Make sure your kiddos know that Martin Luther King Jr. Day is about more than a day off of school
Your little dreamers naturally understand the power and importance of having hopes and wishes, so learning facts about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his “I Have a Dream” speech is a tactile way to help kids understand the significance of who MLK Jr. was. Help the kids learn more about this chief spokesman for nonviolent activism, civil rights, and the end of racial segregation.
1. Martin Luther King Jr. was born on Jan. 15, 1929. His birth name was Michael but was changed to Martin by his father (who also changed his name) in 1934 (after Martin Luther, the leader of the Protestant Reformation in the 1500s).
2. At 14 he won a contest with a speech about civil rights.
3. He started college when he was just 15.
4. He worked for a newspaper as one of his first jobs.
5. Stevie Wonder wrote his song "Happy Birthday" to help build on the campaign to make Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday a national holiday. He asks a simple question throughout the song, “Why has there never been a holiday where peace is celebrated throughout the world? The time is overdue.”
6. According to the King Center, Martin Luther King, Jr. was jailed 30 times for charges such as civil disobedience.
7. MLK Jr. was awarded 20 honorary degrees.
8. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was instrumental in getting the Civil Rights Act of 1964 passed. This act outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It made it illegal to segregate based on race in schools, the workplace, and public accommodations (or facilities that serve the general public including hospitals and libraries). It may be hard for your kiddos to believe that there was once a time when children could not drink from the same drinking fountain or use the same bathroom because of the color of their skin. MLK fought to end that.
9. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace in April 1964.
10. Martin Luther King Jr. married Coretta Scott on June 18, 1953. The ceremony was performed by his father, Martin Luther King Sr. Coretta had the vow "to obey" removed from the vows, which was almost unheard of at the time.
11. MLK Jr. and his wife had four children: Martin Luther King III, Bernice King, Yolanda King, and Dexter King.
12. His "I Have a Dream" speech was not his first at the Lincoln Memorial. He gave a speech there on voting rights in 1957.
13. He survived an attempt on his life in 1958. He was stabbed with a letter opener by Izola Ware Curry. He underwent hours of emergency surgery. Surgeons said one sneeze could have punctured his aorta and killed him.
14. Martin Luther King Jr.'s mother was killed six years after his murder. She was shot while playing the organ at church.
15. One of the best ways kids can understand what he was all about is by listening to his famous "I Have a Dream" speech, which he made on Aug. 28, 1963. Kids of any age can listen and read along through this link.
Your gender-neutral nursery will be anything but boring
Gender-neutral baby gear, clothes, and accessories have become very accessible, and nurseries are no exception. Whether you’re going the neutral route because you’re skipping the ‘gender reveal‘, you want to be able to plan for hand-me-downs for future babies, or just because you like the hues, there are lots of options for a gender-neutral nursery. It can be a bit of a challenge to keep things neutral and cohesive. These decorating options are easy to mix and match, plus, it’s all absolutely adorable. Oh, and boho-loving moms? There are a ton of earthy colors in this collection that you’ll love. You can’t go wrong with these.
Pick bold patterns or muted prints, or pair a little of both for a unique and darling room your babe will be able to grow into. Another major plus to neutral spaces, right? Of course, you’ll want to add baby and family photos, plus their own touches as their personalities start to show. Here are a few of our favorite choices.
Passport 20" Kids Pendant Ceiling Light by Leanne Ford
Crate & Barrel
This fun ceiling light is an adorable addition to any kiddo's room. Who wouldn't want a hot air balloon floating through their space? We know we do.
100% cotton sateen, this illustrated crib sheet from Rookie Humans is like creating a storybook in their nursery. If the moon isn't quite your style, check out their full collection of stunning crib sheets, too.
Aside from being so cool-looking, clear storage helps you find what you're looking for fast and fits into any decor (including your gender-neutral nursery) because, again, clear.
Goodnight Moon 3-Piece Celestial Nursery Crib Bedding Set
Lambs & Ivy
This sweet crib bedding set includes a quilt, fitted crib sheet, and a crib skirt. "You are my sun my moon and all of my stars" is embroidered on the soft moon. That covers every parents' sentiment, doesn't it?
We have a feeling you're going to want blackout curtains in the nursery. Afterall, between being able to darken the whole room on your terms, and keeping the temperature regulated, there's a good chance your little one will sleep better with them.
A super cute decorative nursery sign that's laser cut and engraved from birch and white eucalyptus wood. They're available in 3 different sizes, with 12 different frame finishes to choose from.'
Handmade details, cotton fleece, and yarn combine to create an artisanal feel that's totally gender-neutral, too. Stick with the giraffe, or add the antelope and lion, too.
We're actually very in love with all the clocks from Birch Lane, but Smokey the Owl is an easy fave. Made from baltic birch plywood that's ethically sourced & printed with non-toxic, water-based inks, too.
WallpaperMural.com makes absolutely beautiful wallpaper, and the Ava Neutral design warms up any nursery or kids room. It's comfy, cozy, and has just the right about of whimsy, too. That's right, we said whimsy.
The soft colors with a little extra punch make these prints a great way to add neutral hues to your little one's gender-neutral nursery. (Note: these are a digital download.)
This set of 3 receiving blankets in the 'Forest Theme' palette is not only pretty, it's hard to go wrong with soft and breathable organic cotton and bamboo fabrication. Plus, you can never have enough receiving blankets, right?
This sound machine has 30 looping white noise sounds and 12 nightlight colors, and although it comes in black and white, this wood finish makes it part of the decor.
Babies aren't always terribly interested in stuffed animals until they're a bit older, but we know you already have quite the collection. Store them in style with this macrame storage hammock, featuring a string of LED lights for a soft glow in a gender-neutral nursery.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
These should all make an appearance in future father-son talks
From simple, everyday interactions to more serious, big-picture issues, there are important life lessons we dads can—and should—share to help a young boy grow into a courageous, honorable, and kind adult. That said, we realize that not all families include fathers, so these words of wisdom for a father-son talk apply to any parent figure who wants to help their child stand a little taller and do good in the world.
I’ll always be here for you. Anyone can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad. Reminding your son that you always are available to him and mindful of his needs will go a long way in establishing and building trust over time. Mindful parenting means being present in the moment and aware of what’s happening. Modeling positive, supportive behavior while your son is young will show him that good men are reliable and responsible.
Treat others with compassion and empathy. The Golden Rule may be a simple principle to follow, but teaching empathy can provide a deeper framework for how people should behave regardless of circumstance. Fostering empathy can help young boys to find commonalities between themselves and others who are seemingly different—and encourages them to positively and proactively think about and care for others.
Winning is great, but losing with grace and humility is just as important. Good sportsmanship is a beneficial trait that goes well beyond what happens on the playing field. By teaching our sons how to win and lose with dignity, we’re giving them strong interpersonal relationship skills that will serve them well in many other aspects of their lives besides sports. Telling them that the main point of competition is to have fun will alleviate the feeling of needing to win at any cost, and allows them to enjoy themselves.
Surround yourself with people you admire. Dads can’t always pick our son’s friends, but we can encourage them to choose their friendships wisely. Find out who your son admires and who his heroes are, and you’ll quickly discover the kinds of people he wants to emulate. Real friendships are fundamental in early childhood development, so teaching our sons how to find good friends and be good friends will help guide them in the right direction.
I can teach you how to throw a punch, but never start a fight… and always know when to walk away. A parent should teach their son when to stand their ground and when to walk away. Establishing a baseline that it’s never appropriate to hurt others for no reason is a critical, essential first step.
Never make an important decision on an empty stomach. Over the course of a young boy’s life, he’ll have to make many important decisions. These are just warm-ups to the big ones that he’ll have to make as an adult, and every dad knows that important decisions should never be made on an empty stomach. There’s a science to explain why people become grumpy or have poorer judgment when they are hungry. Remind your kid to have a full belly before making any major decisions.
It’s OK to play with dolls. Or dress up as Beyoncé. Or sing like Beyoncé. Or dance like Beyoncé. By the time most boys are five years old, they’ve already learned lots of things that perpetuate toxic masculinity. Break the cycle by letting your son know that there are no such things as “girls-only toys” or “girls-only behaviors.” Instead, teach your son that there’s more than one way to be a man.
Honesty matters.
Whether it’s telling the truth about a broken window/bike/toy or speaking up against bullies, honestly is always the best policy.
What was the best part of your day? At the end of a long day of work and school, many dads will simply ask their sons, “How was your day?” And the typical response is a bluntly delivered, “Fine.” Rather than try to start a conversation with a generic question, be specific. Avoid questions that can be answered with a single word. As our kids get older—particularly as they enter their tween and teen years—they may be less inclined to volunteer information about what’s happening in their lives. Asking pointed questions will help tease out what’s really going on and what’s really on their minds.
Let’s talk about sex, drugs, and rock and roll. Because if you’re not the person who’s initiating conversations with your son about topics as important as these, then someone else inevitably will, and that someone else may not always have your kid’s best interests in mind. There are plenty of resources to help parents talk to their kids about sensitive and sometimes awkward topics. At the very least, make sure your son has a handle on the basics from the school of rock.
I’m so lucky that I get to be your dad. And while you’re at it, tell your son that you love him every day, and give him lots of hugs and kisses, especially while he’s still young so that he gets used to receiving affection from (and giving it to) his old man.
Test your knowledge about current news events like Pride Month and more!
It’s Pride Month in the United States and we’re celebrating the LGBTQ+ community with some Pride trivia questions. Test your knowledge below!
1. How many countries have legalized same-sex marriage?
Answer: 30
On April 21st, 2001, the Netherlands became the first country to legalize same-sex marriage. Since then, twenty-eight other countries have done the same. While this is progress, there are many more countries in the world that don’t offer LGBTQ couples the same rights as heterosexual couples.
2. Why is the rainbow flag a symbol of LGBTQ pride?
Answer: Rainbows are a symbol of hope
Artist Gilbert Baker is widely known as the creator of the rainbow flag, which today is a symbol of LGBTQ pride. The idea of a rainbow came to him when he was dancing among a crowd of people. As he was spinning around, Baker noticed that the colors started blending together like a beautiful rainbow. At that moment, he knew he’d be making a rainbow flag—an object that historically represented hope. The original flag was eight colors with each color representing something different:
Pink = Sex
Red = Life
Orange = Healing
Yellow = Sunlight
Green = Nature
Turquoise = Magic
Blue = Harmony
Violet = Spirit
When demand for the flag increased, so did changes to the flag. First, hot pink was dropped from the rainbow because of the lack of supply of hot pink fabric. Then, turquoise was eliminated because an odd-numbered flag would obscure the turquoise stripe when hung vertically. In 1979, the Pride flag became a six-color striped flag: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and violet.
3. Why is Pride Month celebrated in June in the United States?
Answer: In memory of the Stonewall riots that happened in June.
In the United States, Pride Month is celebrated in the month of June to commemorate the Stonewall Riots, a series of riots that erupted throughout New York City in June and July of 1969. These riots were a response to the police raid of the Stonewall Inn in New York City’s Greenwich Village, a popular gathering place for the young LGBT community during the early hours of June 28th, 1969. The police arrested employees for selling liquor without a license and roughed up the many patrons inside the inn. As police dragged patrons out of the bar and into police vans, people outside the bar watched and grew increasingly enraged. A riot soon ensued and continued for the next five days. Historians mark the Stonewall riots as the turning point in the gay rights movement.
4. Which country holds the record for hosting the largest Pride parade in the world?
Answer: Brazil
Argentina may be the first South American country to legalize same-sex marriage, but Brazil takes the cake when it comes to hosting Pride parades! According to the Guinness World Records, São Paulo’s Pride Parade is the largest in the world. Every year, the parade welcomes millions of people from around the world to celebrate the LGBTQ community. In 2009, approximately 4 million people attended the São Paulo Pride parade, breaking a record of 2.5 million attendees that was set in 2006. Whose world record did they break? Their own!
5. Which three U.S. Presidents have officially acknowledged Pride Month?
Answer: Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden
While June is widely recognized as Pride Month in the United States, only three presidents have officially acknowledged Pride Month. In 1999, President Bill Clinton declared June “Gay & Lesbian Pride Month”; he was the first president to ever make such a declaration. The second U.S. president to make such a declaration was President Barack Obama. In 2009, President Obama issued an official proclamation declaring June as Pride Month. He recognized Pride Month from 2009 to 2016, and every year he was in office. Last year, Joe Biden became the third president to acknowledge Pride Month.
Want to play more news-related family-friendly quizzes? Head to Newsicle, the news-related trivia game created by the team at Xyza: News for Kids.
We're two perfectly imperfect moms who have five very different kids between the two of us. We believe that topics in news are a fantastic way to spark conversations in families. That's why we started the Dinner Table Conversation series here at Xyza: News for Kids. Won't you join us in the conversation?
Stop saying these homophobic slurs and help break the chain of hurtful speech.
In a vulnerable time like this, communication is incredibly important. Our kids are relying on us more than ever for education, and social development. So, how do we avoid unintentionally hurtful words and teachings that we ourselves may have learned by accident? Linguistically speaking these terms and phrases can be considered a “pathogen”—they’re “Word Germs.”
Perhaps you can recall a time when a parent or grandparent taught you a word or spoke aloud an idea that was offensive to you, or to people you cared about. You, when you decided not to repeat it, were the first link that broke that instructional chain of thinking and speaking.
After surveying an NYC-based LGBT & Ally Performer network, we have come up with 10 commonly used words and homophobic slurs that you may not have known were offensive to the LGBTQ+ community and some alternative options that will promote our children to grow up to be compassionate and intelligent advocates for justice in their classrooms, social circles and future homes.
Kids are naturally curious and like to try out all different kinds of playtime activities as well as clothing options. Playing house, playing with trucks, or building LEGO sets are formative activities for young kids of any gender. Additionally, playtime, for households with multiple children, is a social activity. It’s not rare or wrong for a brother and sister to play cars, dolls, or dress-up pretend games together, so why do we enforce separation when it comes to other activities?
For example, when your son wants to try makeup or wants his nails painted, it can simply be because activities such as those are calming and involve spending quality time with you, or perhaps an older sibling. When a young girl plays with tools or has an interest in mechanics/building, not only are those creative activities the foundation for important skills she will need as an adult but are also a bonding activity for her and a parent and/or sibling. Though these activities aren't indicators that your child will grow into an LGBTQ+ adult, your reaction will be remembered if they begin having questions about their gender and sexuality, so responding positively and openly will set a trusting foundation for your relationship when they need your help finding those answers later in life. Celebrating your child’s curiosity will ultimately bring you closer together.
“He’s a little ladies’ man/She’s going to give her Daddy trouble when she’s older.”
It's a known fact: babies are cute. And it's exciting to see their personalities take form. When babies/toddlers are social and bubbly, sometimes adults will remark in a way that indicates when they grow up, they’ll have plenty of romantic attention. Comments like this could potentially make your child fear making gestures of affection, particularly in front of you or other adults, in case they would be ridiculed or embarrassed. It also establishes an expectation that in adulthood, your child will be heterosexual.
Maybe you can recall having a “kindergarten boyfriend/girlfriend” who waved at you at pick-up or held your hand on the playground. These sorts of gestures of friendship and closeness among young kids should be encouraged. It teaches kids to be honest about their feelings and establishes a place in their life for kind gestures and affection, rather than concealment of emotions and violent outbursts.
These types of comments can also set a tone that same-sex relationships or the need for physical comforts such as hugs or hand-holding outside of a romantic relationship are "strange" or “abnormal.” Instead, it's important to encourage your children to be openly kind to their friends and classmates, without jokingly hinting that something else lies beneath those actions.
Whether she was climbing a tree or sitting bowlegged in a chair, every single girl has heard this phrase at least once growing up. This saying is damaging to every girl, establishing limitations on what girls can and cannot do. In the same way that "no, that's for boys" discourages girls from exploring interests in male-dominated fields, "act like a lady" teaches girls to consider themselves an "other" to boys, even something less than boys. While, of course, we want to teach children manners, how to be polite, to say "please" and "thank you," and to treat everyone with kindness and respect, comments like this make girls resent being born as girls.
It also assumes that a child's sex and gender match one another. Jo March from Little Women, the "blueprint" for how we view tomboyism,often remarked that she was "the man" of the family, cutting her hair short, wearing trousers, and refusing to do "girly" things like needlepoint or flirt with boys. She, like many young girls, rebels against conventional expectations of girlhood/womanhood. So, it's unsurprising that theorists have wondered whether Jo was gay or transgender. Allowing girls to breathe a bit as they develop, leaving room for any activities regardless of her sex will help her in expressing her gender identity later in life.
While it comes from a place of kindness, and of understanding that there are plenty of people who are still intolerant of the LGBTQ+ community, telling a gay person "you're so brave" reinforces that being gay is an abnormality. Not every gay person is completely out, some are only out to friends or friends and a portion of their family. You may have heard "but I haven't told my uncle" or "but I'm never telling my Nona." This homophobic slur subtly assumes that a gay person wants to talk about their struggle to openly accept their sexuality. Saying instead, "I'm here for you if you need to talk (coming out, your intolerant relatives, being bullied at school, feeling confused, etc.)" establishes that you're an ally, and they're in control of when they bring up potentially traumatic events. You could also say, "I'm happy that you're so happy," or "I'm glad you've found your significant other."
“I’m not gay but.../I'm no homo...”
iStock
We'd love to say the reminder is unnecessary, but we'll say it anyway: stop saying this homophobic slur or any variation of it. Whether you think Lupita Nyong'o is beautiful or you love spending time with your best friend, you don't have to reaffirm the admiration of a celebrity or the strength of your love as platonic. This is another phrase that alienates LGBTQ+ people, making it seem as though gay people are abnormal, and there's a necessity to keep reaffirming you do not belong to that group. It makes it seem as though there is some fear attached to being mistaken for gay as if there is some punishment that may be involved. It's much easier to simply say "I'm really happy we're friends" or "I love the time we spend together" to someone you care about without adding the addendum at the end.
We've all heard some version of it: "I always knew ____ was gay!" or, "With style like that, it was obvious!" or to the opposite effect, "But you don't look like a lesbian?" Employing your "gaydar" assumes that there is one single way of being gay. When in fact, gay people and their experiences are just as diverse as anyone else. It also gives gay people a reputation for being "sneaky" as if being in the closet is an act to fool or trick people, but those with "gaydar" are more adept at seeking out the lie. Instead of telling your friend/child/family member that you always knew they were gay, try saying "That's great!" Or if they tell you they're transgender or nonbinary, ask questions like "What does that mean for us going forward?" and "Do you have a new name or pronouns?" and "How can I best support you in this?" Showing you're listening and you care is the most crucial step in making the person you care about feel loved and accepted.
“But, are you sure? Have you ever dated a (person of the opposite sex)?”
Even members of the LGBT+ community are guilty of this one. It's natural to be curious about how someone came into their sexuality, but ultimately it's not your business. Often times gay and transgender folks experience "internalized homophobia" where, it's difficult not to listen to the voices of bullies, politicians, clergy members, and even characters on television, who tell them they're "looking for attention" or "just haven't found the right person" or "can't possibly know unless they tried." You wouldn't ask a straight person how they knew they were straight if they'd never been in a same-sex relationship, so why the curiosity when it comes to gay people?
“I don’t mind what you are but, you’ll always be my little boy/girl to me.”
It's understandable that a change such as your child's gender can be shocking. Especially when discussions of reassignment surgery, hormone therapy and legal measures (regarding name, insurance, official documents, etc.) follow. Fond memories of watching your child grow up will potentially feel like a "Before" and "After" and perhaps, your child will not remember those precious moments with the same fondness, as they will remember them as a time of closeted-ness. It is so crucial in helping your child to feel accepted for who they are, to let go of the "Before" and "After" mentality. Talking openly about your concerns, and listening to theirs will help you better understand each other's needs. Sometimes decisions about how best your child can live their life happily as their preferred gender will require several conversations and lots of research. Tackle those moments of doubt by listening to what your child needs. Help them find an LGBTQ+ network, and as their parent, talk to adults who went through the same thing at their age, and what they needed/wish they had, as far as parental support.
This phrase has somewhat fallen out of fashion in the last ten years but it still comes up, particularly around the adolescent schoolyard. The sentiment is simple: all things stupid, inconvenient, weird, loud, gross, tedious, annoying, and so forth, are branded "gay" instead. With a vocabulary so rich and diverse with words that describe the things that irritate us, why continue to choose the word gay at all? It reinforces the notion that there's something inherently wrong with being gay. If you hear it said by someone you know or even someone you don't, it's easy to correct, "Did you mean (new word)?" or "Gay isn't a synonym for (new word)." Setting an example for your kids in this way, when they hear these pathogen-like phrases (especially when they're uttered by others in your presence), will help them not only learn not to say these things but also why it's important not to.
The “Reclaimed Slur”: “Fairy,” “Queen,” “Queer,” “Dyke,” “Faggot,” “Tranny,” “Cross-Dresser”
iStock
This last one is a little trickier than the others. Sometimes, you will hear members of the LGBT+ community use terms that seem offensive, or you've heard them used offensively before. There isn't one single opinion from the community about these terms. Some people find it liberating to use words that were once meant to damage them as a signifier of pride or self-love. Others prefer to leave homophobic slurs in the past. However, at one point in history, the words "Gay" and "Lesbian" were also slurs, so it's difficult to come down decidedly on one side of the argument or the other.
Ultimately, “slurs” can only be reclaimed by the parties they were originally used to bully. Even if you hear someone call themselves an offensive word, it does not mean they’ve permitted you to use that word to describe them as well. Communicate with your child, friend, or family member, and ask them how you should refer to them—there’s almost always a straightforward answer. Whether it be “Sometimes I call myself a dyke, but please call me a lesbian in conversation” or “I’m gay, but I also use the word queer, so you may too when talking about me.”
As with any marginalized group, the best thing you can do to support the LGBT+ community is to listen to and amplify their voices whenever/wherever you can. Educating yourself is the first step to becoming an LGBTQ ally to those you care about.
A pea in the pod, a bun in the oven, preggo… no matter what you call it, everyone who experiences pregnancy knows you spend half of the nine-month stretch feeling joyful and excited and the other half feeling anxious and wondering if the things happening with your body are normal. You’re probably spending hours rabbit-holing into Google’s depths to read other mothers’ experiences and analyzing your own, wondering, “Is this normal?” Let’s break down a few common pregnancy “normals” and set your mind at ease.
You Are Not Your Belly Few instances in your life could ever change your appearance so drastically and so quickly, and no two women are going to feel the same. While one may feel more beautiful than ever before, with shiny hair, glowing skin, and a cute, round belly, another woman may be counting down (by the minute) until her due date so she can hit the gym and feel like her old self again. The normal response? Whatever is normal for you.
Know that it’s okay to feel whatever it is you feel about your body; just remember that you are not your belly or your thighs or your boobs. Many women feel negative about weight gain and don’t love that random strangers will comment on their stomachs and bodies without prompt or permission. Be gentle with yourself; you’re creating a life, and your body has to change for that to happen. You will feel like yourself again one day, sooner than you think. In the meantime, pay attention to the happy changes going on with your body, especially when you’re able to feel those fluttery kicks from within.
Sex Drive (Or Park) Some research points to an increased libido during your second trimester, and supposedly during this time, you’re feeling hot and ready for lovemaking at any time of day or night. This may be normal for some, and for others, it may be the exact opposite, where you sleep with a fly swatter next to your bed to fend off any unwanted advances (unless, of course, it actually is just the much-needed neck massage and nothing more. Yeah, right. We know your tricks.).
The point is, a lot is happening with your body and mind during this time (you’re growing a little human, for goodness sake), with hormones raging like they might during a slow jam during an eighth-grade dance. You’re feeling it? You’re not feeling it? Don’t worry. Whatever you’re feeling is normal. But if you’re concerned about the increase or decrease in your sex drive, talk with your doctor, and have an honest discussion with your partner about your needs.
The Prolapse and the Pee
Something else totally normal that happens to women during pregnancy? Pelvic floor conditions, including urinary and fecal incontinence, and a little condition called prolapse, which happens when the ligaments holding up the pelvic floor stretch, causing the uterus to descend. When this happens, the bowels and/or bladder can be pushed up against the vaginal walls and can cause a bulge, or prolapse, to push out of your vagina.
While this entire description should be a headline on the pamphlets aiming to prevent unplanned teen pregnancies, it is a completely normal side effect of pregnancy and childbirth. Many women say it feels like something coming down into their vagina or that it feels like sitting on a small ball.
Pelvic floor conditions affect one in five women, so to say it’s normal is an understatement. Every pregnant woman has peed a little without making it to the bathroom, but some pelvic floor conditions can be serious, so alert your doctor if you show symptoms, both during pregnancy and afterward. Together you can develop a plan for treatment and healing. There are also pelvic floor specialists who can develop a treatment plan for you.
And in the meantime, there’s leakproof underwear from brands like Proof. Choose the level of absorbency you need and the style you prefer (thong, brief, cheeky, hipster, and more), and you’ll get some piece of mind back.
Anxiety and Terror and Nightmares When you’re pregnant, the last thing you want to hear is, “Oh, don’t mind her. She’s just emotional because she’s pregnant.” Don’t you just want to kick that person as hard as you can? Or maybe that’s just the emotions talking…? No, it’s a justified desire to kick that person as hard as you can. Of course, you’re emotional; you’re angry and weepy and nostalgic and sentimental and anxious and fearful and excited and happy and… it’s a smorgasbord of emotions, really. But every single one of them is normal, according to medical experts.
Yes, you will cry over sweet commercials, and yes, you will get irate that the bag in the box of cereal wasn’t closed the right way and now your Captain Crunch is stale. And yes, you will lie awake at night, mapping and remapping the best route to the hospital where you’ll be giving birth. And yes, it’s completely normal to start crying in your kitchen while looking at your dog, wondering how in the world you’re ever going to still love your dog, or if you’re going to love your new baby as much as your dog.
Having a baby is a big change, and every emotion you are feeling is normal. Talk to friends about their “crazy” pregnancy emotions, journal about what you’re feeling, or ask your partner to give you a secret signal if you’re spinning out. Sometimes it can be as easy as telling yourself, “This anxiety/fear/anger I’m feeling only feels like more than I can handle because I’m pregnant.” Or just take comfort in knowing that the worry and anxiety you feel now is a good indicator that you are going to be a caring, concerned, and wonderful mom.
Finding Your New Normal Try to stay off WebMD about your bump in the night, and instead talk with friends and family who have been pregnant and may have had similar experiences. And always mention anything you find concerning to your doctor. It doesn’t always seem like it, but the nine months are going to be behind you, and before you know it, you’ll be Googling “Is This Normal?” questions about your new little one. For now, try to relax and know that the most normal thing about the questions you’re asking is that every other pregnant woman is asking them as well.
It’s no surprise you’ve been doing some serious daydreaming about who, exactly, is in there. Before you dive into full-on baby shower planning mode, have some fun trying these at-home baby prediction tests to find out how to tell the gender of your baby. Can a wacky at-home prediction test tell you if you are having a boy or a girl? Well, you’ll have to try these tests to find out. (Regardless of the outcome, these incredible gender-neutral nurseries should have you covered.)
1. Carrying high? That's supposed to mean you'll have a girl, while a low rider means boy.
2. If your skin has that pregnancy glow, chances are you're having a boy, according to one old wives' tale. If you're breaking out, get ready for a girl.
3. Look at your breasts in the mirror. If your right breast is larger than your left, you're having a girl. If your left breast looks larger, it's a boy.
4. Consult a Chinese gender chart, which uses your age and the month you conceived to determine how to tell the gender of your baby.
5. Energetic fetuses are thought to be boys, while chill babes in utero are predicted to be girls.
6. Pee in a cup (you should be a pro at this by now after all those doctor's visits), and then mix in 1 tablespoon of Drano drain cleaner. If the color turns green, you'll have a girl. Blue means it's a boy. (Be careful with this one. Drano can be toxic, so wear gloves and a mask or have someone else do this experiment for you.)
7. At your next prenatal checkup, check out baby's head on the ultrasound. If it's square-shaped, then you're having a boy. If you see a rounder head, it's a girl.
8. Tie a ring on the end of a piece of string. Sit down and have someone hold the string over your belly. If the ring swings in a circle, you're having a girl. If it swings back and forth, it's a boy.
9. That dark line that runs from your pubic bone straight up the center of your belly (known as the linea nigra) is said to indicate baby's sex. If the line stops at your belly button, you're having a girl. If the line continues up to your ribs and chest, it's a boy.
10. The faster baby's heart rate is, the more likely you're having a girl. The slower the heart rate (below 140 beats per minute), the more likely you're having a boy.
11. If the skin on your hands is dry and chapped during pregnancy, you're more likely to be carrying a boy. Smooth skin means it'll be a girl.
12. If you're craving salty foods, then you're pregnant with a boy. Are you jonesin' for something sweet? Then it's a girl you're carrying.
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13. Since you have to pee all the time anyway, pee in a cup one more time. Then drop in some baking soda. If it fizzes, then it's a boy; if it doesn't, it's a girl.
14. Here's another pee test: Boil a head of red cabbage in some water. Save the red cabbage water and mix it in a cup with your urine. If the water turns pink, it means a girl is on its way. If the water is purple, you're having a boy.
15. Next time you wake up in the morning (or from one of those much-needed pregnancy naps), check which side of your body you're sleeping on. Left side indicates boy, while right means girl.
16. This one is similar to the Chinese chart above. The Mayans take the mama's age at conception and add it to the year baby was conceived. If it's an odd number, the baby is a boy. Even means it's a girl.
17. If your morning sickness lasts beyond the first trimester, some people think you're carrying a girl. If your sickness subsides or you didn't have any to begin with (lucky you!), then it's a boy.
18. If your baby bump looks like a basketball, it could be you're having a boy. If your baby bump is more spread out across your waistline, then it's a girl.
While planning for your new arrival, there’s no better time to download the Tinybeans app. The secure platform allows you to share special moments with friends and family near and far and puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their littles.
June is National Gay Pride Month. While the annual Atlanta Pride Parade and Festival happens the weekend closest to National Coming Out Day in October, Atlanta parents still have plenty of opportunities to show their kids that families come in every shape, size, and color of the rainbow. While some Pride events haven’t historically been kid-centric, there are plenty of festivals, parades, walk/runs and concerts that give children the chance to celebrate or perhaps an environment to relate to. So sprinkle on some glitter, proudly raise your rainbow flags, and enjoy these fun happenings until the end of June.
Atlanta Pride Run
The Atlanta Pride Run is excited to return in-person at beautiful Piedmont Park on June 5, with a virtual option for those not yet ready to mix and mingle. For over 30 years, the objective of the Atlanta Pride Run has been to generate awareness for the LGBTQ+ community in the greater Atlanta area and fundraise for much-needed community partners. Sun. Jun. 5. Event details.
Show your team pride at the ballpark on Wednesday, June 22, 2022, as the Atlanta Braves take on the San Francisco Giants at 7:20 p.m. Arrive early for the pregame party at the Coca-Cola Roxy from 5:20 to 7:20 p.m., located only steps away from Truist Park. The party will feature DJ Kimber from Nonsense ATL, and you will receive a Braves Pride 20 oz. Tervis tumbler to take home as a souvenir. Each ticket will also include a $3 donation back to Lost-N-Found. After the pregame party, head into the ballpark to cheer on the World Series Champion Atlanta Braves. Jun. 22.Event details.
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Pride in the Park
Grab your favorite potluck dish, get ready for fresh air, and parade fun at J.B. Williams Park. Plan to meet up around 11 a.m. in Levengood Pavilion, the covered picnic area, to share a delicious meal before the procession through the park at 1:30 p.m. June 26.Event details.
Get ready to celebrate 8 FRIED YEARS of queering Atlanta and the South through the arts and community. Southern Fried Queer Pride is an Atlanta-based organization empowering Black & QTPOC-centered communities in the South through the arts. All events for the festival are for all ages except for HAWT SAUCE: A Queer Dance Party which is for 18+. All other events are for all ages, but attendee discretion is advised. Jun. 23-26. Event details.
Get ready to shop and celebrate pride at this pop-up market featuring 25 local queer vendors, with live music performances by Atlanta DJs Zaida and Esmé. Join in celebrating the range of creativity and beauty within the queer experience. Shop small and shop some of Atlanta’s finest vintage and handmade goods. June 4. Event Details.
What better time to explore The National Center for Civil and Human Rights than during National Gay Pride Month? The National Center for Civil and Human Rights believes in justice and dignity for all – and the power of people to make this real. They inspire visitors with immersive exhibitions, dynamic events and conversations, and engagement and education/training programs. Details.
Atlanta Gay Pride activities are spread out over most of October and include speeches, special events, parties, and workshops. The week before the Atlanta Pride Parade, a Dyke March and a Trans March occur, and Piedmont Park is the center of activity for the festival weekend. Music, food, and fun are the order of the day, and you’ll see all sorts of sweet rides in the Pride Car and Motorcycle Show. Expect a fun-filled, busy weekend! Oct. 7-9 Event details.
Atlanta Black Pride
The annual Black Pride Celebration attracts LGBTQ+ people of all racial backgrounds worldwide to celebrate values, contributions, and PRIDE. Its mission is to educate, celebrate, promote self-empowerment, and ensure that the social and cultural needs of LGBTQ+ individuals and families are met in the Atlanta Metro area. Sep. 1-8. Event details.
In addition to pride parades and street festivals, there are other ways to open the age-appropriate lines of communication with your children about the LGBTQ community—and acceptance of all people, regardless of gender, race, religion and sexuality differences. We recommend browsing Charis Books & More (184 S Candler St. Decatur, GA 30030) and Brave & Kind Bookshop (722 W. College Ave., Decatur, GA 30030) for books dedicated to diversity and acceptance. These reads are a great place to start.
Just in time for the 40th anniversary of the Rainbow Pride Flag comes a picture book that tells the empowering true story about how the flag came to be. From its start in 1978 with social activist Harvey Milk and designer Gilbert Baker to its role spanning the globe today, you’ll hear a story of love, hope, equality, and pride.
These stories are great reads for ages 4-8 and allow us a peek inside the conversation between kids curious about one friend’s two mommies, and another’s two daddies. They’re both perfect for introducing kids to same-sex families we see every day.
Show your kids the beauty of the pride parade without ever leaving your house. This picture book perfectly captures the diversity, vitality, and pride on display and provides a solid springboard into a meaningful conversation. In addition, this book includes a reading guide chock full of facts about LGBTQ history and culture.
Based on the true story of two male chinstrap penguins, Roy and Silo shared a nest in New York’s Central Park Zoo. After trying to care for and hatch an egg-shaped rock, the pair was given a fertilized egg in need of nurturing that became the beautiful penguin known as Tango.
This book showcases many different types of families with 2-page spreads depicting facets of home life – from homes and holiday celebrations to schools and pets to emotions and family trees.
It explores one element of its prequel, “The Great Big Book of Families,” which is the arrival of new members into a family. Written with a humorous tone, you’ll have an opportunity to light-heartedly explore all the different ways a baby or child can become a member of a family — natural birth within a nuclear family, adoption, fostering and same-sex families—while sending the message that all families are unique and equal.
Children meet an array of families through whimsical, colorful illustrations. Pages are full of silly examples of differences (i.e., some families like to be messy, some like to be clean), plus serious topics like adoption, same-sex relationships and single parenting.
Similar to “The Family Book,” Parr reinforces the need for acceptance of individuality through repetition and fun and colorful drawings. He mixes big ideas (“It’s okay to have different dads”) with random silliness (“It’s okay to eat macaroni and cheese in the bathtub”).
In this fairytale, a prince must find a mate to help rule the kingdom so the Queen can retire. While being introduced to a series of princesses, the prince meets a suitor’s brother, and it’s love at first sight. Collage-style illustrations are bright, colorful and altogether engaging.
Bailey loves dresses in all the colors of the rainbow. Dresses that sparkle, that shine, that twirl. His parents, however, are in his ear to remind him that he’s a boy and boys don’t wear dresses. So in comes Laurel, a friend who shows him that it’s okay to be whoever he wants. This is an inspiring friendship story that any kid can relate to, especially those who refuse to conform.
Have a child who recently came out or is early on in the stages of questioning their sexuality? First off, congratulations that you’ve created an environment where your child feels open enough to talk about those feelings. Next up? This book. Written in Q&A format, it’s a go-to resource for parents committed to understanding and being the best support possible for their child. The authors share insight on everything from the emotional to the practical topics, peppered with real-life experiences from gay kids and their parents.
—Angelica Kajiwara, Maria Chambers & Shelley Massey
Finally, some 2022 news we can get excited about! Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra just announced that they have welcomed their first baby via surrogate and we could not be more thrilled for them. The baby’s name and sex have yet to be released.
From viral TikTok and Instagram videos to well-meaning tips from friends and family, there’s no shortage of information—and unwanted advice—about how to get pregnant. While the kind words may be delivered with the best intentions, many myths and misinformation about conception continue to circulate and it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction.
CCRM Fertility expert, Dr. Stephanie Dahl , is breaking down five common myths and misconceptions about getting pregnant and what the science actually shows us:
Pregnancy Myth #1
Certain Positions Can Increase Your Odds of Pregnancy
Sperm are excellent swimmers; they can swim up toward a waiting egg no matter what position you’re in. In fact, only seconds after ejaculation, sperm are already in the cervical canal. There’s no evidence that indicates sex position matters. This goes for keeping your legs up in the air after intercourse. While there’s no harm in doing it, sperm will head to the right place regardless.
Pregnancy Myth #2
You’re More Likely to Get Pregnant If You Orgasm during Sex
You might have heard that having an orgasm helps to draw sperm into your uterus as it contracts. However, studies have shown this isn’t the case and there’s no link between orgasm and pregnancy success. Since sperm can hang around in the fallopian tubes for several days, an orgasm does not impact them.
Pregnancy Myth #3
Daily Sex Will Increase Your Chances of Getting Pregnant
For some couples, having sex every day when you’re trying to conceive can quickly turn to a point of contention in your relationship and start to feel like a chore. Instead, your best chance of getting pregnant is during your fertile window—the day the egg is released from the ovary (ovulation) and approximately five days beforehand. So, to take the stress out, try to just have pregnancy-focused sex every other day during your ovulation window.
Pregnancy Myth #4
Cough Syrup Can Help You Conceive
Guaifenesin, the ingredient used to improve chest congestion, works by thinning mucous and is present in certain over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Because of this, people have this notion that by taking Mucinex and Robitussin, it can thin out their cervical mucous, making it easier for sperm to travel to the egg. Unfortunately, there’s no reliable evidence to support this theory. The only data referencing the link between guaifenesin and conceiving is from a flawed study published in 1982.
Pregnancy Myth #5
If You Wait Too Long, You’ll Have to Do IVF
While fertility typically starts to decline in your 30s, that doesn’t automatically mean everyone over the age of 30 will have to undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF). In fact, many people can—and do—get pregnant without fertility treatments. Those who need fertility support might take medications, such as Clomid, to increase their chances of conceiving or they might try intrauterine insemination (IUI). By age 44, getting pregnant with your own eggs is unlikely, in which case, donor eggs with IVF may be necessary.
Understanding your menstrual cycle and having sex during your fertile days are two of the most reliable ways to achieve pregnancy success. If you are under 35 and have been trying to conceive without success for a year, or you are 35+ and have been trying for six months, we recommend reaching out to a reproductive endocrinologist. Women over 40 should seek help after three months of trying to conceive without success, and women with underlying medical issues such as a history of cancer, women with gynecologic problems including irregular menstrual cycles, and women who are interested in donor sperm should seek help right away.
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I am a reproductive endocrinologist at CCRM Minneapolis. I am board certified in obstetrics and gynecology and the subspecialty, reproductive endocrinology and infertility. In my spare time, I enjoy running, tailgating, baking, traveling with my husband (a huge Vikings fan!) and attending sporting events of my three wonderful children.
