POPSUGAR Family

The 9 Best Car Seats, According to Experts and Parents

Genevieve Farrell — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 16:55:02 -0800

When it comes to infant and toddler safety, parents invest a ton of time researching the best gear. For car seats, the decision making process can be overwhelming. Becoming familiar with top brands, safety standards, and recall history are just some of the steps people take prior to making big purchase decisions. Sifting through the options can feel endless so we consulted experts to help you find the best car seat to keep your little one safe and protected.

Also, there is a training and certification, Nationally Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, that provides in-depth education on car seat safety. And Consumer Reports (the non-profit consumer organization dedicated to independent product testing) released its guide for the best car seats based on extensive testing from its engineers. The organization simulated crash tests and fit tests, ranking seats for ease of use, fit, crash protection, weight range, and more. As a mom of two children, I've also been able to put car seats to the test to find the ones that work best for my family.

Experts Featured in This Article

Michelle Pratt is a Nationally Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician and founder of Safe in the Seat.

Karen Reardanz is a baby products and registry expert at Babylist.

Sarah Tilton is a child passenger safety technician instructor and Director of Compliance and Advocacy at Britax.

Jennifer Saxton founder and CEO of Totsquat.

What is an Infant Car Seat?

Designed for newborns, this is a rear-facing car seat. It can be used "on average, 6-15 months" according to Michelle Pratt, Nationally Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician and founder of Safe in the Seat. While they can only be used for a seemingly short amount of time, they offer convenience. "They are easily removable while the baby stays strapped in," says Pratt. "[The seat] clicks into a car seat base or can be installed baseless and seamlessly snaps into stroller travel systems." Most parents start with this car seat says Karen Reardanz, baby products and registry expert at Babylist, emphasizing that 80% of Babylist parents register for an infant car seat.

What is a Convertible Car Seat?

This is the longest car seat stage, which Pratt shares is "from around 6 to 12 months, until the child reaches the average age of 6 years." A child will start facing the rear of the car until they reach one of the car seat's rear-facing limits and then they'll move to forward-facing in this seat. It is designed to stay installed inside the vehicle.

What is an All-in-One Car Seat?

These convertible car seats can be used from infant to booster. Yes, the same car seat you use to bring your newborn home could also be used to take your 10 year old to baseball practice. "While infant car seats are rear-facing only, an all-in-one converts from rear-facing mode to a forward-facing seat and eventually to a belt-positioning booster seat to accommodate every age and stage," says Sarah Tilton, a child passenger safety technician instructor and Director of Compliance and Advocacy at Britax.

What is a Booster Seat?

Boosters are used by children age five to ten years old. The vehicle seat belt is used to secure the child. The child "is now in charge of their own safety since they are no longer harnessed and can move their body," says Pratt. "That requires a lot of maturity." She recommends a "child maxes out the limits of their forward-facing, harnessed car seat before moving to this stage."

17 Unique Kids Gifts, From Candy-Making Kits to Fort-Building Sets

Emily Shiffer — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 16:10:02 -0800

Finding the perfect present for kids can be tricky, whether you're shopping for a 4-year-old or your favorite teens. You want it to be special and something that resonates with their hobbies. More importantly, you want them to actually use it - which puts some added pressure on you as the gift buyer.

Another obstacle? Shopping for kids who seemingly have everything. What do you get them? In this case, finding an uber-unique gift that will knock their socks off is key. Being thoughtful is what matters most - and having an eye for the uncommon won't hurt. Sometimes, nostalgia and integrating in gifts that you loved as a kid is a great place to start. (And this list has lots of that!)

An added bonus: there are tons of affordable options. Most of the gifts on this list are under $100. We found a range of tech gifts, crafts, decor finds, and so much more. These unique gifts will bring a smile to any kid's face this holiday season - even if you think they already have everything. Keep reading to shop our top gifts for kids ahead.

Best gift for candy-lovers: Thames & Kosmos Rainbow Gummy Candy Lab at $12, originally $20
Best gift for decorating enthusiasts: Butterfly LED Lights at $14, originally $16
Best subscription box gift: KiwiCo Kiwi Crate at $19, originally $30
Best slime kit gift: Stationery Ice Cream Slime Kit at $28
Best gift for budding photographers: Anchioo Instant Camera at $28, originally $40
Best night light gift: Jambo Magma Lamp at $33, originally $40
Best gift for aspiring skaters: Metroller Roller Skates at $33, originally $36
Best gift for movement-seeking kids: Gotrax KS1 Kids Kick Scooter at $32, originally $38
Best gift for the kid who likes to be cozy: The Comfy Original Jr for Kids Oversized Sherpa Fleece Wearable Blanket at $33, originally $53
Best gift for future geologists: National Geographic Break Open 5 Jumbo Geodes Earth Science Kit at $32, originally $40
Best gift for LEGO beginners: LEGO Classic Large Creative Brick Box 10698 Building Set at $39, originally $60
Best kit for fort-builders: National Geographic Creative Indoor Fort Building Kit at $55, originally $73
Best gift for crafty kids: Sculpd Home Pottery Kit with Paints at $65
Best gift for future engineers: MAGNA-TILES Classic 100-Piece Magnetic Construction Set at $120
Best gift for Marvel fans: Echo Dot with Limited Edition Marvel Iron Man Stand at $60, originally $90
Best gift for gamers: Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini HyperSpeed Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard at $130, originally $200
Best splurge gift for gamers: PlayStation 5 Console at $549, originally $550

The Best Toys and Gifts For 5-Year-Olds That Won't Disappoint

Genevieve Farrell — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 16:50:02 -0800

The 5-year-old, aka kindergartener, on your list is now a little kid, and you want to get them the best toys for the holidays or the perfect birthday gifts. When kids move into kindergarten, they start expressing themselves more than ever, and it's the perfect chance for gift givers to find unique presents that match their interests. From learning-to-read activities and practical gifts to a foldable scooter and educational toys, there's something on this list for every 5-year-old child you know. You may feel a bit nostalgic as you peruse this list.

As a mom and aunt, I've watched my children and nieces try out countless toys. These are the ones that capture their attention and are sure to be used in heavy rotation. This list includes mainly affordable options under $100, as well as a few splurge-worthy gifts that are durable enough to be passed down between children and families. Keep shopping our favorite toys and gift ideas for the 5-year-old on your list.

15 Last Minute Gifts 16-Year-Olds Won't Return, According to an Actual Teen

Anvita Reddy — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 13:25:02 -0800

Teens get a bad rap for being moody and hard to please, but holiday shopping for the 16-year-old in your life doesn't need to be agonizing; all you really need to do to put a smile on their face is to lean into their personal passions and sense of style. That being said, if your birth year begins with a 19, there's a chance that the teen you know will think your taste is cheugy. So, when it came time to curate our list of the best gifts for 16-year-olds, we made sure to check in with some actual teens.

To make sure we're picking the right items that a teenager would actually appreciate, we talked to Lila, age 17, a high school senior living in New York, who's a foodie, reader, and loves a good beauty product. She also loves math, economics, and biology. Here, Lila gives us insight into 2025's hottest products. In addition to Lila's must haves, she and other teens have also vetted every item you'll find below, which include top tech picks for teens (like the Nintendo Switch), the best in beauty (PS editors also can't get enough of the Hey Dewy Portable Cool Mist Humidifier), and some covetable fashion finds.

The Best Gifts For Teens

For the teen who loves masks: Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask at $19
Best gift for the lip balm-obsessed teen: Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Hydrating Peptide Lip Treatment at $23
Best gift for teens who love photography: Fujifilm Fujicolor QuickSnap Flash 400 35mm Camera at $26, originally $30
Best emotional support water bottle for teens: Owala FreeSip Stainless Steel Water Bottle at $30
Best thermal brush for teens: Wavytalk Thermal Brush at $47, originally $60
Best self-care gift for teens: Hey Dewy Portable Cool Mist Humidifier at $48, originally $60
Best personalized gift for teens: BaubleBar All the Beige iPhone Case at $75
Best cozy gift for teens: Ugg Discoquette Slide Slipper at $75, originally $110
Best fashion gift for teens: JW Pei Mini Flap Crossbody at $80
Best denim gift for teens: Levi's 501 Original Cropped Jeans at $98
Best jewelry gift for teens: Astrid & Miyu Cosmic Star Dome Hoops in Gold at $78, originally $105
Best comfy hoodie for teens: Lululemon Scuba Oversized Half-Zip Hoodie at $128
Best headphones for teens: Apple AirPods Pro at $139, originally $249
Best gift for the teen music lover: Marshall Emberton III Bluetooth Portable Speaker at $180
Best gift for the teen gamer: Nintendo Switch 2 System at $449

How We Choose the Best Gifts For Teens

We test tons of new products every year, but these made the cut for their quality, style, and how much teens actually love them. Here's how we narrow things down:

Start with what teens really want: We talk to teens from all walks of life to learn what fits their passions and personalities.
Test for quality and durability: We put each product through use to make sure it can keep up with a teen's active lifestyle.
Check if it's on-trend: Gifts have to feel fresh and relevant to today's teen culture, whether that's tech, fashion, or beauty.
Make sure it's safe and easy to use: We prioritize items that are age appropriate.
Consider the value: We weigh features against price to find gifts that deliver real bang for their buck.
Get expert input: Specialists in tech, skin care, fashion, and more help us make good recommendations.

Update on December 4, 2025 at 4:00 PM ET: Updated prices, checked stock for all products, and added a thermal brush and cozy slippers.

Yes, "Postpartum Pet Aversion" Is Real - Here's How to Avoid It

Taylor Andrews — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 06:00:03 -0800

While there are many joys that come with having a baby, for some new parents, having a pet at home is not one of them. "If you disliked your pets after having a baby, when did you start to like them again?" wrote one Reddit user in a thread. In a different thread, another user asked, "Hate my dog after birth?? Is this normal??"

Otherwise referred to as "postpartum pet aversion," this is what happens when new parents experience a shift in their relationship with their pets after having a baby. But because having a child can be a difficult transition for everyone - including the pet owner and pet - it's important for parents to navigate these new changes with empathy and grace.

To help provide some clarity as to why you may feel more annoyed or frustrated with your dog or cat after having a baby and what you can do to manage these feelings, experts weigh in below.

Experts Featured in This Article

Kathryn Dench, DVM, is a veterinarian and chief veterinary advisor at Paw Origins.

Jessica Freedman is a dog trainer at Sublime K9 Dog Training.

Why Do I Hate My Pet After Having a Baby?

It's possible you are experiencing postpartum pet aversion and feeling more frustrated with your pet after having a baby because they started exhibiting bad behavior. Pets are very sensitive to changes in the household, says veterinarian Dr. Kathryn Dench.

Dog trainer Jessica Freedman adds that many new parents don't realize that pets need an adjustment period when acclimating to kids. "[New parents] think the dog will just willingly accept the new crying human without any type of behavior change," Freedman says. And this isn't always the case.

For that reason, when a baby is brought home, a pet may "act out due to less attention, disrupted routines, or jealousy," Dr. Dench explains. "This can manifest as behavioral issues, such as excessive barking, chewing, or even accidents inside the house." This, of course, could unleash some mom rage.

It's also possible that you simply feel more irritable. Most new parents are focusing their energy on their baby, which often leaves them more anxious, tired, and busy. When a parent is already feeling tired or stressed, it's harder for them to have patience or give their pet the attention they want.

Fortunately, acknowledging you may be feeling this way is a good sign, and there are things you can do to manage these feelings.

What to Do If You Are Experiencing Postpartum Pet Aversion

Get back into a routine. "Dogs thrive on predictability, and keeping their feeding, walking, and playtimes regular can help mitigate anxiety-induced behaviors," Dr. Dench says. In other words, try to maintain a consistent routine for your pet where they're walking and feeding at the same times each day.

"In the same way you have to adjust to your new life, so does your pup."

Spend some quality time together. Even if it's not for a long time, playing fetch, cuddling, or taking your furry friend on a car ride could be all they need to feel reassured. "Quality time can significantly help in reassuring your pet of their place in your family and reducing feelings of neglect or jealousy," Dr. Dench says.

Encourage safe interactions with your pet and child. Start by introducing your pet to the new baby with short and supervised interactions, Dr. Dench recommends. "This helps in building a positive association and comfort level between your pet and the baby, laying the foundation for a strong bond." It's also important to give positive reinforcement when your dog behaves calmly around the baby. You can do this verbally by saying "good boy (or girl)" or giving your dog a treat.

Hire a dog trainer. "They can offer tailored strategies to manage specific issues and improve the overall dynamic between your pet and the new baby," Dr. Dench says. While Freedman says it's best if families reach out for training before having the baby, there are still options for those looking for help and guidance afterward.

Bottom line: we get it. Raising a child while your pet is acting out is not a task for the weak. But in the same way you have to adjust to your new life, so does your pup. By implementing these strategies in your day-to-day routine, you (and your dog) will feel better in no time.

Taylor Andrews is the senior balance editor at PS, specializing in topics relating to sex, relationships, dating, sexual health, mental health, travel, and more. With eight years of editorial experience, Taylor has a strong background in content creation and storytelling. Prior to joining PS in 2021, she worked at Cosmopolitan.

Amid Rising Costs, Parents Are Overcoming the Stigma of Secondhand

Andi Breitowich — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 06:00:02 -0800

Life is generally expensive (yes, we are feeling the impact of tariffs), but the cost of being a parent is on another level. According to BabyCenter, the first-year cost of raising a baby is roughly $20,384, though expenses fluctuate depending on the state, and kids tend to get more expensive as they grow up. As for specific, higher-end items, which increase baseline cost, the fan-favorite Uppababy Vista V3 stroller is nearly $1,200 (not including tax), a chic Babyletto crib ranges between $500 and $800, and the beloved BabyBjörn bouncer is at least $210, though if you want it in a fun pattern or color, you better be ready to pay more.

Those costs already warrant serious sticker shock, but unfortunately, prices only continue to skyrocket thanks to lingering supply-chain issues, increased demand, labor shortages, inflation, and now, the tariffs. So how do parents keep up with the hefty price tags? It's not easy in a world crowded by overconsumption, but recently, secondhand baby and kid gear is getting a bit of a rebrand.

First, Babylist announced a new secondhand fund feature allowing friends and family to donate to a fund that can be used at secondhand retailers of the parent's choosing. There's also way more pride in thrift shopping, with online parent content creators like Natalie Joy and Kerry Daehn proudly sharing the finds they've thrifted for their kids and family.

On top of that, we're officially in the booming era of buy-nothing groups on Facebook: location-based online forums where members can give and receive items for free or at a seriously discounted price. In these groups, loyal members scour the feed to snag their neighbors' unwanted, secondhand items. In a sense, buy-nothing groups fight off any secondhand stigma by echoing the proverb that one man's trash is another man's treasure.

"I'm eight months pregnant with my first child, and I have outfitted my entire nursery exclusively secondhand through buy-nothing groups and Facebook Marketplace," expecting mom Andra tells PS. "Baby items are so fleeting, since they outgrow onesies and bassinets and car seats so quickly, so I'd much rather tap into a secondhand marketplace to reduce waste and save money."

"I have outfitted my entire nursery exclusively secondhand through buy-nothing groups and Facebook Marketplace."

You also never really know what your baby is going to actually like or use, so splurging on costly furniture and newborn equipment doesn't always pay off. "I got a brand new Babyletto crib for $250 because the person I bought it from ended up only cosleeping with their child, so the crib was literally never slept in," Andra says. She also scored a barely used Uppababy stroller and bassinet attachment for $400 total, which again, usually retails for at least triple that price.

Chris, a dad of two, found his daughter's bike for free in a buy-nothing group. (The bike would have typically retailed between $150 and $300 if he bought it directly off the shelf.) In his eyes, the bike was new to his daughter, so it didn't matter if there was a little wear and tear from the previous owner.

In addition to those big-ticket items, many parents also prioritize secondhand resources for kids' clothes, toys, books, and gifts. This especially rings true for Chris, who does his best to purchase as few new things as possible. "If I had to guess, my family has probably saved at least $10,000 from shopping secondhand," he says. "My wife and I are very active in our local buy-nothing group and regularly go to community sale events where we've scored Christmas and birthday gifts, boxes of books, stuffed animals, indoor play mats, and tons of clothes for free or just a few bucks."

After all, kids tend to outgrow clothes faster than you can wash them. In fact, another mom, Laura, has found that most of the clothes she's thrifted for her two sons are in perfect condition. Some even still have the tags on them. "I've gotten entire bags of practically new kid's clothes for free through my local buy-nothing group and they're usually given away by size, which is really convenient," she tells PS. "I've focused on secondhand shopping since 2016, but it's especially great now that my boys love to rip holes all down the knees of their pants and I know a new, more expensive pair would get stained or ripped immediately."

But aside from the financial benefit, secondhand items are also much more sustainable. For Lauren, cutting back on waste is the driving factor for her secondhand endeavors and love of hand-me-downs. "There is so much excess stuff out there, so I started prioritizing secondhand and vintage items even before I had kids," she says. "Fashion and trend culture can be so wasteful, and at the end of the day, it's not always necessary to buy something new when you can usually source it gently used."

Andra agrees, "We're taught that we constantly need more in order to keep up with the latest trends, but that leads to a lot of unnecessary stuff and excess clutter," she says. For apparel alone, there's currently enough clothing on the planet for the next six generations, according to CALPIRG. The production of those clothes also emits roughly 2.1 billion tons of greenhouse gas into the environment, ultimately expediting climate change and fueling global warming.

Those stats are undoubtedly alarming, but leaning into the secondhand way of life can help offset the environmental toll of consumerism. Not only does it reduce the demand for new production, but it decreases the number of perfectly good items that would otherwise end up in the landfill.

That said, while the buy-nothing movement is gaining traction for good reason, it's important to note that shopping secondhand takes time and patience. "There's no instant gratification when it comes to secondhand shopping," Andra says. "It's not Amazon Prime, so the things you may want or need aren't guaranteed to show up on your doorstep the next day." In preparation for her baby, Andra began curating the nursery months in advance to accommodate the lengthy process of finding specific pieces on the secondhand market.

For many parents, there's a thrill in scoring a big-ticket item for free or at a deeply discounted rate, but Lauren also acknowledges there's an element of "thrift privilege" that comes with it. It's not lost on her that having the time, resources, and ability to choose the secondhand way of life is a luxury, but her goal is to pass along those same items she found secondhand in equally good condition for another family to use and enjoy.

At the end of the day, purchasing new items for your family is in no way frowned upon. The intention of buy-nothing parents is to simply reduce waste, protect the environment, and give their wallets a slight break from the pricey reality of raising children in today's world. "I didn't grow up in a family that utilized thrift stores and the secondhand market, but now, I can't imagine a life without it," Chris says. "There's a lot of gold to be found out there."

Andi Breitowich is a Chicago-based freelance writer and graduate from Emory University and Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism. Her work has appeared in PS, Women's Health, Cosmopolitan, and elsewhere.

Chrissy Teigen's Favorite PJ Brand Just Launched Its Best Holiday Collection Yet

Marisa Petrarca — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 12:40:02 -0700

Chrissy Teigen's family has long been a fan of Little Sleepies, and honestly, same. Since becoming a mom, matching family pajamas have taken on a whole new level of joy. The same goes for dressing my six-month-old in holiday-themed outfits - my drawer full of festive pieces for every occasion can attest to that. So you can imagine my excitement when the ultra-soft pajama brand that makes sizes for the entire family (yes, even the dog) dropped its new holiday collection. I actually blocked off time in my calendar just to scroll and noodle about what to order.

This year's holiday collection feels like a full-on celebration of cozy season. The brand rolled out a mix of brand-new designs and nostalgic favorites that were made for matching photo ops: Twinkling Trees, Festive Fair Isle, Holly Plaid, Cookies for Santa, Christmas Village, Hanukkah, and more. Through the Holiday Family Matching Bundler, you can mix and match over 14 prints and solids to create your own festive lineup. And if you add an adult top and bottom to your cart, you'll automatically get 20 percent off, which, IMO, feels like permission to go ahead and grab that second (or third) pajama set you've been eyeing. I personally have my eye on the Holly Plaid Zippy for my son, the Holly Plaid Pajama Set ($78) for me, the Holly Plaid Men's Pajama Pants ($38) and matching Holly Plaid Men's Pajama Top ($38) for my husband, and finally, the Holly Plaid Pet Bandana ($14) for my corgi.

If your family tradition is more movie marathon than formal photo op, the Disney Pixar Christmas Village collection is where it's at. It's cozy-core perfection with matching PJs for everyone (including the four-legged members of the family) that practically demand a popcorn bowl and hot chocolate. It also makes the perfect family gift idea: surprise everyone with matching sets, queue up the corresponding Pixar film, and prepare to claim the title of guardian of the damn season. The brand didn't stop at pajamas this season, either. This collection includes coordinating accessories that crank up the cuteness even more. The Woody Lovey ($30), Christmas Village Fitted Crib Sheet ($46), and Christmas Village Large Cloud Blanket ($80) are the three I'm particularly losing it over.

So whether you're planning this year's holiday card or simply thinking about how to make the season feel special, Little Sleepies is an obvious choice. One look at the collection and you'll see why Teigen's family - and mine - can't get enough.

Marisa Petrarca (she/her) is a contributing editor for PS Shopping and has over seven years of experience writing and editing beauty, fashion, and lifestyle content. She was previously the senior beauty editor at Grazia USA and the style and beauty editor at Us Weekly. Now freelancing, her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Allure, Marie Claire, and more.

100 Beautiful Baby Names With Meaning

Alessia Santoro — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 06:05:01 -0700

For many parents, picking out a meaningful baby name is an exciting step in preparing to have a child. Whether you go for something traditional, or a baby name that's more unique, it's one of the first major decisions you'll make as a new parent. That coupled with the fact that your child will likely be called this name for their entire life means you'll want to pick wisely. That's where we come in.

It's not always easy sorting through baby name meanings and deciding which will be the best for your new little one, so we did it for you. We've rounded up a list of some of the most meaningful baby names for girls and the most meaningful baby names for boys.

As you sort through the list, keep in mind that you not only want something that flows with your last name, but you'll want to also avoid a baby name that has an unintentional double entendre meaning. (No one wants to be named the same thing as some random French laxative.) Many also have deep (and sometimes surprising) religious meanings, so if that's not your thing, take note.

Once you've settled on a few options to decide between, you're one step closer to adorning your little one with the most beautiful name ever.

I Have "Sleep Supportive Family" Trauma, but I'm Trying to Nap Anyway

Taylor Andrews — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 10:00:02 -0700

I was today years old when I learned I don't come from a "sleep supportive family." As Dana Joy Seigelstein describes it in her now viral TikTok video, a sleep supportive family is when the loved ones in your life encourage sleep. They don't care if you take naps throughout the day, and they suggest you go to bed early or sleep in on the weekend if you're not feeling well.

Despite the fact that I come from a very loving "living room family" that supported me through school, sports, and my expensive Limited Too phase, let's just say my parents and siblings weren't the most sleep supportive. What do I mean by that? No naps allowed. Ever. This wasn't a rule ever said out loud, per say, but it was definitely implied, especially on the weekends.

If I so much as closed my eyes on the couch or spent a few extra minutes in my bedroom alone, I would have to endure passive-aggressive comments from my sisters for the rest of the day like, "Good morning, princess" or "Oh, are you done being lazy?" My parents would also decide that if I had enough time in the day to take a nap, I would have enough time to complete a new chore when I woke up. How fun!

@danajoyseigelstein ♬ original sound - danajoyseigelstein

As a result, I basically got trained out of napping altogether. And to this day, I physically can't fall asleep in the middle of the day no matter how exhausted I am. Meanwhile, my boyfriend can snooze whenever, wherever - a result I'd imagine comes from him being raised in a sleep supportive family.

Naps weren't the only issue in my household, though: sleeping in was also not recommended. (Again, never a rule said out loud, but always implied. I'm sensing a theme here.) If I slept in too late, I'd wake up to different people taking turns poking their head into my room to see what I was doing - not in a loving, "Hey, I'm checking in on you way" but in a "Why are you still sleeping?" way.

No one in my family ever got mad necessarily, but I definitely always had a larger list of things to do when I slept in a little later than usual. So what did I do? I stopped sleeping in entirely and became a morning person. Though I love being a morning person now in adulthood, it's definitely by way of trauma and not because I learned to love being a morning person on my own.

That said, my family has never been completely non-sleep supportive. They didn't enforce a strict bedtime, and if I wasn't feeling well, they would let me stay home from school with no questions asked. In their own way, that was them being sleep supportive, which I appreciate.

But now that I'm an adult, I've started to reframe what sleeping in looks like for me. And though I can't sleep in as late as I want to (largely thanks to a dog that demands to be let out every morning at 7:30 a.m.), I still go back to bed and close my eyes afterward. Can I fall back asleep? No. But I can quiet my mind knowing that I give myself permission to lie in bed for as long as I want with no extra chores to wake up to.

And when it's time for future me to have children and be a mom, I plan on breaking the cycle. My kids will know the joy of sleeping in on Saturdays without being woken up to mow the lawn or do the dishes. Most importantly though, every nap will be celebrated.

Taylor Andrews is the senior balance editor at Popsugar, specializing in topics relating to sex, relationships, dating, sexual health, mental health, travel, and more. With eight years of editorial experience, Taylor has a strong background in content creation and storytelling. Prior to joining PS in 2021, she worked at Cosmopolitan.

25 Baby Essentials on Sale at Amazon That Parents Say Are Lifesavers

Marisa Petrarca — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 12:45:02 -0700

Whether you're a new mom or have a baby on the way, we're guessing you've landed on this article because you're searching for the best of the best baby gear to add to your baby shower registry or swiftly add to your virtual shopping cart to use stat. Whatever the case, it's no secret that there's an overwhelming number of options to choose from, and it can be challenging to know where to begin. To provide some assistance, we've curated a selection of top-tier baby products available on Amazon, which, as you probably already know, can deliver to your doorstep in 48 hours or less. Even better? The retailer is currently hosting the Amazon September Baby Sale, meaning now's the perfect time to score deals on so many must haves.

If you're searching for some travel and on-the-go baby necessities, we found some of the best diaper bags, a lightweight stroller, and an ergonomic, convertible baby carrier. If your little one is starting to teethe, we uncovered a hand teether shaped like a giraffe that's just too cute, along with a play mat full of hanging toys to promote sensory play. So, what are you waiting for? Shop the 25 best baby products from Amazon's September Baby Sale now.

How a Postnatal Retreat Helped Me Transition Into Motherhood

Mariann Yip — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 12:50:01 -0700

I have now been a mom for a little over a year - and looking back at my journey, the best decision I made for my mental health was going to a postpartum care center.

Heading into my third trimester, I was scared. I didn't know what to expect in the delivery room, so I spent hours researching the labor process - what did contractions feel like and how would I get through them? While poring over baby blogs, I also kept reading about postpartum depression and baby blues and became worried about what life would be like after giving birth. I had family living nearby and was grateful that I knew I'd be able to lean on them for support, but that alone didn't ease my anxiety.

Then I was introduced to Boram. Founded in 2022, Boram is a postnatal retreat designed to help new parents build a strong postpartum foundation by offering coaching sessions on topics like infant soothing, swaddling, coping with postpartum depression or anxiety, and newborn feeding (whether that's formula or breast milk). At the heart of Boram's mission is the belief that parents deserve rest, care, and support after welcoming their new baby.

Prioritizing rest for new moms is popular in Asian cultures, and I was excited that finally a place like this existed in New York City. So, I reached out to Boram in November, just as I was about to enter my third trimester, about arranging a retreat. (Rates for overnight retreats vary by length of time spent at the clinic: a three-night stay starts at $1,050 per night, while a seven-night stay starts at $950 per night. Boram covered the costs of my weeklong stay.)

The folks at Boram advised that I would go straight to the care center from the hospital after being discharged. That way, I could gain maximum support with recovery and receive round-the-clock care for my baby. I agreed and that was the plan.

But as we all know, sometimes plans fall through.

My First Days as a New Mom

My birth experience was far from what I had planned and envisioned. Two minutes after my newborn son was placed on my chest for skin-to-skin contact, the nurses swept him away again. He was experiencing health complications and needed more examinations. All I remember was a rush of doctors and nurses barging in while I was in the middle of delivering my placenta.

This was not what I thought my introduction to motherhood would look like. As I stared at the bright hospital lights and heard loud monitor sounds, I felt nauseous and hot. I spiked a fever. It felt like I was having an out-of-body experience, like I was watching myself in the hospital and also watching the doctors tend to my baby.

Instead of checking in at Boram, my son and I were transferred to another hospital, where he stayed in the NICU for 10 days.

People don't talk enough about the fourth trimester and what happens to a woman's body and mind after giving birth. As we birth a baby, we also experience a rebirth in our own way. I spent two weeks at home after my hospital stay before I was able to begin my retreat at Boram.

As we birth a baby, we also experience a rebirth in our own way.

During this time, dealing with a newborn and sleep deprivation challenged my patience and strength. I was drowning in my thoughts and felt like screaming at the top of my lungs for air. I struggled with conflicting feelings and postpartum rage: how could I feel so grateful and happy with this new love in my life, yet feel anxious, alone, and overwhelmed with this new identity and life? I felt lost and cried almost every day. Little did I know, help was around the corner.

What It's Like to Stay at a Postpartum Retreat Center

When my partner and I arrived at Boram, we were immediately greeted with warmth. The team all had smiles and brought me straight to my suite, a spacious, quiet room with a king-size bed and huge windows overlooking Midtown.

Before I settled in, a care associate gave me a postpartum depression evaluation to fill out and told me she would return so we could talk about my stay and answer any questions I had. During my one-on-one talk, I told the associate about my baby's time in the NICU and the poor state of my mental health. The care associate was attentive in hearing my concerns and we talked about my options for my stay at the retreat. It was actually the first time I talked to someone about how I was truly feeling as a new mom. I felt supported by the time and attention she paid me - and, coming from my traumatic birth experience, I was open to receiving all the help I could get.

I was happy to know that I had full control over how my stay at Boram would look. There weren't any obligatory activities - except to rest.

During my first day at Boram, I decided to have my son stay in the 24/7 nursery overnight so I could catch up on sleep. It wasn't an easy decision and I felt immense mom guilt. However, the team told me that I could always request for my baby back and the nursery was just down the hall. Whenever I pumped or used the bathroom in the middle of the night, I would check on the monitor to make sure my son was OK. I sometimes even messaged the staff for updates and they would respond immediately, so all my concerns were addressed.

It's amazing how well-rested I felt after the first night. I had my son back in my arms at 6 a.m. and my day revolved around feeding, changing diapers, cuddling, and putting him to sleep. Boram had a schedule of workshops I could choose to attend. I found the baby CPR workshop the most helpful because it was something that I honestly didn't think to look into, considering how full my plate already felt with a newborn.

All I had to do was send the Boram team a text about my interests and they would send someone into my room for the intimate one-on-one session. I had a lactation consultant come and teach me different breastfeeding positions in real time because I had trouble latching. I learned the benefits of baby wearing and had an associate show me different types of carriers and how to use them. I even had a care associate give my son his first sponge bath in the sink and give me pointers on the temperature of water, techniques on how to hold him during bathing, and how to dry him after. I mastered the art of swaddling all thanks to the team showing me step by step how to swaddle my son.

Aside from the scheduled sessions, Boram was only one text away when I needed help in easing my son when he was gassy or fussy, wouldn't stop crying, or when I just needed to talk and vent. They even advised me to take walks outside while they watched my son in the nursery. It was refreshing to get some air, strolling through Central Park right next door. I even had a full-body postnatal massage as an added form of self-care.

Boram offered three nutritious meals daily and cleaned and sterilized my pump parts and bottles. By taking these tasks off my to-do list, I was able to dedicate that extra time to bonding with my son without interruptions or stress. Boram wasn't just a facility or a postpartum care center - Boram became part of my village.

Is a Postpartum Retreat, Like Boram, Worth It?

Sleep is a luxury for parents, and this retreat reset and recharged me. I didn't know that I needed healing when I entered Boram. As I was filling my cup daily, I started to realize that my mood improved slowly. With a clearer mindset and a calmer headspace, I could attend better to my baby.

Leaving Boram was bittersweet. I was sad to leave because they took great care of not only my son, but also me. But I left feeling confident that I could and would survive the newborn stage thanks to the toolbox of resources the care associates helped me compile during my stay. I still have a great relationship with the team, and they check up on me to this day.

Going to Boram was the best decision I made in my postnatal recovery. My stay reminded me that it's OK to ask for help. It's OK to rest and it's OK to take time to feel all the feels and heal. The team at Boram essentially gave me permission to say yes to myself, and that is the greatest gift I could ask for.

Mariann Yip is a freelance writer, host of the podcast "The City Confessions," and author of "UN-HINGED," a book about dating in NYC and self discovery. Mariann loves covering topics including travel, wellness, relationships and family. When she's not chasing her toddler around, she is researching new restaurants in the city to try and destinations to explore.

A Realistic Adoption Timeline For Hopeful Parents, According to an Expert

Tiffany Nieslanik — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 14:30:02 -0700

On any given day in 2022, there were more than 100,000 children who were eligible for adoption in the US foster care system, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services. But even though the need is high, the adoption process can be lengthy and hard to follow.

"The general wait time for hopeful adoptive parents can range from two months to two years or more," says adoption expert Brenda Retrum. (Retrum is also herself an adoptive mother of two.) "That number can be hard to hear because it is so large, but a number of factors go into how long the adoption timeline can be."

The adoption process usually begins with hopeful adoptive parents attending pre-adoption information sessions, reviewing their state's adoption laws, and choosing an adoption service provider, agency, or attorney to help throughout the journey. This step generally takes between one and three months for most parents. Below, we've put together a typical timeline that hopeful adoptive parents can expect.

Experts Featured in This Article

Brenda Retrum, BA, is the director of adoptive parent services for Adoption Choices & Surrogacy of Colorado.

What to Expect in the First 3 Months of Trying to Adopt

Once adoptive parents have decided which type of adoption they are interested in (private, foster-to-adopt, or independent) and completed an application, they will begin the paperwork process. This includes a home study, clearance paperwork for your state, and, if you are opting for a private agency adoption, a parent profile.

In these initial months, parents will also create an adoption plan, firming up their preferences on what kind of child, or children, they are open to adopting. Retrum tells Popsugar that this part of the process generally takes three to four months for potential adoptive parents to complete.

The Adoption Network provides an overview of what kind of questions you'll have to answer and information you need to provide during this step. In general, you can expect to be visited in your home, have your family interviewed, and answer questions about your family background, education, employment, relationships, finances, and prior parenting experiences before being eligible to become adoptive parents.

If you are going through a private adoption agency, once your file and home study are complete, you will create a parent profile. This profile will be shown to expecting parents. Retrum tells PS, "Most parents use a professional service to complete this step because it's competitive, and you want to show yourself in the best light. For example, right now, for every one newborn up for adoption, there are roughly 12 hopeful adoptive parents."

What to Expect Beyond the First 3 Months

After the paperwork is completed, the waiting begins for the matching process. Depending on the type of adoption you have chosen, you will either be able to view a list of waiting children or birth parents will select you after reviewing your adoptive family profile.

"Try to be prepared for the roller coaster of emotions."

"This time can be very isolating with brutal ups and downs," Retrum says. "You might see a potential adoptee or get a match but then not be selected ultimately. You go from the high of being excited to the low of not being 'chosen.'" Retrum tells the families she works with to "build in a little protection for your heart." She adds, "We are human so we can't help but get excited, but try to be prepared for the roller coaster of emotions."

It's important to note that most documents you completed in the initial paperwork process, including your home study, will expire after one year. This means you need to stay on top of refiling them on a yearly basis if you haven't finalized an adoption at the one-year mark of starting your journey. Otherwise your timeline could be further extended.

With that said, you will ideally experience the placement of a child in your home, or the birth of a baby you've been matched with, during this time. Once you have brought your child home, the next step is to petition for your adoption. Keep in mind that the adoption is not yet finalized as most adoptions require a post-placement period. This period can last between one and 18 months, depending on your state of residence.

After all the post-placement visits have been completed, you will attend a finalization hearing to legally complete the adoption process. This is the easiest step in the process and generally lasts between 10 and 30 minutes. At the hearing, the adoptive parent(s) are given permanent legal custody of the adopted child.

How Hopeful Adoptive Families Can Minimize Wait Times

Wait times are often correlated to the criteria (such as race or gender) set up by hopeful adoptive parents. "The more strict your criteria are, the longer the process can take," Retrum says. By being more flexible with aspects such as race, gender, drug or alcohol use, medical history, budget, and contact with birth parents, you increase the likelihood of matching with children in foster care or having your adoptive family profile seen by prospective birth mothers.

That said, Retrum tells us agencies "will absolutely support you in what you feel is best for your family." It's important to be completely honest, as the last thing anyone wants is for an adoptive family to end up in a situation they aren't prepared for.

What to Do During the Adoption Wait Time

Many foster-to-adopt organizations offer hopeful adoptive parents an average timeframe of six to 18 months while private agencies usually quote an average of nine to 24 months. International adoptions tend to be even longer.

The first step is to be prepared for the realistic length of time an adoption might take, and keep in mind that timelines are constantly in flux. You may find your situation takes more or less time at each step of the process. If you have questions specific to your circumstances you should consult with your preferred expert.

Beyond that, don't be afraid to use the resources available to you through your agency or community to make the adoption journey a little less lonely. "We have a program to allow hopeful adoptive families to meet with other parents who have been through the process," Retrum says. "It helps to talk with others who have shared experiences and are on the other side." Retrum also stays in touch with the families she works with throughout the process to let them know she's there to support them.

At the end of the day, the adoption process can be unexpectedly lengthy, with plenty of emotional ups and downs. The best thing you can do during this time is go about life as much as possible. Retrum says, "Hopeful adoptive parents should be prepared for the long run. And if the process happens faster, it's a pleasant surprise that you can celebrate."

Tiffany Nieslanik is a freelance writer in Denver with over a decade of experience. She generally covers working motherhood, parenting, travel, music, and lifestyle trends.

How Much Adoption Costs, According to Experts

Devan McGuinness — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 13:05:02 -0700

Adoption is a beautiful way to grow a family. With more than 100,000 children for adoption in the United States, according to US Department of Health and Human Services, it's an avenue many hopeful parents investigate. There are five typical ways to begin the journey to adopting, and each one includes different adoption costs that hopeful parents need to be aware of.

So, how much does adoption cost? First you should be aware of the five typical avenues for adoption in the United States: adopting a relative, adopting a stepchild, international adoption, domestic adoption, and foster adoption. While legal fees are involved in each of the five adoption pathways, the average cost of adoption is much higher for these three types of adoption:

International adoption: adopting a child from another country, typically from its foster-care system
Domestic adoption: adopting a child from the United States, facilitated by an adoption agency
Foster adoption: adopting a child from the foster-care system in the United States

The fees that come with the adoption process can vary greatly depending on the type of adoption and in situations where additional advocacy may be necessary, says adoption expert Jodi Miyama, LMSW. Here's what you need to know.

Experts Featured in This Article

Jodi Miyama, LMSW, is a senior executive of international adoption at adoption agency Holt International.

Ryan Hanlon is the president and CEO of the National Council For Adoption.

How Much Does International Adoption Cost?

Average fees can range from $25,000 and $60,000 for international adoption, Miyama tells Popsugar. "The fees cover home-study fees, parent training, agency fees (staffing, licensing, accreditation, operational costs), United States Citizen and Immigration Services [USCIS], translation or document fees, and often sending country fees and travel."

International adoption may also incur additional fees, depending on the country. "Many countries have government or overseas country fees, legal or attorney fees, and in-country fees," Miyama says. "This could cover care of child, social worker, or child registration expenses. There is great variability between countries due to whether the sending country has specific fees as well as the length of time a family travels and remains in country."

How Much Does Adoption Cost in the US?

According to National Council For Adoption president Ryan Hanlon, the fees for a domestic adoption can range significantly depending upon a number of factors. "In general, families pursuing a private domestic adoption should expect to pay between $35,000 and $50,000," he tells PS.

How Much Does Foster Adoption Cost?

The fees for families pursuing adoption through the child welfare system are substantially smaller in most situations and can range from $0 to $3,000. Adoption costs vary by state, however.

"Most adoptions from foster care have no or extremely low costs," Hanlon explains. "There are some situations in which parents may incur fees associated with legal aspects of the adoption case." The Child Welfare Information Gateway states that some children in the child welfare system may qualify for additional support, which can help reduce costs.

"The Federal Adoption Assistance and Child Welfare Act of 1980 established a program of financial and medical assistance to help promote adoptions from foster care, reduce financial barriers to adoption, and help adoptive families meet their adopted children's emotional, physical, and mental health needs," the report reads.

Are There Ever Unexpected Adoption Fees?

Working with a reputable adoption agency should help reduce unexpected adoption fees, Miyama explains. "When considering adoption, it is important to work with adoption professionals who are licensed. This ensures that a child-centered, ethical adoption occurs," she notes. "Adoption professionals will provide transparency in fees. Sometimes more experienced professionals provide guidance and advice that will prevent delays and reduce expenses."

Is Financial Help Available to Cover Adoption Fees?

There are tax credits, loans, and subsidies available to families hoping to adopt but who are concerned about covering the fees have a few avenues to get past that hurdle. "There are generous adoption grant-making organizations, an adoption tax credit, low-interest adoption loans, and more to help families ensure that cost is not a barrier," Hanlon shares. "There are a lot of good, supportive adoption resources organizations you can partner with, who work to ensure costs aren't a barrier."

Devan McGuinness (she/they) is a Canadian disabled writer, editor, and social strategist who covers politics, entertainment, parenting, and lifestyle. Devan has contributed to PS, Fatherly, Parents, Scary Mommy, Mom.com, and more over her 10-plus years in digital media, specializing in stories that matter most to families.

What I Didn't Expect About the Adoption Process

Lisa Moore — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 12:55:02 -0700

Becoming a parent is a big decision, and making the decision to not parent is even larger. Rarely are adoptive parents aware that their efforts to become parents end up colluding with systems whose processes may perpetuate harm on the birth parents and the children they love. And there are few people, if any, to hold and care for those who realize they are unable to parent. I would come to learn all this through the adoption process, but the conversation is being ignited on social media after Millie Bobby Brown announced on Aug. 21 that she and husband Jake Bongiovi had adopted a baby girl.

I am a parent to two children: a 16-year-old son who was adopted at 5 months, and a 9-year-old, conceived via the support of donor sperm. When I began the adoption process with my oldest, I understood that people often place their children for a variety of reasons. But I was angry and saddened at how common it is for birth parents to be coerced to do so by family, social workers, attorneys, and friends. Some were never given a choice at all, some were never presented with the necessary resources to believe they could parent.

As the adoptive parent, I was challenged to reflect on my role in the system and within the adoption triad. I had to consider how to reconcile with the reality that I am a person in the scenario benefiting from the process.

My son may have material benefits, but they will never make up for the awareness of decisions made about his life before he ever had words of his own. Material goods do not make up for not having a picture of the woman who birthed you or the siblings you may never meet, nor do they make up for the gap in medical information that can be helpful if one is living with a variety of mysterious illnesses.

I had to learn to sit with the experience of having joy through another's sorrow.

As an adoptive parent, I had to learn to sit with the experience of having joy through another's sorrow. I had to learn to parent a grief that was unknown to me. I had to sit with the reality that, despite the problematic systemic conditions that led to the placement of my child for adoption, he needed someone to parent him when the system, along with his parents, determined that biological family could not.

As a social worker, I strived to support a placement that would have been open. I wanted the parents to be able to make an informed decision before landing on the decision to place their child. But that is not the story I hold, and it is not the story my child understands. Instead we discuss a story that is unique to us. (The remainder of the story is for my child to tell.)

I was surprised when we received the paperwork from the adoption agency that, as an adoptive parent, you can denote the conditions or circumstances that you can or cannot manage in terms of health conditions, family histories, and any prenatal substance exposures. I was surprised at the way choice was presented here when so much about the process can't be easily predicted or controlled. Despite the illusion of choice that emerges, adoption, like other forms of family making, requires a capacity to embrace the unknown and accept the likelihood of some disappointments in the process.

What also surprised me was the discomfort of the urgency I experienced when waiting for a child placement. I hadn't gone into the process feeling particularly anxious or urgent, but once the papers were signed, and the photo book constructed, I was surprised at the emotionality tied up in the process of waiting for a call. You enter a period of constantly dreaming of what may be, or trying to avoid dreams altogether, and get to the business of living your best life until you have a child who is anchored to you.

You are awaiting a call that someone is unable to do what you can because, in many cases, you have access to certain resources they do not. You have to contend with the profound privilege that resides in being in a position to be able to adopt. I understand that there is a reason why adoption exists, and as an adoptive parent, I have to sit with the fact that many of the reasons are due to systemic barriers around parenting.

As someone who is Black, lesbian, and raised with class fluctuations, for the first time in my life, I was in the position of privilege. I had to make decisions about which type of child placement was most appropriate for me and my spouse at the time.

As we were contacted here and there about potential placements, I was most surprised to learn that certain children have different fees attached to the processing of their paperwork and documentation because they are more "popular children," i.e. mixed race or white. (I recommend Elizabeth Raleigh's "Selling Transracial Adoption" for further reading.) This reality was wholly unexpected. I expected that white children or biracial children were placed into adoptive homes more easily because, as a dark skinned person, I know how colorism works. I was also aware there was a disproportionate number of babies who were Black. But the various hierarchies of race some adoption agencies used was deeply disturbing and I pondered how this was at all OK.

When I initiated the process for adoption, I was enthusiastic. Since I was young, I had planned on adopting. After placement occurred, however, and as my child continues to mature, my enthusiasm is blunted by a very clear understanding that adoption for many is not always a process of consent - whether the lack of consent is due to coercion or due to systemic conditions that make parenting impossible.

I have had to sit with the reality that the happiness and joy I experience with my son is because someone else did not feel like they had a choice. But as I hold space for these complexities of circumstances, I'm able to support a space for my child to live into his own story of who he is and where he's come from.

Lisa L. Moore, LICSW, PhD, has been a social work educator and practitioner for over 25 years. Her clinical practice has been focused on working with individuals, couples, and families who are often queer and BIPOC.

"Post-Baby Clarity" Is the Ultimate Relationship Test

Taylor Andrews — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 06:30:02 -0700

There's a lot no one warns you about when it comes to having a baby, like pregnancy nose, carpal tunnel, and an agonizing sharp pain that randomly shoots through your vagina. But perhaps the most surprising part of pregnancy isn't physical at all: it's the clarity that comes immediately after giving birth.

Known as "post-baby clarity," this phenomenon is what happens when new parents experience an "aha" moment - an epiphany of sorts brought on by the physical act of birth, the emotional high of new parenthood, and the sudden responsibility of caring for another human.

"Parenthood acts as an emotional magnifying glass, bringing underlying issues to the surface with unprecedented intensity," reproductive psychiatrist Sarah Oreck, MD, says. "What was once easy to overlook or suppress becomes impossible to ignore during the vulnerable postpartum period."

Though this type of clarity can be about anything - the new parent themselves, their career, their future - most often, it's about their relationships. And though post-baby clarity can be disorienting and challenging, it can also be "profoundly transformative," Dr. Oreck says.

Experts Featured in This Article

Sarah Oreck, MD, MS, is a board-certified reproductive psychiatrist and therapist focused on women's mental health. She is also the CEO and cofounder of Mavida Health, an online therapy program to help people in their motherhood journey.

What Is Post-Baby Clarity?

Post-baby clarity is not a recognized medical condition, but it's a very real and common experience. "It's a term people use to describe a kind of emotional and mental awakening that happens after becoming a parent," Dr. Oreck says. "It's that moment when you see your life, your relationships, and your priorities come into sharper focus."

For some new parents, the clarity they experience can be comforting, which was the case for Hannah White, 32. After experiencing multiple miscarriages, White says she had prenatal depression when she became pregnant again, with her son. "With my miscarriage history, I could not enjoy the pregnancy," White says. "I had little energy, I had no desire to get out of bed, and I'd never experienced depression quite like it."

Two months after giving birth to her child, she experienced post-baby clarity. "From the moment our son was born, I realized my husband was building up my confidence. From making sure I was fed, changing diapers, waking up with me during late-night feeds, hugging me as I was crying during hard newborn days and nights, cleaning bottles and pump supplies - you name it, he did it," White says.

After taking a photo of her son smiling in the Target parking lot, White realized her ability to find happiness and be a good mom was in large part thanks to her partner. "I am the best mom because I learned from the best dad," she says.

"It's that moment when you see your life, your relationships, and your priorities come into sharper focus."

But not all post-baby clarity is reassuring. For some new parents, the post-baby clarity can expose red flags about their partner they may have previously ignored. This was the case for Mary*, 34, who met her partner when she was 17. Though she says she fell "hard and fast," their relationship had its ups and downs. "I started picking up on his lying, and if we argued, he'd tell me that he hated me, never loved me, I was a mistake, and I was boring," she says.

When she found out she was pregnant at 23, she was excited. But when she gave birth to her daughter, the post-baby clarity hit almost immediately. "She was born, and I actually couldn't look at him the same. All my love went to my daughter, and I just knew we deserved better," Mary says.

A few weeks later, Mary kicked her partner out of her house and moved back to her hometown where she met her now-husband. "I think having a daughter to protect woke me up," she says.

Why Does Post-Baby Clarity Occur?

According to Dr. Oreck, post-baby clarity can occur based on a combination of hormonal shifts, identity changes, physical recovery, sleep deprivation, and the massive life transition that is becoming a parent.

On the physical level, it's likely because of the drop in hormone levels immediately after giving birth, which can affect your mood and how you regulate your emotions, Dr. Oreck says. "At the same time, bonding hormones like oxytocin surge, which can create both heightened attachment and, in some cases, heightened awareness of disconnection," she adds.

But on a deeper level, giving birth and raising a baby can fundamentally change your value system. "Values that seemed important before - career advancement, social obligations, material pursuits - may suddenly feel less important, while previously undervalued aspects like authentic relationships, personal boundaries, and meaningful work take on new significance," Dr. Oreck says.

Transitioning to motherhood or becoming a new parent in general is also a huge identity shift. "You're reevaluating who you are, what matters to you, and how you want to move through the world now that you're responsible for another life," Dr. Oreck says. "What felt tolerable before may suddenly feel unbearable - not because something with them has changed, but because you have."

What to Do If You Experience Post-Baby Clarity

For Alison*, 41, her biggest regret is not trusting her post-baby clarity. It happened when her newborn son had an asthma attack at 8 weeks old, and he started to turn blue. "I woke up [my partner], and he said I had to take [my son] to the hospital alone because he had to wake up for work in a few hours," she tells Popsugar. "I realized then he was not the person I thought he was."

But even after the hospital incident, Alison says she ignored the clarity. Four years later, Alison and her partner divorced after she found out he was having an affair. "I'm grateful for the clarity, but I do wish I would have trusted it," she says.

If you experience post-baby clarity, Dr. Oreck recommends looking at the epiphany as an opportunity and not a crisis. "Yes, it can be destabilizing, but it can also be empowering. Parenthood pushes us to grow, to confront ourselves, and to reevaluate our relationships. That's not a sign that something is wrong, it's a sign that you're growing," she says.

Whether you process your post-baby clarity through therapy or by giving yourself space to assess how you feel, accept that it's OK to "outgrow people, patterns, or priorities as you step into this new version of yourself," Dr. Oreck says.

At the end of the day, becoming a parent changes everything - including you - and sometimes, that shift is exactly what puts things into focus. Whether your post-baby clarity pushes you to walk away, grow closer with your partner, or simply look at your life a little differently, it's always worth paying attention to.

*Names have been changed.

Chrissy Teigen's Go-To PJ Brand Launched the School Clothes Parents Asked For

Balim Tezel — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 07:46:02 -0700

Loved by everyone from Chrissy Teigen to Hilary Duff, plus more than half a million parents, Little Sleepies has earned a cult following for pajamas that are truly worth obsessing over. Now, the celebrity-approved brand is taking that same buttery-soft comfort and playful design beyond bedtime with its first-ever Back to School Collection to make mornings easier (and a lot comfier).

The drop blends playful prints like the Little Sleepies Sweet Orchard Collar Skater Dress ($44) with everyday solids like the Little Sleepies Midwash Blue Denim Jogger ($36). It even includes uniform-friendly polos like the Little Sleepies Bright White Polo Shirt ($28) and durable, recess-ready staples. Each piece is breathable, stretchy, and gentle on sensitive skin, which makes it perfect for kids who need to move, play, and learn without itchy tags or stiff fabrics slowing them down.

And this isn't a one-design-fits-all approach: the collection was shaped by feedback from real families, right down to the solid polos parents requested for school dress codes. Whether your kid is a little artist, a future MVP, or somewhere in between, there's a style here to match their personality. Check out the Back to School Collection now - your mornings (and your kids) will thank you.

Balim Tezel (she/her) is a shopping updates editor at PS and the founder of Maison des Nus, a New York-based affordable luxury brand. She graduated from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism.

200+ Gender Neutral Baby Name Ideas

Alessia Santoro — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 10:00:01 -0700

There are plenty of reasons to want a shortlist of gender neutral baby names. Maybe you choose to wait to find out the gender of your baby until after they're born, but you still want to have a name decided on ahead of time. In that case, a name that works for any gender is the perfect solve. Or maybe you just prefer gender neutral names to baby names that are more traditionally masculine or feminine. (Although, we love using what are traditionally considered baby boy names for girls, and vice versa!) The government may say there are only two genders, but the name you give your baby doesn't have to reflect that outdated binary.

Many gender neutral baby names are timeless, and they cut across categories and eras. There are gender neutral options that are meaningful names, trendy names, and more unique names, which means there will always be a perfect gender neutral baby name for your little one, no matter what "vibe" you're going for. To get you started, we rounded up more than 200 unisex names with their original meanings, according to Nameberry.

Ahead, find some of our favorite unique gender neutral names for babies, from A to Z.

Gender Neutral Baby Names

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With A

Adair: Scottish and Irish - oak tree ford
Adan: Spanish - son of the red earth
Addison: English - son of Adam
Ade: Yoruba - crown
Adrian: Latin - man of Adria
Aiden: Irish - little; fiery
Ainsley: Scottish - one's own meadow
Albie: German - noble; bright
Alex: Greek - defending men
Ali: Arabic - supreme; exalted
Amari: Hebrew - eternal
Andy: Greek - strong
Angel: English - angel
Ari: Hebrew - lion of God
Ariel: Hebrew - lion of God
Aries: Latin - a ram
Ash: English - ash tree
Asher: Hebrew - fortunate; blessed; happy one
Atlas: Greek - bearer of the heavens
Aubrey: English - elf ruler
August: Latin - majestic
Austen: Latin - great; magnificent
Avery: English - ruler of the elves

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With B

Bailey: English - law enforcer
Bali: Sanskrit - strength
Banks: English - one who lives on the hillside
Bellamy: English and Irish - fine friend
Beckham: English - homestead by the stream
Berkeley: English - where birches grow
Billie: English - protection
Blaine: Irish - slender
Blair: Scottish - dweller on the plain
Blake: English - dark; fair-haired
Bobby: English and German - bright fame
Bowen: Welsh - son of Owen
Brett: Celtic - from Brittany
Briar: English - a thorny patch
Brighton: English - bright town
Brinley: English - burnt meadow
Brooklyn: Dutch - marshland
Bryce: Scottish - speckled; freckled

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With C

Caelan: Irish - slender
Cairo: Arabic - the strong
Camden: Scottish - winding valley
Cameron: Scottish - crooked nose
Campbell: Scottish - crooked mouth
Carey: Irish - dark; black
Carson: English and Scottish - son of the marsh dwellers
Carter: English - cart maker or driver
Casey: Irish - brave in battle
Cassidy: Irish - curly haired
Celyn: Welsh - holly
Chandler: English and French - candle maker
Charlie: English - free man
Chris: English - one who carries christ
Cody: English - helpful; pillow
Colby: English - coal town
Cole: English - swarthy; coal black
Collins: Scottish, Greek, and Irish - pup; people of victory
Corey: Irish - from the hollow
Cove: English - small bay

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With D

Dakota: Sioux - friendly one
Dale: English - valley
Dallas: Irish - skilled
Dana: English, Slavic, Persian, and Arabic - gift; wise
Dane: English - from Denmark
Darryl: French - dear one; beloved
Declan: Irish - man of prayer
Delta: Greek - letter; island
Devin: Irish - poet
Dorian: Greek - from Doris
Drew: English - strong; manly
Dylan: Welsh - son of the sea

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With E

Easton: English - east facing place
Eli: Hebrew - ascended; uplifted; high
Elliot: English - Jehovah is God
Ellis: English - benevolent
Ellison: English - son of Ellis
Ember: French - amber
Emerson: English - son of Emery
Emory: German - industrious
Evan: Welsh - God is gracious
Ezra: Hebrew - help

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With F

Fallon: Irish - leader
Finley: Irish and Scottish - fair-haired hero
Florian: Latin - flowering
Flynn: Irish - descendant of the red-haired one
Frances: Latin - free man

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With G

Gabriel: Hebrew - God is my strength
Gale: Hebrew - my father rejoices
Glenn: Scottish - valley
Grayson: English - the son of the bailiff
Grey: English - color

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With H

Harley: English - the long field
Harper: English - harp player
Hayden: English - hay valley
Hunter: English - one who hunts

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With I

Indiana: English - land of the Indians
Indigo: Greek - Indian dye

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With J

James: Hebrew - supplanter
Jamie: Hebrew - supplanter
Jayden: Hebrew - thankful
Jesse: Hebrew - gift
Jordan: Hebrew - flowing down
Jude: Latin - praised
Julian: Latin - youthful; sky father; downy-bearded
Juniper: Latin - young
Justice: English - just; impartial; fair

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With K

Kaden: English and Celtic - battle
Kai: Hawaiian - sea
Keegan: Irish - son of Egan
Kelly: Irish - war
Kendall: English - valley of the river Kent
Kennedy: Irish - misshapen head
Kerry: Irish - dark; dark-haired
Knox: Scottish - round hill
Kyle: Scottish - narrow spit of land

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With L

Landon: English - long hill
Landry: French and English - ruler
Lane: English - a small roadway; path
Lee: English - pasture; meadow
Lennon: Irish - lover
Lennox: Scottish - elm grove
Lincoln: English - town by the pool
Linden: English - linden tree hill
Logan: Scottish - small hollow
London: English - place name
Lou: French and German - renowned warrior
Lucian: Latin - light
Lumi: Finnish - snow

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With M

Mackenzie: Scottish - son of Kenneth
Madison: English - son of Matthew
Marley: English - pleasant seaside meadow
Mason: English - stoneworker
Max: English and German - greatest
Maxwell: Scottish - great stream
Micah: Hebrew - who is like the Lord
Milan: Italian, Slavic, and Sanskrit - gracious; dear; union
Monroe: Scottish - mouth of the Roe river
Montana: Spanish - mountainous
Morgan: Welsh - sea-born; sea-song; sea-circle

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With N

Nash: English - by the ash tree
Nevada: Spanish - covered in snow
Nico: Greek - people of victory
Noah: Hebrew - motion
Noel: French - Christmas

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With O

Oakley: English - oak wood; clearing
Ollie: Latin - olive tree
Ozzie: English and German - divine

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With P

Palmer: English - one who holds a palm
Paris: French - place name
Parker: English - park keeper
Pat: Latin - noble; patrician
Perri: English - pear tree
Peyton: English - fighting man's estate
Piper: English - pipe or flute player
Phoenix: Greek - dark red

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With Q

Quinn:Irish - descendent of Conn

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With R

Reagan: Irish - little king
Reed: English - red-haired
Reese: Welsh - ardor
Reign: English - rule
Remy: Latin - oarsman
Rey: Spanish - king
Riley: English and Irish - courageous
River: English - large natural stream of water flowing
Roan: Irish and Scottish - little redhead
Robin: English - bright fame
Rory: Irish - red king
Roux: Latin - russet
Rowan: Scottish and Irish - rowan tree; little redhead
Rudy: German - famous wolf
Ryan: Irish - little king
Ryder: English - messenger
Rylan: English and Irish - island meadow

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With S

Sage: Latin - wise; knowing
Salem: Arabic - safe
Sam: English - told by God
Sawyer: English - woodcutter
Seven: English - a number
Shannon: Irish - old; wise
Shawn: Irish - God is gracious
Shiloh: Hebrew - tranquil
Skylar: Dutch - scholar
Sloane: Irish - raider
Spencer: English - house steward; keeper of provisions
Sterling: English - of the highest quality
Stevie: Greek - garland; crown
Sunny: English - bright with sunlight
Sydney: French - Saint Denis

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With T

Tanner: English - leather tanner
Tatum: English - Tate's homestead
Taylor: English - a diminutive of "tailor"
Terry: English - to harvest
Theo: Greek - gift of God
Tony: Latin - priceless one
Tory: Latin - victory
Tracy: French - of Thracia
Tyler: English - maker of tiles

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With U

Uri: Hebrew - my flame; my light

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With V

Val: French - strength; health
Vesper: Latin - evening star

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With W

West: English - a directional statement
Winter: English - a season
Wren: English - small bird
Wyatt: English - brave in war

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With X

Xoan: Hebrew - God is gracious

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With Y

Yael: Hebrew - ibex

Gender Neutral Baby Names Starting With Z

Zion: Hebrew - highest point

Alessia Santoro (she/her) is a former senior SEO editor at PS, where she guided SEO strategy and assisted the brand's editorial team in maintaining and creating search-intended content across multiple categories, including health, fitness, beauty, parenting, astrology, and more. Prior to shifting to SEO in 2021, she spent nearly seven years as a family editor for the brand, with focuses on parenting content, baby names, and family entertainment.

Karla Souza Has No Mom Guilt About Formula-Feeding Her Babies

Johanna Ferreira — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 07:00:02 -0700

Mexican actor Karla Souza - best known for her roles in "How to Get Away With Murder," "Day Shift," "Dive," and ABC's "Home Economics" - is crystal clear about her priorities these days. While her acting career remains a major focus, nothing tops being a mom to the three children she shares with husband Marshall Trenkmann: 7-year-old Gianna, 5-year-old Luka, and 1-year-old Giulia. One parenting decision she's recently felt called to speak about more openly is switching her youngest from breast milk to formula - a choice she believes far too many mothers are still unfairly judged for.

"It has been a journey. This whole breastfeeding-mother image was very romanticized in my head. It was idyllic. It was going to be easy. It was just going to happen because it's natural and that's how it's supposed to be," Souza tells Popsugar. She remembers that the false expectations began with her first child, whom she had no idea she was overfeeding. She had no problems producing milk at the time, but she also had no idea how much or how often she was supposed to feed her baby. No one had prepared her for it.

"I had this false sense of, 'Well, you're a woman and you should know and it's going to come naturally,' and this just sort of came from my Latin culture," she shares. "I wish I would have gotten some support because now, after the third one, I finally got a doula and she was like, 'Oh no, you just have to breastfeed four minutes on one side and four on the other, and I was like, I was overfeeding Gianna. I was doing 20 minutes and 20 minutes. No wonder she was just crying and crying."

By the time Souza had her third child, she realized she had to find a solution that worked for both her and her baby. During and after her first and second pregnancies, she had been working steadily; she shot "Dive" just six months after giving birth to her second child, and had to look like an Olympic athlete in a matter of months. The weight loss affected her ability to produce milk, she says, and she experienced the same after her third pregnancy. The pressure to get back in shape for a role, along with the stress of the LA fires earlier this year, all impacted her milk production.

"I almost lost all my milk because of the stress and anxiety of all that," she says. "And then for Luca, I had gone through this sort of nerding on infant formula and [figuring out] which ones are the best ones."

All of this led Souza to discover Nara Organics, the first and only USDA-certified organic whole milk formula made without skim milk, and a brand she recently partnered with.

"There are so many lies that are still out there, and [I'm] sort of demystifying this idolized version of a mother and realizing you know what? Well, my mother did the best she could with what she had. But I [also] have so much more information now, and I can make healthier choices for myself and my children," she says of debunking myths surrounding formula. "It is a really hard thing for the first time to say, 'I hear that that's the way you did it, but for us, for my family, this is actually the better way.'"

Aside from generally loving and trusting the brand, Souza wanted to use this opportunity to highlight some of the cultural issues a lot of moms - Latina moms in particular - face when it comes to mom guilt regarding formula feeding versus breastfeeding. In particular, she wants to address the social shaming that mothers still often experience.

According to a Marias Gamesa survey published in 2014, 83 percent of Latina moms report feeling judged for their parenting decisions, with meal choices being one of the things they feel the most judged and scrutinized for.

"Latina moms are specifically more prone to these sorts of pressures and false ideals of what being a mother is," she says. In fact, according to research, 77 percent of Latina moms start off breastfeeding, with the number dropping to 21 percent around six months after giving birth. Numerous factors can lead to this, and formula milk is often the most convenient option for moms.

"Latina moms are specifically more prone to these sorts of pressures and false ideals of what being a mother is."

In addition to being USDA-certified and free from ingredients like corn syrup, Nara Organics uses whole milk instead of skim - which Souza loved, given that it's a choice believed to provide healthy fats that support brain development in babies.

"Not all formulas are created equal, and I will say in my experience, I would never touch certain ones, and I never did. There are some ingredients that they use that I just definitely would not use," she adds.

The actor also wants to start normalizing dialogues around postpartum depression. Souza admits to having experienced her own form of postpartum depression, though she wasn't clinically diagnosed.

"You're very raw, and it's hard to be there for your husband, for your kids, for yourself, and for your job," she says. "I mean, it was very difficult for me. I was working three months after I had to move my entire family to Montreal to do a job for a show, and it's so much mental energy to move three children, a nanny, and a husband. . . . It's a lot."

Part of that stress, Souza says, came from having to get back into shape for a role following her third pregnancy. It was extremely challenging, and it's a pressure placed on all women, even outside of work or acting roles, she adds.

"The bounce was more because of my job, but I've also had the social pressure of the bounce back," she says. "Kids still come up to me and they're like, 'Are you pregnant?' I'm like, no, I finished having kids [and] now I have the mommy bump. And seeing all this stuff of the mommy makeovers and 'Look at this mom three months later' and before-and-after photos - it can send you down a very dark path."

Souza believes that modern moms still aren't being given a grace period just to heal and focus on their overall health as well as their kids. The pressure to have their bodies return to what they looked like before kids is still there, and as an actor living in the public eye, she wants to offer a more refreshing perspective on it.

"We're not being exposed to these images of natural, beautiful mom bodies because there's this thing of the bounce back or the mommy makeover, and surgically everything looks like we didn't have kids," Souza says. "All these things are happening, and it just adds to what women are carrying after having been moms."

At the heart of it all, Souza wants to remind women to give themselves the grace that society still so often withholds when it comes to motherhood. She wants moms to know they have options - and that they shouldn't feel guilted or pressured into breastfeeding or "bouncing back" if it's not right for them. In a world that isn't always set up for mothers to thrive, she believes the most important thing we can do is simply our best.

Johanna Ferreira is the content director for PS Juntos. With more than 10 years of experience, Johanna focuses on how intersectional identities are a central part of Latine culture. Previously, she spent close to three years as the deputy editor at HipLatina, and she has freelanced for numerous outlets including Refinery29, Oprah magazine, Allure, InStyle, and Well+Good. She has also moderated and spoken on numerous panels on Latine identity.

So Your Sibling's a Sex Symbol. Now What?

Emma Glassman-Hughes — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 07:15:02 -0700

The question first came to me while watching the most recent season of "The White Lotus." Of all the twisted, tortured sibling dynamics that Mike White dangled for viewers, what stuck in my head from the start was not so much the incest (though flashbacks to those scenes still give me hives), but what it must feel like to have a sibling who's categorized by the outside world as a sex symbol - or, in the case of Saxon Ratliff, one who assumes the role of sex symbol even if it's mostly self-anointed.

Regardless of whether Saxon was as sexually prolific as he claimed (dubious), I wanted to get inside the heads of Lochlan and Piper, who surely had some fascinating thoughts about having watched him evolve from their annoying brother into this bulked-up frat star who's, yes, still annoying and still their brother but now has a jawline that can cut glass.

My question, of course, applies to all people with hot siblings, far beyond the lush gardens of the Four Seasons in Koh Samui. How do the Dylan Efrons and Patricia Bündchens of society cope with the world's thirstiness for the person who shares 50 percent of their DNA?

But the reason I'm writing this story now - months after the "White Lotus" finale - is because, at first, nobody wanted to talk to me about their hot siblings. I approached the siblings of celebrities and influencers with (polite!) inquiries, seeking their honest perspectives, but no one agreed to answer.

Frankly, as a sibling myself, I can understand why. It's a cringey, maybe even painful prospect to grapple with the sex appeal of your other half. But that's exactly why I was curious. Alas, it seemed nobody would talk to me - until I got in touch with Haylee Greer.

"I didn't expect Greyson to be a heartthrob of the internet."

Greer's younger brother is Greyson Hoelzel, a rising social media star whose 1 million followers have turned the comments sections on his videos into what I've dubbed "the thirst Olympics." Pulling up the comments on a Greyson Hoelzel video is the internet equivalent of watching from the other side of the street as a construction crew wolf whistles and awoogas at a pretty lady - except instead of sweaty men with toothpicks suspended menacingly from their mouths, it's a bunch of mostly anonymous girlies and queer folks shooting their shot with a handsome young man who tends to have a pretty good sense of humor about it all.

And Greer - a regular, if comparatively passive, user of social media herself - has had a front-row seat to this proverbial construction site from the start. She's seen everything: the comments about tasting his "juices" and memorizing his "every vein," the fan-made blog posts and videos about his body, all the DMs she's personally received about "submitting an application" to be her sister-in-law.

Meanwhile, she works as an audiologist and lives a pretty quiet, normal life with her husband and baby. "I didn't expect Greyson to be a heartthrob of the internet," she tells me over the phone, thinking back to what it was like growing up together in a small California town. Greer is 27 and Hoelzel is 25. "He's literally just a regular, degular person, so it's so funny that people put him on this pedestal."

As awkward as it may be for Greer to witness the Greyson-mania, she's sincere in her support of her brother and his big dreams, and always has been. Speaking with her on the phone, I didn't pick up on even a whiff of sibling rivalry or competition. To the contrary, the two are close: they went to the same college in Nevada, and Hoelzel even moved in with her after his graduation. At the time, she watched his newly popular social media presence grow, and even encouraged him to pick it back up when he stopped posting for a short period after a breakup. He wasn't sure about his future as a content creator, but she saw his potential and pushed him to stick with it, thinking that it might lead to exposure that could help him do the stuff he's always wanted to do, like professional comedy.

Greer says the whole family, including their oldest sister, always knew Hoelzel was destined for something big. But they'd assumed the big thing would be connected to his comedic chops, not necessarily his looks. "To me he's just my brother. I don't think any of us expected him to be a heartthrob," she says. "We thought he was funny and would be known for his humor. And I actually think his personality is really what people are drawn to immediately."

"[T]hey'll always be your sibling in your eyes. They can have a different persona on the internet, and it's fine."

Just a couple weeks after I got ahold of Greer, her brother packed up all his stuff and finally made the move he'd been fantasizing about for a while, from Philadelphia - where he was working as an environmental engineer - to New York. Hoelzel told me in a separate interview that he's always wanted to be closer to the NY comedy scene. But now that he's there, he's worried he'll be too nervous to dive in.

Greer worries about that, too. But she wants to see him take that risk. "I hope he finds what he loves and gives himself a shot," she says. "I know he's gonna fail at first, and he is hard on himself, but I hope he sticks to it."

No one knows what the future holds for Hoelzel as he makes a new life in New York. But for now, Greer has a message for anyone in a similar position to her own, facing the strange reality that their sibling is very hot in a very public way. "I'm sure it's gotta be a good feeling on [your sibling's] end to have a lot of people following them," she says. "Always remember that they'll always be your sibling in your eyes. They can have a different persona on the internet, and it's fine."

If Hoelzel's acting career were to indeed take off, it's fair to assume his sex symbol status would be cemented on the silver screen, not just the iPhone screen. And I have to say, as the sibling of a budding sex symbol, Greer has an excellent attitude overall. She's gracious and reassuring; she knows when to put up some boundaries and when to step in.

Greer gets messages all the time from people who are looking for an in with her brother, though she's never responded. Occasionally, though, she'll pop into the comments section on his videos with a zinger of her own. No matter how famous he gets, she'll never shake the evolutionary instinct to tease her little brother.

Her last bit of advice is simple, though it's one she's obviously still learning to follow herself: "Don't take it too seriously, and try not to read the comments."

Emma Glassman-Hughes (she/her) is the associate editor at PS Balance. In her seven years as a reporter, her beats have spanned the lifestyle spectrum; she's covered arts and culture for The Boston Globe, sex and relationships for Cosmopolitan, and food, climate, and farming for Ambrook Research.

These Chrissy Teigen-Approved Kids' PJs Are on Major Sale For Prime Day

Balim Tezel — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 03:25:01 -0700

If there's one thing Chrissy Teigen, Hilary Duff, and half a million parents can agree on, it's that Little Sleepies makes pajamas worth obsessing over. The celebrity-loved brand has built a cult following thanks to its extra-soft, hypoallergenic bamboo fabric, playful seasonal prints, and sizes that stretch from newborn to grown-ups. But while the brand's viral pieces are usually hard to snag, that's about to change, because for the first time ever, Little Sleepies is joining Amazon Prime Day.

From July 8 through July 11, Amazon Prime members can save 20 percent sitewide on all Little Sleepies pieces available on Amazon. Even better? Two bestselling prints - Blue Breakfast Buddies and Sienna's Unicorn - are marked down 40 percent across Zippies and PJ Sets. That means you can score bestselling styles like the Little Sleepies Pajamas – Blue Breakfast Buddies ($23, originally $38) and Little Sleepies Pajamas - Sienna's Unicorns ($23, originally $38) for less. These are fan-favorite designs that rarely go on sale, making this the perfect moment to stock up (or finally try the brand everyone's been talking about). Grab them while you can - your camera roll (and your kids) will thank you.

Looking for even more sales? Shop more of PS editor-curated Amazon Prime Day Sale picks and subscribe to our newsletter for more shopping recommendations. Plus, make sure you sign up for Amazon Prime so that you don't miss a moment of the sale.

My Postpartum Wellness Retreat Wasn't Indulgent - It Was Survival

Lauren Dana Ellman — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 07:20:02 -0700

Getty / Oleg Breslavtsev

By seven months postpartum, I felt like I was running on fumes.

I'd skipped maternity leave - except for one blurry, anxiety-filled week on painkillers, recovering from my C-section - and jumped right back into freelance work while caring for newborn twins. I was on Slack less than two hours after delivery (yes, really). Looking back, that should've been a warning. Still, I didn't think I was allowed to rest, and often equated stillness with weakness. When the idea of stepping away, even for just 48 hours, came up, the guilt descended like a perfect storm.

Unbeknownst to most - friends, colleagues, even extended family who might be learning this now (hi!) - I was barely holding it together. I'd dealt with anxiety for years, but postpartum anxiety hit differently. I couldn't relax, even when the babies slept, because I was constantly thinking about getting woken up again. I'd chosen not to breastfeed, knowing it would drain me emotionally, and still faced pressure and pushback from hospital staff. The mental load and constant overstimulation crushed me. Adding to that was the new weight of being a financial provider for someone (or in this case, two someones!) other than myself and my husband.

The depression crept in quietly - less sadness, more emotional flatlining. I was doing all the things, going through the motions, feeling . . . nothing. I remember sobbing at my six-week postpartum appointment. My beloved doctor - my advocate and confidante through my high-risk twin pregnancy - listened as I described the fog. I worried about her thinking I was crazy or a danger to myself or my babies. She nodded and said gently, "I know. But you shouldn't have to feel like this."

That's when it hit me: This wasn't just exhaustion or a rough patch. It was postpartum depression, and I needed help. In the weeks that followed, I started therapy with a postpartum specialist and eventually began medication. Saying yes to that support felt just as vulnerable - maybe more so - than saying yes to the retreat I would soon go on.

The Postpartum Retreat I Almost Didn't Attend

When I received an email inviting me to a two-night wellness retreat at Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Puerto Rico, my gut reaction was guilt, not excitement.

I went back and forth in my mind. Should I go? I was finally moving through the worst of postpartum depression and starting to feel more like myself. I had even found moments of joy in motherhood, which, just months ago, would have felt unimaginable. So would stepping away now, just as I was getting better, feel like a selfish move? Would I, more than anyone, feel like I wasn't doing enough?

Before becoming a parent, I wouldn't have thought twice about this opportunity. Travel is a big part of my job - I used to hop on planes without hesitation. But this felt different; it felt selfish. I knew I needed the break and had earned it. Still, the guilt was crushing.

Despite the mental tug-of-war I loved to play, I focused on the facts: it was a short trip with an easy flight and a real chance to focus on me. And so, with encouragement from my husband, mom, and therapist, I said yes.

PS Photography / Lauren Dana Ellman

A Necessary Pause

The retreat wasn't rigid, which I appreciated, especially as I eased back into being someone other than "mom." After months in survival mode - juggling feedings, naps, deadlines, rinse, and repeat - I was running on empty and craving a moment of calm.

The long, winding drive through the lush Puerto Rican hills set a soothing tone from the moment I arrived on the property. While there, I partook in morning yoga in the spa's five-acre pineapple garden, sound baths in a breezy treehouse high above the treetops, and unhurried group meals. Long, open afternoons made space for whatever I needed: wandering along the sand, swimming solo in the ocean, napping midday, or simply resting by the pool. The hum of singing bowls, rustling palm leaves, and, at night, the steady chirp of coquí frogs became a soothing white noise for my nervous system.

I (mostly) resisted the urge to check my inbox. It was the kind of stillness I hadn't felt in months - and I wasn't alone. I was the only mom in the group, but it didn't matter. The women were all in different life seasons, yet we shared an unspoken truth: the deep, often-unacknowledged need to pause.

Perhaps it wasn't about bouncing back at all, but instead learning to flow.

On our first night, we gathered barefoot on the beach for a new moon ceremony led by anthropologist Camille Arroyo, the resort's Ambassadors of the Environment supervisor. As the sun sank into the ocean, its golden light shimmering across the waves, she spoke about the Taíno people, Puerto Rico's original indigenous inhabitants, and how each moon phase invites reflection, release, and renewal. She reminded us that women move in cycles, our energy rising and falling like the tides. That hit me hard. In this postpartum period, everything felt static and relentless - diapers, dishes, deadlines. I'd lost my rhythm and had been on autopilot. Hearing that reminder made me realize maybe I could move slowly and mindfully. Perhaps it wasn't about bouncing back at all, but instead learning to flow.

We each picked up rose petals, held them to our hearts, and thought about what we were ready to let go of. I stood there, toes in the sand, warm breeze on my face, quietly naming mine: guilt, fear, resentment, self-doubt. Then, one by one, we offered our petals to the sea. It was a quiet, powerful moment: simple but deeply grounding. I didn't cry, but it stopped me in my tracks. For the first time in a long time, I felt still.

I'd always struggled with anxiety, but never depression - until postpartum. Now I know I'm not alone. Postpartum depression affects one in eight women, while postpartum anxiety impacts up to 21 percent. For many, this period marks their first encounter with mental health challenges.

Yet still, it's rarely spoken about. I only wish I'd known how common it was. When you're in the thick of it, the isolation can feel overwhelming. For me, these emotions were exacerbated by social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, which seem to be full of moms sharing perfect motherhood moments. Those highlight reels can be deceiving - even, dare I say, toxic.

That's why, for me, this retreat wasn't a luxury. Now that I've seen the light at the end of the tunnel, I understand that asking for help is essential, not optional.

PS Photography / Lauren Dana Ellman

What I Took Home With Me

The retreat didn't fix everything, and it'd be naive to think otherwise. I came home to the same babies, workload, and endless to-dos. I sleep better now - not great, but better - thanks in part to sleep training, which honestly brought its own wave of guilt.

But despite the constant pressure of balancing motherhood, work, partnership, cooking, and cleaning, I came back different. A little calmer. A bit more grounded. Slowly, I found myself again - the person I was before babies, and I'd missed her dearly.

I also brought home a jar of body scrub we made during a workshop - a blend of lavender, rosemary, and chamomile to promote rest and clarity. I ended up with two jars, thanks to the spa staff pouring leftovers into an extra container. (Even my scrub couldn't travel light.) Now, nearly two months post-retreat, both jars sit in my shower - a subtle reminder I'm allowed to care for myself, that I can slow down, even in five-minute increments (bring on the everything showers).

To anyone in the thick of it: you're not alone. You don't have to do it all. You're allowed to care for yourself - not just for others, but because you matter.

Lauren Dana Ellman is a New York-based freelance writer who has covered everything from travel and wellness to weddings and beauty. She's especially passionate about maternal mental health, travel, and self-care. Lauren's work has been published in Time Out, Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, The Knot, InStyle, Reader's Digest, PureWow, and more.

The 10 Best Toys and Gifts for 1-Year-Olds

Marisa Petrarca — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 14:55:02 -0700

When it comes to stocking the playroom, your favorite little ones (and their parents) deserve the most engaging toys. With so many colorful, quirky options out there, decision fatigue is real, but that's where we come in. We sifted through the noise to find the best toys and gifts for the 1-year-olds in your life. Whether you're shopping for a first birthday, a holiday, or just because, our roundup of the best toys and gifts for 1-year-olds is made to spark curiosity, encourage play, and keep the giggles coming.

From toys that teach ABCs and 123s to interactive play mats, water tables, and more, these toys support early development while keeping things fun. We also included a few that'll get them up and moving, whether they're crawling, scooting, or prepping for their first wobbly steps. Expect plenty of action, bright lights, and animated sounds to help them explore the world around them.

So what are you waiting for? We've got you - and your baby cousins, nieces, nephews, friends' kids, neighbors' kids (basically all the kids) covered. And if you're planning ahead, we've also rounded up the best toys and gifts for 2-year-olds when the time comes. Happy toy shopping!

Our Favorite Toys and Gifts For 1-Year-Olds

A flip book they'll want to cruise through over and over again: Dear Zoo: A Lift-the-Flap Book at $5, originally $8
A bead maze toy that doubles as high-chair entertainment: Melissa & Doug First Bead Maze at $19
A musical toy that might convince you they're the next Mozart: Hape Pound & Tap Bench with Slide Out Xylophone at $20, originally $30
Big blocks you won't step on, unlike tiny Legos: MEGA BLOKS First Builders Toddler Blocks Toys Set at $30
An internet-famous grocery cart toy that's basically multiple games in one: Melissa & Doug Wooden Shape Sorting Grocery Cart Push Toy and Puzzles at $37, originally $75

Update on June 18, 2025 at 5:00PM ET: Updated prices and checked stock for all products. User reviews may have been lightly edited for clarity.

The Best Gifts For 2-Year-Olds, Starting at $9

Genevieve Farrell — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 13:40:02 -0700

As any parent of toddlers can tell you, 2-year-olds are tough customers. That's true when it comes to getting them to eat their vegetables, getting them to stay in bed at naptime, and even getting them gifts. Whether you're looking for great birthday gifts or want to celebrate another special occasion, the last thing you want to do is spend hours choosing a gift, only to have it flop.

We've curated a list of toys but also practical items like clothes, swimwear, and a water bottle. The gifts range from thrilling to thoughtful. As a mom of two toddlers, I've given and received many gifts, and these are the ones that stood out by keeping the little ones engaged and entertained.

From a plush toy that includes a book they'll want to read on repeat to a few splurge-worthy items that will serve them for years to come, these gifts cater to a variety of children's interests at different price points. Check out the best toys and gifts for toddlers ahead.

Our Favorite Gifts For 2-Year-Olds to Shop

A singing school bus that transforms for interactive play: CoComelon Transforming School Time Bus at $9, originally $30
The best building toy for train enthusiasts: Lego Duplo My First Number Train Toy at $17, originally $20
A plush version of every toddler's favorite influencer: Ms. Rachel Official Speak & Sing Doll at $24, originally $30
A stainless steel vacuum-insulated water bottle: Kids Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle with Lid at $17, originally $18
The ultimate race car track set: Fisher-Price Little People Toddler Toy Hot Wheels Spiral Stunt Speedway Race Track at $40

Update on July 22, 2025 at 12:50PM ET: Updated prices and checked stock for all products.

10 Different Styles of Parenting, According to Experts

Kate Schweitzer — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 10:55:02 -0700

If parenting is one of the most important jobs a person can have, then why isn't there a user manual? Well, in fact, there are thousands on the different styles of parenting.

For decades, clinical psychologists, researchers, pediatricians, and developmental experts have been authoring books purporting to offer the definitive guide to parenting styles. But just like every family is unique and has its own needs, each child-raising philosophy has benefits and challenges that make it ideal for one parent and a nonstarter for another. That's why there are so many differing takes on the best parenting style in the first place.

And although parents do not need to adopt a specific style verbatim, to figure out how you plan to raise your children, it's helpful to understand their nuances. We've accounted for the hundreds of different types of parenting styles and culled them down to the nine most popular. From authoritative parenting to gentle parenting to helicopter parenting, you're bound to find the right parenting style for your family.

Whether you're looking to try something classic or opt for a buzzy alternative, like parallel parenting or type C parenting, read on so you can better understand the different parenting styles - and which one best suits your personality and goals.

Uh-Oh, First-Generation Graduates Are Making Me Cry Again

Emma Glassman-Hughes — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 10:35:01 -0700

Every spring, when the graduation TikToks come for my tear ducts, I don't try to run. Through my every sniffle and gasp, I embrace the sheer, unadulterated pride parading across my phone screen. I could scroll past and save myself the tissues, but instead I choose to languish in the raw emotion of these strangers on the internet, floored by the fortitude of the human spirit, thumb trained on the "like" button. Of course it's the same thing every year, and I always know it's coming. And yet . . . I just can't quit you, GradTok.

Somehow this year's crop of graduation content is even more touching than usual. Amid widespread suppression of student speech and a crackdown on immigration, TikTok trends that have been around during previous grad seasons have taken on new significance for the class of 2025. One in particular has even caught the eye of celebrities like Pedro Pascal, who recently re-shared a handful of reels from first-generation students honoring the sacrifices their parents made to support them through school.

In particular, videos tagged with #ParaMisPadres have been flooding the internet, depicting fresh high school and college graduates and their Latine families. The students participating in the trend remove their hats, robes, and cords, and drape them lovingly over their parents' shoulders as a gesture of gratitude for helping them get through school - even if many of the parents pictured were never able to attend or finish school themselves. One of the popular accompanying songs is "Para Ti Papá" by Ulices Chaidez, an anthem expressing love and admiration for father figures (and a guaranteed tear-jerker, even if you don't understand the Spanish lyrics).

The comments on Pascal's Instagram post, which features a carousel of several #ParaMisPadres videos from different graduates, underscore the sweetness and universality of the trend.

One commenter wrote, "I know there are so many people who do not understand the hard work, sacrifice, and dedication that our latino parents had to go through for us to become more successful than their dreams could have imagined. They don't have the empathy or heart and don't want to understand our family's sacrifices. But my heart soars for all of these families as they celebrate their kids hard work and the hard work tht got them here. Que orgullo."

Another wrote, "That's all it's ever been about. A huge ass sacrifice for the Hope of a better future. Come on now."

@amysofia.05
every step I take, I take them with me (ok no more crying) #firstgen #firstgeneration #immigrantparents #sisepudo #paramispadres #graduation2025 #latinagrad #latina
♬ Slipping Through My Fingers - From 'Mamma Mia!' Original Motion Picture Soundtrack - Meryl Streep & Amanda Seyfried

Family members in many of the videos are visibly choking back tears, while others are openly weeping with what can only be described as a proud parental glow. Part of what makes these scenes so special is the palpable emotion from parents who have had to keep it all together as they've raised their children, and are processing what it feels like to stand there and see the fruits of their labor culminate in a diploma.

"These dads don't cry. EVER," another commenter wrote. "This is them realizing all their hard work & sacrifice is Paying off. They're here for their families & for a better life. That's it."

Lots of major stories have come out of this graduation season so far, some happier than others. There have been student speakers whose diplomas have been withheld because they advocated for Palestine in their speeches; an 18-year-old in Milford, MA, who was abducted by ICE just before he was slated to play drums at his high school's graduation; and a 90-year-old great-grandmother who finally graduated with a college degree, 73 years after she originally left school. Then of course there was Usher, who famously wrote (and rewrote, and rewrote again) a commencement speech for the graduates of Emory University.

And while every graduation has its highs and lows, the TikToks coming from the class of 2025 make it clear that despite the uncertainty about where many graduates are going, they will always appreciate where they've come from.