Women Deserve Better

Women Deserve Better: For us, that means better information, better support, and better choices. Life brings challenges. We bring empowerment, because we’ll never underestimate women.

Bethanie Ryan

Learn the Basics of Unemployment Benefits

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Unemployment benefits are for eligible people who are unemployed through no fault of their own. An eligible person receives a cash payment through the unemployment insurance program. Each state administers its own program, but all states must follow federal law guidelines. Who Is Eligible? Generally, you must meet both work and wage requirements. The state agency that … [Read more...] about Learn the Basics of Unemployment Benefits

Find Help When You Can’t Find a Job

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First things first: Don’t panic! There is help out there. Consider your options: Apply for any resources that may help you with your bills while you search.While it does vary by state, there is definitely help for those who lost their jobs due to COVID-19. Even if your job loss doesn’t have to do with the pandemic, always check your local department of human services, or try … [Read more...] about Find Help When You Can’t Find a Job

How to Find Legal Help for Evictions and Foreclosures

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Are you struggling to pay your rent or mortgage? Are you worried about losing your home? Here is some information about what could happen if you can’t pay all of your rent or mortgage. If you haven’t paid your rent, your landlord may try to evict you. An eviction is a lawsuit for a landlord to get a court order to make you (the tenant) move out of a rental unit, such as a … [Read more...] about How to Find Legal Help for Evictions and Foreclosures

SIDS: A Contemporary and Preventable Nightmare

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I remember one morning getting a call from the local medical examiner. He was asking for medical history and information on one of my 2-month-old patients. After obtaining proper consent, we spoke at length and learned that my precious little patient had passed. He was wanting to obtain any medical and laboratory information about my patient that might give him a medical cause … [Read more...] about SIDS: A Contemporary and Preventable Nightmare

11 Ways to Communicate with Children Online

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One of the most challenging things about living at a distance and social distancing in general right now is communicating with children via a screen. Small children just don’t pay attention to chatting with grandparents through a screen. They don’t understand not being able to touch them, and they bore easily. Here are 10 tips on how to communicate with children … [Read more...] about 11 Ways to Communicate with Children Online

10 Tips to Stay Safe When Playing Outside in Winter

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Winter is the time of year for cabin fever: It’s the time of year that gave cabin fever its name. This is particularly true for growing bodies that just want to move! Playing outdoors in winter comes with its own set of safety concerns to keep in mind to keep everyone safe and healthy. Here are 10 tips for keeping safe when playing outdoors in winter. Make sure they are … [Read more...] about 10 Tips to Stay Safe When Playing Outside in Winter

7 Tips to Keep Your Child from Falling Behind

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With all of the difficulties of learning from home, there has been a growing concern that some children are falling behind. You and your child are not alone! There are some things you can do to help this situation: Keep up with your child’s online learning. Read and respond to any emails you get from the teacher, and keep your child on task. It can be difficult because it … [Read more...] about 7 Tips to Keep Your Child from Falling Behind

How to Help a Friend with COVID-19

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It is difficult not being able to see friends in person, and it can be disturbing when you learn that someone you know is sick with COVID. You want to help, but you also don’t want to get sick. Here are 7 ways you can help a friend with COVID, including some ideas on what you can send in a care package if you have a friend who is sick who lives a long distance away. Pick up … [Read more...] about How to Help a Friend with COVID-19

21 Ways to Keep Your Home Warm in Winter

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Winter is cold. That is one universal fact. Sometimes, it can be a struggle to keep the cold out and keep the warmth in. It’s hard to go about your day when your house is freezing. Here are 21 tips (most of which are cheap or free) to keep your home warm during the winter months. Reverse the fans. Your fans need to be going clockwise to push the warm air from the ceiling … [Read more...] about 21 Ways to Keep Your Home Warm in Winter

How to Obtain Fuel Assistance Before Hot or Cold Weather

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Staying warm in the winter or cool in the summer is a basic human need. Often, when money gets tight, we tend to focus on shelter and food and forget how important utilities are. Or, we simply don’t know where to turn for help, and many suffer in the cold (or without cooling in extreme heat). However, there is help! The LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) is a … [Read more...] about How to Obtain Fuel Assistance Before Hot or Cold Weather

7 Steps to Keep Your Home Winterproof

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Every season has its own challenges that come with it. Winter is certainly no different. If you own or rent a house, there are some things that you need to keep in mind to make your winter easier and keep your house warm. Here are 7 steps to making and keeping your house ready for winter. Keep in mind your pipes and hoses. Water freezes, and it can do lots of damage. Never … [Read more...] about 7 Steps to Keep Your Home Winterproof

What to Do in a Power Outage in Winter

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One of the biggest annoyances even on a good day is a power outage. When there’s snow and ice outside, it can feel even worse. Here are some ideas to get through a power outage in winter. Stock up in advance. Items to buy include: Flashlights and batteriesNon-perishable food items that do not require cooking, for example: peanut butter, canned meats, and canned fruits.If … [Read more...] about What to Do in a Power Outage in Winter

6 Ways to Stay Safe While Celebrating the Holidays

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’Tis the season for celebrations! Bright lights, fun activities, and pretty decorations — no one wants this joyous time of year to be complicated by injuries and hospital visits. Here are our 6 top tips on how to keep safe this holiday season. Don’t overload light sockets. So many of the prettiest things this time of year require electricity to run. Get a power strip with a … [Read more...] about 6 Ways to Stay Safe While Celebrating the Holidays

How to Find Help for Veterans

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We understand that many people need someone to care for them at some point. Perhaps you have a spouse, parent, grandparents, or other relative who is an veteran, and s/he requires some assistance. Or maybe that vet is you.  You want to care for you and yours as best as you can, but perhaps you need some help.  What resources can you rely on if you find yourself … [Read more...] about How to Find Help for Veterans

11 Fun Feminist Halloween Costume Ideas

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Tired of the usual spooky or, worse, “sexy” costume choices? We did the research for you to share some affordable new ideas! These costumes can be made from stuff around your house or things picked up at the thrift stores, and parts of them can be used once the holiday is over, as well for everyday or dress-up wear. Can’t beat that! Susan B. Anthony- Her favorite color to … [Read more...] about 11 Fun Feminist Halloween Costume Ideas

6 Ways to Get a Free Car Seat

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In the vast majority of cases, you will not be able to bring your baby home without proving to the hospital that you have a car seat and you know how to use it. A car seat is often one of the first expensive purchases that new parents make, but they are very important if you plan to ever put your child in a car.  They are so important, many localities and nonprofits have … [Read more...] about 6 Ways to Get a Free Car Seat

10 Ideas to Celebrate Halloween in 2020

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This year has just been weird, hasn’t it? And the upcoming holiday of Halloween will make no difference. We were lucky to get Halloween on a Saturday with a full moon. Ooooooh, spooky! Then, our luck stopped when this year also included a pandemic. But don’t worry: Halloween is not cancelled; it just might look different. Here are 10 ideas to have fun this … [Read more...] about 10 Ideas to Celebrate Halloween in 2020

What Are Pandemic Pods, and How Could They Help Your Child’s Education?

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The COVID-19 pandemic forced many schools to switch to remote learning. However, concerns arose when it became evident that online instruction was not engaging students in the same way as in-person learning. Disparities in education quickly became evident as well: Not all students had access to a working computer, and some students had additional responsibilities at home that … [Read more...] about What Are Pandemic Pods, and How Could They Help Your Child’s Education?

6 Ways to Get Wi-Fi When You Don’t Have Internet

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School has started again, and for many, that means online learning this year. This is very difficult for some families who can’t get an internet connection due to financial difficulties. School districts are struggling to fill in the gaps. In the meantime, here are six ways to get your child online when you don’t have an internet provider. Public Wi-Fi: This one might be … [Read more...] about 6 Ways to Get Wi-Fi When You Don’t Have Internet

How to Ask About Compensation

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Asking for an adequate wage may feel awkward, but you are owed an income proportional to your education, skills, experience, and the area you live in. Being prepared for your interview — or follow-up interview — can make a gigantic difference in your compensation. What is compensation? Essentially, it’s a salary or hourly wage. The word “compensation” makes very clear … [Read more...] about How to Ask About Compensation

How to Find a Job Despite Crisis, Chaos, and COVID!

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Where there is a challenge, there are also opportunities. You have no limits. Think about where you really want to be — and what you are willing and able to do.Evaluate your skills.Update your résumé, and tailor it! Ask yourself: How can you make your application/résumé stand out?Hiring supervisors do read cover letters, but they will stop reading if they think it’s a form … [Read more...] about How to Find a Job Despite Crisis, Chaos, and COVID!

Employed Mom Tips and Tricks: Moms to Moms

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1.It’s important to have “me” time. Employed mom Donna shares that since she spends time away from her kids working, she often felt guilty about separating from them beyond what was necessary. However, she realized that her identity was not solely in her motherhood, and she found ways to be a mom AND the woman she was before becoming a mom. She encourages other working moms … [Read more...] about Employed Mom Tips and Tricks: Moms to Moms

Preparing to Say Goodbye to a Baby

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While you are pregnant: Keep a journal.Save the positive pregnancy test.Ask for ultrasound pictures.Videotape the ultrasound.Record the baby’s heartbeat.Take pictures of your belly, or even make an imprint.Knit, sew, or buy a hat for your baby.And if you learn you are losing your baby while pregnant, knit, sew, or buy two blankets for your baby: one you’ll use while your … [Read more...] about Preparing to Say Goodbye to a Baby

Choosing Perinatal Hospice and Palliative Care After an Adverse Diagnosis

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The news of an adverse prenatal diagnosis can leave many parents shocked and bereaved. It’s normal to feel lost and in need of guidance during what promises to be a very emotional journey. What might your birth plan look like now? Parents who find themselves in this situation understandably need support as they contemplate how to move forward.  It’s normal to feel … [Read more...] about Choosing Perinatal Hospice and Palliative Care After an Adverse Diagnosis

Talking to Your College Counselors About Being Pregnant

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If you’re pregnant on campus, you are probably feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do, but know that you are not alone. Your college or university must follow Title IX guidelines: The school cannot discriminate on the basis of sex, which includes pregnancy and parenting. There is guidance for faculty and staff about how they have to ensure the rights of pregnant and … [Read more...] about Talking to Your College Counselors About Being Pregnant

Self-Care When You’re Away at School

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Going away to school presents a fun, fresh start to your young adult life. Whether you are living on a traditional college or university campus or at a boarding school, this may be the first time you’ve lived away from home. It can be exciting to leave one chapter of your youth behind in exchange for another one. But while you’re building the skills necessary for a future … [Read more...] about Self-Care When You’re Away at School

Tiny Babies, Big Miracles: A NICU Wonder in a Time of Coronavirus

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On December 14, 2019, four months before the due date of her twin girls, Laura Freedland went to the hospital with what she thought were Braxton-Hicks contractions. Though only 22 weeks pregnant, she quickly realized she was in active labor. After 16 hours, little Vivienne entered the world 17 weeks early, weighing only 1 pound, 4 ounces. Her sister, Margot, remained in utero … [Read more...] about Tiny Babies, Big Miracles: A NICU Wonder in a Time of Coronavirus

How to Prepare for Child Wellness Exams

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Every person has memories of childhood checkups, and mostly, they consist of stressful shots ending with rewards of stickers and suckers. For parents, however, when these visits are packed into busy schedules, it’s common to feel unprepared. Read on for pointers on what to expect from your kids’ wellness exams. Childhood wellness exams start soon after birth, in order to … [Read more...] about How to Prepare for Child Wellness Exams

Living with Anorexia

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Do you not know how to get better, or do you simply not want to get better because you don’t want to gain weight or because your eating disorder allows you to feel in control? I don’t ask this to shame anyone because I, myself, would answer “yes” to all three. Although I don’t feel qualified to guide others on a journey that I haven’t yet completed, there are some tricks I have … [Read more...] about Living with Anorexia

Teaching About Race — from the Inside Out

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In the midst of the Black Lives Matter uprising, the disparity between my light skin tone and my son’s dark skin tone has never been more pronounced. I first noticed our difference when in the year of his birth, Trayvon Martin, an unarmed youth, was shot and killed. As I was reading the horrific news, my older boy walked in wearing a hoodie, as he often does, and the hood was … [Read more...] about Teaching About Race — from the Inside Out

Practical Tips When Caring for Our Elders

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If you are a caretaker of an elderly person, help is here. Learn where help is available:The Administration on Aging offers many services such as fall prevention, aging and disability programs, brain, oral, and behavioral health programs, elder abuse prevention, legal assistance, and retirement planning, and has chapters in most of the U.S. Find AoA services in your area.The … [Read more...] about Practical Tips When Caring for Our Elders

Postpartum Options: Breastfeeding, Formula, and Weaning

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How and what you want to feed your baby is a personal decision. You, as a mother, deserve to know all the facts of the various options without feeling ashamed or guilty about your decision. Nutritional possibilities for your baby’s first few months include breastfeeding (temporarily or long term) and formula feeding.  Breastfeeding Breastfeeding is often considered … [Read more...] about Postpartum Options: Breastfeeding, Formula, and Weaning

What You Need to Know About Hospice

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Cicely Saunders, the founder of the first hospice facility, St. Christopher’s Hospice in London, said to her patients, “You matter because you are you, and you matter to the end of your life. We will do all we can not only to help you die peacefully, but also to live until you die.” Is your loved one a candidate for hospice? Just because the hospital recommended hospice for … [Read more...] about What You Need to Know About Hospice

American Indian Women and Men: Know Where to Seek Help in a Crisis

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Shelter-in-place measurements to prevent the spread of COVID-19 can also increase the likelihood of women and men being trapped in domestic and/or sexual abuse situations at home. Despite the threat of the virus itself, stay-at-home orders and the suspension of community rituals and events have been attributed to a rise in domestic and sexual abuse in both rural Native … [Read more...] about American Indian Women and Men: Know Where to Seek Help in a Crisis

Find the Best Health Care (When You Can’t Afford It)

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Health insurance is essential — even if you feel healthy, accidents and sudden illnesses can happen. The first step has to be to check through your parents, employer, or school — wherever you can qualify for insurance now. See what they cover and don’t cover. Are your pregnancy costs covered? Which pregnancy costs? Is your child covered? What will insurance cover for your … [Read more...] about Find the Best Health Care (When You Can’t Afford It)

Your Guide to Guardianship and Kinship Care

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What’s the difference between guardianship and kinship care? Guardianship is a legal process that allows a designated person to have responsibility for a child and the authority to make decisions on her or his behalf. Kinship is when the guardian is a relative or, in some cases, a close family friend. The guardian in both of these options is responsible for the well-being … [Read more...] about Your Guide to Guardianship and Kinship Care

What Does Baby Really Need?

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Shopping for a new baby can often feel overwhelming and confusing, especially when there is so much to consider. However, babies don’t need the fanciest or newest products to thrive. Below are a few things you should expect to use in caring for a baby: Diapers: You might choose to use disposable or cloth diapers, and neither option is better or worse. Brand does not matter. … [Read more...] about What Does Baby Really Need?

How to Network and Build Your Personal Support System

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Workers across industries know this proverb to be true: “It’s not what you know, it’s whom you know.”  The key to building a great career is networking, or growing the circle of people in your field of work who can help you find a job. Although your skills and qualifications do matter, here is why networking may matter even more: Recommendations. Words on paper … [Read more...] about How to Network and Build Your Personal Support System

Pregnancy & COVID-19: Know Your Rights in the Workplace!

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Did you know that women, and disproportionately women of color, are on the front lines of this crisis?  According to the Center for Economic Policy and Research, nearly two-thirds of frontline workers are women and people of color, who are overrepresented in industries such as:  building custodians/housekeeping (90.7% female, 69.8% people of color),child care … [Read more...] about Pregnancy & COVID-19: Know Your Rights in the Workplace!

Dealing with Dejection During COVID-19

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During a time of isolation, feelings of rejection heighten. If you’ve dealt with a messy breakup, been abandoned, or experienced major death loss, this covid chaos might bring you full circle to Stage 1 of grief, which you thought had passed. Add to that children in your face, fingers under the bathroom door, and tweenage attitudes about school assignments, and these feelings … [Read more...] about Dealing with Dejection During COVID-19

Doing Her Part: A Seamstress Joins the COVID-19 Effort

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The coronavirus pandemic hit home for Giana Mylan. Literally. That’s because Mylan, 28, lives in Queens, New York, the county with the most confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States. One of the most serious logistical crises facing those on the front lines of the effort to slow, stop, and defeat the virus is the shortage of personal protective equipment, or PPE for … [Read more...] about Doing Her Part: A Seamstress Joins the COVID-19 Effort

Shutdown Parenting: Protect Your Child’s Education

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I’m going to respond to some comments I’m receiving during this shutdown. As a former homeschooling mum with previous homeschool support experience, I have some words of affirmation for the parents trying to maintain academic consistency at home. “My child refuses to participate.” I’m sure many parents trying to follow the distance learning programs coming in by the … [Read more...] about Shutdown Parenting: Protect Your Child’s Education

Extra Measures to Protect the Highly Vulnerable

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In addition to the President’s recommendations and state government restrictions for social distancing, not shaking hands, wearing gloves and masks, self-quarantining, etc., here are other things you can do to stay safe and not bring disease home to at-risk family members, including the elderly (especially those who have other risk factors such as diabetes, heart disease, … [Read more...] about Extra Measures to Protect the Highly Vulnerable

What Do You Do When You Suspect Child Abuse?

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The Mayo Clinic defines abuse as “any intentional harm or mistreatment to a child under 18 years old.” Abuse takes many forms: emotional, physical, sexual, medical and neglect. All community members are responsible for protecting the most defenseless among them. Children may not speak up and they certainly cannot protect themselves, but you can be their voice and you can … [Read more...] about What Do You Do When You Suspect Child Abuse?

11 Tips for Homeschooling Temporarily

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Many schools are closing across the country. Some of these schools are switching to more of a homeschooling format to keep the learning going through this unplanned time off from school. So now, parents who have previously sent their kids to school are finding themselves needing to act as their children’s teachers. Here are some tips from someone who is right there in the … [Read more...] about 11 Tips for Homeschooling Temporarily

8 Ways to Keep in Touch with Elderly Loved Ones When You Can’t See Them in Person

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The elderly, especially those with pre-existing conditions (heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, respiratory issues including asthma and COPD, etc.) are at highest risk of dying from COVID-19. Right now, many are isolated and need contact from their family and friends.  Here are ideas to keep up their spirits while you are separated. You benefit too from communicating … [Read more...] about 8 Ways to Keep in Touch with Elderly Loved Ones When You Can’t See Them in Person

How to Start a Babysitting Co-Op

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Raising children and supporting parents is a community job. A babysitting co-op is a group of parents who babysit for each other. It helps the children to socialize, and it gives the parents the peace of mind of knowing the person who is watching their child. It helps to build the community that is so important in raising a child. 1. Start small. Ask around in your group of … [Read more...] about How to Start a Babysitting Co-Op

Surprise! You’re Working from Home: 7 Tips to Make the Transition

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Many professionals are learning that their jobs can be done from home right now. This is likely a position you may have dreamed about but never thought possible. This is certainly a position you never thought you’d be in. Here are some tips from a work-from-home veteran of nearly a decade: Make sure you have everything you need to do your job. Sit down and make a list of … [Read more...] about Surprise! You’re Working from Home: 7 Tips to Make the Transition

14 Tips to Take Care of Your Own Mental Health

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Leaving the house and being social is often suggested as a way to stay mentally healthy, but sometimes, that is not possible. What is someone with depression or anxiety to do when she has to take social distancing measures? Here are 14 tips to help you get through these challenging times: Go outside. If the weather is nice, take a walk around the block or to a park. Just … [Read more...] about 14 Tips to Take Care of Your Own Mental Health

Are My Unborn Baby and I at Risk from COVID-19?

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Here is what I have been telling my patients: There is a lot we do not know about COVID-19, but it seems to be similar to the flu in many respects. Precautions that pregnant women should take include avoiding travel by plane, avoiding crowds, and avoiding exposure to people who are ill. Frequent handwashing is important as the virus may reside on inanimate objects, such as … [Read more...] about Are My Unborn Baby and I at Risk from COVID-19?

7 Tips on How to Talk to Your Child About Scary News

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You can’t watch the news without hearing about scary news. If we can’t get away from the news, neither can our kids. It can be worrisome to talk to your kids about things like this when you are anxious yourself and don’t have all the answers. Here is the best advice we could find from the CDC and experts: Take care of yourself. Do what you need to do to be calm for your … [Read more...] about 7 Tips on How to Talk to Your Child About Scary News

Where Can You Find Emergency Babysitting?

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Many parents are being placed in the difficult position of trying to find someone to watch their child so they can go to work. If you are in this position, there are resources for you.  First, the best thing for you and your child would be for you to calm down and list out all of the people you know. The simplest solution may be right under your nose with an unemployed … [Read more...] about Where Can You Find Emergency Babysitting?

16 Ideas for Stay-at-Home Dates

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Watch a movie with a new snack. Pick up some weird flavor of popcorn or some other new snack and pop in a movie.Candlelight dinner for two under your own roof. Buy something special at the grocery store and put the kids to bed early. Cook it together for some extra fun.Have a game night! Break out your favorite board game or just a deck of cards and look up the instructions for … [Read more...] about 16 Ideas for Stay-at-Home Dates

What Do Parents Need to Know About the Coronavirus?

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It’s all over the news: Another deadly illness is spreading all over the world, and of course, you’re worried about the children under your care. Here is what you need to know. If you have traveled recently to an area where the outbreak is severe, contact your doctor for advice. You can find a map with up-to-date information about the outbreak here: … [Read more...] about What Do Parents Need to Know About the Coronavirus?

8 Ways to Get Affordable Dentistry Care

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Dentistry care can be expensive and is therefore put on the backburner. Some employers don’t even offer dental insurance, and when they do, it can seem to cost too much. But dental care is foundational to health care. Your dental health affects your overall health, and setting a good foundation for dental care can help your child for a lifetime. Here are 8 ways to find … [Read more...] about 8 Ways to Get Affordable Dentistry Care

50 Cheap Date Night Ideas

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Dates don’t have to be expensive. No rule says it has to be at a fancy restaurant or pricey theater. Any quality time spent with the one you love can be a date. Here are 50 ideas for dates that won’t break the bank: Hang out someplace that is cheap or free, like the library or a high school sports game.Watch a movie with a new snack. Pick up some weird flavor of popcorn or … [Read more...] about 50 Cheap Date Night Ideas

Dealing with Postpartum Depression

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You just had a baby. You should feel wonderful. Why do you feel so down? You are not alone. It is estimated that one in seven women experiences postpartum depression or anxiety. As many as 80 percent of women experience postpartum “blues.” Not surprisingly, the immense emotional and physical changes that occur when your body brings new life into the world precipitate a … [Read more...] about Dealing with Postpartum Depression

6 Ways to Save Money on Holiday Meals

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One bill that everyone dreads this time of year is the grocery bill. All of those get-togethers with family and friends to pay for and cook for, it can get overwhelming. Here are six ways to help you with that headache: Make it a potluck. No one says you have to cook for the whole crowd. When having a meal with family or friends, have everyone bring a dish or two to share so … [Read more...] about 6 Ways to Save Money on Holiday Meals

10 Ways to Save Money on Gifts

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We are in the midst of what can be the most expensive time of the year. If you don’t want to, or frankly can’t, be paying off Christmas, Hanukkah, or other celebration into next year, here are some tips to make the holidays affordable and memorable. Agree on not exchanging presents. This can be a very difficult discussion to start. Everyone is embarrassed to admit any kind … [Read more...] about 10 Ways to Save Money on Gifts

Q&A: Making Ends Meet with a Teenager

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In response to a recent inquiry from a financially insecure mother about how to get by, we asked poverty expert Joyce McCauley-Benner to weigh in. Here is their exchange:Q. Hello! My beautiful daughter is now 13 years old and is a joy, but our life has been full of transitions and financial struggle due to young single parenthood and lack of a deeper support systems and help … [Read more...] about Q&A: Making Ends Meet with a Teenager

Taking Your Cardiac Health to Heart

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Maternal mortality has been in the news over the past few years because it appears its incidence may be rising in the U.S.  While part of the documented rise is artifactual because we are doing a better job of detecting maternal deaths, it is true that many older women with pre-existing health problems are becoming pregnant, and this may place them at higher risk for … [Read more...] about Taking Your Cardiac Health to Heart

What You Need to Know About Federally Qualified Health Centers

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Federally Qualified Health Centers are important safety net providers in rural areas. FQHCs are outpatient clinics that qualify for specific reimbursement systems under Medicare and Medicaid. They include federally-designated Health Center Program awardees, federally-designated Health Center Program look-alikes, and certain outpatient clinics associated with tribal … [Read more...] about What You Need to Know About Federally Qualified Health Centers

5 Birthday Bash Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank

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As a little girl growing up in California, I have fond memories of my 10th birthday, when my parents spread out snow (Halloween spider webs) and draped little pieces of “icicle” (I think they were “beads by the roll”) for friends to collect as part of a winter themed party. With just a few simple touches, our home was transformed into a winter wonderland in my eyes. We hope … [Read more...] about 5 Birthday Bash Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank

18 Tips for Bathing Baby

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Bathing your baby is an important part of keeping him or her happy and healthy. It might seem scary at first, but with the right preparation and a little practice, you’ll have this routine down. Until his or her umbilical cord falls off, it’s best to give Baby sponge baths. Gather everything you need. Once you start, you can’t leave Baby alone, even for a second: -dry … [Read more...] about 18 Tips for Bathing Baby

Potty Training? Try Elimination Communication

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What Is Elimination Communication? Elimination communication is a form of potty training in which a child is given the opportunity to potty based on his or her natural timing. A child’s need to go is determined by signals, such as sudden crying, sudden stillness, or grunting. Opportunities to potty are accompanied by “cues” from the caregiver, such as making a “pss pss” … [Read more...] about Potty Training? Try Elimination Communication

6 Tips for an Efficient Laundry Routine

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Laundry: Some love it, some hate it, but everyone has to do it. Whether you’re doing it in your home or at the laundromat, washing a load well means washing a load once (i.e. not having to go back and clean again). Here are some tips to save money and time on laundry day. Clean clothes when they’re dirty.  We can all agree that cleaning clean clothes is 100 percent a … [Read more...] about 6 Tips for an Efficient Laundry Routine

A Cesarean Section Birth Story

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Like many other cesarean section birth stories, my birth story starts long before the day. My body seemed to love being pregnant. A lot of chronic issues I have were actually alleviated during my pregnancy, rather than made worse. However, one of my chronic issues may have contributed to my birth story. Around 36 weeks, for various reasons, it was determined that my son … [Read more...] about A Cesarean Section Birth Story

Pros and Cons of the Gig Economy for Moms

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The booming gig economy can provide great opportunities for moms and caregivers to make money while allowing for schedule flexibility. But as with all great opportunities, there are also risks. Here are some of the pros and cons of working in the gig economy with children. Pros: Set your own hours: The gig economy is great for fitting in pediatrician appointments, school … [Read more...] about Pros and Cons of the Gig Economy for Moms

7 Tips to Ease Painful Goodbyes

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It’s always easier to say goodbye when you know your child is well cared for and you are choosing the separation for one reason or another. When Mom is going to do something fun or at least distracting, the separation seems less sharp. It’s much harder when you are forced into that separation. The divorce culture certainly understands well how traumatic court-mandated … [Read more...] about 7 Tips to Ease Painful Goodbyes

10 Tips for Dealing with Typical Separation Anxiety

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In all situations, there comes a time when separation is inevitable. Whether a death across the country or a business trip in another state mandates it, there will come a time when you have to pull the tiny fingers off of your own and step away from the leg hug so familiar to you. Some mothers have expressed to me the trauma experienced from the first morning of day care … [Read more...] about 10 Tips for Dealing with Typical Separation Anxiety

Top Tips When Choosing an OB-GYN

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Finding an OB-GYN can seem like an overwhelming task, at first. These tips can help you find local doctors and then choose one for your pregnancy experience. How to Find an OB-GYN: If you have a gynecologist you like, check if s/he also practices obstetrics.Ask your general physician or other health care providers for recommendations. They probably know of good OB-GYNs in … [Read more...] about Top Tips When Choosing an OB-GYN

That Textbook Costs WHAT? How to Find Textbooks for Less

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The first day of school is quickly approaching and it’s time to pull out the class syllabus, when suddenly you see it: a mile-long list of books you have to buy, books with specified editions, books written by the professor, books that you know are going to be very expensive. One look at the price in the school bookstore and your wallet hops out of your pocket and starts … [Read more...] about That Textbook Costs WHAT? How to Find Textbooks for Less

The Do’s and Don’ts of Formula Feeding

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I had every intention of breastfeeding my first child, so I was completely unprepared when I realized I would have to formula feed. Whether you plan on formula feeding or suddenly find it necessary, here is a crash course in do’s and don’ts. Do: Stock up. Newborns can eat up to 32 ounces (131.2 grams) of formula a day. A standard container of formula contains 964 grams, … [Read more...] about The Do’s and Don’ts of Formula Feeding

Continuing Education: What Are Your Choices?

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Whether you’re keeping your skills up to date or just getting started, pursuing education beyond your high school diploma or GED is a great way to acquire new skills and to get an edge on the competition. When it comes to choosing a degree program, you have many options that can help you get where you want to be faster. Four-Year Colleges/Universities Four-year programs … [Read more...] about Continuing Education: What Are Your Choices?

How Can Infant Massage Help You Better Bond with Your Baby?

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Massages aren’t just for adults anymore — just like you, your baby might enjoy a relaxing massage. Baby/infant massage consists of specific techniques and patterns for touching your baby, not too differently from adult massages. Research suggests many benefits of baby massage. Massages can lower your baby’s levels of stress hormones like cortisol, reducing fussiness, … [Read more...] about How Can Infant Massage Help You Better Bond with Your Baby?

4 Health Insurance Options for Student-Parents

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Young people are by far the least insured population in the US. Here are just a few tips for college students and specifically for pregnant and parenting students trying to navigate the wild world of health insurance. Options for College Students: Staying on your parents’ plan: Until you are 26 years old, you are eligible to stay on your parents’ plan. If you are going … [Read more...] about 4 Health Insurance Options for Student-Parents

10 Fun Fitness Tips for Moms

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I get a lot of stares and questions when I’m out and about in my fitness gear. I suppose I’ve mastered the not-so-soccer-mom look enough to the point that people wonder how it all came about. To be honest, because of the culture I grew up in, I never participated much, if at all, in any team sports. The parochial schools and homeschool settings of my childhood certainly did not … [Read more...] about 10 Fun Fitness Tips for Moms

An Epidural Birth Story

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Too much information overwhelms me, and I am certain that no topic has ever been written about more than childbearing. So naturally, as soon as I found out that I was pregnant with my first child, I was quickly overwhelmed. My first instinct when I am overwhelmed is to simplify — ruthlessly simplify. Anything that is not mandatory or absolutely necessary will get tossed to … [Read more...] about An Epidural Birth Story

A Natural Birth Story

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After a failed pregnancy in a past relationship, seven years passed before I conceived again in 2013. I hadn’t had any medical insurance for those years and am glad Medicaid covered pregnant women. I immediately started fighting the push for appointments for this test and that screening. Prenatal vitamins were included, but I saw no reason to alter my healthy state or question … [Read more...] about A Natural Birth Story

Night Owls, Unite! Tips for Moms Staying Up Late

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This could be called the insomniac’s guide to being a night owl, but there’s more to staying up all night than biological conditions. While I am an insomniac, I still struggle — especially as I grow older — with the need to be awake at times when it’s necessary. If you could be a fly on my wall, you’d find less movement at night, but you’d still find it pretty busy, probably … [Read more...] about Night Owls, Unite! Tips for Moms Staying Up Late

Why Intern?

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Do it for the résumé: When it comes to building your résumé, good grades no longer carry the same weight they used to. Particularly for college graduates, grade inflation has lowered the value of A’s and B’s in the eyes of employers and caused a shift toward internships and work experience as the best measure of an applicant’s qualifications for any given job. But also do … [Read more...] about Why Intern?

What Is a Trade Certificate?

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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, career sectors with high levels of trade or vocational training are projected to have the most growth between now and 2026. With this in mind, it’s clear that there is no time like the present to consider the next step to achieving your career goals: a trade certificate. What is a trade certificate? A trade certificate is a … [Read more...] about What Is a Trade Certificate?

5 Tools to Find Job Training Opportunities

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Starting a job search can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t have experience in the field you are applying for. Thankfully, the United States Labor Department funds some very helpful tools for people looking to acquire skills through Training and Employment programs. For most people seeking training for employment, the best place to start is Career One-Stop. This … [Read more...] about 5 Tools to Find Job Training Opportunities

Reimagine Your Associate Degree: A Step Toward a Bachelor’s Degree

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Taking classes at community college in preparation for a transition into university is an increasingly popular option for students who hope to earn a bachelor’s degree. A study by the U.S. Department of Education found that completing an associate degree before transferring — as opposed to transferring credits after one year — did not positively or negatively affect the … [Read more...] about Reimagine Your Associate Degree: A Step Toward a Bachelor’s Degree

Maternal Mortality Q&A

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Women considering pregnancy or who are already pregnant are likely concerned about recent news reports that the U.S. is experiencing a drastic increase in maternal mortality. So I asked OB-GYN and Women Deserve Better Contributor Dr. Ingrid Skop for insights as an expert on high-risk pregnancies: Q. How risky is it for women to die during pregnancy or after giving birth? … [Read more...] about Maternal Mortality Q&A

Class Selection: 5 Tips for Finding Balance

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Building a course schedule is often stressful for students, so when it comes to choosing courses as a pregnant or parenting student, course selection can feel like a daunting task. It’s wise to choose classes carefully because the workload and schedule of assignments, exams, and lectures would ideally mesh with other duties, work, child care, health care, and self-care. Finding … [Read more...] about Class Selection: 5 Tips for Finding Balance

WANTED: Women in STEM

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A degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) is indispensable for a wide variety of careers, from psychology to computer science to biostatistics. Attempting to find work in these historically male-dominated fields can be intimidating for women in STEM, but following in the footsteps of these inspirational heroes and with the abundance of resources that are out … [Read more...] about WANTED: Women in STEM

Finding the Right School for You and Your Family

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When someone recommended a school to me that was billed as “catering to working adults,” I thought, “Why not?” So I requested information and began a journey of discovery about schools and how it all meshed with single parenting. Simultaneously, I was in transition and needed to find a school for my rising kindergartner. How it all came together is still a mystery, but with … [Read more...] about Finding the Right School for You and Your Family

What You Need to Know About Getting Your GED

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For adults who did not complete high school, attaining a GED is a good first step to reaching one’s career and education goals. The General Education Development, or Graduate Equivalency Degree (GED), is a test that evaluates whether or not one has a high school-level education. High school diplomas do not have any more weight than a GED. According to GED.com, 97 percent of … [Read more...] about What You Need to Know About Getting Your GED

Career Considerations for Parents

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The best career for parents meets the needs of the family. In American culture, we tend to think of careers in terms of money, how much can be made, how much can be bought. What’s left out of that equation is economic status and scheduling. For some, these factors can be determinant of a career choice even debilitating at times. So what if we didn’t ignore them? What if we used … [Read more...] about Career Considerations for Parents

Customize Your Relationships with Grandparents

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You’ve heard it said, “Communication is key,” and that certainly applies to getting your parents plugged in as grandparents. Talking to your parents about your needs and how they might be able to help can open opportunities for them to engage as grandparents. Some don’t mind the occasional babysitting, whereas others might prefer to send you money to cover a child care … [Read more...] about Customize Your Relationships with Grandparents

9 Great Re-Entry Programs for Moms

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So, you’ve been away from the workforce for a while and you want to get back in. Your employer doesn’t have a returnship program and you’re not sure what to do to get back up to speed. Luckily, there are nine companies out there waiting to help you get back in. They will help you in a number of different ways, be it networking and interviewing or finding temporary work to gain … [Read more...] about 9 Great Re-Entry Programs for Moms

What Is a Returnship and Why They Are Awesome

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A growing trend in the workplace is returnships. Returnships are programs that help working moms and other caregivers return to work after taking time off to stay at home. These awesome programs include: Different flex-work, job-sharing, and part-time options.Temporary options so the employer and the mom get a trial period to make sure that returning to work will be best for … [Read more...] about What Is a Returnship and Why They Are Awesome

What to Expect When Raising a Multiracial Child

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As a white mother raising a multiracial child, I can assure you, the racial experiences for my son and me are not the same—that is the first lesson I learned. We are living in ever-changing times right now that have challenged us as adults and especially as parents. A spotlight has been cast on racism that is bringing to light a much-needed conversation. In the school of … [Read more...] about What to Expect When Raising a Multiracial Child