POPSUGAR Family

Meet the Parents Taking Cooking Classes For Better Family Meals

Andi Breitowich — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 15:55:02 -0700

When you're a parent, "What's for dinner?" suddenly becomes less of a casual question and more of a daily pop quiz. Add picky eaters to the mix, and the freezer aisle starts looking pretty appealing. Sure, social media is a treasure trove of meal inspiration, but for some parents, the answer isn't another scroll. Professional cooking classes, it turns out, may be the confidence boost parents need to make family meals a little more manageable.

That's exactly what Jenna Davis, a mom of three, set out to do. "I was actually classically trained under a chef for a year in my 20s, so cooking itself was never really the challenge for me," she says. "But once I had kids, I realized that knowing how to make 'fancy' food and knowing how to make food my kids would actually eat were two very different things."

Like many parents, Davis found herself navigating the uphill battle of feeding extremely picky eaters. But rather than letting their selective taste buds dictate the weekly menu, she signed up for regular, hands-on classes focused specifically on cooking for children. The goal wasn't to master restaurant-quality dishes, though: She wanted to take the culinary skills she already had and make them work in the more practical realm of family dinner.

The classes certainly provided a handful of useful recipes, but for Davis, the techniques proved more valuable in the long run. "I learned how to make healthy ingredients more appealing, how presentation can change the way kids respond to food, and how to involve them in the cooking process," she says. For example, rather than serving broccoli as a side dish and hoping for the best, she might roast it until the edges were crisp, pair it with a dipping sauce the kids already liked, or let them help toss it with seasoning before it went into the oven.

And it worked. The shift in approach made a big difference. Instead of focusing on finding the one perfect recipe her kids would eat, Davis began using what she learned in class to make healthy foods more appealing and mealtimes more engaging. "Cooking for kids is its own skill set," she says. "Rather than feeling like I was constantly trying to convince my kids to eat something healthy, I learned how to take the culinary techniques I already knew and make them more approachable."

One example is okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake that's become a household favorite among Davis's kids. On paper, it might not sound like the most obvious choice for fussy eaters. But Davis found that the way she prepares and serves it matters almost as much as what's in it. "I make a whole show of cooking [okonomiyaki] on the griddle, and my kids are so excited about the experience that they don't even realize they're eating mostly cabbage," she says.

A fresh approach to mealtime can also help families move beyond cooking the same dishes over and over. For Angela Acevedo, a mom to a teenage son, mealtime had slowly settled into a familiar loop: the same few dishes, the same predictable favorites, and, eventually, very little excitement for either of them. "My son is a picky eater, and to avoid arguments, I had fallen into the habit of making the same dishes repeatedly, but eventually, we were both bored," she says.

So instead of continuing to serve the same greatest hits, Acevedo decided to shake things up by enrolling in virtual cooking classes through Nourish and Gather. "My main goal was to learn how to use familiar ingredients in different ways so we could expand our meal choices without making food feel completely unfamiliar to my son," she says.

In this case, the goal wasn't to introduce entirely new foods, but to give familiar ingredients a fresh spin by giving them a different role on the plate. Chicken, vegetables, and rice might become a stir-fry one night, tacos another, or a simple rice bowl with different toppings. Ground beef can show up in burgers, meatballs, or stuffed peppers, while familiar vegetables can be roasted, blended into a sauce, tucked into quesadillas, or served raw with a dip. For Acevedo, the idea was to keep ingredients recognizable while changing the flavors, textures, and presentation enough that dinner didn't feel like the same meal on repeat.

Maybe that's the part many parents can relate to most: Feeding kids well doesn't have to mean mastering complicated recipes, keeping a Pinterest-worthy pantry stocked at all times, or pulling off the latest viral dinner hack. Sometimes, it's simply about finding a few strategies that make healthy food feel less intimidating and giving kids a reason to be curious about what's on their plates.

After all, the real payoff of cooking classes isn't a table full of elaborate, chef-worthy dishes that can transform picky eaters into adventurous foodies. It's kids who are a little more willing to try, meals with more variety, and parents who feel more confident about what they're serving.

"My kids are still picky, but I've learned that they are much more excited about food when they feel like they have some ownership in it," Davis says. "Turning meals into an experience has made a big difference because I can still prioritize fresh, healthy ingredients, but I've learned how to make them approachable, fun, and something my kids genuinely look forward to eating."

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.

TikTok's Favorite Teachers Share Back-to-School Shopping Hacks

Michele Ross — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 10:30:03 -0700

There's something about back-to-school shopping that never quite loses its magic. You've got fresh notebooks, perfectly sharpened pencils, and a fancy lunchbox that you can't wait to show off to your new classmates. It all feels like a tiny reset button and the best way to start a new grade on the right foot. You probably remember that exact feeling yourself, even if it's been decades since you busted out your Lisa Frank Trapper Keeper. (IYKYK.)

Now you're the parent holding the credit card - and with the excitement comes more responsibility. It can be tempting to go all-in, buying not only the necessities but also the nice-to-haves and upgrades (like that binder that's three times the price just because it has Disney princesses on it). But does your kid actually need every item to come with the bells and whistles, and do you need to buy them every last thing before the first bell rings? Probably not.

The goal isn't to say no to every little upgrade, but rather to be a little more strategic about where your money goes. Before a notebook here and a pen pack there suddenly turns into a $150 outing, see what some of TikTok's most popular teachers suggest to guide your back-to-school haul. Ahead, you'll find their insider tips and tricks - including how to save some money, avoid common mistakes, and find the sweet spot between frugality and fun.

3 Teachers Share Their Back-to-School Shopping Hacks

Sofia Bella, Las Vegas

Sofia Bella, an elementary school art teacher in Las Vegas, says it's best to opt for budget-friendly versions of the basics. Think: folders, pencils, erasers, and glue sticks. "By the end of the school year, most of those supplies are going to be lost, used up, or gone," she shares.

And while you might think it's responsible to invest in quality headphones for digital learning sessions, she actually says this tends to backfire. "I've seen parents buy really nice Bluetooth headphones that light up or have cute ears, and they are broken within the first month," she says. (With this same line of thinking, it's probably best to avoid splurging on items that are more fragile and can break when they're shoved into a backpack or dropped on the playground.)

If you're going to splurge on anything, she recommends something that'll get plenty of use and has a smaller chance of going missing, like a reusable water bottle. "A sturdy water bottle is something students can actually use every single day and refill at school," she says. "I especially like the Owala Kids' FreeSip because it has a snap lid and straw so it's less likely to spill and it's easy for kids to handle on their own." (Just don't forget to label it with your kid's name so it doesn't become a classroom casualty.)

Lastly, you don't have to make your haul all about practicality. Bella recommends buying at least one special item that sparks joy for your child. Perhaps that's a lunchbox with a Minecraft Creeper on it, a pencil box customized with their name, or a 32-pack of markers with all the fancy colors they're obsessed with. "Kids really do light up over those little things that feel personal to them," she says.

Josh King, Bakersfield, CA

With back-to-school displays popping up as early as July, it's easy to convince yourself that you should get ahead of the game and make your purchases early. But Josh King, a kindergarten teacher in Bakersfield, CA, advises against buying anything without knowing what's actually needed. Contain your kids' (and your own) excitement by waiting to receive their teacher's official back-to-school supply list. And even when you do get it, resist the urge to buy every last item straight away.

"Don't feel rushed to get everything before school starts," he says, "because chances are they won't need anything specific until after the first day or back-to-school night." That isn't to say to hold off completely - just know that it's wise to cover the bare basics before purchasing any nice-to-haves that could end up collecting dust.

In addition, King recognizes that kids want all the things - especially the ones that are sparkly and character-covered (i.e., catnip for kids). However, he says most of these items are wants rather than needs. That doesn't mean you have to ban every marked-up or potentially unnecessary item entirely; just set clear boundaries so you and your child reach a middle ground.

King suggests following a ten-to-one rule: "For every ten items you buy - pencils, crayons, paper, binder, each notebook, etc. - let your child buy one thing that might make them smile or happy for the year," he shares. It's a clever compromise that'll help you stay on budget, give your kid some say in what goes into the cart, and (hopefully) avoid a mid-aisle meltdown.

Catherine Coyle, Atlanta

As convenient as it is to shop online, it could be a good idea to browse a few stores in person to compare prices if staying on budget is a priority. Catherine Coyle, a second-grade teacher in Atlanta, says she's found that school supplies tend to be significantly cheaper in store versus online.

Another hot tip to save some cash: skip over the premade supply kits that some stores offer. They may look like the ultimate shortcut - you grab one box and call it a day - but Coyle says that convenience can come at a cost. "They often include extra materials you don't need and aren't as cost-efficient as buying supplies individually," she says.

As for what makes the list of her must-have investment items? Scotch Precision Titanium Scissors and the Staples One-Touch Stapler. "They're not only great for getting decor ready, but both of mine have lasted years," she says. "The stapler is especially helpful when making large work packets or booklets." They might not make it into your kids' backpack must-haves, but depending on their age, they could be good to have on hand for at-home projects.

The Takeaway

All said, you don't have to choose between being economical and letting your kid have little extras here and there. Simply wait to see what they actually need, start with the basics, and be judicious on where to spend a bit more - whether it's for utility or simply because something makes them smile. While the goal of back-to-school shopping is to be prepared, we can't forget that fun is an essential part of the experience, too.

Michele Ross is a freelance writer specializing in wellness, culture, and beauty. Her work has appeared in Well+Good, Coveteur, Editorialist, GQ, Vice, and Teen Vogue, with brand clients including Peloton, Moon Juice, and Hum Nutrition. She's grateful to cover her many interests - including but not limited to self-care, self-development, skin care, coffee, travel, and Korean culture.

These Parents Are Romanticizing Weeknights (Yes, It's Possible)

Jennifer Heimlich — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 15:20:02 -0700

Weeknights can be a slog, particularly for working parents. I sometimes feel like I'm just knocking out the world's most mundane to-do list: finish work, rush to daycare for pickup, cook something reasonably nutritious that my kids will actually eat, convince them to get in the bath, convince them to get into bed. Then, if I haven't fallen asleep myself while tucking them in, I might get 10 minutes to read a book (or, let's be honest, doomscroll) before I pass out.

In the summer, though, Tuesday nights are different. There's a rooftop park nearby where students from the Berklee College of Music play a weekly free concert from June to August. Some of the musicians are incredibly talented; others are . . . well, not my vibe. Either way, my husband and I can lie back with our infant on the small hill overlooking the stage while our 4-year-old gleefully runs around with whatever other kids her age are there. Every time, I feel this sense of calm wash over my body. It's a rare chance in the middle of the week to relax and do something I legitimately enjoy.

This little weekly reprieve has reminded me that we don't have to wait until the weekend to have fun. Fully taking advantage of family time in the evenings can break up the week, and ease the pressure to fit all the good stuff into Saturday and Sunday. In fact, some parents intentionally romanticize their weeknights to keep their kids - and themselves - from dreading the Monday-to-Friday grind.

"It's become part of our daily habit to try to do something exciting every night," says Marisa Scott, a mom to two boys, ages 2 and 4, in San Diego. Sometimes that's as simple as an evening picnic in the park with a soccer ball or their scooters. Or she'll take her boys to the beach to eat dinner and watch the sunset (and then hose them off right there so they can hop straight into bed once they get home). On other nights, they'll hit up a rock climbing gym or a bowling alley as a family.

Since Scott makes it a point to start and end her workday early, they even do weeknight camping trips at a campground half an hour away. "We'll go at 3:00 or 4:00 p.m. and then be home by 8:30 in the morning," she says.

As daunting as that might sound, Scott says she keeps any midweek events manageable by checking her expectations. "I don't overbuild things in my head," she says. "I know there's probably going to be tears. Someone's going to scream. And if it sucks, we go home early or just do something else."

Other parents prioritize midweek activities that are a bit more low-key - and might even look like something they would have done pre-kids. For instance, Janelle Van Lente and her husband, whose children are 2 and 5 years old, will regularly go to a food hall/brewery, Prescott Market, near their home in Oakland, CA. It has a big fenced-in sandpit with toys and games for the kids and picnic benches all around for the parents.

"We just throw our kids in, sit on the bench, and drink our beer in peace," Van Lente says.

Going there gives the couple a night off from worrying about cooking or cleaning up dishes. But there also isn't the stress over trying to shush their children like they would at a restaurant. "There are lots of kids and everyone's screaming, so you feel at ease," she says.

The Van Lentes sometimes meet up with other families there. It's also where they invite any friends visiting town so they can have an actual adult conversation without constantly getting interrupted or having to hire a babysitter. "It's become our go-to because we know that it works," she says.

With the right approach, even staying at home can turn into a midweek treat. For instance, Scott sometimes makes homemade playdough with her boys after work, having them help her with the cooking process before they get to play. "Things that I think are little can actually be a really big moment for them," she says.

Last winter, my husband started buying bulk packages of glow sticks to embrace (rather than hate) the early dark. At least once a week during the early-sunset season, we'll turn off all the lights after dinner, crack open a few sticks, and blast our dance party playlist. (Darude's "Sandstorm" is typically the biggest hit.)

At her home in Lexington, MA, Danielle Sandahl Urban - a mom of a 7-year-old, 4-year-old, and a newborn - sticks to a casual hangout date with another family every week. They switch off who hosts, and keep the menu simple, like Monday night breakfast for dinner or Wednesday night pizza. "We get to hang out with adult friends, the kids are entertained and wearing themselves out, and it's awesome," she says.

She admits that inviting friends over mid-week initially felt intimidating. "It took me a lot of unlearning in my perception of my own house to allow people to come over in the middle-of-the-week chaos," she says.

She also points out that any kind of weeknight event or activity means bedtime inevitably gets delayed. "For some people, they get a lot of anxiety around that, and it really throws off their week," Sandahl Urban says.

For her, though, the tradeoff is worth it: This simple routine of getting together for dinner once a week has helped her build a community and sustain close adult friendships as a parent.

Scott adds that she knows that in a few years, her boys will be doing sports and other extracurriculars that will eat up their weeknights, making it trickier to pull off fun activities as a family. So in the meantime, she wants to take advantage of any chance she gets to make memories together. "They're only little once, and I work all day long," she says, "so I'm OK sacrificing some things - like if they have a different dinner than I normally would want them to - to spend that time with my kids."

Jennifer Heimlich is a writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience in fitness and wellness journalism. She previously worked as the senior fitness editor for Well+Good and the editor in chief of Dance Magazine. A UESCA-certified running coach, she's written about running and fitness for publications like Shape, GQ, Runner's World, and The Atlantic.

40 Age-Appropriate Chores Your Kids Won't Hate Doing

Alessia Santoro — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 06:00:04 -0700

If you're a parent who feels like they're doing literally everything around the house, including picking up after your very capable kids, we know how you feel. It makes some parents feel guilty to give their children mundane responsibilities like taking out the garbage, and some can't help but think, "If I do it, it'll get done faster and better." But the truth is, children can - and probably should - handle more than you think.

Chores can actually be very beneficial for child development, according to The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. From learning time management and organizational skills to accepting family responsibility, age-appropriate chores set a foundation for independence. It's also a good way to introduce routine and consistency if life at home has been a little hectic. In fact, an ongoing, multigenerational Harvard Research study found that children who do chores may be more successful as adults.

We're not suggesting you turn your child into a regular Mrs. Doubtfire, but there are a bunch of tasks around the house that can be completed by children based on their age, like putting their toys away or helping set the table. If you're looking to set your kiddos up with a chore chart to help them learn about hard work and having responsibilities, there's something every child can help with.

Scroll through for a list of manageable household chores for kids based on their age.

10 Simple and Nutritious Lunch Ideas For Even the Pickiest Eaters

Lauren Manaker — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 06:00:02 -0700

Let's face it: figuring out what to make for lunch can be one of the toughest parts of your day if you have a picky eater in your midst. It's hard enough coming up with new, nourishing recipes that will hold up in a lunchbox, five days a week. And so, that challenge is only compounded when you have to work around a list of specific preferences and dislikes.

The last thing we want is to eat the same thing every day, and doing so can lead to some nutritional gaps. But who has the time to sift through the thousands of articles out there to find one - just one - meal that maybe your kid will like that doesn't include a chicken nugget or a hot dog.

To hopefully save you some time in the kitchen ahead of a new school year, we've rounded up ten tried and true recipes we think the whole family will love. We've focused on those that sneak in a bit of nutrition, such as in hidden veggie mac and cheese, or that present your lunch in a new, novel way, like meat, cheese, and fruit kabobs. We hope this gives you some much needed inspiration and peace of mind as you send your persnickety eater off to face the day.

School Anxiety Is Common - Here's How to Help Your Kid Through It

Devan McGuinness — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 05:55:02 -0700

Though an exciting time, the return to the classroom and routine can trigger a range of emotions in students. And as summer draws to a close and the school bells begin to ring once again, a familiar yet daunting wave of school anxiety can start to creep in for kids of all ages. While anxiety is a common response to change, as parents, it can be hard to navigate our kids through it. So, we've asked the experts.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), worries and fears are typical in childhood, but when those fears become "persistent or extreme" and interfere with daily life, it's more likely to fall under the category of anxiety. Statistics show that 9.4 percent of children between the ages of 3 and 17 were diagnosed with anxiety between 2016 and 2019, a percentage that is growing yearly.

Despite anxiety in school-aged children being a growing concern, recognizing when fear turns into anxiety isn't always easy to spot. "Children who have always had anxiety may not realize that this is not a normal experience, and they need a trusted adult to help them identify the need for help and support," child psychiatrist Willough Jenkins, PhD, tells PS.

Experts Featured in This Article

Willough Jenkins, PhD, is a child psychiatrist and the assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of California, San Diego.

Amy Mezulis, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, as well as the cofounder of Joon Care, which provided mental health care for teens and young adults.

Ellen Braaten, PhD, is a psychologist, child neuropsychologist, and the author of "Bright Kids Who Couldn't Care Less."

How Can You Tell If Your Child Is Experiencing School Anxiety?

While it may be a struggle for kids to recognize signs of school anxiety, it's important for parents to be aware. "If anxiety is not recognized and goes untreated, it can have effects on all aspects of a child's life – like school performance, ability to socialize, and general well-being," Dr. Jenkins says.

Since it's not always simple for kids to vocalize if their worries and fears have morphed into anxiety, it's important for parents to be dialed into their kids to watch for any signs. And one of the biggest and most common signs this has happened is when kids start to refuse to go to school.

"Usually, the biggest red flag about school anxiety is school refusal or school avoidance," clinical psychologist Amy Mezulis, PhD, tells Popsugar. "But this can manifest in subtle ways and show up the first few times as mystery headaches, stomachaches, or other symptoms that seem like illness and legitimate reasons to miss school."

Child neuropsychologist Ellen Braaten, PhD, agrees, saying that school performance can also be a key sign of anxiety. "In terms of signs that are missed by parents, poor performance in school such as disorganization, missed or incomplete assignments are common," Dr. Braaten shares. "Finally, frequent trips to the school nurse, the bathroom, or wanting to stay in from recess are common."

Dr. Jenkins adds that although many signs of anxiety in children may involve physical symptoms such as headaches and stomach pain, parents must take these signs seriously. "What is important to remember is that even though the physical symptoms may be a result of school stress, this doesn't mean that the child is feigning the symptoms," she says. "Stress can cause legitimate headaches and stomach pains."

What Are the Most Common Causes of School Anxiety Among Kids?

There isn't a universal reason why a child will experience school anxiety. Instead, there are various factors, both at-home and at-school reasons, Dr. Mezulis explains. For example, being bullied, struggling with a particular subject, or being socially isolated may lead to anxiety, Dr. Mezulis says. Another potential stressor? "Maybe there's stress at home that is showing up as anxiety, for example, parent conflict or divorce or a recent major change," she suggests.

Back-to-school anxiety tends to be more common in younger children, particularly those first starting school, Dr. Jenkins warns. But that doesn't mean older kids aren't susceptible. School anxiety can look different in different children and "stem from a multifactorial combination of genetic predisposition and their environment," she explains.

Some general reasons for school anxiety include:

Separation anxiety, or feeling anxiety from being away from a parent or caregiver.
Traumatic anxiety, resulting from a traumatic event at school, like threats or bullying.
Fear of failure usually related to tests or tasks at school.
Conflict anxiety, typically resulting from ongoing issues or conflicts with peers or teachers at the school.
General social anxiety or feeling overwhelmingly uncomfortable around others.
Fears and phobias like anxiety over toileting in public, public speaking, or certain activities.

It's also worth noting that kids with a family history of anxiety, or those who are more shy or reserved by nature, are also more vulnerable to anxiety, Dr. Mezulis says.

What Can Parents Do to Help Their Kids With School Anxiety?

Dr. Braaten says the first thing parents need to do to help their kids through school anxiety is to name and acknowledge what they're feeling. "Parents need to remember that anxiety is actually a healthy emotion - it is the emotion that tells us something isn't right," she continues. "The most important thing to teach your child is to make sure the anxiety matches the threat."

In terms of actionable steps that parents can take to help their child navigate school anxiety, the experts offer seven tips:

Understand the source. "It is important to understand the source of the anxiety; if there is something happening at school, such as bullying, then you need to deal with that directly," Dr. Mezulis says. "Often there is not - the child is simply anxious - but we don't want to miss a solvable problem."
Regularly attend school. "It is very important that your child returns to school even if they are feeling anxious," Dr. Jenkins shares. "School anxiety is reinforced the longer a child stays out of school, so this is another area where it is necessary that parents intervene."
Don't accidentally reinforce. "If your child is not able to attend school, ensure [the] home is comfortable," Dr. Jenkins says, "but not unintentionally reinforcing the habit of staying home (such as having unlimited snacks, video games, or time with parents)."
Have a few dry runs. "For children new to school, we recommend doing dry runs of school days to familiarize the child with the new routine," Dr. Mezulis suggests. This involves actually driving to the school, getting out, and going to the front door.
Set small goals. "Small goals might be things such as handing your homework to the teacher when you walk in the door; identifying what you're going to do at recess (play on the bars, walk three laps around the playground); one social activity (say hi to a certain kid)," Dr. Mezulis explains. "Something that is small and obtainable can build confidence."
Offer a small reward. "I don't recommend bribing children to go to school, but having a small reward at the end of the week - a family movie night or going out for ice cream - can be a nice way to celebrate your child pushing through the anxiety and being successful with school attendance that week," Dr. Mezulis says.
Develop an anxiety toolbox. "It can be a physical box where they put things that help them with anxiety," Dr. Jenkins says. "The box may include a family photo, a nice-smelling soap, a puzzle, and reminders of coping skills like box breathing or a grounding technique."

When supporting your child through their school anxiety, "parents need to thread that needle carefully," Dr. Mezulis says. You want to make sure that you're validating and respecting your child's anxiety, but also ensuring that it does not dominate their life to the point of avoidance (like refusing to go to school altogether).

By acknowledging the reality of school anxiety and having some tricks and tips up your sleeve in anticipation, parents and caregivers can help kids get off on the right foot during school and continue to feel supported throughout the year.

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.

The Most Unique Gifts for Kids, From Candy-Making Kits to Fort-Building Sets

Emily Shiffer — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 06:00:04 -0700

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 - even if you think they already have everything. Keep reading to shop our top gifts for kids ahead.

Best Gifts for Kids

Best gift for candy-lovers: Thames & Kosmos Rainbow Gummy Candy Lab at $10, originally $20
Best gift for decorating enthusiasts: Butterfly LED Lights at $14, originally $16
Best subscription box gift: KiwiCo Kiwi Crate at $24
Best slime kit gift: Stationery Ice Cream Slime Kit at $27
Best gift for budding photographers: Anchioo Instant Camera at $30, originally $40
Best night light gift: Jambo Magma Lamp at $32
Best gift for LEGO beginners: LEGO Classic Large Creative Brick Box 10698 Building Set at $34, originally $60
Best gift for movement-seeking kids: Gotrax KS1 Kids Kick Scooter at $38
Best gift for aspiring skaters: Metroller Roller Skates at $38, originally $40
Best gift for future geologists: National Geographic Break Open 5 Jumbo Geodes Earth Science Kit at $40
Best gift for the kid who likes to be cozy: The Comfy Original Jr for Kids Oversized Sherpa Fleece Wearable Blanket at $43
Best tasty gift to support healthy growth: Grüns Kids Superfood Gummies at $57
Best gift for Marvel fans: Echo Dot with Limited Edition Marvel Iron Man Stand at $63, originally $90
Best gift for crafty kids: Sculpd Home Pottery Kit with Paints at $65
Best gift for fort-builders: National Geographic Creative Indoor Fort Building Kit at $70
Best gift for future engineers: MAGNA-TILES Classic 100-Piece Magnetic Construction Set at $84, originally $120
Best gift for gamers: Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini HyperSpeed Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard at $95, originally $200
Best splurge gift for gamers: PlayStation 5 Console at $630

How a Postpartum Personal Assistant Helped Me Through the Newborn Trenches

Kelsey Garcia — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 12:10:03 -0700

I was supposed to write this months ago. That might tell you a little something about where I'm at in life.

I'm a mom of a 10-month-old. I work from home, along with my husband, and we don't have childcare. It's been the most rewarding time of my life - and the most challenging. It's laundry several times a week, having to learn new terms like "baby-led weaning," the inescapable smell of spit-up, sleep training, teething rashes, tiny bristle brushes for tiny bottle parts, and the best fucking sound in the world, baby giggles.

When I became a mom, I learned the true meaning of, "It takes a village." But our modern lives and social configurations don't always make that easy. Like many millennials, however, my village is scattered and often existing virtually. My family is thousands of miles away from where I live, in Los Angeles, and while I have a tight-knit community of friends here, I say with love that professional nannies, they are not. Plus, I recognize that everyone has their own stresses and bustling schedules.

So, when my maternity leave began to dwindle several months ago, I started to panic. The initial postpartum adrenaline was fading, the so-called newborn bubble had burst, and I started to doubt that I would be able to balance a full workload with the constant demands of tending to an infant. That's when I heard about Sundays.

Sundays is an executive-assistant service primarily aimed at working parents. Founded by Ashley Chang, a former tech-startup product manager, Sundays touts itself as being "built for parents who refuse to choose" between career and family. There are a variety of packages based on one's unique needs, but with packages starting at $250 a month, Sundays is hoping to democratize the kind of detailed assistance typically afforded by bigger bosses with, truthfully, bigger wallets.

I spoke with Chang on a Thursday afternoon in November to learn more about Sundays. I was four months postpartum at the time and I can't quite remember if I was late to the call but I'd be willing to bet I was. I know for sure that I felt frazzled, but Chang soon put me at ease. She was a new mom, too. Her son was only a few months older than my daughter, and as fate would have it, they even share the same name.

I decided to try the Fourth Trimester Package. Priced at $750, which can be paid upfront or in installments, it comes with 15 hours of personalized assistance to be used within three months. Sundays assistants can help with anything from sifting through newborn paperwork to coordinating meal trains and researching childcare - anything to help ease those first few months after welcoming a child.

Though I was past the fourth trimester, technically speaking, I needed all the help I could get as I approached my return to work.

The morning of my first meeting with my Sundays assistant, Jamie, I wasn't exactly my most focused: my baby had just woken up early from her nap, and I was having to tend to her while also catching Jamie up on the organized chaos of my new existence.

Prior to our chat, however, I had filled out a questionnaire, which helped synthesize our family's most urgent needs: daycare research, some prep for our first family trip taking place in a few months, and help scheduling a consistent house cleaner since keeping the home tidy had fallen far down the list of priorities.

Despite my diminished attention span, Jamie was steady, upbeat, and reassuring. She was the phrase "I got it," personified. And though that introductory call was only 30 minutes, we quickly bonded over childrearing and our shared love of cats.

In the weeks that followed, Jamie would routinely check in to share updates. We also had a shared Google Drive where she'd upload any docs with her latest findings. As a fairly type-A person, this system was soothing.

Within a week, we had scheduled our first house cleaning, and not long after, Jamie shared a list of what we needed to know before our first trip with the baby, including stroller bags to consider and whether to check our stroller at the gate or ticket counter.

Throughout the entire process, Jamie would also remind me of the other tasks she might be able to help with: creating grocery lists, ordering household essentials, organizing a digital file system to keep track of all our newborn documents. This is in addition to more personal needs too, like ordering holiday gifts or coordinating a date night.

Over the course of a few months, Jamie became part of our village. With her help, my to-do list no longer felt like this Sisyphean endeavor. The newborn trenches felt a little brighter and, well, back to being a bubble for a little while longer.

Kelsey Garcia (she/her) is the lifestyle director at PS, where she oversees coverage across Balance and Health & Fitness. Kelsey is passionate about travel, wellness trends, and evolving parenting styles. Before joining the PS team as an editorial assistant in 2015, she interned at Elle and Harper's Bazaar, among other publications.

I Quit Faking a Close Relationship With My Mom on Mother's Day

Ashley Oerman — Fri, 08 May 2026 06:20:02 -0700

Up until my early 30s, I sent Mother's Day cards and posted old photos of my mom and me to Instagram. The cards and my captions made it sound like we were buds. They fit in with all the other content from the second Sunday in May, proclaiming blessings to all of momkind.

After all, mother sacrificed everything for us. She put us and our needs ahead of her own. She was endlessly supportive and invested in the people we are becoming. She is our safe space and our solid ground. She's our day-one.

But I don't actually relate to any of that. Most Mother's Days, especially the ones I commemorated on Instagram, I was lying to myself and everyone else. My mom and I never had the kind of bond that made her my go-to when things went very wrong or very right.

Still, we spoke all the time, doing weekly phone catch-ups while I ran errands. She'd tell me about her gym friends and the people she met while donating blood. She'd share detailed recaps of her cats' agendas. She'd complain about coworkers at her newest job who were mean for no apparent reason. And then, 15 minutes into all that, she'd ask me how work was going. I'd say, "Fine, busy." There were no follow-up questions. Then it was over, and I could cross her off my to-do list.

If this sounds like I was satisfied with our surface-level relationship, I wasn't. In the past, I worked to deepen our dynamic. In high school, for example, I'd ask to do her hair and makeup. She'd roll her eyes before agreeing to let me at it. At the time, I would have told you that I took initiative because she didn't know how to use a flat iron or eye shadow. I wanted her to look cute when we went out with my friends and their moms. Today, I can see that I was trying to forge a bond that wasn't there. She tolerated it.

In college, I kept up my campaign by being more open. I told her about this new guy I was seeing. I shared how I spent a PG-13 night in his dorm room. She cut me off, "You don't have to tell me this." I tried to go on, and she repeated the sentiment, so I took the hint.

After moving 1,000 miles away after college, there were fewer opportunities for us to get close, and even so, she still refused to take my bait. When my mom visited, she'd spend a lot of our time together talking to strangers. We'd go out with my friends, and she'd find other interesting people to chat with. We'd sit on a bench outside of a coffee shop, and she'd tell a stranger my life story. Then we'd walk home in silence.

When I compared our dynamic with my friends and their moms, I felt defective. But I'd brush it off and make excuses for her: She's just an eccentric lady. She's highly social (at least with other people). She's not really the nurturing type. All of that might be true, but none of it made me feel better in the end.

I pushed those feelings down where I didn't have to deal with them. Unfortunately, when I'd see doting mothers in movies like "Mamma Mia!" or attend a friend's baby shower, the emotions bubbled back up. I didn't know it then, but I was grieving the mom I'll never have.

It wasn't until I started therapy in my late 20s that I fully grasped how my relationship with my mom affected me. Once an objective mental health professional confirmed that our interactions were, in fact, messed up, I couldn't unsee it.

Finally, after a decade of conflict avoidance, I told my mom I felt like she didn't care about me. "Why don't you want to spend time with me?" I asked. "Why don't you act interested in me?" When I broke down over the phone, she said she was sorry I was hurt and changed the subject.

After that, our surface-level phone calls were harder to push through. Finally, after years of sucking it up, calling her a few times a month and, of course, every Mother's Day, I completely pulled back from our relationship in June 2023.

The first Mother's Day was the hardest, but I planned for it. I felt my feelings, crying in the shower. I journaled. I avoided social media. I read a book. I was depressed, but things were under control.

Then my dad texted, asking me to message my mom because "She's hurting." That ate at me. Sure, I could send a text. From the outside, it seems like the outcome would outweigh the effort.

But grief doesn't make logical sense. My dad didn't know that this day was/is hard for me too. He didn't know that sending her a text would mean betraying emotions and experiences I had just begun to validate. I still doubted myself. Was I being stubborn or dramatic? I debated sending her a text, and spiraled for hours.

Ultimately, I chose myself. I told my dad that Mother's Day was tough for me too. I didn't want my mom to think our relationship was fine. It wasn't. It likely will never be. He was more understanding than I anticipated, and I felt reassured. The following year, I turned my phone off. This year, I may do the same.

While reporting for my book, "Motherf*cked, How To Keep Your Mother's Toxic Drama From Ruining Your Life," I learned that so many more people dread Mother's Day than I imagined. I also learned that it's OK to put yourself first, honoring your true feelings instead of faking it to appease your mom or the rest of your family. In fact, you might feel better when you do.

If you can relate, please know you're not defective for having a dysfunctional relationship with your mom. Grieving who she'll never be, accepting who she is, and making informed decisions based on that reality is how I started feeling better, and you can too.

Maybe this is the year you decide to stop pretending that you and your mom are close on Mother's Day. Or maybe you decide to have an honest conversation with your mom about this relationship's shortcomings.

Though I see my mom at holidays and family gatherings, I'm no longer faking this relationship every May. When I see her, I always hug her and tell her I love her, and that's all I can manage for the foreseeable future.

Ashley Oerman is a health and wellness journalist, editor, and author of "Motherf*cked: How to Keep Your Mother's Toxic Drama From Ruining Your Life." She is currently the deputy editor at Wondermind, a mental health media company.

Meet the Reddit Community That Will Be Your Mom For a Minute

Taylor Andrews — Thu, 07 May 2026 18:22:29 -0700

There are all kinds of mothers in this world. For some people, it's the person that raised them. For others, it's a stepmom, grandmother, or perhaps an older sister. But motherhood isn't always biological, and it doesn't always happen under the same roof. Sometimes, it's a stranger on the internet.

The online Reddit community r/MomForAMinute is dedicated to helping those in need a role model or maternal figure. "We are mother geese to our loving ducklings. When you need understanding, congratulations, praise, or advice from a mother figure, but don't have one IRL able or willing to provide that for you, we are here for you," the group's description states. "We support you and love you unconditionally."

Reddit user u/closingbelle volunteered to moderate the community after stumbling across the group nine years ago. "It felt like a genuine, positive, and welcoming space, and I wanted to protect that unique feel and make sure the supportive atmosphere was maintained going forward," she tells Popsugar. Since then, the subreddit has grown from a few thousand weekly visitors to more than 41,000.

According to u/closingbelle, the group was originally inspired by the "Free Mom Hugs" movement often seen at Pride events and community gatherings. "We continue that tradition by offering free virtual hugs to anyone who needs one," she says.

"Being a moderator for this sub has really helped me see the good in my fellow humans"

Beyond the free virtual hugs, though, r/MomForAMinute has evolved into something even bigger: it's a place for community members to seek advice, share wins, and request "words from a mother," which is what one Reddit user, who requested anonymity, was looking for. "I recently came out as trans, and the initial reaction from [my family] was tough," they tell Popsugar. "I knew how kind and compassionate this community seemed to be, and I wanted to give it a chance."

Hoping to receive a bit of hope from posting, the Reddit user says they got so much more than that. "It was overwhelmingly supportive and thoughtful - supportive in the sense that everyone took a moment to acknowledge how inevitably difficult this kind of change can be, but that it is rewarding and fulfilling if I put in the effort."

Reddit user u/ascaffo had a similarly affirming experience: After her mother died from cancer three years ago, she found herself grieving while navigating major life moments. With her oldest son deployed overseas and youngest son engaged and buying his first home, all of these big events made her miss her mom. "My heart was bursting, and I wanted to share it with her," she says. "I hesitantly went to r/MomForAMinute, and I just let [the words] flow."

Searching for a message of kindness from someone who could relate, she was taken aback by the response. "It was as close as I was going to get to feeling like I had shared it with my mom," she says. "A couple of responses even brought tears to my eyes. It was a cathartic exercise."

Stories like these are exactly why u/closingbelle says moderating the subreddit feels so meaningful. "Being a moderator for this sub has really helped me see the good in my fellow humans, how the inherent possibility of positivity, proactively applied, can be the little change someone needed."

This Mother's Day, r/MomForAMinute serves as a reminder that motherhood isn't always about who gave birth to you. Sometimes, it's about who shows up for you. And for those who are active members or just hearing about the r/MomForAMinute community for the first time, it's proof that maternal love can exist in all kinds of forms.

Taylor Andrews (she/her) 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.

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."

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."

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."

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.

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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.