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

How to Make Your Own Baby Food

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Store-bought baby food can seem far too expensive. Luckily, you can easily make it yourself! This can save money by using food that you already have. It also lets you avoid added preservatives, sugar, and salt in your baby’s meals. And no, you don’t need a fancy baby food blender or a ton of free time. Here are some tips for making cheap, easy, and healthy baby meals: Keep … [Read more...] about How to Make Your Own Baby Food

Help Your Newborn Sleep with White Noise

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Getting your newborn to sleep peacefully can be a challenge, but white noise can be a helpful tool backed by medical research. Here are some tips to aid your baby's sleep: Medical research supports the effectiveness of white noise in helping babies sleep by reducing environmental disturbances and mimicking familiar sounds from the womb. Incorporating white noise … [Read more...] about Help Your Newborn Sleep with White Noise

Fun with Art and Your Child

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Doing art with your child can increase her motor skills, patience, and creativity. More importantly, it can strengthen your relationship. Sometimes, time at home with your child can seem chaotic or burdensome if you’re not sure how to keep her busy. An artistic activity can turn a hectic afternoon into wonderful bonding time, so here are some fun and simple art projects to … [Read more...] about Fun with Art and Your Child

How to Reduce Your Screen Time

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Phones can make motherhood easier. You can find recipes on the internet, shop online, and record precious memories in a notes app. Yet your phone can distract you from being present with your child. Also, being constantly bombarded with information can make you anxious. And comparing yourself to social media influencers isn’t good for your mental health.  If you want to … [Read more...] about How to Reduce Your Screen Time

Helpful Tips for Choosing TV Shows for Your Kids

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Studies have shown that children who watch better-quality and more age-appropriate shows experience fewer negative effects from TV, even if they watch the same amount as other children. So, choosing shows carefully for your child has a huge positive impact. Here are factors to consider, resources, and mistakes to avoid when choosing shows for your child: How to … [Read more...] about Helpful Tips for Choosing TV Shows for Your Kids

How to Find Childcare as a Student Parent

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Being a student parent can be challenging, especially when trying to balance studies with childcare responsibilities. Here are some tips to help you find childcare while pursuing your education: Finding the right childcare as a student parent requires research and planning, but with these tips, you can navigate the process more effectively. Remember, seeking help … [Read more...] about How to Find Childcare as a Student Parent

The Best Colleges for Student-Parents

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If you’re a pregnant or parenting student, a support system can make it much easier for you to finish your education. This can include special housing, childcare, financial help, mentoring, and more. This article will highlight a few colleges that offer exceptional resources for student-parents. These are just a few of the colleges with strong support systems for parenting … [Read more...] about The Best Colleges for Student-Parents

Free Online Tutoring for Kids

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Many children struggle to keep up in school, but tutoring can provide help catered to the unique needs of each child. It boosts students’ study habits, skills, and confidence. You may have considered hiring a tutor but found it too expensive. If so, Learn to Be might be a great fit: it offers free online tutoring for underserved families. You can find a tutor for every grade … [Read more...] about Free Online Tutoring for Kids

Housing Solutions: Think Outside of the Box

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Housing costs are overwhelming to many. Trying to embark on your own—or with children—is expensive. With some creativity and resourcefulness, you can make it within your reach. For Single People: For Families: For Moms: For Those in Crisis: In addition to maternity homes, if you are in a situation experiencing abuse, seek out domestic violence shelters. … [Read more...] about Housing Solutions: Think Outside of the Box

Health insurance 101

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Health insurance is essential. Even if you feel healthy, accidents and sudden illnesses can happen. However, navigating health insurance, the costs, definitions, and procedures can be overwhelming. Breaking it down into steps can help make it more understandable. The first step is obtaining health insurance through one of these ways: The second step is to review what is … [Read more...] about Health insurance 101

Pregnancy After Miscarriage

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Experiencing miscarriage can be a traumatic and stressful experience. Preparing for a child then suddenly grieving his/her loss can seem insurmountable. Some will choose pregnancy again right away, and some will want to wait. Regardless of timing, getting pregnant again can lead to a number of emotions and concerns. Physically For many women, they are more fertile right … [Read more...] about Pregnancy After Miscarriage

How to Keep Your Kids Safe from Outdoor Pests

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Warm weather means more time outside. Little ones get more restless and need to spend all that energy outdoors. Lots of fun can be had but it is important to beware of the pests that can be harmful. With the following tips, you can help keep your child safe. Here are some common pests your child may run into: Mosquitos: Mosquitos are everywhere in the summer, … [Read more...] about How to Keep Your Kids Safe from Outdoor Pests

Tips to Walk More Everyday

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Getting more movement and exercise in your everyday life can seem like a daunting task. Gym memberships are expensive. It’s hard sometimes to find time to exercise. But a few small changes can help you get a little healthier and feel a little better. And a little bit can go a long way. Before starting any exercise regimen, always check with your doctor first. Here are … [Read more...] about Tips to Walk More Everyday

Tax Help for Families

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Filing taxes can be a stressful and often confusing process. Knowing how to file your taxes and what help you may qualify for is the first step in easing the anxiety. As you receive documents in the mail, keep them organized in one place. Keep important papers that relate to major expenses, such as mortgage, retirement, medical, educational, and all income … [Read more...] about Tax Help for Families

How to Talk to Kids about Drugs and Alcohol

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It can be awkward to talk to kids about drugs and alcohol. You don’t want to mess up their innocence. You might be afraid that if they know about these things, they’ll be more likely to try them. The opposite is actually true—children who are informed are less likely to experiment with and less likely to abuse drugs and alcohol. It is one of those difficult but necessary … [Read more...] about How to Talk to Kids about Drugs and Alcohol

Celebrating the Holidays with Foster and Newly Adopted Children

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The holidays can be complicated for families in general. This can be compounded when there are foster and newly adopted children. How do we help our new family members celebrate? How do we welcome them in without making things too difficult? How do we help them without overwhelming them?  Here are 10 tips to help in celebrating the holidays with foster and newly adopted … [Read more...] about Celebrating the Holidays with Foster and Newly Adopted Children

Getting Help with Substance Abuse: Drugs and Alcohol

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Many people experience depression, anxiety, emotional and/or physical pain and a host of other mental health struggles.  Coping with these is not easy, and without a support system, many can turn to substance use to manage the pain. Use can lead to abuse, a condition that without treatment, can put lives at stake. So how do you know when to get help?  According … [Read more...] about Getting Help with Substance Abuse: Drugs and Alcohol

6 Tips for Setting Boundaries During the Holidays

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Your mental health is important, regardless of the time of year. An important part of self-care is knowing your limits and staying within them. It’s okay to say “no,” if someone asks too much from you even when Santa’s on his way. Care for yourself and others by respecting boundaries this holiday season. Boundaries are there to help relationships grow and keep everyone … [Read more...] about 6 Tips for Setting Boundaries During the Holidays

Is an Apprenticeship a Good Option for You?

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If you are pregnant, planning to have a family, or find yourself the main support for one or more children, choosing a profitable career path becomes a priority. However, time might seem to be your enemy. One way to streamline your route to a worthwhile job is through an apprenticeship. At a basic level, being an apprentice means learning while on the job. Although sometimes … [Read more...] about Is an Apprenticeship a Good Option for You?

Best Resources Regarding Adoption

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Adoption is a choice that must be considered in depth, with regard to what is best for birthparents, adoptive parents, and children. Whether closed, semi-open, or open adoption is the best choice for your family, contact a qualified adoption agency. For further support, please look at these links: For birthmothers: On Your Feet Foundation is a group dedicated to empowering … [Read more...] about Best Resources Regarding Adoption

What is Semi-Open Adoption?

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There are several good options when it comes to adoption. If you are not comfortable with either a closed or an open adoption, you may consider choosing a semi-open adoption. Semi-open adoptions allow birthparents to maintain contact with their child through a mediator, thus maintaining the privacy of both the birthparents and the adoptive family. This relationship allows for … [Read more...] about What is Semi-Open Adoption?

Pros and Cons of Open Adoption

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When it comes to adoption, you have options. While in the past, closed adoptions were a popular method, today, open and semi-open adoptions are more and more common. For birthmothers or birthfathers who do not want the complete separation a closed adoption would bring, open adoption might be the best path. Open adoptions allow birthparents to maintain contact with their child’s … [Read more...] about Pros and Cons of Open Adoption

What You Need to Know About Closed Adoption

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Adoption is a choice often offered if a mother cannot care for her baby in the way she desires to. Many adoptions are open or semi-open and those are good and legitimate choices. But if a mother decides that the best thing for her child would be complete separation, closed adoption might be the best option. This is a difficult decision, with many facets, and there can be no … [Read more...] about What You Need to Know About Closed Adoption

How to Care for Your Skin in Winter

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Did you know your skin is your biggest organ? Your skin protects you and is the first thing people see when they look at you. So it is your responsibility to protect it. The cold, often dry, air of winter can hurt it, leaving you very uncomfortable. Here are 10 ways you can protect it through the winter months. Moisturize daily. Use a petroleum or cream-based moisturizer as … [Read more...] about How to Care for Your Skin in Winter

What to do if You are Stalked

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Living in fear of another person potentially harming you (or your children) can cause an enormous amount of stress and disrupt your life. But how do you know when the fear is caused by the criminal act of stalking? According to the Victim Connect Center, a program of the Office for Victims of Crimes, stalking is a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would … [Read more...] about What to do if You are Stalked

How to Apply for a College Scholarship

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Coming up with the tuition money for your college degree can seem like an impossible task, especially for parents and working adults. Fortunately, there are lots of resources available to help make that college bill more affordable! Here are some important steps you can take to find and secure scholarships.  Step 1: When to begin? It is a good idea to begin your search … [Read more...] about How to Apply for a College Scholarship

Is an Assumable Loan Right for You?

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Looking for options to buy a house? Are you worried about being able to afford a new house and know someone with a VA or FHA loan that needs to get out of their house loan? Assuming a mortgage might be a good solution for you. What is an Assumable Mortgage? An Assumable Mortgage is a mortgage in which a person can assume another person’s FHA or VA mortgage, often with … [Read more...] about Is an Assumable Loan Right for You?

Keeping Your Child Home When Sick

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It can be one of the most stressful things about parenting. You get up in the morning, expecting the day to go like normal, but your kid is warm to the touch or in the bathroom sick. How do you know when to keep your child home from school or daycare? How do you deal with your employer or looking for someone to watch them? When to keep your child home Every school and day … [Read more...] about Keeping Your Child Home When Sick

How to Choose a Babysitter

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As much as you may want to, you likely will not be able to spend every waking moment with your child. This may mean hiring a babysitter to fill in from time to time. But how to choose the perfect one? Here are some tips to find a good babysitter: Ask around. Your friends, neighbors, co-workers, or pediatrician may have recommendations or know someone looking for work.Check … [Read more...] about How to Choose a Babysitter

What are Tenant Unions and How Can They Help You

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Have you had trouble with a landlord? Has your landlord been unresponsive or evicted you improperly—even though you have followed your lease agreement? Did they raise your rent suddenly and drastically? You have a new tool in your tool kit to address these problems! Tenant unions are a relatively new phenomenon where tenants from a particular building, neighborhood, or … [Read more...] about What are Tenant Unions and How Can They Help You

Breathe Easy: Tips to Handle Poor Air Quality

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Due to natural disasters and man-made disasters alike, knowing the air quality is as essential as knowing the temperature. There are several ways to protect yourself and other vulnerable people from poor air quality:  Stay indoors or limit your time outdoors to the morning.Avoid busy roads and highways where particulate matter is usually worse because of emissions from … [Read more...] about Breathe Easy: Tips to Handle Poor Air Quality

How to Save on School Supplies

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To signal the end of the summer, students all over the United States get their list of supplies for the next school year. The list can be quite daunting and it can easily get very expensive. There are many tips and tricks to bring that bill down. Here are a few: Buy a year ahead. If you have any idea what your child will need next year, buy what you can when school supplies … [Read more...] about How to Save on School Supplies

Cheap, Healthy Sack Lunches

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One of the biggest challenges as a child grows can be what to bring for lunch at school. Your child wants something tasty, often expensive. On social media, you’ll see beautiful, vegetable-rich meals that probably took an hour to make. In reality, moms just want something healthy, cheap, and easy to make that their kid will actually eat. Here are some ideas to make sack lunches … [Read more...] about Cheap, Healthy Sack Lunches

Cool Ways to Keep Cool

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Managing the Cost of Air Conditioning During intense heat waves, and in some parts of the country, air conditioning is a necessity. It can also be expensive!  Know that for lower income households, you may qualify for a free air conditioner. Contact your local department of social services, United Way, or Community Action and ask about available energy assistance … [Read more...] about Cool Ways to Keep Cool

What does the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act mean to you?

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Sometimes a pregnant woman or someone who has just given birth needs some help to get  her job done. This can be a difficult conversation. You may feel nervous asking for help. In comes the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act which goes into effect on June 27, 2023.   The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act gives workers a right to appropriate and reasonable … [Read more...] about What does the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act mean to you?

Catch Up Kids in Class: The Benefits of Reading with Children

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It helps with language and literacy skills. Reading with your children is proven to drastically improve speech, vocabulary, writing, story comprehension, and reading skills. This is a great way to supplement your child’s schooling at-home, especially after COVID-19 delayed many students’ learning progression timelines. It encourages a natural love of learning. Allowing … [Read more...] about Catch Up Kids in Class: The Benefits of Reading with Children

Catch Up Kids in Class: 10 Tips

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No matter why your child has been out of school — whether because of an injury, illness, or school shutdown — or maybe she or he is just behind in a certain subject, parents are asking, “What can I do about my child being behind?”  First and foremost, remember that almost all of the children are behind. You are not a failure and your child isn’t the only student in this … [Read more...] about Catch Up Kids in Class: 10 Tips

Catch Up Kids in Class: Math Basics

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Many students have found themselves falling behind or losing skills due to illness, lockdowns, and other unforeseen reasons. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to get your child’s skills back on track! Here are a few simple ideas for restoring the mathematics literacy of your children at home. 1. Check out Khan Academy. Khan Academy is an incredible free resource used … [Read more...] about Catch Up Kids in Class: Math Basics

How to Make Good Habits Stick

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Old habits die hard, but good habits can live longer. The ways to improve our lifestyle are endless. They come up in our conversations, in our internet searches, in the media we scroll through — we find good habits everywhere! Thus, the real struggle comes after the discovery of these golden nuggets: How do we make them stick? Once we find a good habit we want to put into … [Read more...] about How to Make Good Habits Stick

How to Prepare for Driving in Winter Weather

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Driving in winter brings new challenges with snow and ice. Sometimes it can be hard — or even dangerous — trying to get from point A to point B in the winter months. These are some tips to help you be prepared to drive in the winter. Before you get stuck or stranded in snow and ice: Maintain your car, including tires, brakes, windshield wipers, and fluid. Be sure to have … [Read more...] about How to Prepare for Driving in Winter Weather

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

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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. 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 you have … [Read more...] about What to Do in a Power Outage

How to Create a Life Purpose Statement

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Purpose statements aren’t just for organizations. They’re not only for CEOs or successful business owners. They can be used for the benefit of anyone — including you. Why write a purpose statement? It may sound a bit silly or tedious, but the benefits you gain will prove otherwise. It can be easy to just get through each day without thinking about what matters most to you, … [Read more...] about How to Create a Life Purpose Statement

Common Adoption Myths Debunked

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When it comes to adoption, there are several myths that the average person might mistakenly believe. Although this list is not exhaustive, here are some myths surrounding adoption and the truth to clarify them all: 1. Adoption takes years and years to complete. While there are several factors that play into the timeline of each adoption process, the truth is, 70% of U.S. … [Read more...] about Common Adoption Myths Debunked

Finding Resources and Support As a Pregnant or Parenting Student

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Juggling pregnancy and parenting while still in school is definitely a challenge, but with support and resources, it is possible!  It can be daunting to know what resources are available to you, or even where to begin looking. Hopefully the following tips can give you some inspiration as to where you can go to fulfill your needs and thrive as a pregnant and/or parenting … [Read more...] about Finding Resources and Support As a Pregnant or Parenting Student

6 Tips for Patient Parenting

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Patience is hard. We know in our heads that it's the right thing, but it’s hard to incorporate the attribute in our daily actions, especially with our children. With our patience getting tested every day, how can we make sure that it “never runs out?” How do we create a habit of choosing patience instead of a short temper? Here are 6 tips that can help lead you into becoming a … [Read more...] about 6 Tips for Patient Parenting

Help at School for Children with Disabilities

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Does your child struggle with homework or classwork? Has a teacher said your child needs tutoring, isn’t paying attention, or has behavior issues? Does your child have a medical condition affecting her or his ability to function in or access the classroom?  Federal laws offer students with disabilities ways to get educational support. However, parents often have to take … [Read more...] about Help at School for Children with Disabilities

Need Help with Phone and Internet Costs?

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Did you know that low-income consumers may be eligible for help with the cost of phone and internet service?  The Lifeline program provides eligible low-income consumers a discount on qualifying monthly telephone service, broadband internet service, or bundled voice-broadband packages. The consumer has to purchase services from participating wireline or wireless … [Read more...] about Need Help with Phone and Internet Costs?

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

How Can You Help with the Formula Shortage?

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Maybe you don’t have a baby anymore, but your heart is broken hearing about a formula shortage on the news. You may wonder how you can help make sure babies are fed. Here are a few ways you can help: Have you breastfed recently? If you are a formerly breastfeeding mom, you can start to pump again and donate your milk to milk banks. If it hasn’t been more than a year or so … [Read more...] about How Can You Help with the Formula Shortage?

What Do You Do When You Can’t Find Your Infant Formula?

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For a number of different reasons, sometimes it is difficult to find your child’s preferred formula. It can be stressful and heart-wrenching after getting used to one formula and having trouble finding it. Some kids are picky about their formula. Some kids because of various health issues can only have certain kinds of formula. There are things you can do to get your child … [Read more...] about What Do You Do When You Can’t Find Your Infant Formula?

Peaceful Parenting

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Recently, my parenting focus has been on discovering peaceful responses to juvenile spats. Whether your children have only seen a safe home environment or are recovering from parenting trauma, finding ways to teach self-regulation and emotional intelligence can be very challenging. Here are a few suggestions that have helped me.  1. When my children are fighting, we … [Read more...] about Peaceful Parenting

Shop Smart & Save All Year Long!

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In order to save money on everything from clothes, to cars, to furniture, to appliances, to food, it’s important to know when the best sales are. By knowing when and where to get the deals you love, you end up saving tons of money.  Sign up for email alerts from your local grocery store. These alerts will let you know what items will be on sale in the next week or two. … [Read more...] about Shop Smart & Save All Year Long!

Frugal Food Strategies

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Struggling families and savvy shoppers will appreciate these cost-effective strategies that also provide nutritious meals for families. By Elizabeth HardtThe author wishes to acknowledge the contributions of Cheryl Blake, Editor-in-Chief Serrin M. Foster, Colette Moran, and Molly Pannell. … [Read more...] about Frugal Food Strategies

Getting Around for Less Money

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Finding inexpensive and convenient ways to get from location to location can be a struggle, but in today’s modern society there are many options for any setting. The City Life In the city, taking the bus can be the simplest and cheapest way to get around, as you refill your card each time and can go far in one ride. Despite these assets, buses are also at the mercy of … [Read more...] about Getting Around for Less Money

Help for Homeschoolers

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Are you a mother or father seeking out how to best give your kids a proper education? Do you want to give homeschooling a test drive before you commit? If so, keep reading for 11 great tips.  Break up your day. Just because your kids no longer have sports, clubs, or other extracurricular activities to attend, does not mean that they will want to work for the whole day. … [Read more...] about Help for Homeschoolers

Family Resource Centers on Military Bases

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In a military family, raising children, especially when relocating, can be challenging. It can disrupt the children's academics, social networks, health care, and sports activities. Today's military spouses who tend to be under 35 and largely female are often in an unfamiliar location without a support network. Being informed and utilizing the available resources, whether it … [Read more...] about Family Resource Centers on Military Bases

Family Law Basics

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Divorce, child custody, and child support issues can be difficult and confusing. Family law issues are covered by state law. Here are some basics about these types of cases. Editor’s Note: This is general information and not legal advice. Please consult with a lawyer licensed in your state for legal advice. By Susan Schoppa, J.D. … [Read more...] about Family Law Basics

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

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 who have or have had to learn remotely are falling behind. If this is true for your family, 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 … [Read more...] about 7 Tips to Keep Your Child from Falling Behind

How to Help a Friend Who’s Sick at Home

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It is difficult not being able to see friends in person, and it can be scary when you learn that someone you know is sick at home and very infectious. You want to help, but you also don’t want to fall ill yourself. Here are 7 ways you can help a friend who's sick at home, including some ideas on what you can send in a care package if you have a friend who is sick who lives a … [Read more...] about How to Help a Friend Who’s Sick at Home

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 … [Read more...] about 6 Ways to Get a Free Car Seat

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

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 & Contagious Illness: 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 during every respiratory virus season?  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:  We know these workers are at risk, but what if they are … [Read more...] about Pregnancy & Contagious Illness: Know Your Rights in the Workplace!

Dealing with Dejection

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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, the chaos of world events 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 … [Read more...] about Dealing with Dejection