All Modern Parenthood
- How a 7-year-old girl's trip to Tesco helped 'Let Toys Be Toys'
Maggie Cole spotted a sign in Tesco: "Fun gifts for boys." She questioned the gender biased marketing. Her mom posted the photo on Facebook and tweeted it. Tesco has promised to remove the signs.
- Parents and kids sort through Ferguson grand jury decision together
Teens who watched news coverage of the grand jury announcement in Ferguson might have been shocked to see the violent response. Parents were left adding perspective, and explaining the impact, as they themselves absorbed the news.
- The boy who was thankful: No greater gift than acceptance
As Thanksgiving looms, a mom notices the flood of gratitude posts on Facebook and finds one of her sons giving thanks for the simplest gift.
- From too much to just enough: One family's journey to a minimalist home
As a family aims to thin the contents of a spacious farmhouse, en route to a minimalist lifestyle, a mom contemplates first steps on the journey from ‘too much’ to ‘just enough.’
- Interfaith marriage: The tale of 'Form B'
Two young kids fall in love and decide to get married and start a family. When their faiths aren't the same, he's required to sign a form saying he'll adhere to her faith. Then they learn there is a 'Form B.'
- Dinner or pet? What not to name the lobster if you intend to eat it
A fisherman captures a lobster the size of the family dog - and quickly learns that his spiny catch might be better suited as a family pet rather than a seafood feast.
- For two kids and two parents, one-on-one time a must
A mom stays at home with her older son while her husband takes their younger son on a trip. She learns that time alone with her older son is invaluable in building communication, trust, and appreciation for him as an individual.
- Lammily on sale: How 'Average Barbie' could unseat more popular dolls this holiday
Lammily, the doll developed with proportions based on the average-sized 19-year-old, is now on sale. What started as a crowdfunding push for a doll that more girls can relate to is now a reality, just in time for the holidays.
- Talking with a toddler: Context should partner with ABCs
As a mom teaches her toddler to talk, she realizes the context around the words might be more important than basic vocabulary.
- Mom helps daughter drown her inner critic
When her daughter gets frustrated preparing for a swim meet, a mom remembers the importance of silencing the inner critic that tries to sideline confidence.
- Dad breaks Guinness World Record. But the real reward comes in sons' respect
One dad secures a world record, and in the process, forges a new connection with his sons.
- How to shift holiday traditions when two kids at home becomes one
A family learns to shift holiday traditions as one kid takes her leave for school. While parents look forward to ending sibling sparring over the holidays, sometimes absence can make the heart grow fonder.
- Homeless Children in US: A parent-to-parent approach to help kids
A new report tries to capture the number of homeless children in the US. While the numbers could fluctuate for a number of reasons, the opportunity for parents to connect directly with other parents in need remains a constant source of hope.
- Arkansas governor to pardon son: A precedent for forgiveness?
Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe is being accused of playing favorites by pardoning his son for a 2003 felony drug conviction. But understanding what is lost for non-violent offenders could help illustrate the importance of forgiveness.
- Parental obscenities continue in Adam Mansbach's latest title
Adam Mansbach captured the hearts of frustrated parents In 2011 with his book including the f-bomb in the title. Mr. Mansbach is back to entertaining parents with a new title targeting mealtime.
- School holiday debate: No child, but some issues, should be left behind
A Maryland school district strips the names of religious holidays from its school calendars. As a debate ensues, one mom wonders, are there bigger issues in schools that might deserve a little more parental involvement?
- Mom, why is the 'MythBusters' guy working for McDonald's now?
Former "MythBusters" cast member Grant Imahara is now appearing in McDonald's commercials explaining 'pink slime.' How do I explain that to my 10-year-old son?
- Family travel memories overlap into everyday bonding
A silly animal spotting game brings a family together as they explore a new country across the globe. More importantly, the memories of that game keep the family close long after they return home.
- National Stroller Running Day celebrates on-the-go fitness with kids
There is a population of vehicles growing on the roads – parents running with strollers – as more parents realize that some of the best workouts can be with tots in tow.
- Sushi for Thanksgiving? The importance of making your own holiday traditions.
As the commercial presence for the holidays creeps earlier each year, some might be tempted to write off the holidays altogether. Instead, families should take the opportunity to develop their own, unique holiday traditions.