.90)—Buy Now

Quince SuperSoft Fleece Maternity & Nursing Hoodie

Quince's SuperSoft Fleece Hoodie is designed for both during your pregnancy and after. We're pretty sure you'll want to live in it!

Quince SuperSoft Fleece Maternity & Nursing Hoodie ($39.90)—Buy Now

GAP Maternity GapFit Wide Waistband 3.5" Running Shorts

We're loving the flat waistband since it keeps a smooth silhouette and adds support!

GAP Maternity GapFit Wide Waistband 3.5" Running Shorts ($29.00)—Buy Now

GAP Maternity Waffle Hoodie

This one is the perfect layering piece!

GAP Maternity Waffle Hoodie ($34.99)—Buy Now

GAP Maternity Recycled Under Belly 7/8 Power Leggings

For those of us who prefer an underbelly band, these leggings are perfect.

GAP Maternity Recycled Under Belly 7/8 Power Leggings ($59.95)—Buy Now

POSHDIVAH Maternity Yoga Shorts

Over-the-belly and featuring pockets (yes, pockets!), these are a fabulous addition to your comfy closet.

POSHDIVAH Maternity Yoga Shorts ($22.99)—Buy Now

GINKANA Maternity Half-Zip Pullover

The lightweight cotton fabrication of this pullover makes it easy to layer both over and under other pieces and comes in a ton of colors.

GINKANA Maternity Half-Zip Pullover ($20.99)—Buy Now

Smallshow Women's Maternity V-Neck Tops

What's better than one comfy maternity tee? Three comfy maternity tees!

Smallshow Women's Maternity V-Neck Tops ($36.99)—Buy Now

Kindred Bravely Louisa Maternity & Postpartum Support Leggings

These beauties are a Mom's Choice Awards Gold Winner, and the light compression and versatile style (from pregnancy to postpartum) proves why!

Kindred Bravely Louisa Maternity & Postpartum Support Leggings ($89.99)—Buy Now

Kindred Bravely Maternity & Postpartum Joggers

These all-season bamboo joggers are definitely ready for anything and we can't get enough of how comfy they are.

Kindred Bravely Maternity & Postpartum Joggers ($59.99)—Buy Now

Pregnancy-Friendly Workout Shoes

Kzik the Madrid Slip-On Sneakers

Kzik sneakers are designed for slipping on and going! No need to bend over your bump. Plus, they're incredibly comfortable and supportive.

Kzik the Madrid Slip-On Sneakers ($99.00)—Buy Now

Blowfish Malibu Angler Sneaker

These adorable slip ons from Blowfish Malibu can be paired with leggings, shorts, jeans, and even dresses!

Blowfish Malibu Angler Sneaker ($35.63)—Buy Now

Adidas Puremotion-Adapt Running Shoe

Slip these on and you're out the door in a snap! They're sporty and adorable, so they'll fast become faves.

Adidas Puremotion-Adapt Running Shoe ($37.49+)—Buy Now

UMYOGO Just So So Slip-On Sneakers

You've probably already seen the Just So So sneakers around, since they're trending like crazy. There are so many colors to choose from and extremely affordable, so you can have a pair for every mood!

UMYOGO Just So So Slip-On Sneakers ($39.99)—Buy Now

Skechers Women's Billion Slip On Sport Sneaker

These slip-on sneakers have a sock-like stretch fit, so they'll adjust with you (even through pregnancy swelling)!

Skechers Women's Billion Slip On Sport Sneaker ($59.99)—Buy Now

Rykä Ferocity Slip On Sneaker

Extra arch and heel support make these casual-meets-active sneakers such a great choice!

Rykä Ferocity Slip On Sneaker ($89.99)—Buy Now

Maternity Workout-Ready Accessories

NeoTech Care Pregnancy Support Belt

Even if you're not working out, this belly support band takes the pressure off your back and support your growing belly!

NeoTech Care Pregnancy Support Belt ($24.97)—Buy Now

Kindred Bravely Under-the-Bump Bikini Underwear (5-Pack)

These are incredibly comfortable and stretchy, plus the low-rise makes them perfect for postpartum recovery since they're designed to avoid irritating a c-section incision!

Kindred Bravely Under-the-Bump Bikini Underwear (5-Pack) ($34.99)—Buy Now

shortyLOVE boxer Backpack

Lightweight, convertible, and chock FULL of storage, the shortyLOVE boxer Backpack absolutely can't be beat. It even fits a full pair of shoes, tennis racquet, laptop...oh, and hello, chic baby bag with seriously luxe details.

shortyLOVE boxer Backpack ($288.00)—Buy Now

NatraCure Cold Therapy Socks

Pregnancy and postpartum foot swelling is no joke, and these reusable gel ice pack socks are the answer to sore feet, pregnant or not!

NatraCure Cold Therapy Socks ($24.99)—Buy Now

FridaMom Pregnancy Belly Band Tape

Discreet kinesiology tape is designed for pregnant skin, and the medical grade adhesive stays put for up to three days, even through showers.

FridaMom Pregnancy Belly Band Tape ($19.98)—Buy Now

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.

All images courtesy of retailers. 

Let’s just all agree—eggs are pretty amazing! They are surprisingly strong and you can use them to do all sorts of STEM activities to learn about osmosis, strength, air pressure and physics. Use your bounty of Easter eggs to try out some of these science experiments with eggs!

Walk on Eggs

Photo: S. Massey

How can you walk on eggs without breaking them? An egg’s unique shape gives it tremendous strength, despite its seeming fragility. 

Insider tip: if this science experiment has you in the mood for eggs, check out our list of the best egg-cellent egg recipes for kids

Make Eggs Magical

This “look ma, no hands, wires or mirrors” trick will get them every time; an egg being sucked into a jar while your little scientist delightedly looks on is always a hit. To perform this illusory feat, you’ll need a glass jar with an opening just smaller than an egg (think: old school milk jug) and a peeled, boiled egg. When you and your little scientist have checked these items off your list, it’s time to start the show. Mom or dad should toss a lit match into the glass jar, followed by your mini lab assistant, who’ll quickly set the egg over the opening. Abracadabra! Alakazam! The match dies out; the egg gets (seemingly) inexplicably sucked into the bottle. And just like that you’ve performed another bit of parent magic without breaking a sweat.

Why it works: The match uses up the air inside the bottle. Once that happens the pressure outside the bottle is greater and pushes the egg down into the bottle.

Squeeze an Egg

Science Sparks

You may have seen this science experiment with eggs make its way around TikTok this past summer with people trying to crush an egg with their biceps. You'll find the science behind it described on Science-Sparks and everyone will be cringing when little hands put the big squeeze on a fragile egg. Try as you might, that baby won’t break (until you crack it into a pan to make breakfast for dinner afterward). 

Brain Boost Factor: The egg’s shape is clearly stronger than it looks.

Disappearing Egg Shell

Go Science Kids

Can you and the kiddos solve the mysterious case of the disappearing egg shell? Following the simple how-to at Go Science Kids, you’ll learn the step-by-step and talking points about the process along the way. Warning! Although it’s totally non-toxic, toddler aged kids will be tempted to squeeze the egg at the end so keep an eye out!

Crystal Egg Geodes

This grow-your-own experiment that lets you grow crystals inside an egg shell. Be sure to get alum powder that contains potassium, or else you won't get any crystal growth. Adding drops of food dye to the growing solution yields some super cool crystals. A perfectly formed geode takes about 12-15 hours to grow, making this a great weekend project. Get the full scoop on how to do it from Learn to Grow.

The Egg Drop Challenge

If you have fond memories of building your own egg drop contraption for high school Physics class, this is a great one to share with the kids. They'll love learning all the science behind what can protect the egg and constructing their own egg drop contraption. Get the full scoop here

Eggs and Osmosis

Teach kids all about how liquids pass through semi-permeable membranes in this fun science experiment with eggs from the QuadSquad

Make a Folding Egg

Kids will love being able to bounce this egg between their hands and fold it up into their pocket during this egg science experiment. How does it work? Steve Spangler shows you in this video

—Taylor Clifton & Kate Loweth

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Today’s theme is: a time you were at your lowest and nobody knew.

This was Alex’s grade seven graduation day. We were beyond ecstatic. Alex did not enjoy elementary school for the most part. Grade seven was the exception. It was a perfect mix of a fantastic teacher, wonderful aide and a group of lovely kids who all made him feel comfortable and accepted.

The majority of the rest of his time there was hard on all of us. There were so many times when he resisted going. To the point of us having to pry his fingers off the doorframe to not be late.

We got a lot of calls, emails and daily reports about how he wasn’t able to do this or that. He wasn’t even able to just ‘be’ at school. It was disheartening and often traumatic, to say the least. This was a period of years when he had a lot of meltdowns. We were almost always on eggshells waiting for the next one to happen.

This graduation day started off great. We were so happy to be moving on while simultaneously anxious about what high school would bring. I pressed his clothes and helped him dress. I took a moment to admire my handsome boy in his new shirt and blazer that I had bought special for the occasion. He fidgeted a little but managed.

I proceeded to get myself ready and it all started to hit me. The auditorium would soon be filled with all the school staff, students and lots and lots of families. What if it’s all too much for him? What if he has an epic meltdown and we need to physically escort him out of there screaming and crying with all those eyes on us? My face got hot at the thought. All the memories from the past eight years came back. The thought of what if high school is no better?

My mind went down the rabbit hole, and before I knew it, I was breathing really shallow. I felt like I was suffocating. I started to sweat and tremble. I raced to the window and threw it open and stuck my head out for some fresh air, but it was already warm out so that didn’t help. I was having a full on panic attack. I realized it too which made me panic even more. Thankfully, I turned the cold water on and splashed my face and neck and it kind of snapped me out.

I then proceeded to bawl my eyes out and silently ask why everything has to be so hard and why can’t we just enjoy this day like everyone else? I took a few minutes to collect myself and reapply my now smeared makeup.

I didn’t tell anyone. We went to the graduation ceremony and ended up having one of the best days ever with Alex. He was happy and smiling and we got some amazing pictures. No meltdowns. Probably helped that we kept reminding him after that day that he would never have to go back and then we were getting a treat after, lol.

I remember sitting in that school auditorium, looking around at all the parents and thinking, “If you only knew what it took to get us here.”

This post originally appeared on The Autism Ride on Facebook.

Hi! My name is Laura and I'm a mom of two beautiful kids in Vancouver, Canada. I write a blog on Facebook called The Autism Ride, all about the ups and downs in life with our teenaged son on the spectrum.

Workouts look different for everyone these days, especially moms. Whether you’re back to hitting the gym, fast-strolling through your neighborhood, or dancing around the kitchen with your new babe, one thing that’ll help motivate you to move your body is a stellar playlist. Here are 25 songs to power your workout playlist. Who knows, one of these catchy tunes might just become your new sweat-sesh anthem!

To Get You Moving

iStock

Like laying out your workout clothes the night before, just creating a fitness playlist can make it easier to stick to a workout routine. So here's a list of songs that'll nudge you to lace those sneakers and spark your heart rate. 

  • "Motivation” by Normani
  • "Believer" by Imagine Dragons
  • "Electric Bodega Trap Remix" by Beyoncé
  • "Pressure (Alesso Remix)" by Nadia Ali, Starkillers and Alex Kenji 
  • "Feel That Fire" by Dierks Bentley
  • "Break Free" by Ariana Grande
  • "A Thousand Miles" by Vanessa Carlton
  • "You Know You Like It" by DJ Snake AlunaGeorge

 

To Keep You Dancing

iStock

As a busy, hardworking mom or mom-to-be, it's extra tough to find time in the day for a full workout. So instead, try squeezing in a dance session you can do anywhere at any time. These tunes will keep you grooving and your endorphins flowing. Sometimes all you need to do is shake it out! 

  • "Don't Stop the Music" by Rihanna
  • "Boom Boom Pow" by the Black Eyed Peas
  • "Leave the Door Open" by Bruno Mars
  • "Maniac" by Carpenter Brut & Yann Ligner
  • “Good As Hell” by Lizzo
  • "All I Want to Do" by Sugarland
  • "Still Cool" by Beka
  • "Can't Stop the Feeling" by Justin Timberlake

 

To Push Your Limits

Peloton

Fitness pros know that just the right song can push anyone through an intense workout. So add these go-to anthems that'll motivate you to keep going when you're dead-tired and ready to quit. 

  • "Level Up" by Ciara
  • "Don't Stop the Party" by Pitbull
  • "Survivor" by Destiny's Child
  • “Formation” by Beyoncé 
  • "Disco Inferno" by 50 Cent
  • “Jump” by Armin van Buuren & Van Halen
  • “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor
  • “Jumpman” by Drake & Future 
  • "Livin' on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi

—Aimee Della Bitta

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No time to hit the gym with the kids out of school for the summer? No problem! We’ve got a full-body workout at the playground. From park-bench dips to swing planks, there’s nothing like working out at the playground with the kids right in your line of sight! All moves can be modified to fit your fitness level, mama, and best of all, it’s free! Read on for our expert tips.

Plan the Workout

Colby Lindeman

Before lacing up and hitting the playground, it’s important to prep your workout. We asked Colby Lindeman, mom of two, physical trainer, and owner of Fit by Nature SLO, how long and how many circuits will do the trick. Check out her tips and a few favorite moves below.

Intervals are awesome because they work for any level of fitness—from beginners to pros. For beginners, opt for 30 seconds of work and 15 seconds rest, then either jump to the next exercise or repeat before moving on. If a challenge is needed, ramp it up to 45 seconds of work and 15 seconds rest. For a super-charged workout, try the Super Setting: alternate between two exercises, two times each for 45 seconds work, 15 seconds rest. Complete the full circuit two or three times depending on fitness level.

One of the coolest things about a playground circuit is the ability to mix it up and change the sequence whenever you need a challenge. Feel like doing more sprints? Go for it! Too many kids on the slide? Focus on your upper body instead! The flexibility is perfect for parents. The moves below can be arranged in any way, on any day.

Rope Climb: Biceps, Shoulders, Quads, Core

Stella Spagnello

Rope climbing is super popular in CrossFit; it really is a total body workout. If you see one, take the opportunity to climb up, jump down, climb up, and jump down for the interval time. This also works with a climbing bar, which you’ll find at most playgrounds.

Playground Kicks: Glutes Lift

Sonia Gandiaga

Start on a tabletop position and then lift one leg up at a ninety-degree angle, kick it up 20 times, and then alternate the other leg. For extra added difficulty, extend the opposite arm and work that balance and core strength!

Park Bench Dips: Triceps

Gabby Cullen

This move is a classic because it’s effective and can be done just about anywhere. Face outwards from the bench while keeping your knees at a 90-degree angle and arms straight; dip down until arms are parallel to the ground, then return to the starting position keeping your back straight and core tight; repeat for the allotted interval.

Bench Step-Ups: Cardio Blast

Sonia Gandiaga

Alternate legs as you climb up and down a bench. Continue moving along the bench as you alternate the climbs, and when you reach the end move along the opposite way.

Monkey Bar Crunch: Abs and Arms

Stacey Blackstone

Not only will you be using major upper-body strength hanging on the monkey bars, but your midriff will get in on the action too. After pulling your legs up from the ground, use your abs to bring your knees as close to your chest as possible before lowering your legs to slightly touch the ground. Lift and lower for the entire workout interval.

Swing Planks (optional alternating legs): Core

Sonia Gandiaga

There are several ways to do a swing plank. One option is to rest forearms on the swing with legs stretched out in a V, which provides more stability. Another option is to have legs in the swing seat, arms out on the ground in a pushup position, which allows for swing pikes and other core moves. A final, more challenging option is to keep arms in the swing seat and legs as straight as possible in the plank position for the entire interval. To add a little extra challenge, alternate legs as you keep the plank position and your core engaged.

Slide Climb: Biceps, Shoulders, Quads, Hamstrings

Stacey Blackstone

This move is best left for an early morning visit to the park when there aren’t a lot of little kids around! Firmly grab the side of the slide, then step by step, climb up to the top; this helps build agility as well as gives the shoulders, thighs, and core a great workout.

Playground Side Plank: Core, Glutes

Sonia Gandiaga

Another super effective move to work your core muscles is the side plank. You can start with your right knee down, right forearm on the floor and left arm extended towards the sky and hold for 15-20 seconds (and then the opposite arm and leg). When you are ready to lift both legs, you can stack the ankles, or if it’s a little easier you can also try to move your top foot in front of the back like in the picture above.

Playground Push-Ups: Chest, Shoulders, Triceps

Gabby Cullen

Start with arms out, keeping the body straight and weight on your toes, then bend elbows until your arms have hit a 90-degree angle, and then return to starting position. Repeat until the rest period.

Slide Lunges: Quads, Glutes

Stella Spagnello

Start with one foot balanced at the bottom of the slide. Place hands on your hips and bend your front leg until your knee has reached a 90-degree angle (don’t let knee stick out past toes), then slowly straighten your leg and return to starting position; continue movement until rest period. This move is great for your backside and legs, but be sure to keep an eye out for kiddos wanting to take their turn on the equipment.

Playground Wide Lunges: Quads, Glutes & Abs

Sonia Gandiaga

Wide lunges are great to build up core strength, and at the same time work out your quads and glutes. There are many variations like stepping on your tippy-toes as you move up and down or moving sideways to add some cardio and extra sweat to the routine (and make the most out of your time).

Park Perimeter Sprints: Cardio Burst

Gabby Cullen

This move is an easy cardio burst that’ll boost calorie burn. Simply sprint around the perimeter of the playground or to a designated spot and back for the duration of the interval.

Monkey Bar Legs Up & Down: Core Super Burn

Sonia Gandiaga

Grab onto the monkey bars and lift your legs to a 90-degree angle. Then move both legs at the same time down and back up again or alternate legs and even add a little twist to strengthen the side of your abs. It’s harder than it looks!

Swinging Criss Cross: Core

Sit on the swing, then lean back to a 45-degree angle. With your legs tight and toes pointed open legs to a V position, then criss-cross back and forth, calf over calf, while attempting to keep the swing as still as possible.

—Sonia Gandiaga & Gabby Cullen

Featured image: iStock 

 

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It’s the season of BBQs, beaches and epic games of fetch in the backyard. While people and pets enjoy having fun in the sun together, it’s important to take extra special care of your furry family member when it’s hot and humid. Here’s how to keep them cool, happy and safe.

Hill’s Pet helps families prepare for whatever their pet journey entails. See how Hill’s science-backed nutrition can give your best friend their best life.

Rework Your Walk Times

Dogs rely on panting and sweating through the bottoms of their paws to regulate body temperature and cool down. (FYI: They have fewer sweat glands than humans, which is why there’s no sweaty fur to contend with!) During hot summer months, take longer walks in the morning and evening when it’s cooler outside. Be sure to find some shady spots to stop for breaks along the way. Scale back rigorous outdoor exercise when the sun is blazing. Even if your pup loves to endlessly chase a tennis ball, don’t overdo it. Keep in mind that panting is not common for cats, so if you notice your kitty breathing heavier than usual, call your veterinarian.

Bring Water on-the-Go

Hydration is just as important for dogs as it is for people. Whether you’re strolling around the neighborhood or hanging out in a friend’s backyard, bring along water for your dog and offer it regularly. (Remember, Fido can’t exactly tell you, “I’m thirsty!). Portable dog water dispenser bottles and collapsible travel dog bowls are great options for easy water breaks on the go. Add a few ice cubes when possible.

And Speaking of Water…

Some pets love getting wet! Give your pup a refreshing mist with the hose when you’re watering the garden. When you set out the baby pool or turn on the sprinkler for your kiddos, don’t be surprised if your dog wants to get it on the action, too.

Hill’s Pet helps families prepare for whatever their pet journey entails. See how Hill’s science-backed nutrition can give your best friend their best life.

Never Leave Your Pet in a Parked Car

Keeping your pet in the car isn’t safe and can lead to discomfort, illness, and in worst cases—death. When a car is turned off, the temperature inside can rise to dangerous levels quickly. So run your errands solo, and leave your pet at home!

Get a Fresh Summer Cut

The dog equivalent of swapping sweaters for t-shirts is a summer haircut. Thick coats may make dogs feel hotter, faster. Your pooch will thank you for a trim from the groomer.

Protect Their Paws

Heading out for a walk is probably one of your pet’s favorite pastimes, but if the driveway or sidewalk is extra hot, it may cause injury to their paws. Check to see if the pavement is too toasty by pressing your fingertips on it for a few seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s not right for your dog either.

Know the Signs of Heatstroke

It’s possible for pets to become overheated and suffer from heatstroke if they’re exposed to too much heat and humidity. According to the Humane Society, some signs of heatstroke include heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, seizure and unconsciousness. The risk for heatstroke may depend on the animal’s age, weight, pre-existing illnesses, and breed. For example, boxers, pugs, shih tzus, and other dogs and cats with short muzzles will have a much harder time breathing in extreme heat. If you notice these signs, call your vet or head to an animal hospital immediately.

Hill’s Pet helps families prepare for whatever their pet journey entails. See how Hill’s science-backed nutrition can give your best friend their best life.

The other night I was watching one of my favorite shows, New Girl. If you haven’t seen it, it’s a hilarious show about four roommates living life as a family unit in California. In this particular episode, one of the roommates is cooking buttered bacon on the stove. An argument occurs, and he turns his back on the sizzling meat for a minute. Before the close pals know it, a grease fire starts. Chaos breaks out and one of them, thinking it will help, sprays water on the flames. That, of course, only makes things worse.

Have you ever wondered why you can’t put a grease fire out with water? The reason you can’t is that oil and water don’t mix. When water hits the grease, it causes the grease to splatter, which causes the fire to spread rapidly.

The picture of an unexpected, explosive grease fire is how I feel about parenting sometimes. I always mean well, but it doesn’t always end well. Unfortunately, my watery methods don’t always mix with my children’s sometimes oily troubles.

It reminds me of a time I was working as a Family Director at a local preschool. I opened the school at 6:30 a.m. every morning, and my children came with me. Although I worked at the preschool, my children didn’t attend this school during the day, so the bus would pick them up and take them to their public school every morning. On this particular morning, my then-seven-year-old child refused to get on the bus, and I was very frustrated. We were causing a scene in front of parents, students, and staff. I thought for sure that if I demanded and yelled that she gets on the bus, she would. Tough love, right? Wrong. It was an unexpected, explosive grease fire moment.

Amidst parents dropping their kids off at the preschool, she was crying, shouting, and stomping her feet. I was pointing at the door and was yelling for her to leave. All I kept wondering was why she wasn’t listening. I couldn’t help but feel I was a failure as a mom, and if I was a failure as a mom, I was certainly a failure as the school’s family director! Ugh. We didn’t know at that moment, but we both felt lost, embarrassed, and hurt at the same time.

Kids are resilient, and thankfully an explosive moment or fiery disagreement doesn’t mean you have ruined your children or that you’re a failure as a parent. However, after many moments like this one, I was wondering what I was doing wrong.

It wasn’t long after that a friend suggested we see a therapist. Although worry and shame filled my mind, we eventually took the advice. Guess what? It turned out my daughter wasn’t trying to spite me when she was acting up, and she wasn’t trying to cause trouble every day. After several sessions and evaluations, she was diagnosed with anxiety. (Insert mom guilt here!)

I have seen kids struggle with their mental health throughout my life, from siblings and students to my children. Each experience was unique, but there is something in common with every situation—the children always looked to adults to be the calming voice in their chaos. They are looking to caregivers to smother their fire, not increase the flames.

Laura Guarino-Youngfleisch MA, LMHC, is the clinical manager of children’s outreach health services at SalusCare, Inc. In an article, she said, “Every child deserves to be healthy both physically and mentally. You can help any child you know by ensuring that he or she gets the necessary services simply by noticing there is a problem and advocating on the child’s behalf.”

Parents—you, yes you, are your child’s most prominent advocate and best protector. So if there is more chaos than calm, and if you are having a hard time smothering fires, it’s time to reach for outside help. Help comes in all different ways. It can be a phone call to a trusted friend, an appointment with the school counselor, or a call to a professional therapist.

I know your palms may be sweating, and you may have a knot in your stomach at the thought of reaching out for help. You’d probably rather be watching New Girl than picking up the phone and make a call. Trust me, I’ve been there, but help is ok. It’s more than ok. It’s a gift to you and your child. As I learned through trial and error, outside help is the fire extinguisher solution.

This post originally appeared on www.jamieedelbrock.com.

Jamie is married to her high school sweetheart and has three beautiful daughters. Through years of experience working with children, and raising her own, she knows how difficult parenting can be. She is an advocate for children's mental health and is best known for her creativity, optimism, and kind heart.

Photo: Melanie Forstall

I never thought that I would drop my young daughter into a giant pool when she didn’t even know how to swim. Yet here we are.

Motherhood can be such a head trip because you are often forced to make really hard decisions and there are no real directions. I think we can all agree that children need to learn how to swim. There’s really no argument there, right? In order to raise a healthy family, our children must be safe around water.

While we may agree with that part of the equation, what happens when our children hate it? Do we just throw them into the water? In my case, yes.

Several years ago, when we put our oldest in swim lessons, we thought this was going to be an easy process. She could not wait to start! Each day after school she would ask about swim class. We prepped with everything in her favorite color—green! Green suits, green goggles, and green flip flops! She was giddy with anticipation!

The day finally arrived.

Up until the point of actually getting into the water, the first day was great! Our teacher motioned to us that it was time to get in. Standing at the edge of the pool, I felt my child start to freeze. Understand, I was eight months pregnant with our second child, so wrestling a toddler on the edge of a pool was not something was I prepared for, or could gracefully manage. “Mommy, I don’t want to go,” she said as she tried to become one with my legs.

Her grip grew tighter and I could see her start to swell with tears. She began doing circles around me—hiding behind my swollen belly.

I look down at her precious swim teacher, who was about college-age, and asked what I should do. She shrugged her shoulders. But my eyes were pleading with the teacher to give me some direction, some answer as to how to make this work. Fantasy negotiations do not work with my child. Telling her that Minnie Mouse is in the pool will not work. Ever. She knows way better than that.

At some point during my stress, sweating, and balancing my very pregnant body on the edge of the pool I cracked my own internal whip. “Melanie! Get your sh*t together! She has to get in the water! Quit relying on the swim teacher to solve your parenting dilemma!”

In order for her to ever learn to swim, she has to get in the water. I did what I never thought I would or could do! I stood there, at the edge of the pool and dropped my crying child into the pool, into the hands of a stranger.

Oh, dear God, what have I done?

As parents, my husband and I balance each other out quite well. If it were up to him, he would have certainly taken her out of the pool area after ten minutes. Sometimes his way is better, sometimes it’s mine. But in this instance, we followed my lead.

Her lesson began and we could see her face was still a bit red and blotchy. I watched my husband as he paced the deck. All of his belongings next to me—wallet, phone, keys—all in the event he had to jump in and rescue her.

What seemed like four hours later, her lesson was done. Having her back on dry land was a relief to all of us. We hugged and celebrated how well she did. I asked her if she had fun and she answered with a resounding, “Yes!”

Really? I thought she looked totally miserable! On the way home, I asked her if she wanted to go back and she said that she didn’t. However, not going back wasn’t an option, so I rephrased my question into a statement. “Well, we are going back.” We were at a stoplight and I watched her in my rear-view mirror. She turned her head, thinking, then looked at me. “Mom, I can go back. I think I will be fine.”

The next lesson arrived and I wasn’t sure what it would be like so I did my best to hide my worry. We sat on the bleachers together enjoying a few goldfish before being summoned into the deep. At the time we saw the call from our teacher, our daughter happily took off her flip-flops and said, “See, Mommy, I’m not scared anymore!”

Overwhelmed with pride I helped her step right into the water and sit happily on the water bench. Throughout the lesson, she would look back at us for reassurance. My husband gave several thumbs-up and I smiled and waved. As she floated with her teacher across the pool, 25 yards away from us I said to my husband, “Well, she was right. She said she would be fine and she is.”

So even at three, our kids sometimes know more than we sometimes ever realize. I’m amazed and proud—of all of us! When I think about what life hands us as parents, it becomes clearer to me every day that it’s not always parents teaching children. Sometimes it’s all of us learning and growing together.

Now if we can just get her to put her face in the water.

Feature image via iStock

Melanie Forstall is a full-time mother, full-time wife, full-time teacher, and never-enough-time blogger at Melanie Forstall: Stories of Life, Love, and Mothering. She holds a doctorate in education and yet those many years of schooling have proved to be utterly useless when it comes to actual mothering.

Plain pancakes are so 2020. We’ve got an exciting development in the breakfast world for the unicorn lovers in your life.

It’s CucinaPro’s Mini Unicorn Pancake Pan and it deserves a spot on your kitchen shelves! Not only does the pan pump out hotcakes printed with unique hooved designs, it also cooks up to seven pancakes at once, so you can feed a crowd without breaking a sweat.

Unicorn Pancake

As a bonus, it’s nonstick, so it might even save enough time to break out on a weekday. All you have to do is prepare your favorite pancake mix and you’re in business to level up breakfast.

You can buy your own pan on Amazon for $24.95. It’s earned Amazon’s Choice for being highly rated, well-priced, and available to ship immediately. If unicorns aren’t a hit in your household, CucinaPro also offers the option for zoo animals or cars and trucks. Almost—but not quite—too cute to eat.

––Sarah Shebek

All images courtesy of Amazon 

 

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Your kiddos fave podcasters have been busy! Wow in the World’s Mindy Thomas and Guy Raz have just dropped a brand new book and it’s all about the human body.

Wow in the World: The How and Wow of the Human Body takes readers on a super illustrated journey through the body. With hilarious facts that cover everything from your toes to your tongues, kids and parents alike will forget they’re actually learning as they dig deep into this new read.

photo: HMH Books for Young Readers

Have you ever wondered “WHY in the world do I have a belly button? And WHAT in the world does it do?” These are just the sort of questions Thomas and Raz cover in their book that showcases just how “full of mystery, and wonder, and WOW” the human body is.

Wow in the World: The How and Wow of the Human Body features facts, jokes, photos, quizzes and Wow-To experiments. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to know more about the brain, belly button, barfing, scabs, sweat and poop––because let’s be honest, the body can be pretty gross.

Need a copy now? Wow in the World: The How and Wow of the Human Body is available for purchase on Amazon for $17.99.

––Karly Wood

 

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