<![CDATA[Scary Mommy]]>https://www.scarymommy.comScary MommySat, 05 Sep 2026 15:30:42 GMT<![CDATA[95 Clever New Things On Amazon That Are Legitimately Amazing]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/clever-new-things-on-amazon-that-are-legitimately-amazinghttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/clever-new-things-on-amazon-that-are-legitimately-amazingSat, 05 Sep 2026 15:30:29 GMT

You already know that Amazon is a treasure trove of goods that can probably satisfy every one of your possible needs and desires. But because new finds are constantly dropping on the app, the treasures just keep on coming. You could spend hours of your life trying to keep up, or you could skip the endless scrolling and check out my latest list. It’s full of clever, new stuff that’s so amazing you won’t be able to resist hitting Add to Cart on repeat.

Clear Cases That Keep Essentials Safe & Easy To Spot

This set of hard-shell cases is a budget-friendly way to protect everything from charging cords and makeup brushes to medications and craft tools. There are six pieces (four small and two medium), each made from rigid, crush-resistant PET plastic with smooth zip closures that hold up inside backpacks and suitcases. A fully transparent design lets you see contents instantly, saving time during packing, security checks, or daily use.

A Portable Crock-Pot For On-The-Go Meals

Whether at home, the office, or on-the-go, this portable, 20-ounce food warmer by trusted brand, Crock-Pot, is a must for making meal time easier. The warming base reheats and keeps foods warm for hours. Just plug it in and let it do the rest. And clean up is a breeze too since both the stainless steel pot and inner lid are dishwasher-safe.

Clever Night-Lights That Stay Charged During Power Outages

These clever night-lights take convenience to the next level. Each one charges simply by being plugged into a standard outlet with its fold-out plug. It fully powers up in just six hours, and then in case of an outage, it will turn on and can be used as uplighting, a night-light, flashlight, or tabletop light. Each charge lasts for six hours, which is enough to get through a stormy night.

Personal Ice Cream Maker Mugs

Whip up a single-size serving of your favorite ice cream with a personal ice cream maker. The set includes one powerful ice cream machine and two insulated half-pint mugs that you can pop right into the freezer. It’s fun for the whole family and so easy to use that even the kids can give it a go.

A Mini Cricut Iron That Helps You Transfer Designs To Clothes

If you’re a Cricut crafter, this mini iron is about to streamline your projects. You can use it in tandem with heat-transfer vinyl to create cool designs on your favorite wearable goods, like hats, T-shirts, and sweatpants. It has a simple, single-setting operation, and the tiny size and precision tip make it easy to handle tight corners. The results will stand up to wash after wash.

An Easy-To-Follow Cookbook With 100 Recipes That Require Almost No Effort

Listen, it always sounds great to want to cook more, but in reality, that’s easier said than done. But not with this cookbook. The “I Don’t Want to Cook” Book is perfect for those nights when you just want something delicious and nutritious on the table ASAP. It has 100 recipes for family-friendly dishes with little-to-no prep like lasagna soup and stuffed peppers.

The Coolest Wooden Cactus Puzzle

Whether keeping for yourself or gifting to someone, this wooden cactus puzzle is truly a showstopper. It contains 200 pieces, although larger piece options are available within the listing (think: 1,000 if you’re a true puzzle master). The pieces are thick, laser cut, and durable. Not surprisingly, shoppers rave about the quality design.

A Jewelry Cleaner For Pro Results In 3 Minutes

This amazing little jewelry cleaner will have your accessories looking like new in no time (3 minutes to be exact). Simply fill the reservoir with jewelry cleaning solution and press start to activate the high-frequency sound waves to dislodge debris from even the hardest-to-reach crevices. Use it on everything from jewelry and makeup brushes to eyeglasses and watch straps.

A Portable 3-In-1 USB-C Charger For Your Key Chain

Never fear a dead phone battery again, thanks to this USB-C charger that fits on your key ring. This versatile tech addition has a built-in USB-C cable for powering up newer model iPhones and Androids, as well as an additional port if you want to charge your AirPods at the same time. It even works as a magnetic charger for your smartwatch.

An Adapter Cable Kit That Doubles As A Phone Holder

Never be without the right type of charger ever again when you get this awesome adapter cable kit. It converts almost any type of charger so you can avoid the frustration of looking through a tangled mess of cords searching for the right one. And it even comes with a convenient storage case that features a built-in phone holder.

A Reusable Notebook That Stores Handwritten Notes On The Cloud

If you like the feeling of taking handwritten notes but want the convenience of a tablet, this amazing reusable notebook is what you’re looking for. It’s the best of both worlds, offering a surface that you can write on and wipe clean — but not before uploading your notes to a cloud using the free app. Plus, the set includes a FriXion pen and a microfiber cloth.

Scented Lava Gel Pens That Turn Writing Into A Sensory Ritual

Turn everyday note-taking into an experience with this set of scented lava gel pens. Each features a smooth 0.5-milimeter gel tip with a liquid-filled barrel. Watch lava bubbles slowly rise and fall as you write, and breathe in the essential-oil-scented inks, inspired by mint, lavender, pine, cinnamon, and grapefruit. There are five pens per pack in a variety of ink colors.

A Can Opener That Pops The Whole Top

Transform your favorite canned beverages into a wide mouth with this popular topless can opener. The ergonomic handle offers a comfortable grip, while the advanced safety mechanism guarantees a clean and smooth edge. It’s the perfect tool for backyard get-togethers, tailgate parties, camping, and more.

A Tulip Lamp That Glows With Soft Ambient Light

This decorative LED lamp celebrates the beauty of tulips without the cost of fresh bouquets. By day, it looks like an elegant arrangement with natural charm. By night, it transforms into a cozy table lamp that casts soft light. A porcelain-style pot adds another dimension of realism to the design, and battery power makes it portable and easy to operate.

Adorable Duck Toilet Bolt Covers That Are So Easy To Install

These charming duck toilet bolt covers will bring a smile to your face every time you enter the bathroom —and just wait until your house guests spot them. Offered as a set of two, the sleek ceramic covers slide right on exposed screws. One shopper gushed, “They’re adorbs, actually ceramic, inexpensive, require zero installation skills, and spruce up the ol’ toidy perfectly. [...] My only regret is not having discovered them sooner.”

A 4-Pack Of Fidget Toys That Have The Most Satisfying Twist & Flip Motion

If you find it easier to focus while keeping your hands occupied, then these fidget toys are exactly what you need. Each of the included four sensory toys has a different color and soothing texture for stress relief and improved concentration. Simply twist and flip the sides for a satisfying sensory sensation that’s quiet and discreet.

A Sticker Printer That’s The Size Of Your Phone

Creating custom labels and stickers is fun and easy with this Bluetooth mini printer. It uses thermal printing technology to expertly print graphics, photos, and more — all effortlessly customizable in the free app. And since it’s not much larger than the average cell phone, you can take it along with you wherever you go.

An Aesthetic Stationery Set

This aesthetic stationery set has everything you might want or need to take notes or journal. It comes with a colorful assortment of pastel mechanical pencils, erasers, lead refills, and even a carrying case for convenient storage and portability.

A 3-In-1 Grill Pan For Less Cleanup

Why dirty more dishes than necessary when you can cook your entire meal in one pan? Like this absolutely genius divided grill pan with three separate sections. It's crafted from aluminum and features a nonstick granite coating, which means it’s durable and easy to wipe clean. Compatible with all stovetops, this is a cookware MVP.

A Portable Electronic Cleaning Kit For All Your Tech

Keep all your tech in like-new condition with this must-have keyboard cleaning kit. A variety of precision tools, sponges, and brushes won’t shed or scratch, and they promise to make it easy and safe to clean everything from laptops to earbuds. Plus, everything fits neatly into the carrying case for convenient storage and portability. With a 4.6-star rating after 6,000+ reviews, it’s a cleaning set that will get the job done.

A Magnetic Sensory Putty That’s So Fun

Melt away stress and anxiety with this tin of ferrite stones. The naturally magnetic stones cling together like puddy, providing a malleable mass that not only feels good to the touch but also produces a calming sound when rubbed together. They’re especially great for meditating and sensory play, or just for getting kids (or yourself) off screens.

The Cuddliest Blanket That Adds Luxe Texture

This is about to become your new favorite blanket that you’ll be reaching for all year round. Yup, it’s that good. Not only is the ribbed fleece ultra plush and cozy, but it’s lightweight and breathable too, offering just the right amount of warmth. And it’s available in a ton of colors and sizes so you can get one for your bed, the couch, and beyond for easy, luxurious texture. Choose from nearly three dozen colors and in all the sizes you could want.

A Must-Have 6-In-1 Kitchen Gadget

This brilliant kitchen gadget is perfect for saving space. That’s because it contains six kitchen tools in one portable and easy-to-store keychain design. Tools include a cheese grater, ginger grinder, pizza cutter wheel, bottle opener, vegetable and fruit peeler, and an herb stripper. It’s ideal for small spaces, camping trips, or dorm dwellers.

An Instant Print Camera With Helpful Extras

There’s something so satisfying about seeing your pics print instantly — and this camera lets you experience that right out of the box, since it comes with three rolls of printing paper. In addition to the 32GB memory card and USB charging cable, it also comes with markers to add fun doodles. With 16x zoom and even a timer shoot option, this little camera packs a lot of functionality into its compact size.

A Sleek Wallet That Holds & Protects It All

This amazing multi-purpose wallet holds it all — from credit cards and cash to passports and even your phone. And it even helps protect from digital theft with the built-in RFID blocking shield. The textured faux leather outer gives it an expensive look and feel but it’s actually really affordable. Choose from tons of colors to suit your vibe.

Elastic Shoelaces To Make Every Shoe Slip-On

These innovative shoelaces first premiered on Shark Tank and promise to “turn every shoe into a slip on.” They’re made from super stretchy elastic for the ultimate comfort and flexibility. And since they feature a lightly textured surface, they stay put once tied, making them perfect for kids and adults. They’re available in a range of sizes and colors, so you can outfit the whole family.

An Adjustable Car Tray That’s Holds Your Phone & More

Car cup holders are great but what about a holder that can hold an entire meal (plus your phone)? That’s exactly what this amazing car tray table does. The base fits right into a car cup holder and offers a generously sized tray on a rotating arm that’s adjustable. And it even has a built-in cell phone holder.

An 8-Stage Filter For Your Bathtub

Simple to put in place, this bathtub filter can clean up to 2,500 gallons of water for plenty of baths. It features eight layers of filtration materials, including activated carbon, zeolite, calcium sulfite, and more. One fan wrote, “It really works as well, my skin is not dry when I get out.Easy to use, doesn’t impede water flow to any noticeable degree.”

A Tiered Jewelry Organizer That Rolls Up

Judging by the portable size, you’d never guess that this clever roll-up jewelry organizer contains three roomy tiers — each lined with a soft, suede-like material to protect your valuables. When closed, it looks just like a leather clutch, complete with embossed detail, a convenient snap closure, and a cute tassel. No wonder it has a 4.7-star rating after nearly 5,000 reviews.

Stylish Earplugs For Calm Vibes

Literally block out the noise with these innovative earplugs. Silicone tips help block up to 17 decibels of noise, providing instant protection and relief. And the loop design, complete with a gold-tone finish, helps them pass for a fashion accessory, which means you can enjoy peace and quiet without sacrificing style.

A Space-Saving Whisk With A Near-Perfect Rating

With an ingenious, space-saving design, it’s no wonder this two-in-one whisk has earned a near-perfect, 4.7-star rating after more than 5,000 shopper have weighed in. Open it into a balloon shape for perfectly whipped cream or collapse it flat to create luscious sauces (and to save space in your kitchen drawers). Plus, the wires are made from silicone-coated stainless steel for maximum durability with no-scratch benefits.

A Foot Scrubber Shower Mat That Shoppers Love

Forget breaking your back or risking a slip and fall in the shower when you can get this clever foot scrubber mat instead. Step onto the soft silicone bristles to treat yourself to a luxurious, exfoliating foot scrub with included acupressure points. Strong suction cups keep it securely in place.

This Adorable Squishy Panda Night-Light

This cuddly little panda lamp makes for the perfect night-light or reading light. It features dimming capabilities for bright and low light options, and a timer means you can set it and fall asleep knowing it will turn off on its own. Since it’s rechargeable via USB, it’s so easy to toss in a suitcase for light on the go.

A Sparkly Faux Leather Console Cover

Boost the storage and organization in your car — and add some style — with this car center console cover. It has two slots to hold your phone, wallet, and more. With quilted faux leather and sparkly gems lining the sides, it’s as nice-looking as it is functional.

A Monocular Telescope That Zooms In On The Small Details

Whether you’re birdwatching, traveling, or watching a game or concert from far away, this powerful monocular telescope delivers bright, high-contrast images across a wide field of view. It features 16x magnification with a large 52mm objective lens, letting you zoom in on sights without lugging around bulky gear. Waterproof and fog-resistant, it’s a dependable little tool for outdoor use.

A Portable Fire Pit That Keeps Smoke To A Minimum

Use this portable outdoor fire pit for dinner parties, backyard hangouts, and more. It’s made from stainless steel and features an easy-to-light design that won’t produce smoke. You can use both pellets or wood for the coziest-ever atmosphere.

A Cat Alarm Clock That’s A Night-Light & Sound Machine All In One

This three-in-one bedtime companion offers so much functionality. Not only is it an handy digital alarm clock, but it also offers 10 ambient lighting options and seven soothing sounds. Choose from three cute colors within the listing to suit your bedroom decor.

A Food Chopper That Preps It All

This manual food chopper is perfect for meal prep at home or on the go. It features three sharp stainless steel blades that can chop everything from fruit to veggies, and it even separates and whisks eggs. Just turn the smooth handle to operate. Remove the blade and insert the basket to turn it into a salad spinner.

A Giant Glove That Turns Your Hand Into An Ironing Board

Ideal for use with steamers or small irons, this glove is easy to loop onto your hand. Once you do, the thick sponge material will protect your appendage from the heat of the steamer or iron — it essentially turns your hand into a small ironing board. One reviewer wrote, “I ordered this to use with a new portable steamer. It made steaming garments so much safer and easier. No more worries about burning fingers while holding the garments to steam. Great idea and great product.”

A Cult-Fave Tumbler With Sipping Options

Shoppers are raving about Owala’s FreeSip tumbler, which boasts a 4.7-star overall rating after more than 100,000 reviews. Designed with both a built-in straw and a sipping hole, it’s totally leakproof — just press the button to drink. Plus, the double-wall stainless steel construction keeps hot drinks at just the right temperature for up to six hours. Choose from dozens of fun colors.

A Handy Endoscope Camera That Attaches To Your Phone Or Tablet

Turn your smartphone or tablet into a high-tech gadget with the help of this endoscope camera. It has a tk long cord, and on the end there’s a flashlight and you can attach a mirror, magnet, or hook. One reviewer wrote, “This is awesome!! Can use it anywhere and my kids enjoy using it as well. Multifunctional! Fun to use! Very helpful for finding things and issues with things.”

Safety Pin Hair Pins That Also Look Cute On Bags & More

The coolest way to put your hair up, this set comes with two metal hair pins that look like giant safety pins. Ach one is 5 inches long. “Way better quality than I thought. [...] I haven’t experienced any snagging! [...] one I can use for also accessorizing like on necklaces or purses too because it’s SO CUTE,” wrote one shopper.

Floating Book Shelves That Look So Cool

With three silver-toned shelves in a set, you’ll be able to display all your books in such an elegant way. Reviewers report that installation is easy, with all hardware included. Each shelf can hold up to 20 pounds, so they’re guaranteed to hold up to your growing collection.

A Handy 6-Piece Screwdriver Set

These screwdrivers come in a set of six, and each one is a different size and orientation for different uses. The heads are magnetic, too, so you don’t have to worry about them clinging to your screws.

A Thermal Sticker Printer That’s Great For Fun & Organization

Whether you want to give this sticker maker to your kids for craft time or use it yourself for labeling everything in the pantry, it’ll be beyond useful. It connects via Bluetooth to an app so you can truly make whatever your heart desires. It uses thermal technology to create the labels and comes with a roll of sticker paper to get you started.

A Window Privacy Film That Brings The Garden Inside

You can add privacy, protect against UV rays, and bring the garden vibes indoors with this window cling. It installs effortlessly using simply water and static, and the double-sided design peels off without leaving an residue behind. Choose from several pretty botanical scenes, each one durable and fade-proof.

An Outlet Adapter With A Wireless Remote

This programmable outlet adapter comes with a remote so you can control everything from your lights, TV, and more without ever having to get up (and from up to 100 feet away). Just plug them right into your existing outlets, plug in a lamp (or TV or anything, really), and sync them to the remote to begin using them right away.

A Protective, Heat-Resistant Mat For Your Countertop

Protect your counter from scratches and heat (like from a flat iron or curling iron) by putting down this nonslip silicone mat. It can withstand up to 464 degrees Fahrenheit and measures 15.7 by 11.8 inches to holds plenty of things.

A Mini Bookshelf That’s Strangely Soothing To Put In Order

If putting things in their proper place soothes you, check out this mini bookshelf. It latches shut to look like a piece of decor but can be shaken (while closed) or dumped out, allowing you to place the 185 tiny booksback in place. This can keep your hands busy, clear your mind, and give you a little screen-free time to yourself.

A Misting Spray Bottle That Works From All Angles

Not only does this innovative spray bottle pump out mist so fine that you’d think it was powered by aerosol, but it does that without tiring out your hands. Simply press the feather-light trigger to release a continuous mist — even when held sideways or upside down. It’s perfect for hairstyling, plant care, and more.

A Foldable Magnetic Phone Stand That Won’t Slip

Ditch that old phone stand that never seems to grip your phone right for this magnetic version that will literally never let you (aka your phone) down. This phone stand is slim and portable and features an adjustable and sturdy base. But the best part is the strong magnetic design. Just snap your phone on and get on with your business. Choose from more than a dozen colors to suit your space.

A Whimsical, Cordless Cloud-Shaped Light For The Wall

Whimsical yet useful, this cloud-shaped light mounts on the wall and has a simple pull chain for operation. It’s entirely cordless (and battery powered), allowing you to install it wherever you’d like — and it comes with everything you need to put it in place.

Dual-Tip Paint Pens With A Flashy Metallic Finish

Whether you’re working with wood, paper, ceramic, or a different material, reach for these quick-drying acrylic paint pens. They have a different tip on either end for versaility, (fine tip and paint brush), and the ink dries with an eye-catching metallic finish.

A Vanity Mirror That Fits In Your Pocket

If you’re still trying to touch up your makeup using your car’s sun visor mirror, do yourself a favor and upgrade to this portable vanity mirror. It fits right in your pocket but offers big convenience in the form of two mirrors (in 1X and 3X magnification) and bright lights along the borders. Clearly, it’s a best-selling beauty mirror for good reason.

Peel-And-Stick Window Film That Looks Like Stained Glass

Turn your ordinary windows into art wth this easy-to-install static cling window film. Its 3D holographic coating refracts sunlight into vivid rainbow reflections, while built-in UV protection helps reduce glare and sun damage without turning rooms dim. It’s a cheap and simple way to add daytime privacy while still letting natural light flow through your space.

A Versatile, Adjustable Air Duster With A Ton Of Attachments

“Works great! Easy to use and strong. Nice to have a rechargeable one. It has different power levels and handy light too. Perfect for keyboards and gaming consoles,” one shopper raved about this compressed air duster. Unlike a lot of others, it features five attachments and three speeds so you can use it to clean everything from laptops to cars.

Flexible Headbands That Are Comfy Yet Stay Put

Made of silicone for flexibility, these flexible headbands feature a metal core that maintains shape after you get them just right. “The silicone is so soft and thick. Comfortable and does not break my hair when taking off. I can wear it all day and don't realize I am wearing it. No more headaches. It easily slides off. Was at my hairdresser and she couldn't believe how great it gripped my hair and how it slid off so easily,” wrote one fan. The deep teeth of the combs help them stay put, as do little nubs on the inside.

A Bendable Holder For Out-Of-The-Way Sponge Storage

Instead of leaving your sponge on the countertop, give it a permanent place to live with this bendable holder. You can loop it around the base of your faucet or bend it over the divider of a double sink. The perforated design helps your sponge dry quickly, while the open bottom means you can also use this for storing handled scrub brushes.

A LEGO Set For Plant Lovers

Building blocks have come a long way since most of us were kids, and this plant lovers set is the proof. Once assembled, you’ll be staring back at an amazing botanical scene. This tiny plants LEGO set is so cute that you’ll want to show it off to friends and family. With 758 pieces in a set, you’ll be building for hours.

A Magnetic Beacon Light For Your Vehicle

Magnetic to stick to your vehicle, golf cart, or any metal surface around your home, this light is easily recharged via USB-C. Choose from various lighting modes: single flash, double flash, triple flash, penta flash, double-quadra flash, SOS, and white light mode. One reviewer wrote, “Very bright light. Almost blinding. Definitely visible at night from long distances. Perfect for putting on your car if you have to pull over on the side of the road. Everyone will see you from a mile away. Light works perfectly every time.”

A Bottle Stopper That Doubles As A Lamp

Turn almost any bottle into a night-light with this clever bottle stopper that doubles as a lamp. Simply insert the rubber-lined stopper to create an air-tight seal, then tap the top to adjust the color temperature and brightness. It conveniently charges via USB cable, making it easy to keep powered.

A 2-Pack Of Cap Cages That Goes Right Into The Washer

Now you can toss all those smelly, sweaty caps right into the washer when you use these hat cages. The washer-ready cage creates a protective layer around most-sized caps, helping them keep their shape while getting nice and clean. Just place a cap between the cage, clip it closed, and toss it in the wash.

A Shatterproof Coffee Press With So Many Rave Reviews

Water and your favorite coffee grinds are all that’s needed to make the perfect cup of joe when you use this ingenious portable coffee press. It’s easy to use and features a fine filter that ensures no bitterness or grit. And since it's compact and made from shatterproof Tritan, it’s ideal for taking on the go. One satisfied shopper gushed, “The AeroPress is absolutely worth the hype, especially if you’re picky and want one of the best (if not THE best) tasting brew you can make.”

A Handheld Sprayer Attachment For Toilets

Turn any toilet into a bidet with this best-selling handheld sprayer kit. It’s quick and easy to install and clips right to the toilet tank for easy access (or mount it to the wall). Plus, it features an adjustable water pressure sprayer and a flexible braided stainless steel hose for added convenience and durability.

A Dual-Purpose Alarm Clock That Looks Like The Moon

Resembling the moon with its minimalist build, this alarm clock will look stunning on your nightstand — but it does so much more than. With gentle wake-up lighting, 10 soothing nature sounds, and a night-light function, it will create a serene oasis. It has three adjustable brightness levels, a snooze function, and multiple atmospheric lighting options, too.

A Car Organizer That Utilizes Unused Space

Make the most of unused space in your car with this stick-on seat organizer. Made from high-quality PU leather, it’s soft yet durable, with neat stitching and a waterproof, scratch-resistant finish. Mount it to seat seams or flat surfaces to store your phone, cards, glasses, receipts, or other small essentials. It’s an affordable and space-saving addition to any ride.

A Pink Himalayan Salt Rock For Spa-Like Showers & Baths

Made of pink Himalayan salt, this two-pound rock is designed to hang from your showerhead or tub’s tap. As water flows over it, it adds minerals to your water for a spa-like experience. It even comes with a mesh bag for hanging dry between uses. You can also soak it in the tub as desired.

A Squishy Scented Fidget Toy For Foodies

This squishy fidget toy has a soft, slow-rising texture that’s genuinely satisfying to squeeze. Use it to help clear and calm your mind through simple, repetitive motion. The elasticity makes it ideal for kneading during work, study, or downtime, offering a calming sensory outlet without screens or noise — and the butter scent is a fun bonus.

Nice-Looking Leaf-Shaped Fridge Magnets

An elevated version of your usual fridge magnets, this pack of eight looks like detailed leaves for a fresh and lively look. Four styles come included and they measure nearly 2 inches long. One shopper wrote, “These were a very pleasant surprise. The magnet on them, for its small size, is VERY strong. [...] These look so much better than the myriad of souvenir magnet I have collected over the years. The colors and detail are really life like, not cheap looking.”

A Pocket-Sized Laser Level That Works In Dark Spaces

Designed for convenience, the mini torpedo level features strong magnets for hands-free use and LED-lit bubble vials that are easy to read in dim workspaces. It’s small enough to slip into a pocket or toolbox, and perfect for hanging pictures, aligning shelves, home renovation tasks, or DIY decorating. It’s a significant upgrade on traditional levels for a great price.

A Drawstring Makeup Pouch That Appeals To Cat Lovers

This roomy cat-shaped makeup bag keeps your everyday essentials contained without hogging counter space. The drawstring design opens wide so you can actually see what you packed, then cinches closed to keep your contents secure. Made from durable polyester with a playful 3D cat face, it’s a cheap, practical, and playful addition to your vanity, gym bag, or suitcase.

A Propagation Station With LED Lights To Help Your Plants Thrive

You can place your plant clippings in this four-vase propagation station and watch them thrive, even in low-light settings. That’s thanks to the integrated LED light strip that offers nine brightness settings. The durable beechwood design comes with an included USB port and charging cable to keep them juiced.

A Set Of Scrunchies That Glow In The Dark

When your accessories should be just as fun as the outfit, reach for these LED scrunchies. They feature three light modes that glow, flash, or shine steadily, turning a simple ponytail or bun into a full-on statement. Soft yarn construction keeps them comfortable and breathable, while a woven texture helps the lights shine brighter for extra visual impact. Each set includes six scrunchies.

Ballpoint Pens That Add Some Humor To Your Dumpster Fire Day

Life feeling like a dumpster fire? At least your writing utensils can match the mood when you have these ballpoint pens. Each one is topped with a mini dumpster fire with the message “I’m fine, it’s fine, everything is fine.” (Accurate.) And since 12 come in a pack, you can gift them to your coworkers, too.

A Stained Glass Night-Light That Casts Colorful Patterns

This night-light is more like a tiny, illuminated work of art. Featuring a vintage-inspired stained glass globe, it casts a colorful glow on the wall behind it. The stepless dimmer on the side lets you get bright light or soft, cozy illumination that’s perfect for midnight snack runs to the kitchen.

Flowery Toe Separators For Neater Home Pedicures

These toe separators create plenty of space to help you get a neat, smudge-free pedicure. But let’s not bury the lede — the, colorful flowery shapes give them the most whimsical look (you might just find yourself swapping shades midweek to use them again). Another bonus use? They can help stretch out your toes and alleviate discomfort after a day spent in tight shoes.

Crystal Knobs That Made Any Piece Of Furniture Look One Of A Kind

Got an old piece of furniture you’re tired of looking at? Swap in these crystal knobs to breathe new life into it. They have a gorgeous, gem-like design wrapped in copper wire, totally transforming even your most basic IKEA dresser. Choose from several shades including sapphire blue and emerald green.

Cracked Glass Solar Lights For A More Magical Outdoor Space

If your outdoor space is feeling lackluster in the evenings, it might be missing these solar-powered globe lights that create an instant cozy glow. The cracked glass surface feels vintage and magical, while the waterproof, weather-resistant design means you can leave them out even when the forecast calls for a downpour. Use them to line a walkway, to illuminate your patio table, or just scatter them around your garden.

Pearly Car Seat Headrest Hooks That Hold Bags In Style

Headrest hooks like these are an amazing way to keep purses and takeout bags up and off the floor (and not rolling around with every turn). This set takes things up a notch thanks to the pearl-dotted design that gives your interior some Chanel-inspired vibes. And though they look delicate, they can hold a hefty 44 pounds each.

A Retractable Car Charger That’s Also A Starry Sky Projector

Keeping your phone powered up in the car has never been easier... or more magical. This charger casts a starry projection on your car’s ceiling for a cool, galactic effect that you can turn off as needed. As for charging, you’ll get retractable Lightning and USB-C cables as well as two additional ports, making it easy to keep your devices juiced and ready to go.

A Clever Waterproof Compression Bag For Dirty Laundry

The genius design of this laundry bag allows you to compress dirty clothing towards the end of a trip, freeing up precious space in your luggage for souvenirs. It has a handle at the top for toting around, and a one-way valve on the bottom or squeezing out excess air as you compress — no vaccum required. The inside is waterproof for damp items and keeps smells locked within.

A Hanging Gnome Garden Figurine With So Much Flair

This tiny garden gnome is living his best life on his swing perch — and the adorable figurine comes with twine for you to hang it wherever it will deliver the most joy. Crafted from durable, weatherproof resin, it’s a piece of yard decor that will hold up season after season.

A Copper Charm that Makes Bouquets Last Longer

Fresh flowers are a vibe but they can fade and wilt fast. That’s where this tiny copper charm comes in handy. Drop it in and it helps keep water free of slime and ensures your flowers last longer. “It’s not only so beautiful, but it miraculously works! [...] I usually get 1 week at best with plant food. With [this charm] I got 3 weeks,” raved one fan. It comes with a small pouch for storage.

A Jellyfish Lamp That’s So Soothing To Watch

Enjoy a serene aquarium vibe without the commitment of an aquarium: This special lamp is filled with jellyfish that float and dance through the water (thanks to the small motor inside). It plugs in for power, and there’s a handy timer function.

Funny Knife-Wielding Cats To Hang On The Wall

These funny black cats — which are each wielding a knife — are clearly up to no good. They hang on the wall using the included adhesive dots. They’re made of wood with a matte finish.

Colorful Tea Bag Bookmarks That’ll Actually Hold Your Spot

Not only are these tea bag bookmarks cute and colorful, but they also offer a clever option for keeping your spot in your current read. The bag will secure in between the pages, and the string will hang out the top for spotting. Six come in a pack.

A Mini Turtle Sandbox You Can Enjoy At Your Desk

Break up a stressful workday by playing in this miniature turtle sandbox ... it’s surprisingly calming. Included are small accessories (like shovels and buckets) for even more fun. And the shell keeps it closed when not in use.

A Power Failure Alarm To Alert When A Fridge, Furnace, & More Turns Off

This power failure alarm will beep when a power outage is detected on an item like your fridge, sump pump, furnace, etc. It’s a must-have. The alarm can be set to five volume levels and seven sirens, ensuring you can always hear it.

Therapy Brushes That Offer A Calming Massage On The Skin

Run one of these therapy brushes along your skin for a soothing massage. Each one (three come with) features tons of soft bristles to help, and the portable size means you can toss it in your bag.

A Vegan Leather Notebook That Comes With Tons Of Refills

Keep this pocket notebook with you at all times, so you have a handy spot to jot down thoughts, to-do list items, and more. The exterior is made from nice-looking yet durable faux leather (it’s even waterproof), and there are eight memo book refills included.

A Charming Bird Candle That’s Shockingly Flameless

This charming bird candle is made entirely from real paraffin wax, yet the flickering “flame” is completely fake. It’s battery powered so there’s no hazard involved. Display it proudly on your mantle, tablescape, and more.

A Height-Adjustable Foot Rest For Easier At-Home Pedis

At-home pedicures are way easier to pull off with this foot rest that can be set to six different heights for adequate positioning. It’s nonslip, heavy duty (supporting up to 220 pounds), and folds flat for convenient storage.

A 3-Pack Of Garlic Peelers That Are So Easy To Use

Effortlessly peel garlic with this clever three-pack of garlic skin removers. The textured inner surface gently grips garlic skin, peeling it away with each rolling motion. As one shopper explained, “Peeling garlic can be tedious. This little gadget is amazing. Clove is inserted into the peeler, a few rolls back and forth (I use the palm of my hand) and out comes a perfectly peeled clove of garlic. Best thing you didn’t know you needed.”

A Cordless Lamp That You Can Move From Table To Nightstand

This vintage yet modern table lamp is entirely cordless, so you can move it with you from table to nightstand to desk, and back again. The rechargeable design has an incredibly long batter life, providing up to 13 days of light. With three color temperatures to choose from, it makes any room feel more elegant.

Hinge Toppers That Turn Boring Hardware Into A Charming Focal Point

These brass birds sit neatly on door hinge pins or attach to metal surfaces using discreet built-in magnets, adding a charming touch in unexpected places. Lightweight and easy to reposition, they can be placed on hinges, cabinets, shelves, picture frames, or any magnetic spot where you want a subtle upgrade. They’re the kind of decorative touch that shows your attention to detail. Each set comes with three birds.

]]><![CDATA[The New Make Up For Ever Foundation Became My Holy Grail After One Wear]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/make-up-for-ever-balancing-and-perfecting-foundation-reviewhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/make-up-for-ever-balancing-and-perfecting-foundation-reviewFri, 04 Sep 2026 10:00:24 GMT
Scary Mommy/Photo credit Make Up For Ever

When I hit my early 30s, it seemed like my skin changed overnight. Suddenly the makeup I used to wear looked heavy and cakey on me, and it settled into all my fine lines within minutes. It was like wearing makeup made me look years older and somehow even more tired, which is obviously not what I hoped for when standing at the mirror for 30 minutes putting it on. I basically swore off foundation for a while thinking, well, maybe I’m just too old for it now. I’ve been a dedicated skin tint girly ever since — that is, until Make Up For Ever sent me their new Balancing & Perfecting Natural Finish Longwear Foundation to test.

The product’s description simultaneously pulled in me and scared me off. A medium-to-full coverage foundation... could my skin even handle that anymore? But hydrates while controlling shine for all ages and skin types? That sounds lovely. Plus, it promised a little blurring action, and who doesn’t want a little IRL filter from time to time?

When the foundation arrived, I let my shower warm up and quickly blended a little foundation onto my face. (Right before getting into the shower is the perfect time to try new makeup techniques and products, IMO.) I was blown away by how seamless, skin-like, and perfecting this product was.

Stats

  • Price: $49 for 1.01 fluid ounces
  • Shade range: 40 options in a variety of undertones
  • Who it’s for: The brand says this is a universal foundation for all skin types that balances hydration with mattifying shine.

The Ingredients

Most of us can’t decipher a cosmetics ingredient list, and that’s OK. The hero ingredients in this formula are:

  • Niacinamide, a skincare ingredient that tightens pores
  • Blueberry oil and cherry flower extract to soothe and comfort the skin
  • Hyaluronic acid and peptides to promote smoothness and moisture retention

It’s also important to note that this is a water-based foundation. Using it with a silicone-based primer might result in some separation, so opt for a water-based primer if you use one at all.

The Packaging

Make Up For Ever’s Balancing & Perfecting Foundation has the one thing I think every complexion product’s packaging should: a pump. I don’t want a giant doe-foot applicator I have to touch my face with. I don’t want a squeezy tube with a nozzle that gets messy. God forbid the foundation comes in a pot and I have to dip a tool or finger in to pick up the product (barfs in germophobe). Just give me a simple, sanitary pump every time — and here, they did.

Additionally, the product comes in a heavy, very luxe-feeling glass bottle with their signature lip logo embossed on the front. It might be a little clunky to travel with, but sitting on a vanity, she’s cute.

How I Use The Make Up For Ever Balancing & Perfecting Foundation

I have dry skin, so for me, I always start with skin care before makeup. I apply my favorite hydrating mist and moisturizer, wait a few minutes, and then get started. My preferred look is glowy and hydrated, so I also like to put a little bit of AORA’s Inicia primer on the high points of my face where the light will catch.

Then I pump some of the Make Up For Ever foundation onto the back of my hand and really work it into my brush (I like this one from IT Cosmetics). This just helps the product apply so much better; think of how you might prime a paintbrush and then paint a wall, rather than rubbing the paint on the wall and then brushing it around.

Then you just tap the brush around my face, moving it slightly downward with each press to make sure any peach fuzz lies down smoothly underneath. This product is very easy to work with and basically blends itself. If I need more coverage I’ll add it, but the foundation offers enough coverage in one thin layer for my liking. Finish the rest of your makeup as you see fit.

The Results

Stephanie Sperber Portraits

I used this routine before getting new headshots a few months ago, and my friend and photographer actually commented that I was glowing. On my way out the door she requested the link to my foundation ASAP, so I did my girl duty and dropped it into the group chat from the front seat of my car.

This is one of the most skin-like foundations I’ve found (not too matte, not too glowy) that also provides incredible coverage of blemishes and scars. I also have pretty large pores across my cheeks and nose, and bless it, it blurred them the best it could too. I love how lightweight it feels considering all that it manages to do to improve the look of my skin, and it’s very long-wearing. It looks just as good by the end of the day as it did in the morning.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • This foundation has a great shade range: 40 unique shades with a variety of undertones that feel like a genuine attempt to serve the entire spectrum of skin tones. Too many foundations and concealers simply don’t come in enough shades, or far too many of the shades cater to lighter skin, to be truly inclusive.
  • It has a pump!
  • It feels lightweight but still offers fantastic coverage.
  • It doesn’t crease or settle into my fine lines.
  • It’s transfer-proof.

Cons:

  • Listen, $50 is nothing to shake a stick at. There are beautiful foundations available at the drugstore too, if this is not in your budget right now.
  • Make Up For Ever does not make a mini version of this product yet (they’ve made minis of other foundations, though!), so it would be heavy to travel with.

Final Verdict

When I ask myself how this foundation could be improved upon, I can come up with absolutely nothing. Since it arrived on my doorstep, I haven’t really bothered with any other complexion products (except for Make Up For Ever’s other fantastic option, the Super Boost Skin Tint, for those days I’ll be busy and maybe sweaty and just want a little coverage). Between the fuss-free packaging, the easy application, and the flawless finish, it’s just easy and good. We could all use more easy and good right now.

The TL;DR

Can someone tell the rest of the beauty industry it’s time to pack it in? We’re good on foundations now.

Had To Share highlights the products and finds that Scary Mommy editors and contributors love so much, we just had to share in the group chat.

]]><![CDATA[26 New Family-Friendly Movies & Shows Coming To Netflix In September 2026]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/new-family-kids-movies-shows-netflix-september-2026https://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/new-family-kids-movies-shows-netflix-september-2026Thu, 03 Sep 2026 20:13:39 GMT
Netflix

Give yourself a big ol’ pat on the back because, you know what? You did it. The kids are officially back in school. Pro: You might get a sliver of time back for yourself. Con: Somehow, the stretch between early afternoon (aka pickup) and bedtime somehow got longer. Homework? Check. Dinner? Check. Pre-bedtime crashout? You betcha. A mom’s gotta do what a mom’s gotta do, and sometimes that means turning on something good to watch so everyone can actually wind down. Netflix must know the deal, because the streamer has delivered a truly stacked September lineup of new family-friendly movies and shows.

Before we get any further, there are two big things worth flagging.

First, on Sept. 8, Netflix will drop two curated back-to-school playlists: The All-Star Preschool Playlist (school-themed episodes from Gabby’s Dollhouse, Ms. Rachel, and My Sesame Street Friends: My Elmo) and The Ultimate Kids Playlist (Mark Rober’s CrunchLabs, Boss Baby, and Salish & Jordan Matter). There’s also the “For Little Ones Who Love to Learn” collection if you’re looking for even more of the same.

Second, Netflix Playground has some new games coming up. ICYMI, this is a games app built for the 8-and-under set that is included with your membership. As in, no extra fees. And it works offline, so win-win. Dropping this month are My Hungry Caterpillar, PAW Patrol Academy, and Toca Boca Jr. Kitchen, an open-ended cooking game (the chokehold Toca Boca had on my kids for years, I tell you!).

Here’s everything else headed to Netflix for kids and families this month.

What’s New On Netflix In September? The Highlight Reel

Gabby’s Dollhouse: Season 14 — Sept. 14

The dollhouse is going to the dogs... quite literally! Gabby’s little sis Doozie shows up with her puppy Puggie for a cat-and-dog playdate, which means you get 24 minutes at a time of sweet, sisterly, and pawsome distraction.

Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85: Season 2 — Sept. 17

Back to Hawkins we go. If you loved Stranger Things and haven’t given this animated spinoff a shot, please do. It’s really cool. Valentine’s Day is looming this time, and the gang has to figure out what’s behind a rash of ghostly apparitions and hostile creatures.

Pokémon Horizons: Season 3, Rising Hope Part 4 — Sept. 18

Your Pokémon-obsessed kid probably won’t shut up about this and will explain every episode to you at length, but that’s the bargain we all make when we have kids. Here, the Rising Volt Tacklers are up against an Explorers plot that threatens the whole Pokémon-and-Trainer bond situation.

Wonka’s The Golden Ticket — Sept. 23

OK, I’ll be the first to admit I’m weirdly so excited about this one! Twelve Golden Ticket winners and their partners head to, you guessed it, Wonka’s factory for a reality competition full of games, tests, and “temptations.” One winner walks away with a life-changing prize.

LEGO One Piece — Sept. 29

You can never really go wrong with LEGO, and this two-episode special sees Usopp recap the crew’s adventures from the East Blue to the Grand Line for Chopper.

More Family Movies & Shows Coming To Netflix In September

  • New! Storm on Sesame Street — now playing
  • 17 Again (2009) — Sept. 1
  • Antz (1998) — Sept. 1
  • Baby Geniuses (1999) — Sept. 1
  • Big Daddy (1999) — Sept. 1
  • The Flintstones (1994) — Sept. 1
  • Flushed Away (2006) — Sept. 1
  • Jaws (1975) — Sept. 1
  • Jaws 2 (1978) — Sept. 1
  • Jaws 3 (1983) — Sept. 1
  • The Prince of Egypt (1998) — Sept. 1
  • Shark Tale (2004) — Sept. 1
  • Uncle Buck (1989) — Sept. 1
  • The Monster at the End of This Story: A Sesame Street Special — Sept. 7
  • New! NFL Melbourne Game (live event) — Sept. 10
  • New! Crew Girl — Sept. 10
  • Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022) — Sept. 10
  • New! Mark Rober’s CrunchLabs: Season 5 — Sept. 12
  • Barbie in the Nutcracker (2001) — Sept. 14
  • Robots (2005) — Sept. 16
  • Thomas & Friends: Really Helpful Engines (2021-2025) — Sept. 30

What's going to the top of your family's watchlist this month? I’m stocking up on chocolate bars and having a Wonka watch party at our house.

]]><![CDATA[Are Pampers Swaddlers Fragrance Free? What Changed In 2026]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/pampers-swaddlers-fragrance-free-2026https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/pampers-swaddlers-fragrance-free-2026Thu, 03 Sep 2026 19:26:50 GMT
Galina Zhigalova/Getty Images

It's almost midnight, and there you are again: standing in the diaper aisle, staring through bleary eyes at the back of the boxes lining the shelves. The tiny typeface makes you squint. Will anything here upset your baby's skin? What the heck does it all even mean? You're running on fumes and still no closer to tossing a box in your cart.

If this sounds on-brand for you, first of all, you’re not overthinking it. We should know what’s pressed against our baby’s skin. Fortunately, deciphering ingredients just got a bit simpler: In June 2026, Procter & Gamble revealed that every Pampers Swaddlers diaper has gone fragrance free. As in, yes, all sizes, the entire line, for the first time ever. [1] Pampers fragrance free now simply means Pampers.

What changed?

To put it in plain terms, Procter & Gamble removed added fragrance from the full Swaddlers line for Pampers. We're not talking about a temporary pivot, but rather a permanent change. Going forward, every single size and count manufactured will be fragrance free.

"Parents have always been at the center of every decision we make," said Laura Vicenti, Senior Vice President of Baby Care at Procter & Gamble, framing that ethos as the inspiration for the change. [1] For years, families had been telling diaper brands what mattered to them, and Pampers listened.

As for what hasn't changed: Pampers Swaddlers NICU diapers, which are designed for babies in the neonatal intensive care unit, have always been fragrance free. [1] With the Swaddlers-wide update, the rest of the line now matches that bar.

Does "fragrance free" mean the same thing as "unscented"?

It's not hard to see how this trips up a lot of people. It's confusing! The short answer is no, they are not the same. The longer answer is that, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, products labeled "unscented" can still contain a fragrance masked by other ingredients. [2] Fragrance free, on the other hand, means no fragrance chemicals of any kind have been added. [2]

Since fragrance is one of the most common eczema triggers, it's a vital distinction for babies who are eczema-prone or have sensitive skin. [2]

Have regulators flagged this?

Good guess. Back in January of 2019, ANSES — France's food, environmental, and occupational health and safety agency — assessed 23 disposable diaper products and found chemicals present, including intentionally added fragrances that can cause skin sensitization. ANSES recommended that diaper brands stop using fragrances altogether, particularly those that are sensitizing. [3] Since that time, the agency has also proposed to the European Chemicals Agency that substances in disposable diapers be restricted EU-wide. [4]

In full disclosure, the findings did encounter some pushback. One 2022 peer-reviewed re-evaluation challenged ANSES' contaminant risk calculation, arguing that it overstated the risk. [5] The fragrance finding was the least contested part of the findings, though (skin sensitization doesn't rest on disputed exposure modeling), and the advice about removing fragrances from diapers hasn't wavered.

That's the crux of it, really. Going fragrance free is something regulators have flagged as beneficial for families. Now, the largest diaper brand in America by sales has made that very change.

What’s in the new Swaddlers, and what’s not?

Not much has changed, but here’s where the new version lands:

  • Fragrance: Gone. Removed in all sizes and counts.
  • Elemental chlorine: None of that.
  • Parabens: Yep, free from those too.
  • Latex: No natural rubber latex.
  • Hypoallergenic: You got it, and still dermatologist-tested and pediatrician-recommended.

Pampers also points out that all of its diapers comply with safety requirements of the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety. [1]

Did the diaper get “worse”?

It’s only natural to think, They took something out… so what did I lose?

Nothing, says Pampers. The stuff parents have always counted on from Pampers didn't budge: absorbency, dryness, leak protection, softness. The multilayer lock-away core and rapid-absorption channels also remain fully intact. [1]

Maybe what you're stressing over is the smell. Will your nursery get, um, stinkier? It's a fair question, but Pampers says the diaper core (which hasn't changed) is designed to manage odor without added scent. [1]

Thinking back to the NICU line should offer some reassurance here. It says a lot that a fragrance-free diaper has long been the standard for the most fragile babies in the hospital.

Should you make the switch?

Every family's situation is unique, so it depends. Let's break it down:

  • Already buying Swaddlers? You don't need to do anything. As new stock hits shelves, the change will be automatic.
  • Have a baby with sensitive or eczema-prone skin? This is an obvious win. Fragrances of any kind, including masked fragrances in unscented diapers, are common irritants for easily triggered skin [2].
  • Buying a specialty fragrance-free brand? You’ve got a mainstream option now, rather than having to pore over the shelves for a product that may not even be in stock.
  • Left Swaddlers because of the fragrance? Worth another look.
  • No complaints about your current diaper? Stick with it then. Pampers going fragrance free is a promising development, but by no means a mandate.

If you do run out to restock your diaper stash, remember that some Swaddlers boxes may still reference fragrance until the packaging updates are complete. Pampers customer care can confirm the diapers are fragrance free on a box-by-box basis by checking the lot code. [1]

The Bottom Line

With Swaddlers making this switch, the most-bought diaper in America [1] has joined the ranks of the best fragrance-free diapers of 2026. That, in turn, means millions of families get the benefits of a fragrance-free diaper without having to leave their favorite brand behind or spend time they don't have tracking down a specialty product. It's an update that makes life a little simpler, which is something every busy mom can appreciate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pampers Swaddlers fragrance free?

Yes. As of June 2026, Pampers Swaddlers are fragrance free in every size across the full line for the first time ever. The protection, softness, and hypoallergenic formula stayed the same. [1]

Are unscented diapers better for sensitive baby skin?

The AAD explains that unscented products may contain concealed fragrances to mask the smell of other ingredients, whereas fragrance free means no fragrance materials or masking scents were used at all. [2] Fragrance free is a stricter standard and is going to be the better bet for a baby with reactive skin.

Did the fragrance-free version lose any performance?

No. Same absorbency. Same leak protection. Same dryness. They’re just as soft as they were before, too. [1]

Can fragrance-free diapers help prevent diaper rash?

It takes more than a good diaper to prevent diaper rash, but taking fragrance out of the equation can make a big difference for babies with sensitive skin. To help prevent diaper rash, be sure to change diapers frequently, use a barrier cream, and choose the diaper size that fits your baby best. For a rash that doesn’t clear up, check in with your pediatrician for guidance.

How can I tell if a diaper is truly fragrance free?

Look specifically for the words “fragrance free” on the package. Not “gentle” or “fresh” scent. [2] Pampers customer care can check the lot code to confirm. [1]

[1] P&G Newsroom. Pampers Swaddlers, from America’s #1 Diaper Brand, Are Now Fragrance-Free. June 2026. https://us.pg.com/newsroom/news-releases/Pampers-Swaddlers--from-Americas-1-Diaper-Brand1--Are-Now-Fragrance-Free/ (#1 claim based on Nielsen sales, last 52 weeks)

[2] American Academy of Dermatology. How Can I Find Eczema-Friendly Products? https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema/childhood/triggers/friendly-products

[3] ANSES (French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety). ANSES recommends improving baby diaper safety. January 2019. https://www.anses.fr/en/content/anses-recommends-improving-baby-diaper-safety

[4] ANSES. ANSES proposes an EU-wide restriction of hazardous chemicals in disposable diapers. December 2020. https://www.anses.fr/en/content/anses-proposes-eu-wide-restriction-hazardous-chemicals-disposable-diapers

[5] Bernard, Alfred. “Dermal Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Baby Diapers: A Re-Evaluation of the Quantitative Health Risk Assessment Conducted by ANSES.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health vol. 19, 7 (2022): 4159. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19074159

]]><![CDATA[All The New Family-Friendly Shows & Movies Coming To Disney+ & Hulu In September 2026]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/new-family-friendly-shows-movies-coming-to-disney-hulu-september-2026https://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/new-family-friendly-shows-movies-coming-to-disney-hulu-september-2026Thu, 03 Sep 2026 19:24:50 GMT

The kids are back in school, the weather is at least on its way to cooling down, and after the insane mental load of August, we moms are ready to kick back for a couch rot. And fortunately for us, there are so many new family-friendly movies and shows coming to Disney+ and Hulu in September 2026. For starters, you can watch all the U.S. Open matches there, and classic gems like Coraline and Ice Age will hit the platform too. And hey, after the kids are in bed, you can screen the new American Horror Story: 13 (ahhh!).

Here’s what to watch while the kiddos are still wide awake, though.

What’s New On Disney+ & Hulu in September? The Highlight Reel

Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu — Sept. 2

One of this summer’s biggest theatrical releases is coming straight to your living room! In this Star Wars installment, the evil Empire has fallen and its cronies have scattered across the galaxy. The New Republic tasks the infamous Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin (along with his young apprentice, Grogu) with tracking them down.

Chad Powers — Sept. 3

To be clear, this show is best screened first to make sure you’re OK with letting your older teens watch. But if you enjoyed Season 1 of Chad Powers together, you’ll be delighted to know it’s back again and Glen Powell is making things as uncomfortable as ever in this role.

Dancing with the Stars Season 35, Night One — Sept. 15, live at 8 p.m. ET

If you’re a DWTS family, of course you’re going to tune in for Night One of Season 35, premiering live at 8 p.m. ET on Tuesday, September 15. The cast was just revealed yesterday, and there is no shortage of people we’re thrilled to see take the stage. Ciara Miller? Guillermo Rodriguez? Julia Stiles?! It’s too good.

More Family Movies & Shows Coming to Disney+ & Hulu in September

  • The Bob’s Burgers Movie — Sept. 1
  • Coraline — Sept. 1
  • Disney Jr. Ariel – The Little Mermaid, Season 2 — Sept. 1
  • Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs — Sept. 1
  • Ice Age: The Meltdown — Sept. 1
  • Jennifer’s Body — Sept. 1
  • Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom — Sept. 1
  • ParaNorman — Sept. 1
  • LEGO Star Wars: The Mandalorian Premiere — Sept. 2
  • Spider-Man: Far From Home — Sept. 4
  • Spider-Man: No Way Home — Sept. 4
  • Dragon Striker: Gorotama Stars Season 1 — Sept. 7
  • Honey Lemon Soda — Sept. 12
  • A Sign of Affection — Sept. 12
  • Suzume — Sept. 12
  • Kraven the Hunter — Sept. 13
  • Beyblade X Season 2D — Sept. 14
  • Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw — Sept. 14
  • iHeartRadio Music Festival Livestream Day 1 — Sept. 18
  • Magicampers: Shorts Season 2 — Sept. 18
  • CoComelon: The Melon Patch — Sept. 21
  • Pawn Stars Season 24 — Sept. 24
  • Marvel’s Spidey and the Avengers: Halloween Team-Up! — Sept. 25
  • America’s Funniest Home Videos Season 37 — Sept. 28
  • Project Runway All-Stars Seasons 1-3 — Sept. 29
  • SuperKitties: Howl-O-Ween Charm — Sept. 29
  • Jujutsu Kaisen 0 — Sept. 30

What will you watch together this month?

]]><![CDATA[Paris Hilton On Her Adult ADHD Diagnosis & What That Means As A Mom]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/paris-hilton-adhd-diagnosis-motherhood-interviewhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/paris-hilton-adhd-diagnosis-motherhood-interviewThu, 03 Sep 2026 19:17:14 GMT
Kevin Ostajewski/Getty Images

For many of us, Paris Hilton is synonymous with early-2000s pop culture. When she and Nicole Richie popped up on our screens in a little hit reality show called The Simple Life, they quickly became part of the zeitgeist. This status was only cemented with the hotel heiress’ iconic catchphrase “That’s hot” and the sparkly pink lifestyle empire she’s since spun. And be so for real: You still know every word to “Stars Are Blind.”

What you may not know is that Hilton, now 45, was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, something she feels called to speak about in case it helps even one woman who (like her) spent childhood being dubbed distracted, dramatic, or difficult. Roughly 15.5 million American adults have ADHD, and an estimated 50% of kids with it carry symptoms into adulthood. But so many of us grew up before anyone knew what to call it or how it even showed up in little girls.

So, life looks different for Hilton these days. A mom of two under 4, running 11:11 Media, DJing on the side, she makes it a point to speak up about ADHD whenever she can: in a song, in a documentary, and now in a campaign with Collegium Pharmaceutical, for whom she’s a paid spokesperson.

Scary Mommy caught Hilton right as back-to-school season kicked in, which brings a special breed of chaos for families managing ADHD. Here’s what she told us about what she’s watching for in her own kids, Phoenix and London, and what she’d say to the midlife mom reading this and recognizing herself in Hilton’s story.

Scary Mommy: You've said mornings were the hardest part of your day. What did a bad morning look like for you before your diagnosis?

Paris Hilton: Before, it always felt like mornings were chaotic … it was always really difficult to start the day, just getting up and having a million things happening. So it was always, like, really overwhelming before my diagnosis, for sure.

SM: You're a working mom of two under 4, running a company, being a global icon. What do mornings look like for you now?

PH: Mornings now are amazing. I feel so grateful for everything in my life; my babies are my world. And now that I've found a treatment plan that works for me, it's just been so helpful. My doctor prescribed me Jornay PM, and it's a medication that I take at night. It starts working 10 hours after I take it, so when I wake up in the morning, I am ready for my day, just being able to, like, put systems in place and be more organized and have more focus.

It’s definitely a lot to balance with everything in my life, but ever since I've started on this treatment plan, it's just been really incredible.

SM: People love labels, and will put a kid in a box before really understanding them. What did people decide about who you were before you were old enough or knew yourself enough to correct them? And what does that do to a kid?

PH: I always felt very misunderstood, and I think that people saw this girl who's distracted and, like, rebellious, and just constantly getting in trouble in school, not being able to focus. And putting all these labels on me just because my brain worked differently, because of my ADHD … I think when adults are repeatedly telling you who they think you are, you start internalizing it. It definitely took me years to unlearn some of those labels.

SM: It’s heartbreaking to think about how many kids grew up before there was the language to identify ADHD and the knowledge to treat it without stigma.

PH: It's so important that I talk about it, because I want others to feel less alone, and for parents to be supported, and for teachers to hopefully read what I say and maybe that will help change their classrooms as well. And just for kids to know that they're not alone, and there's nothing wrong with them; it's just the way that their brain works.

SM: Is there something you believed about yourself for all those pre-diagnosis years that the diagnosis just sort of deleted?

PH: It definitely changed a lot of the ways that I spoke to myself and thought of myself. It just made so much in my life make more sense and also just being able to embrace the good parts about it. I feel like for so long, people only focused on the negative parts of ADHD, but I really believe it's what gives me my sparkle and this creative mind, and taking risks and being someone who's been an innovator and doing things first. I wouldn't be the entrepreneur I am today without my ADHD.

So now I see it as, like, a positive thing, and I want others to be able to embrace their inner sparkle as well. That's another reason I really love spreading this message.

Ashley Osborn

SM: As someone diagnosed as an adult, what are you potentially watching for in your own kids, and what would you do to help shape the experience better for them?

PH: I feel like because of growing up with it and feeling so misunderstood and underestimated for so long, I will know how to be there and support my children in every way possible — help them find their inner sparkle and what they're passionate about, and really nurture them, and put them in a school that's going to make them be the best version of themselves they could be.

I think it's just about really having that support system and letting them know that you're there for them.

SM: Has anyone in your life gotten diagnosed since you started talking about this?

PH: Yeah, a lot of people. A lot of my friends, a lot of fans, a lot of just moms out there ... It always makes me really happy and grateful to hear these stories of others who've been inspired by my story, and how it could just be so life-changing for somebody — especially for all these young kids growing up.

The other day, one of my husband’s best friends was saying his daughter is 7 years old, and she just found out she has ADHD. It was something she was so ashamed of, but when she watched my film and my song I wrote for my music video, “ADHD,” she now sees it as her inner sparkle. She's like, “Well, Paris and I both have ADHD!” And she thinks it's so cool.

So, to be able to, like, reframe it for these young kids is so incredibly meaningful to me.

SM: Love that. Well, back-to-school is such a hectic time, and a lot of parents might downplay symptoms as just transitional behavior. Any tips for knowing when it should be a bigger conversation about ADHD?

PH: Yeah, back-to-school can be stressful for everyone, every child, every parent, especially if you have ADHD and it's something that you're learning to manage. So I think it's important for parents to talk with their doctors and health professionals about it and what their child is experiencing, so they can get that diagnosis. And talking with their teachers, and just seeing exactly what's going on and how their child feels, so that they can be best supported to be able to manage everything.

SM: Is there a version of this for moms?

PH: I think it's really important just to be able to manage your symptoms. Speak to your doctor and see what treatment plan works for you the best, and really put systems in place.

I find it really helpful to just have everything organized the night before — like, you know, looking at the schedule, seeing, planning what the kids are gonna wear, what's happening the next day — so that you can always be prepared for every situation. Especially in the morning, that’s the time when it's really difficult getting the kids out of the house and going to school and not being late.

It’s really just being as organized as possible, and having different calendars and lists and things in specific areas. Even if it's your cell phone or car keys or house keys, having a specific area for things so that you're not losing things — you can just take away that stress in the morning.

SM: A lot of moms will see this and recognize themselves. What do you say to the woman who's 40 and now wondering if this is her?

PH: My advice would be to definitely speak to a doctor to figure out if it is ADHD, and what treatment plan would work for them. And to let them know that they're not alone, and they're not broken. Nothing's wrong with them; it's just the way that their brain is built.

This interview has been edited lightly for length and clarity.

]]><![CDATA[“Favoritism Of Grandkids Is Ripping Our Family Apart” & 53 Other Mom Confessions]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/favoritism-of-grandkids-ripping-family-apart-anonymous-mom-confessionshttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/favoritism-of-grandkids-ripping-family-apart-anonymous-mom-confessionsThu, 03 Sep 2026 17:15:42 GMT
Pekic/Getty Images

You know what will piss you right off? Perimenopause. And men being sick (like, we get it already). And people just piling more and more on your plate, knowing you’ll take care of everything because you always do. Moms already juggle so much... is it too much to ask for a teensy, tiny break?! That seems to be the throughline in this week’s batch of anonymous mom confessions.

Well, that and feeling some kind of way (both spicy and whatever the opposite of that is) about romantic interests. From situationships to work crushes and even affairs gone wrong, moms are dealing with all kinds of relationship drama right now.

So, yeah, perimenopause shows up more than once in this batch, and so do problematic partners. These days, those turn out to be a shared source of frustration for a lot of us. We’re also obviously still stressing over the typical mom stuff, too, like whether our kids will fit in at school or if it’s normal not to like your own child sometimes.

If there’s a singular takeaway from these confessions, though, it’s that you’re not alone. None of these feelings make you dramatic or ungrateful or too much. You’re just a mom, trying to make everything work in a world that is increasingly scary, and you’re f*cking exhausted. So settle in... you’re in good company.

Scary Mommy Confessions are a tried-and-true part of what makes our site so fun. If you want to anonymously confess, look for our weekly callouts on Instagram. And to browse past Confessions, take a look here.

]]><![CDATA[What Parents Get Wrong About Teaching Kids About Consent]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/what-parents-get-wrong-about-teaching-kids-about-consenthttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/what-parents-get-wrong-about-teaching-kids-about-consentWed, 02 Sep 2026 23:08:36 GMT
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A relative leans in for a hug. Your kid backs away. What you do in that 10-second window teaches more about consent than any talk you'll have at 13.

Consent doesn't start with one big conversation about sex but, rather, a series of “whethers.” Whether a toddler gets to say "no more" mid-tickle-fight. Whether you knock before walking into your tween’s room. Whether "stop" actually means stop, even when everyone else is laughing.

Most of us aren't trying to override our kids’ boundaries. A far more probable scenario: We're just trying to get through one family gathering without a scene. Because somewhere along the way, a lot of us learned that being polite matters more than being comfortable.

And we need to talk about where that goes wrong.

Treating Consent Like It Only Applies to Sex

Ericka Hart, sex educator and author of Nasty Work, says bodily autonomy should start as early as infancy — with diaper changes. "When changing a diaper, a parent or caregiver can talk through what they're doing," Hart says. The baby won't understand the words, but that's not the point. Narrating what's happening makes explaining and asking permission feel like a normal part of caring for someone's body.

It just keeps showing up after that, from the toddler who's done being tickled to the kid who doesn’t want to hug the relative they hardly know. Parents can model the same thing back: asking before posting a photo online or saying, "Can I give you a hug?" instead of assuming.

Forcing Affection to Be "Polite"

This biggie is the hardest to unlearn because it's baked into how most of us were raised.

​Your kid hides behind your legs as a relative looms over them, arms outstretched for an unsolicited hug. Suddenly you're bartering on their behalf. "Just one quick hug." "You'll hurt Grandma's feelings." It feels normal because most of us grew up inside it. Hart says what it really teaches kids is that their "no" doesn't count. "When someone wants to hug a child, they often go in even if the child is resisting, or guilt-trip them," she says. "This teaches children that their body should serve other people's wants."

​Another way to reframe this is to remind yourself that kids don't have to ignore people to maintain boundaries. A wave, a high-five, a fist bump — these all still count as acknowledging someone. And when a relative pushes past a kid's "no" anyway, Hart says the onus falls on the parent to step in. "If a child says no to a kiss, that should be the end of the discourse," she says. "People may feel it's over the top, but we want to raise children who know that 'no' is a complete sentence."

​Ignoring Emotional Boundaries

Not all boundaries are physical. Respecting your kid’s boundaries might look like letting them shut the bathroom door or not expecting them to explain every feeling the second you ask. If they don’t want a sibling climbing on them like a jungle gym, pull little bro off.

Hart says respecting emotional boundaries teaches an important lesson: "It reiterates to children that they are in control of their emotions and only their emotions.” It works both directions, too — kids get to say no, but they also have to learn to hear it when someone else does.

Not Giving Kids a Chance to Practice

Parents want kids who can stand up for themselves, but rarely give them the chance to try. Tickling is the clearest example, because it's the one time your kid is shrieking with joy and also begging you to stop. That's a deeply confusing combination if you're, say, 5. "Oftentimes, children will say stop, and the parent or sibling won't stop because everyone is laughing," Hart says. "We should still stop and check in."

Small, low-stakes phrases like "No thank you," "I don't like that," and "Please stop" help kids get comfortable speaking up. Nobody gets this right every time! What'll stick with your kid the most are the times you stopped when you heard "no" (in whatever form it came across). Kids notice whether their boundaries are respected. They pay attention to whether the same rules apply to everyone.

The reality is a lot of us are still unlearning the same message: that "no" is the opening move in a negotiation, not the end of one… including the very human instinct to mutter, "Just hug your uncle so we can leave already."

​

Ericka Hart teaches a virtual class for pre-teens and teens about topics that aren’t discussed in most schools, including bodily autonomy/consent. Follow her at @ihartericka.

]]><![CDATA[The Best Labor Day 2026 Sales For Families, From Clothes To Tech]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/best-labor-day-2026-sales-for-families-and-kidshttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/best-labor-day-2026-sales-for-families-and-kidsWed, 02 Sep 2026 22:00:53 GMT
Images By Tang Ming Tung/DigitalVision/Getty Images

Labor Day weekend is here and with the start of the new school year, high summer temps, and *gestures broadly* everything else, I’d say we could all use this long weekend to rest and spend time with our families. If you’re hoping to do a little shopping together or load up your online cart while the deals are hot, these are some of the best Labor Day 2026 sales on things like clothes, tech, skincare, and home goods. Whether you want to stock up on back-to-school essentials or get a little holiday shopping done early, here are the discounts catching our editors’ eyes.

Ulta

For the moms and tweens who are mutually obsessed with skincare, check out Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty sale, running now until Sept. 17. New products are discounted by 50% each day, there are extra gifts with purchase, and specials are running throughout. It’s a great time to stock up on your holy grails or holiday gifts.

Wayfair

Wayfair’s Labor Day sale is massive: up to 70% off certain items, like area rugs, which are notoriously pricey. Bedroom furniture, mattresses, bathroom vanities, and more are up to 50% off. Same goes for lighting and bedding. If you need anything house-related, it’s worth a browse.

Abercrombie

Your kids need back-to-school clothes. You need some new jeans. And hey, that tote is really cute...

Abercrombie is offering 20% to 40% off almost everything, plus an extra 20% off their entire clearance section. I love shopping here for jeans, workwear, and sweaters.

Levi’s

Speaking of jeans, Levi’s is running a sitewide 30% to 40% off sale. Anything already in the sale section gets an additional 40% off to boot. If you’ve had a certain style of theirs on your Pinterest board for years but never pulled the trigger, maybe this is finally the time.

Dick’s Sporting Goods

Name me a parent who doesn’t need up to 50% off kids’ shoes right now. I’ll wait. Snag Nikes, Adidas, HOKAs and more for up to half off now through the weekend. Of course, don’t forget to browse the on-sale sporting gear and clothing too.

Amazon

I’m sure you figured Amazon would be having a big ol’ Labor Day sale, but a little digging suggests some of the steepest discounts are on tech and small appliances. You can snag a Sonos wireless speaker for $100 off, Bose headphones for 45% off, 31% off a Ninja air fryer, and so much more.

BrüMate

BrüMate is giving shoppers 20% off sitewide with the code LDW20. Even some items that have not been included in past sales can have the discount applied now (specifically the Era Flip in the 30oz and 40oz sizes).

Naturepedic

Lots of mattress brands are running Labor Day sales, but having laid on all of Naturepedic’s options in a showroom, I can tell you I’ve been lusting after one ever since. All mattresses are 20% off right now, and pillows are discounted too (this one is my absolute favorite pillow of all time).

HexClad

If you’ve been wanting to upgrade your cookware, HexClad is offering up to 52% off their pan and knife sets. Their pots and pans are nonstick stainless steel, which can take a little getting used to cooking with, but experts say they’re durable and deliver on their promises.

Hanna Andersson

Why yes, we would love 40% off the cutest pajamas on the market, thank you very much. Hanna Andersson is known for their adorable Halloween and holiday pajamas, everyday wear for kids, and luxuriously comfortable PJs for grownups (you need a HannaSoft set, like, yesterday).

Walmart

Check Walmart’s flash deals section for daily savings of up to 65% off categories like outdoor furniture, tech, and more. For families with little ones, they’re also running a big sale on everything for baby through Sept. 30: cribs, car seats, diapers, all of it.

Barnes & Noble

B&N is throwing their big Book Haul sale now through Sept. 7. Hundreds of hardcovers are 50% off: think your favorite romantasy novel, top tween reads, and collectible classics.

CB2

If you love CB2’s modern furnishings and home decor, you’ve got to shop their sale. Discounts vary by product, but click around and you’ll find the deals — 60% off a beautiful planter, $100 off this very sleek floor lamp, and $100 off a floor-length mirror.

Kohl’s

There are major discounts across lots of categories at Kohl’s right now, from kids’ and women’s clothing to toys, shoes, college essentials, and Halloween decorations. They’re stacking discounts on anything in the clearance section and offering free shipping on all orders over $49.

Whether you need clothes and shoes for back-to-school season or a new family laptop, you shouldn’t pay full price for any of it while shopping over Labor Day.

]]><![CDATA[Abercrombie & Fitch Just Dropped The Cutest Baby & Toddler Line]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/abercrombie-fitch-toddler-babyhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/abercrombie-fitch-toddler-babyWed, 02 Sep 2026 20:14:45 GMT

If, like us, you spent part of your adolescence begging your parents for Abercrombie & Fitch jeans or moose-covered tees, the iconic brand has brought it all full circle. Abercrombie & Fitch just introduced Baby & Toddler, and yes, it’s as adorable as you’d imagine.

Want the best-dressed baby on the block? Abercrombie & Fitch Baby & Toddler has you covered at every stage, with sizes from newborn to 5T in versatile styles for playdates and naptime, from comfy sweat sets to darling dresses. While baby is looking chic, they’ll still be comfortable thanks to soft fabrics, elastic waistbands, easy snap closures, two-way zippers, and even the occasional bonus bloomer. Parents will love that all toddler denim includes waistband adjusters so jeans can grow with them.

If you’re into mommy-and-me matching, the Baby & Toddler collection includes several styles inspired by the adult line, so you can match with your mini while still looking chic. Beyond the matching styles, the baby and toddler line reflects the quality and fit the family already loves and trusts.

Below, shop the precious styles we can’t stop dreaming about dressing our little ones in.

Shop Editor’s Picks

]]><![CDATA[The New Parent Shopping Rule I Wish I'd Known Sooner]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/the-new-parent-shopping-rule-i-wish-id-known-soonerhttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/the-new-parent-shopping-rule-i-wish-id-known-soonerWed, 02 Sep 2026 13:26:47 GMT

There’s a simple reason we spend the months leading up to a baby’s arrival devouring parenting books, scrolling through mommy blogs, and searching for every piece of advice on every little detail we can find. We just want to be prepared. Of course, while there’s no way of knowing what those first few days, weeks, and months will bring, there are a few ways to feel in control. From organizing the nursery and washing the teensiest of onesies to stocking up on essentials, nesting is all about getting the little things in place so you can focus on the big arrival.

And when it comes to those essentials, stocking up on the right finds can make all the difference during those early and exhausting-yet-joyful days. Consider something as simple as diapers and wipes. Pampers AMORE, the brand’s most absorbent diaper yet, has five layers of protection to help keep your baby dry and help support a healthy microbiome, giving you something you can count on. Below, a few helpful shopping rules for expectant parents — including what to look for on every label.

Trust, But Verify

Tons of products for babies will claim they’re safer and more natural than they really are, but Pampers AMORE isn’t one of them. Free of fragrance, parabens, and latex, Pampers AMORE is dermatologically accredited by the Skin Health Alliance and tested against over 1,000 harmful chemicals. What that means: your little one stays comfortable and protected while you stay cool and collected.

When It Comes To Ingredients, Less Is More

You might be surprised to hear that wipes don’t need a ton of extra ingredients to get the job done. In fact, the best ones keep things simple, using gentle ingredients to clean baby’s skin. Pampers Aqua Pure Wipes are made with 99% purified water designed to gently clean and replenish. They’re hypoallergenic and made without Alcohol* (no ethanol), Parabens, Phthalates, Sulfates* (**No harsh detergents), dyes, or fragrance, meaning they’re not loaded with unnecessary extras.

Every First Deserves A Little Something

You’re likely to feel overwhelmed in the throes of early parenthood — by caring for a little human, by not getting nearly enough sleep, and by the sudden adjustment in your expenses, to name a few. Don’t let that stop you from taking in every single moment.

The Pampers Milestone Memories Gift Set comes with diapers and wipes, but also keepsakes to ensure you celebrate every milestone. Add it to your registry or gift it to an expectant parent as a reminder of the joys this new experience brings.

With everything in place and a few golden rules to keep in mind, you can spend more time soaking up every precious moment with your baby.

Looking for the best when it comes to your baby’s diaper? Check out Pampers AMORE.

]]><![CDATA[What “The Best For Baby” Really Looks Like]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/what-the-best-for-baby-really-looks-likehttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/what-the-best-for-baby-really-looks-likeWed, 02 Sep 2026 13:26:13 GMT
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The moment you announce your pregnancy, one thing becomes clear: Everyone has an opinion on what’s “best” for the baby. “You shouldn’t be eating that.” “You need to breastfeed.” “You’re starting tummy time already?!” The saxophones will keep getting louder and louder—unless you learn to tune them out.

But there is one benefit to all of the well-meaning yet unsolicited advice: You learn quickly what’s most important to you. While what’s “best for baby” looks different for every family, it’s always what makes you feel most confident, most calm, and most prepared for whatever comes next. And that applies to the everyday choices, too—like which diapers and wipes you want to use.

Pampers knows that parents want to feel good about their purchases, which is why it puts the details that matter front and center. For example, Pampers AMORE is tested against 1,000+ harmful chemicals and features five absorbent layers including a built-in KeepDry™ liner to keep your little one comfortable. So what does the “best for baby” really look like? Simple: Having everything you need to decide for yourself.

Know What Isn’t In Your Baby’s Diapers

Is that baby bliss on your little one’s face? Or is it something much, much…messier. Sure, you can’t control what’s in that diaper (per the joys of parenting), but you can ensure what isn’t.

Pampers AMORE, the brand’s most absorbent diaper yet, is free of fragrance, parabens, and latex, dermatologically accredited by the Skin Health Alliance. Better yet, it features an all-around blowout and leakguard barrier for up to 100% leakproof protection — insurance for one thing not to fall through the cracks.

Keep Things Simple

What does it really take to get your baby clean on the changing table? Not much, as it turns out. Pampers Aqua Pure Wipes are made with 99% purified water designed to gently clean and replenish your baby’s skin. They’re hypoallergenic and made without Alcohol* (no ethanol), Parabens, Phthalates, Sulfates* (**No harsh detergents), dyes, or fragrance. That means they have only what you and your baby need.

Never Run Out

One of the best things you can do for your baby is stay prepared. Because however many diapers you think you’ll need, you’ll likely need more. Add the Pampers Milestone Memories Gift Set to your registry or gift it to an expecting parent for a thoughtful head start. Not only does it include Pampers diapers and wipes to reduce the stress of running out, but it comes with keepsakes and milestones that remind you to pause every once in a while and take it all in.

Start simple: Grab a bite, sneak in a nap, and take care of yourself. At the end of the day, the best thing to give your baby is the best version of you — rested, informed, prepared, and confident.

Looking for the best when it comes to your baby’s diaper? Check out Pampers AMORE.

]]><![CDATA[The Newborn Advice That's Actually Worth Listening To]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/the-newborn-advice-thats-actually-worth-listening-tohttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/the-newborn-advice-thats-actually-worth-listening-toWed, 02 Sep 2026 13:25:10 GMT
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The minute you have a baby, people start giving you advice.

Some of it is genuinely helpful. Some of it hasn't been medically relevant since your mother brought you home from the hospital. And some of it, like “sleep when the baby sleeps,” sounds great until you realize the baby sleeps in 37-minute increments and you still need to eat, shower, and accomplish at least…something.

Newborns have a funny way of making even the most prepared person wonder whether they’re doing anything correctly. So here’s one piece of advice worth keeping: You do not have to master everything immediately. Pay attention to your baby, make life easier where you can, and lean on simple, dependable products for the tasks you’ll be doing over and over again.

Diaper changes definitely qualify. Pampers Swaddlers are fragrance free and hypoallergenic, with features designed to help keep delicate skin comfortably dry while offering protection against leaks and blowouts. Paired with Pampers Sensitive Wipes, they can help make one very frequent part of newborn care feel refreshingly straightforward.

As for the rest? Here are a few pieces of wisdom actually worth filing away.

There’s No Such Thing As “Too Many Diapers”

You'll spend a truly unimaginable amount of time thinking about your baby’s bodily functions during the newborn stage. Wet and dirty diapers are one of the simplest ways parents and healthcare providers keep tabs on how feeding is going.

Pampers Swaddlers are designed with your newborns skin in mind. They're made with 100% tested ingredients, OEKO TEX verified, dermatologist approved, and free of fragrance, parabens, and latex* (no natural rubber).

Pair them with Pampers Sensitive Wipes, which are fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and clinically proven to help nourish sensitive skin and restore its natural pH balance. When you're changing diapers around the clock, gentle and straightforward is exactly what you want.

Don't Buy A Six-Month Supply Of Formula Yet

Even if you plan to formula feed resist the urge to stockpile one specific variety before your baby arrives. There isn't one brand or type that's best for every baby, and you don't yet know what your baby will tolerate or whether they'll have specific feeding needs. Having a small amount on hand is okay, but building a tiny formula warehouse before you've met the person who's going to drink it isn’t really as useful as it sounds.

Make Your House Space For You

You don’t have to perform every diaper change at the beautifully organized changing table you spent three months setting up.

Keep diapers and wipes near the bassinet for overnight changes. Put another setup wherever you spend most of the day. Keep a stocked diaper bag, but have a car stash, too.

The Pampers Milestone Memories Gift Set makes a great starting point, with newborn and size 1 Pampers Swaddlers, Pampers Sensitive Wipes, an embroidered onesie and hat, milestone marker cards, Pampers coupons, and a special Shutterfly gift.

Use the diapers. Stash the wipes all over the house. Keep the milestone cards where you’ll see them often so you can remember to take those cute photos.

You Don't Have To Know Everything

This is why you have the internet and texts with your seasoned parent friends. You'll learn as you go, but it’s going to take time.

Listen to your baby's healthcare providers. Ask questions when something doesn't seem right. Learn the handful of signs that really do require your attention, and give yourself permission not to panic about every weird little newborn thing in between.

Because babies don't need parents who already know everything. They need full bellies, clean diapers, lots of love, and parents willing to keep learning.

Purchase Pampers Swaddlers here.

]]><![CDATA[How To Build A Baby Registry You'll Actually Use]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/how-to-build-a-baby-registry-youll-actually-usehttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/how-to-build-a-baby-registry-youll-actually-useWed, 02 Sep 2026 13:22:44 GMT
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Building a baby registry sounds like so much fun. You’re envisioning tiny pajamas, adorable, snuggly blankets, and the coolest car seat on the market. “This is gonna be great,” you tell yourself.

Until you realize there are approximately 47 versions of every single baby item ever invented, and suddenly, you're comparing bottle sterilizers at midnight and wondering whether you actually do need a tiny silicone spatula just for diaper cream.

Trust us: You don’t. What you will need are the things that make repetitive parts of newborn life, like feeding, changing, sleeping, and cleaning up, a little easier.

That starts with diapering essentials. Pampers Swaddlers are the kind of registry addition you’ll be grateful to already have waiting at home. They’re fragrance free, OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified, tested against 1,000+ harmful substances, hypoallergenic, and designed to keep your baby’s delicate skin healthy, dry, and comfortable.

Add the essentials below, and consider one major corner of your registry officially handled.

Start With The Stuff You'll Use Every Single Day

The most valuable registry items are the ones you’ll blaze through every single day. Think wipes, burp cloths, bottles (if you plan to use them), bath supplies, and diaper cream. These are the things you'll reach for over and over, sometimes half-awake, in the dark, with one hand. Oh and of course, diapers.

There’s a reason Pampers Swaddlers are probably the first brand to pop to mind. Pampers Swaddlers are designed with your newborn's skin in mind. They're fragrance free, OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified, tested against 1,000+ harmful substances, dermatologist approved, and free of elemental chlorine, parabens and latex* (no natural rubber). They also feature a Blowout Barrier* (sizes 1-8) to help stop those infamous up-the-back situations. Translation: They're designed for exactly the kind of messes new parents are about to become intimately acquainted with.

Register For More Wipes Than You Think You Need

You may think wipes are exclusively for diaper changes. Au contraire, my friend.

Within a few weeks, you'll be using them on milk dribbles, sticky hands, the changing table, and approximately 900 other tiny messes that seem to materialize instantly whenever a baby enters a room.

Pampers Sensitive Wipes are fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and dermatologically tested. They're extra thick and soft for a gentle clean, and they're clinically proven to help nourish sensitive skin and restore its natural pH balance. That makes them an easy registry addition for those earliest diaper changes — and all the random cleanups in between.

Think About Where Your Actual Baby Will Spend Their Actual Time

Think about the places you'll really spend your days. If your home has multiple floors, you might want to register for a second safe place for the baby to nap and keep diaper-changing supplies upstairs and downstairs. If you live on a fourth-floor walkup, a giant rugged-terrain travel system might not make as much sense as a sleeker, lighter stroller.

The gear that makes life doable for someone else might be completely impractical for you.

Pro-Tip: Instead of asking, “Is this something babies need?” ask, “Where and when would I use this?” If you can't picture the answer, you probably don't need it.

Make Room For Keepsakes

Some of the best gifts are the ones that give you something you'll use and something you'll want to remember.

The Pampers Milestone Memories Gift Set does both. It includes 31 newborn-size and 32 size 1 Pampers Swaddlers, a pack of 56 Pampers Sensitive Wipes, an embroidered onesie and hat, milestone marker cards, Pampers coupons, and a special Shutterfly gift.

In other words, it's part newborn starter kit, part keepsake box. Because in between all those diaper changes, they really do grow ridiculously fast, and you’ll want to remember them small.

Keep It Short And Sweet

The goal isn't to build the longest registry or own every product someone on the internet insists they needed to survive the newborn stage. It's to make those first few months a little more manageable so your parenthood experience can be a little more enjoyable.

Start with the things you'll reach for every day. Add the gear that makes sense for your home and your routines. Sprinkle in a few special things you'll be happy to have when your baby starts changing before your eyes.

And put the Pampers Swaddlers on the registry. Trust us, you'll use every last one of them.

Purchase Pampers Swaddlers here.

]]><![CDATA[27 Sweet Baby Girl Names That Are Dainty, Feminine, & Playful]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/pregnancy/sweet-baby-girl-names-dainty-feminine-playfulhttps://www.scarymommy.com/pregnancy/sweet-baby-girl-names-dainty-feminine-playfulTue, 01 Sep 2026 22:29:24 GMT
Jutta Klee/Getty Images

When I found out I was pregnant with my third daughter, I was ecstatic. Three baby girls sounded like something straight out of an old British novel, and the very thought of brainstorming more sweet baby girl names filled me with pure joy. I love a dainty, super feminine baby girl name, and I dream of my children as characters in a Beatrix Potter story. Just flower crowns and picnic blankets and teacups everywhere, and luckily, there are tons of sweet baby girl names that fully fit that aesthetic.

The fun part about sweet baby girl names is that they really seem to fall into two categories for the most part — names that end with a “y” sound (but could be spelled -ie) and names that end in an “n” sound. There are some that go totally off this path, of course, and those tend to be more traditional names rooted in literature or history.

But if you’re looking for a list of sweet baby girl names that give you all the flowery feels, this is the list for you. From more trendy and playful names like Birdie and Mae to timeless classics like Eleanor and Mabel, this list of sweet baby girl names will have you picturing your baby right in the middle of a meadow, sipping tea with the bunnies.

Annie

There is something just darling and classic about the name Annie, and it’s appeared in literature, songs, and history for centuries. You could go with the formal Anne or even an Annabelle or Annette if you wanted, but Annie really does stand well on its own. The name Annie means “grace” or “favor,” which is so sweet.

Ruby

I just adore the name Ruby. It feels bright and spunky for a little girl who’s going to make her name known in the world, but it also has such a sweet, vintage vibe. Ruby is also tied to the gem, so you could really go all out with a ruby-themed nursery.

Lucy

I have a Lucy, so I’m sure I’m biased, but this really is a darling baby girl name. You can opt for the formal Lucille, but Lucy (or even Lucie or Luci if you want to be unique) is a perfectly fine first name. The meaning of Lucy is “bright” or “light bringer,” and what more could you expect out of your little girl?

Ruthie

Similar to Ruby, Ruthie definitely feels classic and wholesome. Again, this is another name that could technically be a nickname for Ruth, but it doesn’t have to be. Ruthie also means “friend.”

Eleanor

Goodness, how sweet of a baby girl name is Eleanor? There are so many nicknames you could do if you wanted, from Ellie and Ella to Nora, but I really do just love Eleanor. It’s strong and traditional, but also has a playful, sweet vibe. Eleanor also means “light-hearted” or “shining light.”

Clara

OK, I also have a Clara, so this is definitely a name I love regardless, but how sweet of a baby girl name option is this one? Like many of the sweet names on this list, Clara also has a vibrant meaning — “bright” or “famous.” Plus you can go for a Nutcracker theme every holiday season, and it doesn’t get much sweeter than that.

Daisy

Flower names are always going to have a sweet vibe, and Daisy is one of the best. It’s playful and charming and lovely, and also has some literature connections with The Great Gatsby.

Mae

Hilary Duff brought this name back to the forefront with her second daughter, but Mae has always had a vintage, old-timey and sweet vibe. It stands extremely well on its own, but could be a shortened version of a name like Margaret if you wanted. But Mae has its own meanings, like “drop of the sea” and “goddess of spring growth.”

Birdie

Birdie is a name that’s become popular over the years, but it’s still incredibly unique and just so darn sweet. Birdie or Birdy are both great spellings, and it gives you all the sweet, springtime tea party feels.

Vivian

This one just rolls right off the tongue so sweetly, and you could even make it ultra-feminine by spelling Vivian as Vivienne if you want. This sweet baby girl name means “lively,” and who doesn’t want a lively daughter in this world? Plus with nicknames like Vivi and Viv, it just gets even sweeter.

Mabel

Goodness, doesn’t Mabel sound like the perfect little teddy bear name? This baby girl name is so sweet, it conjures up visions of lace and tea cups and butterflies fluttering all around. Mabel also means “lovable” or “dear,” and it just doesn’t get much more darling than that.

Grace

Grace is a traditional, classic baby girl name, but it’s so sweet — especially when you make it Gracie. I love the shortness of it, and it could work for any and all last names.

Felicity

Felicity feels a little more formal than some of the other names on this list, but it’s still overwhelmingly sweet, and has an adorable meaning — “happiness.”

Caroline

I mean, you knew Caroline had to be on the list of sweet baby girl names, right? My husband vetoed this baby name because he thought everyone would sing “Sweet Caroline” to our child and I still have the same response — “Well, what’s wrong with that?” Caroline is darling, and the name means “free man” thanks to its French origins.

Alice

OK, this is my eldest daughter’s name and when I tell you I get compliments on it constantly, I mean it. Alice is a great choice if you love literary names, and I think it’s one of those names that sounds really great for babies, kids, and well into adulthood. The name Alice also means “of the noble kind.”

Edie

How cute is Edie? This sweet baby girl name could be short for Edith, but it’s just fine on its own, too. The name Edie also means “prosperous in war,” and I’m sorry, but that’s just extremely badass. The sweetest name with a strong AF meaning? Perfection.

Lilian

Like Vivian, Lilian has that sweet, formal-sounding vibe while also still being playful and cute. You could also spell it as Lillian or Lilianne if you wanted, but no matter what, this baby girl name means “lily” and “purity.”

Elsie

Another playful, punchy baby girl name is Elsie. This one could also be a nickname for longer, more traditional-sounding names, but Elsie feels pretty classic and vintage all on its own. The name Elsie also means “pledged to God.”

Eloise

If you’re thinking of Eloise at the Plaza, I’m right there with you. While that Eloise was known for being a wee bit mischievous, the name Eloise does mean “famous warrior,” so it wasn’t totally off par for her. It’s dainty and sweet, but still strong and steady.

Rosie

For another sweet flower name, try Rosie. Rose is fine and all, but it comes off a bit harder and more formal, while Rosie has that airy, sweet vibe you want.

Elodie

Elodie sounds like a musical note, and it’s such a sweet baby girl name choice. It has French origins, and the name Elodie means “wealthy, riches.”

Poppy

For the final sweet baby girl flower name, give Poppy a try. It is just so fun and fresh and adorable, and I love the nickname Pops for a little girl.

Madeline

There’s definitely a trend in more formal names ending with an “N” sound, like Vivian and Lillian, coming off as sweet, and the same goes for Madeline. Spell it as Madeline or Madelyn, shorten it to Maddie, no matter what, this is just such a sweet baby girl name. This name also means “elevated, great,” and your baby girl is going to be both of those things.

Beatrix

You can’t talk about sweet, storybook-worthy baby girl names without a nod to the one-and-only Beatrix Potter. This name feels a bit proper, but the nicknames (Bea! Trixie! Bex!) keep it from feeling too stuffy. Besides, the meaning of Beatrix is so beautiful: “she who brings happiness.”

Winnifred

If you’re a Hocus Pocus fan, this name will speak to you for that very obvious reason. But it’s also the kind of name that sounds like it belongs to a little girl sitting beneath a tree in a cardigan, reading a book. It means “blessed peacemaking” and comes with quite possibly the single sweetest thing you can call a baby: the nickname Winnie.

Maisie

Maisie has that sort of punchy, playful sound — similar to Elsie and Edie, but more unexpected. You can use it as a nickname for Margaret or Mairead, or just let it stand on its own. Maisie means “pearl,” which is oh-so-dainty.

Wren

Wren is perfect for parents who want their little one’s name to lean into the whole meadow-and-wildflowers vibe! It’s short, soft, rooted in nature, and one of those rare names that feels feminine and a bit tomboyish at the same time.

But remember, no matter which baby name you choose, your little girl is sure to be the perfect little dollop of sweetness. (And go ahead and pack a frilly bonnet in the hospital bag. Trust me.)

]]><![CDATA[Everything We Know About ‘Pokémon Tales: The Misadventures of Sirfetch’d & Pichu’]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/pokemon-tales-the-misadventures-of-sirfetchd-pichu-release-date-updates-trailerhttps://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/pokemon-tales-the-misadventures-of-sirfetchd-pichu-release-date-updates-trailerTue, 01 Sep 2026 20:09:48 GMT
Aardman / Pokémon

If you grew up watching Pokémon: Indigo League and rooting for Ash Ketchum and Pikachu but haven’t checked in on the world of Pokémon since, you’ll be pleased to know it hasn’t gone anywhere. There are nine seasons of the anime now (many of which are available on Netflix), and just days ago, we got our first look at The Pokémon Company’s new stop motion series: Pokémon Tales: The Misadventures of Sirfetch’d & Pichu. Here’s everything we know about this adorable new show.

At the end of August, during the first-ever PokémonXP fan convention, the first teaser for the series was shown exclusively to fans before being posted online. In it, we meet Pichu (who is aggressively cute) and Sirfetch’d (who gives suave, noble knight vibes) as they crest a hill and look out over the Galar region. Viewers are thrown into a vision of all the hijinks that await them there, with glimpses at other Pokémon like a unit of bouncing Failinks, a herd of tumbling Wooloos, an Allcremie stuck in a tree, and an evil cackling Farfetch’d.

Along with a first look at the protagonists, the teaser revealed that the show will drop in 2027 on Disney+ (after first debuting on Disney XD). The stop motion animation was created by Aardman, the acclaimed studio behind Chicken Run, Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, and more.

In a press release, The Pokémon Company describes the plot of the series as a sort of pocket monster buddy comedy. “In Pokémon Tales: The Misadventures of Sirfetch’d & Pichu, Sirfetch’d and Pichu embark on an epic journey through the Galar Region. Together, they set out on a gallant quest to help and protect Pokémon across the region. Their missions rarely go as planned, but their noble deeds forge their friendship as they step bravely into the unknown where peril, alliances, rivalries, extraordinary Pokémon, and endless laughs await them.”

“These stories, full of adventure and heroism, all told from the perspective of Pokémon is made even more exciting through the lens of the incredible filmmakers at Aardman,” said Phil Rynda, Pokémon’s director of original animation. “Audiences will be delighted getting to know the Sirfetch'd & Pichu, and wonderful cast of Pokémon, featured in this series. Aardman has brought Galar to life in a way that makes you feel like you can smell the air, touch the tree bark, and want to adventure alongside our series heroes.”

My Pichu vs. Aardman’s real Pichu puppet | Katie McPherson

At Pokémon XP, which drew more than 50,000 Pokémon lovers from around the globe, I spoke with Manon Wright, supervising set dresser for Aardman, about this new series. Wright is one of many artists at Aardman responsible for creating the sets and puppets used to film the show, and she led a group through some of the process of making a Pichu figure from clay.

During our hour of molding a perfectly round, oversized head and trying to get those precise details on Pichu’s ears just right, Wright said making a puppet for the show generally takes two to three weeks. Not only do the artists have to smooth out every bump and perfect every edge, but they have to figure out certain tricks of the eye — for example, how to make a floating Pokémon appear to do exactly that onscreen. Each character also requires multiple eyes, mouths, and more to achieve the various expressions and body positions needed to tell their story. All of this, and the sets, are made by hand. Then there’s the actual process of filming stop motion, which requires adjusting the puppets ever so slightly in each frame to create the illusion that they’re moving.

While this is Pokémon’s first production with Aardman, it’s not their first foray into stop-motion; that came with Dwarf Studios’ Pokémon Concierge, a gentle series that follows new concierge Haru as she helps Pokémon and their trainers relax at a tropical resort. Together, they solve problems on the island, build friendships, generally look soft and squishy, a major change in feel from the battle-centric episodes of the anime series.

Pokémon Tales: The Misadventures of Sirfetch’d & Pichu feels like the next entry into this cozy, Pokémon-focused genre of Pokéshows. And in an era of AI slop when you can hardly watch a video on your phone and trust that it’s real, there’s something incredibly comforting about the idea of turning on a show and knowing everything you see was crafted by human hands and minds.

]]><![CDATA[Jacqueline Woodson On 'The Day You Begin,' Back-To-School, & Building Community]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/jacqueline-woodson-the-day-you-begin-pbs-special-interviewhttps://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/jacqueline-woodson-the-day-you-begin-pbs-special-interviewTue, 01 Sep 2026 20:07:56 GMT

The first day of school is a gut-check for everyone involved: the trepidatious kid walking into a new classroom, the parents weighed down with worry and hope over their child having a good year, the teachers toting the enormous responsibility of nurturing another group of young minds. Jacqueline Woodson understands what a huge time it is in a family’s life, and that’s exactly why she anchored The Day You Begin there.

Now, the National Book Award-winning author (Brown Girl Dreaming, Each Kindness) has teamed up with PBS to adapt her beloved picture book into a vibrant one-hour animated special as part of the network’s back-to-school slate. It follows four kids, each an outsider for their own reason, as they discover the things that make you feel different are things worth sharing.

We caught up with Woodson about the new special and more, from what kids actually need to hear when they feel like they don’t fit in, to how her own children taught her to write with more joy. Oh, and why a message about kindness and empathy feels more timely than ever.

Scary Mommy: The first day of school is huge for kids and the parents dropping them off. Why anchor the story there?

Jacqueline Woodson: For that reason. It's funny because it's so scary for young people — the unknown. And it's also very scary for parents. So, I think with good shows that are speaking to young people, they also need to speak to the parent. There is that sense of when we let our young people go off into this unknown, we have to first guard our own trepidation so that they don't see it, but also know that they're these little human beings who are going to have their own fears and experiences. So it felt important to me. It felt like such a milestone.

SM: Each of the four kids feels like an outsider for a different reason. When a kid genuinely feels like they don't belong, is "you belong" ever actually enough? What do they need to hear?

JW: I think they need to hear how amazing they are. I think they need to know that every time their body enters a space, that space is better because of it. That they're a gift to that space, that each young person is a gift to wherever they are, and that they're bringing something amazing and different and powerful and beautiful into that space. So yeah, they belong there and also the space should be grateful to have them in it.

SM: You mentioned your kids. They’re grown-up now, right? How old?

JW: Toshi is now 24, and Jackson is 18. He just graduated from high school.

SM: Has watching them go through school changed the way you write about it?

JW: It has. I think one thing when you look at my early writing, it's not as joyful in some ways. It's sort of melancholy. I think what my kids have given me is more of a sense of humor, even though they say I'm not funny, but they have really showed me. I remember my daughter ... right before the pandemic, so she was a junior in high school. It felt like a lot was going on in the world, and I was like, "How are young people dealing with all of this?" And she's like, "You know what? At the end of the day, I'm 16, so I'm going to have my best life." I thought that was so true, that they're going to be resilient. They're going to still be 15 and 13 and 16 and 18 and all the ages inside these experiences.

And here we are as adults dooming and glooming it and seeing the woe because we're on the other side of that young joy. So they've definitely taught me to remember joy and to remember that, even when they're deeply insecure and manifesting all that, they also have a very strong sense of themselves that I don't say is because of me and my beloved's mothering. I think it's because of what they come into the world with.

SM: You’re working with PBS on this as part of their back-to-school slate. What has that been like, being part of this very seminal kind of time with them?

JW: It sounds so cliche that it's a dream come true to work with PBS. I mean, I feel like even if I say it, I'm doing that humble brag. You can't say it without feeling like you're flaunting it. But it's been lovely. I think the people at PBS are as lovely as the shows they create. They've always made me feel really safe in that working environment. I've done other stuff inside film and TV, but it's always felt more Hollywood, like, where's the money at? How are we going to blow this up? Where are the stars? PBS is like, how are we going to make this the best show it can possibly be? And how is it going to feel inviting to the most young people that it possibly can feel inviting to? So that has been amazing.

They are so careful in that we have a Korean character, and we have a character who is on the autism spectrum. And then we have Rigoberto, who's from Venezuela. With every character, they made sure to bring in consultants from everything, from the language to the posture, to the ways of speaking, to the food, just so that no young person watching it can say, "Wait, that's not right." Because when they say that, it means you've missed me, and therefore, I'm not enough. And we never want young people to feel that way.

SM: Love to hear that! You say every difference is a strength, which is such a beautiful sentiment but also a hard thing to know when you're a kid who is different. How do you write towards that without it becoming a lesson or preachy?

JW: I feel like when I write, it always starts from this place of love, that I deeply believe it, that I'm not saying it as a soundbite. And I think that it's so much about specificity — you can't speak in broad terms ... when I'm writing, what I'm thinking about is the character on the page. The person, they feel like a person to me, and using all five senses. What is their favorite color? What do they like to smell? What are their fears? What are their trepidations? And then trying to see beyond that to the hope.

I don't know if you read Each Kindness, but I learned a long time ago that a book doesn't have to have a happy ending, but it has to have hope somewhere in it. That's kind of the throughline of everything, is that hope. It's going to be OK. So not trying to point out what is not OK, but let's look at that. Let's keep our eye on the prize that, at the end of the day, it's going to be OK.

SM: There's that throughline of “each kindness makes the world a little bit better” in Each Kindness. Why do you think that’s so important right now?

JW: Well, with this attempted erasure of giving kids models of empathy. Right? … There's the idea that we don't want our young people to have empathy — it just makes me feel like I don't understand the world we're living in right now.

I always cite Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop, who was the godmom of multicultural literature — which, there’s also the attempted erasure of that — who said that kids need both mirrors and windows in their literature. They need mirrors so that they see reflections of themselves, so that they know that they're a part of a bigger world, that they're not the only one. And they also need windows so that they can see into the experience of others. And maybe we'll never have those experiences in real life, but we'll understand them. Those are the ways we build empathy. We learn that that person is not like me, and yet I care for them.

I think now more than ever, kids need to know that they're not alone. I also think empathy is innate, and there is this way in which books and shows allow kids to understand it and to strengthen it. A show like The Day You Begin or a book like The Day You Begin or Each Kindness is a tool for helping them articulate it. And as we watch in the actions of people, as we watch in the banning of books and the banning of the tools and the banning of DEI and programs that are helping people understand how to have empathy, this is timely. This is so timely. This is such a way of saying, You know what? What you're feeling is OK. What you're feeling is called care.

What we want is a community of care because with communities of care, we do better. The climate does better. Food systems do better. Playgroups do better. Your parents do better; they're not lonely. All of these ways in which community matters and care matters and understanding others matters, it's all in that show. It's all right there. This is how we take care of each other. You are entering your first day of school. You're not too young to do this. And these kids are very caring of each other.

SM: This story isn’t just for kids but also for the adults sending our kids back to school. What do you hope lands with them?

JW: First of all, that you're going to be OK, and it's OK to let your kid go and trust the system that you're sending them off into. I remember when I was a young parent, I would go into schools and the first thing I would look at is the classroom library, if the schools had classroom libraries, and if they didn't, the school library. There were some schools that didn't, and many schools thankfully still did. And I would look at what the books were on the shelves because that set the tone. If all the books were about nuclear families and people who didn't look like my kids or my kids' community, then I knew that wasn't the place for them because that library was telling me what tone the teacher was setting in the classroom or what tone the school was setting for the young people. And I wanted my kids to be safe.

So I do think that The Day You Begin for parents is about letting go and also about knowing that you can trust that system and that your kid is going to be safe in that system and that you can have engagement in that system. At the end of the show, the parents are all coming together, and these are parents that are going to grow up with their children. I still have my daughter's friends' parents who, even if my daughter's no longer friends with the kids, I'm still friends with the parents. I've known these parents since preschool.

So yeah, really know that you're sending a beautiful person out into a world that's going to love them, and that they're going to be loving inside of, hopefully.

]]><![CDATA[Do Yourself a Favor and Join the Mom Group]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/do-yourself-a-favor-join-the-mom-grouphttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/do-yourself-a-favor-join-the-mom-groupTue, 01 Sep 2026 19:40:57 GMT

Ruth Gray’s vacation included six families (a total of 22 people) under one roof — a rented beach house — and there were never any issues about personal space. After all, she was with her people — the ones who “get it” because they’re “living it,” the ones who understand the realities of never peeing alone and wiping boogers barehanded. A vacation crew made possible by several mom groups she joined on Facebook six years earlier.

Gray, now a mom of two, moved to Roanoke, Virginia during the COVID-19 pandemic when her baby was just 6 weeks old. As an extrovert navigating motherhood in a brand-new city, she struggled to make connections.

“My husband worked so much, and it was just me and the baby, and we couldn't go out and do anything,” she explains. “I told him I felt like the ‘Beauty and the Beast’ rose — that all my petals are just falling off. It was very lonely and isolating.”

At the time, Gray was cycling through feelings of anxiety, “baby blues,” and overstimulation. With the world around her shut down due to the pandemic, she knew she had to find community some other way.

“I dove into Facebook and just typed in ‘Roanoke mommy,’” she says. “It allowed me to learn that I wasn't alone, to learn from others who had been in my position, and pick up some tips and tricks,” she says. “It was very much a lifeline.”

Gray found an outlet and used those online groups to build a foundation of friends IRL once social-distancing restrictions began lifting.

Feelings of isolation during new motherhood are incredibly common, with research suggesting that about 1 in 3 new mothers experience loneliness.

“Today, new mothers often live far from extended family members, and their partners return to work shortly after the birth,” says Paige Bellenbaum, a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. “Finding community with other moms can be one of the most effective ways to combat the loneliness and isolation most women experience in the postpartum period,” says Bellenbaum.

If it feels too overwhelming to add “make a friend” to your to-do list, right below “take a sitz bath” and “Google if XYZ type of baby poop is normal,” that’s natural. That said, investing energy into making new connections has a high payoff, according to experts and real women alike.

Why So Many New Moms Feel Alone

Once the baby shower excitement fades, the nursery nesting is done, and the revolving door of guests to meet your newborn dies down, the stillness is palpable. Partners go back to work, food trains stop, and you’re left at home with a tiny baby who both needs you around the clock and who likely isn’t even capable of providing feedback in return. (Just wait, that first smile is coming!)

“You’re just with this baby all day, and it’s so lonely and isolating,” says Bellenbaum of the early postpartum period. “It's such an opportunity to be in your head where you can oftentimes blame yourself, feel like you're failing at this, [or] you're doing everything wrong.”

Left unchecked, those feelings can easily turn into something more serious, she warns, noting that isolation and loneliness are major risk factors for depression among pregnant and postpartum women. On the upside, having a social support system and a sense of belonging can prevent and combat these symptoms, says Bellenbaum.

That said, it can be hard to find someone who relates to what you’re going through in this very specific season of life.

“They don't have a newborn, or it may have been a while since they've had a kid, [so] they may not identify [with] what it is that you're experiencing,” says Keisha Reaves, a licensed professional counselor certified in perinatal mental health. And it’s not just about parenthood or changing diapers; many people in your life won’t be able to grasp all the ways your body has and is still changing, says Reaves.

Mom groups can help fill these friendship voids — and not just for parents who are struggling. “It’s good just to hear how somebody else is navigating their own motherhood journey, " she says. "Just to get out [and] to have something where your day doesn't feel redundant.”

The Power Of Mom Groups

You might be thinking, ‘What could being in a room full of other postpartum moms really change?’ Turns out, a lot. Usually, the “aha moment” is when someone says the thing you were afraid to say yourself, says Bellenbaum.

“When you’re in a community with other women, and you can share these things, you receive that validation and normalization,” she says. “‘No, you're not the only mother who feels that way. No, what you're doing is not wrong. In fact, it's totally normal.’ When you're able to have that common experience, that in itself can be incredibly healing.”

Research published in 2021 found that having a “shared sense of reality,” or the perception of the same thoughts, feelings, or beliefs, could be attributed to why you instantly “click” with someone you just met. [Insert that ‘aha! she’s just like me!’ moment.]

There's a scientific reason feeling seen can be so impactful. Another study found that the areas of the brain tied to reward and social connection lit up when participants felt understood. Unsurprisingly, when participants felt misunderstood or judged, the areas of the brain responsible for negative emotions and social pain were activated.

It Takes More Than A Casual Playdate

Stopping by a playground at a local park is nice, but these quick, one-off interactions don’t always cut it when it comes to developing meaningful new relationships.

It wasn’t enough for Aly Shampain, a mom of two in Hoboken, New Jersey, who says she tried making new mom friends at a local meetup when she had her first kid.

“I'm in this vulnerable stage… I don't really know what I'm doing,” Shampain says of trying to navigate her feelings at the time. “How do you know who to go up to? Everybody has more or less the same stroller. Everybody is more or less wearing the same winter coat. So you find people who you're like, ‘Okay, I think these are going to be my mom friends.’ And you exchange numbers, and you say, ‘Let's get coffee.’ And maybe that happens, or maybe that doesn't. And that’s not a sustainable way for moms to make friends,” she says.

These unsatisfying interactions are what drove Shampain to develop Take a MOMent in 2023. The seven-week series runs sessions throughout the year and includes groups for first-time moms, pregnant women, and second-time moms. Moms get to learn from experts in child development, mental health, and even career planning, but more than anything, they get to chat, commiserate, and celebrate together.

“When moms come to this group, we don't ask them, ‘Where did you go to college?’” says Shampain. “None of that matters when you become a mom. What matters is, ‘How are you really?’”

“It's always around week three that the moms are like, chatting up a storm before the session even starts,” she says of watching the new bonds form. “That's truly when the shift happens that they're like, ‘Okay, these are my people.’”

How To Find Your Own Mom Group

If finding “your people” sounds amazing, but you forgot how to wear real clothes, or it feels cringe to make small talk with strangers, that’s valid — parenthood, not to mention childbirth, has a way of stealing your groove.

Try to keep things low stakes, says Reaves. Nobody’s asking you to make a new best friend by next Tuesday during a session on transitioning to solid foods.

“It could just be for 30 minutes to an hour,” she says of getting together IRL with other moms. “Just try it to see if you like it. And if you don't, then we can try something else.”

You can try a few low-pressure entry points: story time at your local library, a Mommy and Me class, or a stroller walking group if you'd rather move than sit in a circle, suggests Reaves. There's also the Peanut app, which matches you with moms nearby based on your kid's age. Or follow Gray’s lead and search "[your city] moms" on Facebook.

You can also find resources via Postpartum Support International, which runs dozens of free virtual and in-person groups for pregnant and postpartum parents across the country.

If local opportunities are lacking, know that virtual groups can be just as impactful, says Bellenbaum. “You're on a screen with other new moms and just [have] the ability to open up and feel listened to and taken seriously and heard,” she says.

No matter how you show up, don’t be afraid to put your true self out there, says Gray. "Just come as you are, and you'll find your people."

Presented by BDG Studios

]]><![CDATA[There’s a PPD Screening Problem in America, and Moms Know It]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/theres-a-ppd-screening-problem-in-america-moms-know-ithttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/theres-a-ppd-screening-problem-in-america-moms-know-itTue, 01 Sep 2026 19:40:02 GMT

It’s a familiar memory for many moms in America: You’re six weeks postpartum and perched on an exam table, a sheet of tissue paper crinkling beneath your legs. It’s likely the first time you’ve been out of the house for anything besides a slow walk around the block since having your baby.

The clipboard in your hand asks you to get vulnerable:

“I have been able to laugh and see the funny side of things…As much as I always could / Not quite so much now / Definitely not so much now / Not at all.”

“I have been anxious or worried for no good reason…No, not at all / Hardly ever / Yes, sometimes / Yes, very often.”

“The thought of harming myself has occurred to me…Yes, quite often / Sometimes / Hardly ever / Never.”

The questions staring back at you are invasive and overly vague, and they come tied to a score. That number attempts to quickly quantify feelings so amorphous that you haven’t even been able to put them into words yourself, let alone measure them while waiting in a sterile doctor’s office.

But that’s what a postpartum depression (PPD) screening survey asks of you — to simplify one of the most confounding, emotional chapters of your life into a single number; to self-report the state of your mental health when your whole world has just flipped upside down.

What happens next can vary wildly. You could score just above the PPD threshold, and nothing more is mentioned. Maybe you’re handed a pamphlet with outdated resources. Maybe you’re one of the lucky ones whose doctor inquires more about how you’re doing or connects you with a mental health expert.

Maternal mental health conditions are the most common complication of pregnancy and childbirth, affecting 800,000 families each year and accounting for nearly 28% of pregnancy-related deaths in the U.S., according to the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance.

Screenings are designed to help catch PPD problems before they become disasters. Yet, a whopping 50 to 70% of maternal mental health disorders go undiagnosed, per the Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health.

So, where are things going wrong? Here, moms and health care providers share the biggest flaws in the system, plus how you can make sure your own mental health doesn’t become just another note in your patient chart.

Postpartum Depression Screenings: The Point And The Problems

Maternal care had historically focused on physical recovery until the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was introduced in 1987 as the first reliable, self-reporting tool specifically designed to identify perinatal and postpartum emotional distress.

Since then, PPD screening policies and guidelines have become more common, largely thanks to recommendations from groups including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. The EPDS is one of several screening tools physicians can use, including the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), which is a broader depression screening tool for the general population.

In a recent Reddit post, one mom shared her own experiences with PPD screenings, explaining that she selected “hardly ever” on a question regarding thoughts of self-harm, but was subsequently pressured by healthcare providers to change her answer to “never.” (The implication being that there would be specific actions taken if a patient expressed feelings of self-harm.)

She went on to say how the experience made the screening feel like a meaningless box to check, not an important part of her postpartum care. “Like, there's no point in answering honestly,” she wrote. “They're just going to…make sure they talked to you about depression, even if it's obvious that you're depressed. Nobody really cares.”

In the discussion that followed, moms shared their own experiences with PPD screenings, and their anecdotes highlight both a universal frustration with elements of the tests and the gaping disparities in subsequent support they received.

“My OB… said ‘oh, yeah, you failed. Maybe see a therapist’ and handed me a sheet directing me to the Postpartum International website,” wrote one commenter. “That was it.”

The timing of the screening can make a difference in accurately assessing a new mom’s mental health, too. “Symptoms [of PPD] often peak when the mother is six weeks to six months postpartum,” says Dr. Furr. “It’s often missed or misattributed as a ‘normal’ part of being a new parent if routine screening is not conducted.”

You might also be asked to complete the survey at your baby’s pediatrician appointments. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends new moms be screened for depression during their baby’s first month of life and again at a baby’s two-, four-, and six- month well visits.

“My daughter's pediatrician always goes out of his way to review my responses genuinely and with empathy. He made me feel so seen and appreciated when I was really struggling,” one mom wrote, highlighting a more supportive experience. “My son’s pediatrician still gently checks in with me about my PPA [postpartum anxiety] even though I gave birth almost three years ago,” replied another.

Access to perinatal mental health assessments also depends on where you live, explains Sarah Oreck, M.D., M.S., board-certified reproductive psychiatrist. “Some states have requirements that they should be screening, and other states don't,” she explains. “It's a very tricky landscape because everyone does it differently.”

In 2006, New Jersey became the first state to mandate PPD screenings and education for new mothers, as well as require providers to ask pregnant women about their history of depression. Today, only seven other states mandate some form of PPD screening: West Virginia, California, Florida, Oklahoma, Illinois, Louisiana, and Arkansas.

“I never filled these out at the pediatrician,” replied one parent. “They are optional and … it felt awkward to me because that is not my doctor and I don’t really want to discuss my mental health with them.”

Health care providers are well aware of some of these shortcomings of the screenings and protocols. “[The current standard] relies on self-reporting from the mother,” reminds Amanda Furr, M.D., chief medical officer at Zarminali Pediatrics. “Many new mothers and fathers may be embarrassed to report symptoms or be worried that they will be seen as a bad parent. The parent may feel overwhelmed and not take the time to reflect on their own well-being,” says Dr. Furr. To combat this, she sends patients the screening questions electronically before the child’s office visit, giving “mothers a chance to consider their own symptoms and answer without the pressure of juggling the kids, diaper bag, and stroller in hand,” she says.

BIPOC mothers may be at a particular risk because they are less likely to start and/or continue mental health treatment. Underreporting may be a contributing factor because the tests were not initially designed with them in mind, says Oreck. “How we even think about postpartum depression, as ‘oh, the woman's so sad’ — that's very Eurocentric. In other cultures, you have more anger, irritability, more somatic symptoms, including stomach aches or body aches.”

The individual questions are imperfect and narrow. “I hated those questions, so vague and misleading. Even when you do try to answer honestly, it's up for interpretation and feels leading to what they want to hear,” said another commenter. “Also, one major gap was that there were no questions at all about rage (at least, in my questionnaire), so it didn't pick up the alternative manifestation of PPD — I wasn't sad, I was angry — but it didn't register.”

Time constraints during appointments, discomfort among providers in asking probing questions, or uncertainty about recommended next steps may also contribute to the limited attention paid to maternal mental health, according to Dr. Furr.

The bottom line, as one mom put it, is that too ofen moms feel unseen after the baby is born.”

How To Speak Up When You Need Postpartum Mental Health Support

Even under perfect circumstances, a single questionnaire can only do so much. “A screening is just a screening, not a full diagnosis or description of every symptom that can occur,” says Dr. Furr. “If [patients] do not feel that the screening is capturing their situation or feelings, I advise mothers to put the screener down and talk about what they’re experiencing. As physicians, we know that every human is unique and screeners do not always give us the full picture of the person.”

Getting better postpartum care often requires demanding it, says Ana Velouise, L.M.F.T., perinatal mental health specialist at Well Parent Therapy, who suggests walking into each appointment with a goal in mind. Think: Getting a referral to a mental health provider or a prescription for an SSRI, she says. You may not be able to be that specific, but having a sense of what you need help with the most and staying focused on getting it can help.

If you’re expecting and already working with a therapist, make a plan for steps to take if you start feeling “off” postpartum, suggests Velouise. You might draft some scripts to use in the doctor's office when confronted with mental health questions or a screener. Preparing now can mean less emotional and mental labor later on, when you’re likely feeling compromised and overwhelmed.

And don’t be afraid to find another doctor. “If you don't feel heard or are not taken seriously, seek help elsewhere,” says Dr. Furr. “If you find yourself saying or thinking ‘something feels off’ or ‘I don’t feel like myself,’ that is enough to be taken seriously.”

Consider support systems outside of the exam room, too. “Having people who support and validate you outside of the doctor's office, even if it's not a professional, can help you get to that next step, whatever it might be,” says Velouise. (Virtual or IRL mom groups are an excellent option to consider. Put yourself out there.)

If your postpartum care felt less than in any way, it’s not you — it’s the system. Risk for maternal mental health disorders continues to rise, and the standard of care can’t seem to keep up.

Presented by BDG Studios

]]><![CDATA[Could Your Relationship Benefit From A Weekly "State Of The Union" Meeting?]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/state-of-the-union-relationship-meeting-benefitshttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/state-of-the-union-relationship-meeting-benefitsTue, 01 Sep 2026 17:54:44 GMT
Kathrin Ziegler/DigitalVision/Getty Images

Listen, we all know half the meetings on our work calendars could have just been an email. But when you’re in a long-term relationship and share kids, bills, and household responsibilities, relationship experts say there’s one meeting you’re not having that you should absolutely add to your calendar ASAP: a weekly state of the union meeting. With your partner. About your relationship.

If you’ve spent any time at all researching or attending couples’ therapy, chances are you’ve heard of the Gottman method. Drs. John and Julie Gottman are famous for their structured approach to couples’ therapy, which is implemented by countless therapists across the world. One of their techniques for a successful marriage is to schedule what they call a state of the union meeting each week.

“It's essentially like a weekly check-in. It's setting aside specific times with your partner, without distractions, to check in,” says Alex Osias, LCSW, MFTC, a Colorado-based therapist specializing in family and relationship dynamics. “It becomes this regular space you use so you can have important conversations and it doesn't have to be handled when you're really upset or frustrated.”

The purpose of the state of the union meeting is to create a safe space where partners can celebrate their wins and discuss what’s not working, especially the small things (you know, the ones you tend to think aren’t worth mentioning but then build up into a much bigger conflict later). The meetings should be concise and definitely shouldn’t go longer than an hour, Osias tells her clients.

“I encourage them to pick a day and time where they can sit down for an hour at the most. Let's not drag this out. And I encourage them to just be consistent with it. It could be Sunday evening; it could be a Wednesday depending on work schedules. I think it's important that it fits into your life and that it doesn't become one more thing to do.”

What To Talk About In Your State Of The Union Meeting

This is not the time to discuss logistics, like who’s picking up the kids which days or who’s in charge of dinner Thursday, says Osias. This meeting is to discuss your relationship: checking in on what’s working, what’s not, and setting intentions for the coming week.

But what should you talk about? The Gottmans have a clear agenda couples should follow during their meetings:

  1. List five things your partner did this week that you appreciated, and then they’ll do the same for you. You should identify what they did and what positive trait it reminded you they possess. Their example: “I appreciate how considerate you were this past week when you picked up the clothes from the dry cleaners when I ran out of time.” To get started, you can ask each other questions like, “When did we feel connected?” “What did we do well?” or, “What is good between us?” says Osias
  2. Talk about what went right in your relationship this week. Maybe you’ve been working toward changing a certain pattern in your marriage and saw some progress. Maybe the big win was both prioritizing the state of the union meeting and sticking to it. Calling out these wins helps keep you both motivated to keep working on your relationship, according to the Gottman method.
  3. Take turns sharing issues or letdowns from the week. This is the time to discuss those marriage moments that might otherwise build up over time and fester until a bigger fight erupts.
  4. Ask each other, “What can I do this week that would make you feel more loved?” This question helps couples identify their own needs and state them clearly to their partners, Osias says, which sets your relationship up for success.

Expert Tips For A Successful State Of The Union Meeting

If Step 3 on the agenda sounds like a fight waiting to happen, don’t panic. Starting with the positives from the previous week helps you and your partner ease into talking about your relationship dynamics and open you both up to really listen.

Osias recommends not sitting across the table from each other, but rather side by side: on the sofa, the porch, a park bench, wherever. When it’s time to discuss your relationship Ls of the week, you want to name the specific incident, what it made you feel, and what you need moving forward, according to Gottman.

Their suggested format goes like this: I felt (worried, sad, hurt, scared) about (the situation that happened, not an accusation about anything wrong with your partner). I need (this different action moving forward, without criticizing their past mistake further).

In real life, that might sound like, “I felt belittled when you snapped at me while we were struggling to get both kids in the car. I need you to speak more kindly to me when you’re stressed.”

If you feel the conversation starting to spiral or turn negative, you can return to one question, Osias says: “What do you need me to understand?” It helps block out the noise and refocus you both on the need underneath it all.

While a state of the union meeting might sound like an obvious way to make your marriage better, how many of us actually talk to our partners like this? Like, consistently? If you ask the experts anyway, they seem to think we could all benefit from doing so once a week.

]]><![CDATA[I’m Here To Tell You Your Vagina Will Get Longer As You Age]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/im-here-to-tell-you-your-vagina-will-get-longer-as-you-agehttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/im-here-to-tell-you-your-vagina-will-get-longer-as-you-ageTue, 01 Sep 2026 13:09:58 GMT
SeizaVisuals/E+/Getty Images

In 2012 I was 36. My then-husband and I went to the theater to see Wanderlust. While I don’t remember much of the movie, there’s a scene I can’t unsee and it involves mature women and their lady bits. In fact, it’s with me 14 years later. It still haunts my dreams because it showed me something I didn’t know was possible, but I’m here to tell you just how possible it is because it’s happened to me.

I’ll get to the point: I was comfy in my chair watching Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux visiting some free-spirited community, and on the big screen was a bunch of middle-aged and mature women running naked. In slow motion.

My eyes were wide as I watched their vaginal lips — which didn’t have much hair I might add — flopping as they ran. They were long lips, too. Very long. Much longer than mine were.

Naturally I asked my mother about it. “Is this just what … happens?”

“Yes,” she replied, expressionless. The hair falls out and the labia majora kind of gets … stretched out. It definitely gets longer.”

I’m here to tell you that elongation doesn’t discriminate. Now, as a 51-year-old woman who is dating, I’ve heard men tell me their balls have dropped and they now look between their legs and see something that resembles a lava lamp. Their tight balls have come, well, unhinged if you will. As luck would have it last year I noticed my vagina had gotten longer. I’d been waiting for this to happen and the wait was over.

Clothes that used to be comfortable started feeling different. At first I thought maybe I’d put on a few pounds or my weight had shifted or maybe even my pants had shrunk.

But I’d actually lost some weight and was always tugging on the crotch of my jeans. They just felt too short in that general … area.

The biggest realization was when I caught a glimpse of myself in my leggings at the gym. For the first time in my life, I had a camel toe. I’m certainly not shaming a camel toe by any means. But when something shows up on your body that wasn’t there before, you notice.

Naturally I ran home to examine myself closer and sure enough it looked like my lips had dropped.

I sucked in a breath — it had happened. But, much to my surprise, I was fine about it.

Over a decade ago I was petrified for my body to change and look different. Especially down there.

Just like all bodily changes, I’ve accepted it. Especially after talking to my gynecologist who told me it’s completely normal, some women have more sagging and stretching in that area, and it’s caused by collagen loss due to aging, hormones, and weight fluctuations.

Instead, I went out and got bigger pants and embraced my larger vag, because the alternative is to obsess about it, be uncomfortable and make it my second job to hide my lovely lips, which I’m not going to do after hiding parts of myself for so long.

I might even rock a camel toe at the gym once in a while and I couldn’t care less.

I’m certainly not going to have any kind of surgery to correct it, although that is, apparently, an option. (One of my friends had a labia majoraplasty and is so happy with the results.)

It’s comforting to know a quick surgery can take care of it if you’re uncomfortable. So far, my new length is more than tolerable and not as frightening as I thought when I first found out about it in my mid thirties.

For now, I’ll just do my due diligence and let you ladies know what’s to come. Like it or not, we stretch and grow in all our places.

Diana Park is a writer who finds solitude in a good book, the ocean, and eating fast food with her kids.

]]><![CDATA['The Hunting Wives' Season 2 Just Got A Release Date That Fans Will Surely Be Thankful For]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/hunting-wives-season-2-news-cast-release-date-updateshttps://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/hunting-wives-season-2-news-cast-release-date-updatesTue, 01 Sep 2026 01:18:03 GMT
Netflix

It’s been over a year since The Hunting Wives debuted on Netflix, and suffice it to say we want more — because when I say Season 1 went out with a bang, well, I mean that in more ways than one. Since the series left us all reeling in a swirl of scandal, seduction, and suspicion, ~many~ questions must be answered. But, for now, one feels more pressing than the rest: What’s the deal with The Hunting Wives Season 2?

Good news, fans: Netflix has officially pulled the trigger on a second season of the, ahem, scintillating series.

Based on the bestselling book by May Cobb, the soapy Southern thriller quickly became one of summer 2025’s most-talked-about shows. It’s got murder and mystery. It’s got morally messy moms. It’s *extra* spicy. You can’t ask for much better in a binge-watch. So, it’s no surprise fans couldn’t wait to find out if we’d be returning to the drama-riddled town of Maple Brook, Texas.

Here’s what we know so far about the renewal, and what it could mean for Sophie, Margo, and their litany of dangerous secrets.

Status check: Is Season 2 happening?

Hell yeah, brother! (When in Rome, er, Maple Brook, right?)

In September 2025, Netflix shared a funny little reel to confirm The Hunting Wives will, in fact, be back. In it, Brittany Snow (aka Sophie) starts to leave an unhinged voicemail for Malin Akerman (aka Margo), who is in the shower. Snow is desperate to see Akerman, who, in true Margo fashion, reassures her they’ll be seeing a lot of each other... because Season 2 is on the way.

This is not super surprising, given the series debuted to strong viewership: five weeks on the global Top 10 TV list and more than 20 million views during that period.

Plus, the season ended on a major open-ended cliffhanger involving both Sophie and Margo. There’s a major unresolved murder to contend with, not to mention lots o’ shifting motivations as the town reels from its recent revelations. In other words, there’s plenty of drama still left to explore, signaling strong potential for a second installment.

When could we expect a second season?

Clear your calendar... or, more accurately, clear your regularly scheduled food coma, because The Hunting Wives Season 2 will be coming to Netflix on Nov. 26. Aka Thanksgiving Day!

Netflix confirmed the news on Aug. 20, releasing a batch of first-look photos to go with the long-awaited announcement.

What are the cast and crew saying about a second season?

In January 2026, Snow shared her excitement about the new season. “Oh, it’s just as steamy. It’s more steamy, actually. We’ve filmed some scenes, we’ve played some Reneé Rapp. We got into a groove. We're doing it,” she told E! Live on the Red Carpet at the Golden Globes, adding, “A lot of things happen this season that are very shocking, I will say. It’s gonna leave people very angry but in a sexy way.”

Even before a second season was confirmed, all the major players wanted in on this one.

In July 2025, Akerman posted an Instagram thank-you note to fans for all their support — and squeezed in a little campaigning for more Margo. After thanking showrunner Rebecca Cutter and Cobb for creating the “powerhouse” character, Akerman added, “I love her sooooo much! The most fun I’ve ever had playing a character! Let’s go for season 2 yeah?? Who’s with me??”

And, for her part, Cutter shared some ideas for another installment prior to the series’ renewal.

“I think we’d do a little bit of a time jump — not a year, but a time,” she told Variety. “By the end of shooting, I realized that the two engines of the show are the whodunit and the Margo/Sophie relationship, and tracking how those spines intersect each other. The first thing I’m thinking about is, where are these two women at the start? Where are they at the end? What are the peaks and valleys of their individual power, of their relationship? So it’s tracking a course for that, and then figuring out what the crime engine is.”

So, Cutter thinks “it would be smart” to introduce a new murder mystery… but it’s a little too soon to noodle on what that might look like. “I don’t know whodunit yet or who got done!” she joked.

Lionsgate/Netflix

Is there enough material in the book for a Season 2?

Although the series is based on Cobb’s 2021 novel of the same name, and Cobb was very hands-on in executive-producing and shaping Season 1, the show already diverges pretty significantly from the book... especially the ending (I won’t spoil it for you if you haven’t read it yet, but wowza).

Cutter and Cobb have already established a great working rapport in developing a screenplay that honors Cobb’s characters even when straying from the source material. And who knows? Maybe Cobb will decide to write another book that helps introduce the new murder mystery.

Either way, Netflix has previously confirmed that Season 2 is a continuation based on an original script, and Mulroney has said that the season is “not chained to a novel.”

Is there an official logline yet?

There sure is, and it’s (not surprisingly) a little spicy — “Sophie and Margo are on the outs. But soon enough, old secrets and new foes force them back together. As they play their dangerous games, the question arises: Are they hunters or the hunted?”

Will there be any new faces in Maple Brook?

Oh yes! In fact, the casting announcements for Season 2 so far make waiting for another installment that much harder.

The newest face Netflix has revealed for the spicy East Texas town? Two-time WNBA All-Star Angel Reese. She steps into the co-starring role of Trainer Barbie, Baylor’s no-nonsense basketball trainer.

Joining Reese as newcomers this season are John Stamos (as fast-talking country music king Chase Brylan), Cam Gigandet (as Gentle John Moffitt, a tattooed hothead), Dale Dickey (as Zelda Moffitt, John’s aunt), Kim Matula (as an ambitious Hollywood producer), and Alex FitzAlan (as Lincoln Trout, Jed’s slick campaign advisor).

With that many newcomers, not to mention the OG pot-stirrers who still reside in Maple Brook, it sounds like we’re in for a super scandalous new season.

]]><![CDATA[6 Reasons 'Coyote vs. Acme' Genuinely Deserves A Family Trip To The Movies]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/coyote-vs-acme-movie-lana-condor-dave-green-interviewshttps://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/coyote-vs-acme-movie-lana-condor-dave-green-interviewsMon, 31 Aug 2026 19:52:37 GMT
Ketchup Entertainment

As an entertainment editor, I watch a lot of movies. And, yes, I often wax poetic about the experience of actually going to the theater and staring up at that big old screen with a bucket of popcorn the size of your head. I also know the calculus of a family trip to the movies right now, and that between the cost of tickets and snacks, it’s very tempting to say “we’ll just wait until it hits streaming.”

And while that’s completely reasonable, I’m telling you: If you need a fun family-night-out, it should be a trip to the movies to see Coyote vs. Acme.

In the live-action hybrid reboot, Wile E. Coyote finally lawyers up against the conglomerate that’s been selling him defective rocket skates and the like for 70 years. For those of us who grew up watching the hilarious antics of Wile E., nostalgia already gives us a good bit of built-in incentive. It’s more than that, though. Did you know that the movie spent years buried in a vault because the original studio decided it was better off as a tax write-off?

I spoke to star Lana Condor and director Dave Green during the film’s junket about the full-circle moment of finally seeing the movie make it to theaters. Here’s what they had to say, and why I think Coyote vs. Acme is worth leaving the house for.

1. The movie almost never saw the light of day.

I had no idea this was a thing, but apparently studios will sometimes go through all the trouble of casting, shooting, even editing a whole movie… only to ultimately shelve it to claim a tax write-off. That’s exactly what happened with Coyote vs. Acme in November 2023. Equally as fascinating? There’s something that happens in Hollywood to coincide with this: the “funeral screening.”

“When we got the call that our movie was being shelved, we were invited to Warner Bros. to go to the funeral screening; I didn’t even know that was a thing,” Condor says. “So we went to the funeral screening. And the movie that we saw four years ago at the funeral screening is the movie that you will get.”

We have Ketchup Entertainment to thank for that, as they stepped in and fought to secure the theatrical release the movie deserved. I don’t know about you, but “sticking it to the man” feels like a pretty great reason to go support a movie in person. And on that subject…

2. The little-guy-versus-megacorp thing hits harder these days.

Ketchup Entertainment

One man (played by Will Forte, no less), his impassioned niece (Condor’s Paige), and a coyote against a profit-based conglomerate? Yeah, there’s definitely an anti-corporate current running through this movie, and that feels wildly fitting given our current timeline. Especially since the film ITSELF got shelved by a profit-based mega-conglomerate.

Condor hopes the David-and-Goliath read lands with audiences right now, at a moment she describes as defined by mistrust of these kinds of institutions. “Our voices matter; that’s why this movie exists,” she emphasizes.

As for Green, the whole experience felt a lot like life imitating art.

“I definitely felt like I learned a lot from this character. [Wile E. Coyote] is so passionate and persistent, and never gives up, and falls down, gets hurt, gets up again, tries again, and that's just the rhythm of who Wile E. Coyote is,” Green says. “So, in the aftermath of what happened to this movie, and its story, absolutely, this character taught us all how to be patient and how to keep trying and how to keep up hope. It really did feel like we were living the lesson of this character in real life, in the immediate moments there.”

3. Condor made it for her mom.

Hearing this genuinely made me tear up, and I haven’t stopped thinking about it.

As Condor tells it, her parents were part of the Looney Tunes generation (“these characters were the fabric of their Saturday mornings”). When she booked the role, her first thought was of them, saying, “I was like, ‘Oh my god, I can’t wait to tell them.’”

In fact, the pitch she’d made in her audition was built on her mom. She recounted telling Green, “I believe that Paige is curious and steadfast and believes in the greater good, and all of those qualities are exactly my mom. If you were to hire me, I would really try and breathe life into Paige, but it’s kind of based off of my mom.”

Then, two years ago, Condor lost her mom. Not surprisingly, that makes this movie all the more meaningful to her. “I was really emotional when I watched it back, because I was like, ‘Yeah, I think I nailed it,’” she shares.

4. You’ll get emotional. Over cartoon characters. Who don’t even speak.

In no way, shape, or form did I expect to watch this movie and be emotionally affected to the point that I got teary-eyed, but there’s one scene in particular that really got me. And since there really isn’t even any dialogue between Wile E. and the Road Runner (save the occasional “meep meep”), that says a lot.

That was the goal, says Green, to find corners of these characters nobody had really considered before. “Sure, on the one hand, Wile E. wants to catch and capture the Road Runner,” he says. “But on the other hand, the Road Runner is Wile E.’s entire reason for being. The Road Runner is the only other character that the coyote interacts with in this big, wide, open desert. So there’s a kinship there.”

Green credits screenwriter Samy Burch for the story's emotional resonance and the animation team for carrying that emotion through in the characters.

5. The nostalgia is earned.

Ketchup Entertainment

Every legacy IP movie promises they’ll be a love letter to the OG, not a gimmick. But for Green, the only way he would do this is if it was done properly. He did his homework accordingly.

“I was feeling like, OK, we shouldn’t do this if we’re not gonna do it right,” he shares. “That meant diving into the old cartoons, watching all of the Chuck Jones originals again, and writing down every single gag and figuring out what my favorite ones were. You know, which gags worked the best, and which ones were set up well and paid off well. Just really studying how those original films were made and getting as close as we could to being able to capture their spirit.”

Green also worked with storyboard artists who’d worked on Looney Tunes before, alongside ones who’d studied the shorts as obsessively as he had. “As a group effort, the entire cast, the entire crew, all the animators, all the musicians really gave 150% on this project, and they really dedicated themselves to preserving and honoring and carrying the torch for these characters who are truly legacy.”

In other words, if you grew up with these characters and feel protective of them, rest assured: Green and his team took that very seriously, and it comes through in the film.

6. It serves as a reminder to keep going.

Last but certainly not least, one of my favorite parts of the film is the way it flips the script on the way we look at Wile E. Coyote. Improbably, he comes out the role model.

“The fact that he tries, tries, tries every day, fails, fails, fails, fails, and then still wakes up and tries again… I actually think that’s pretty frickin’ awesome,” Condor says. “I think maybe there’s a little bit of crazy in there, but I wish I was more like that.”

We could all use the reminder, especially these days, to never give up. That your next win could be just beyond the horizon. And that not achieving the exact thing we set out to do at a specific moment is not the same thing as failing. It’s the definition of trying, and that should get a lot more credit than we give it.

]]><![CDATA[Different Bedtimes In A Relationship: Does It Hurt Your Sex Life?]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/different-bedtimes-relationship-sexhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/different-bedtimes-relationship-sexMon, 31 Aug 2026 15:08:24 GMT
Praetorianphoto/Getty Images

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found myself becoming more of an early sleeper and early riser. Going to bed past 11 p.m. is something I genuinely have anxiety over. But then I started dating someone, and suddenly my schedule is all out of whack. We typically don’t go to bed until well after midnight, especially if we want to have sex. That’s just how our schedules are syncing, or, more accurately, not syncing, these days.

If you’re an early bird like me, you might find it difficult, maybe even a little annoying, when your partner is a night owl. When you’re not hitting the pillow at the same time, it can also make finding time for intimacy a little more complicated. There are plenty of reasons couples might have different bedtimes: shift work, parenting responsibilities, or simply the fact that one person likes to do their doomscrolling late at night while the other is ready for bed by 10 p.m.

So, does having different bedtimes actually affect your relationship? According to Todd Baratz, an AASECT-certified sex therapist and resident expert for #LubeLife, it’s actually pretty common. “People have different careers, parenting responsibilities, routines, and health conditions that lead to different bedtimes,” he says.

But the different schedules themselves aren’t necessarily the problem. “The problem often isn’t the mismatch, but whether a couple treats it as an issue to navigate together or sweeps it under the rug, which can gradually create emotional distance,” Baratz explains. “The success of a relationship isn’t defined by whether you and your partner have identical schedules, but rather by how you find ways to consistently show up and remain emotionally available to one another.”

So, the good news is, you don’t necessarily need to start going to bed at the same time. But if your schedules are completely out of sync, it might be worth figuring out how to make sure you’re still getting enough time together, including time for sex.

Not having the same bedtime can present some challenges.

While couples don’t necessarily need to have the same bedtime, having different schedules can definitely affect a relationship.

“Couples that don’t go to bed at the same time may lose the opportunity to connect (if they are not intentional about saving time for one another at other times during the day),” says Marisa Cohen, LMFT, CST. “It’s important that partners have a chance to talk about their days, share what’s on their mind, and physically connect. This may happen more naturally when people go to bed together, but it does not automatically mean that the absence of the same bedtime will remove these opportunities entirely.”

Baratz says couples can sometimes focus too much on one specific difference — like different sleep schedules — and lose sight of the bigger picture.

“Couples who are vulnerable with each other are generally more connected and better able to navigate their differences,” he says. “The differences still exist, but they become problems to solve together rather than evidence that they're incompatible.”

But when couples are already disconnected, different schedules can add to the problem. “Couples who are disconnected, resentful, or emotionally distant often use those same differences as another piece of evidence that something is wrong,” Baratz says. “The sleep schedules aren't really the problem. They become another file added to the growing folder of disconnection.”

That’s why, Baratz says, the better question isn’t whether a relationship can survive different sleep schedules, but “What is the quality of the relationship surrounding this difference?”

“A healthy relationship can tolerate many differences,” he says. “A disconnected relationship will struggle with almost all of them.”

But having different bedtimes doesn’t always mean less intimacy.

I’ll admit that when I started dating someone with a very different bedtime, I worried I’d be missing out on opportunities to connect with my new partner. If we weren’t going to bed together, wouldn’t that feel weird?

A major misconception between couples, says Cohen, is that bedtime is the only opportunity couples have for connection.

“Intimacy, both physical and emotional, can happen at any time throughout the day,” she says. “This can take the form of physical connection/affectionate touch or engaging in a shared activity or conversation. If you find that your relationship is lacking intimacy, it’s important to investigate the underlying cause and not automatically assume that it’s due to your bedtimes.”

Baratz agrees. “Different bedtimes don’t create disconnection on their own; neglecting the relationship does, and couples often confuse one for the other,” he says. He also points out that simply being in bed at the same time doesn’t necessarily mean you’re connecting. “There are plenty of couples that go to sleep at the same time every night, but still feel lonely because they’re scrolling on their phone rather than interacting.”

Meanwhile, couples with opposite schedules can still have a deeply satisfying relationship when they’re intentional about connecting. “The main misconception is that the most important thing is when you’re together as opposed to how you’re together,” Baratz says.

You can navigate different bedtimes and still have time for sex.

So how do you deal with different bedtime schedules and make sure you’re still having sex with your partner?

Cohen says it starts with having a conversation. “Have a conversation with your partner to find out when the best time to connect may be so that the two of you are on the same page,” she says.

That might mean carving out time for each other instead of waiting for intimacy to happen spontaneously. “It doesn’t need to be spontaneous to be enjoyable. Planned connection can be really rewarding,” Cohen explains. And intimacy is not just about sex either. She suggests creating little rituals of connection throughout the day, whether that’s prepping meals together, taking a walk, or simply sitting on the couch and cuddling while you talk.

Baratz agrees that couples need to be intentional, especially when their schedules don’t leave much room for spontaneity. “Intimacy will rarely ‘just happen’ for adults with busy lives,” he says. That might mean scheduling sex, sharing a morning coffee or breakfast, taking a post-dinner walk, or spending 20 minutes talking without screens. “These rituals are a safe space; they replace the intimate moments before bed by providing protected time where both partners are emotionally present.”

And if you feel like you have to go to bed at the same time to feel connected, Baratz says that’s worth examining, too. “Bed is where we sleep. We are literally unconscious. If falling asleep at the exact same time feels essential, it's worth asking why. That need may point to something much deeper than a difference in sleep preferences.”

]]><![CDATA[I've Done 11 Back-To-School Seasons. Here's What I Always Restock In My Medicine Cabinet.]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/back-to-school-medicine-cabinet-restockhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/back-to-school-medicine-cabinet-restockSun, 30 Aug 2026 21:36:48 GMT
Zeljkosantrac/Getty Images

Between adjusting to new schedules and general anxiety, the start of the school year can be a hectic time in any household. Add to that the mix of allergies and germs in one sealed classroom, and those back-to-school sniffles seem almost inevitable. While you’ve no doubt stocked up on pencils and composition notebooks, don’t forget to inventory your medicine chest. Now is a great time to get ahead of the cold and flu season and make sure you avoid any late-night pharmacy runs.

This year marks my 11th year as a parent of a school-aged child, and here are the things I always try to keep on hand at the start of the semester and through the winter months.

Lollipops or Throat Lozenges

I love the Lolleez brand for throat-soothing lollipops that taste great. I’ll admit I’ve even pilfered one or two of these myself when sore throats are going round.

Shower Steamers

My son outgrew baths several years ago, and the upside is that instead of creating a bath full of essential oils, I got hooked on shower steamers with things like eucalyptus to help open up nasal passages and soothe congestion. You just pop one in the bottom of the tub and they slowly break down, giving the steam a decongesting effect. For severe congestion, I swear by the Vicks VapoShower tablets.

Essential Oils

Speaking of essential oils, I always keep two on hand when going into the fall. Lavender, for its calming properties and its ability to soothe anxiety (my own included), and eucalyptus for its decongesting effects. My preferred method is to use a small humidifier that can double as a diffuser. They both make the house or bedroom smell like a spa, which is a big bonus after a long, stressful day.

Stomach Soothers

In kids especially, anxiety can take the form of tummy aches. I keep a big bottle of papaya enzyme on hand to aid digestion. They are chewable, taste decent, and fast-acting but also mild enough for younger kids. I also keep a packet of chewable Pepto Bismol tablets around for bigger stomach aches and complaints.

Cold & Flu Medicine

I don’t know about you, but every time I sort through my medicine cabinet, I discover expired cold and flu meds. I don’t use a lot of them, but I like to have them on hand when fevers or colds are intense enough to affect sleep. Now is the time to restock on items such as cough and flu medicine.

Saline Nose Cleaner

When I am coming down with something, I pull out my trusty Neti pot... but I am the first to admit it can be uncomfortable to use, kids included. Instead, I get a saline nose mist to keep on hand for the same purpose: a gentle irrigation to help with congestion. Pro tip: Don’t share this with other family members. Get each person their own and toss it after someone’s been really sick.

A Thermometer

This is one of those things you don’t think about until it’s 11 p.m. and it seems like your kid is burning up, and you just need to get an accurate read on their temp. When you can’t find a thermometer, it’s stress city! You can save at least a little of that stress by making sure you have a good working thermometer at the start of every new school year.

Usually this time of year I don’t need to restock items like cortisone cream, Neosporin, or Band-Aids, as those are all part of our summer arsenal, but if you’re running low, those are great items to replenish as well.

Of course, some of these products listed here may be suitable for older kids but not toddlers or babies, so always check the label or consult your pediatrician to be sure. And remember to take care of yourself, too, during this time when emotions run high and schedules get tight.

]]><![CDATA[60 Genius, Cheap Finds That Make Your Bathroom Feel Way Bougier]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/genius-cheap-finds-that-make-your-bathroom-feel-way-bougierhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/genius-cheap-finds-that-make-your-bathroom-feel-way-bougierSun, 30 Aug 2026 13:30:24 GMT

Your bathroom deserves better than dated, mismatched finishes, sad, discolored shower curtains, or harsh overhead lighting that makes it feel like you’re putting on makeup in a cafeteria. Luckily for you, upgrading the space doesn’t require a full renovation or a totally depleted bank account. We’ve scoured the Amazon trenches to find products that add comfort, style, and some fancy energy that will make your bathroom look and feel way bougier — without a bougie designer budget.

Flower-Shaped Knobs To Revitalize The Look Of Your Cabinets & Drawers

Swapping out old or dated cabinet pulls for something more modern and trendy is such an easy way to revitalize the look of your bathroom without spending big bucks. These floral knobs have an intricately carved design in a gold finish that look so bougie and expensive. They even come with three different sized screws to fit the width of various cabinets so you get the perfect fit.

A Waterproof Shower Lamp That Sets A Relaxing, Luxurious Vibe

You’re cautious with harsh, overhead lighting in your bedroom and living room, so why are you using it in your bathroom? This waterproof, cordless lamp can sit inside your shower, giving you a fully dimmable warm-white glow that instantly makes your entire bathroom feel more relaxing and luxurious. On a single charge, it works for up to 16 hours.

Stained-Glass Window Film That Blocks UV Rays & Prying Eyes

Between the three-dimensional feel, the fluted texture, and the intricate design, this window film looks like realistic stained glass — except it installs with just water and static cling. It can be cut to the perfect size and it’s a great way to add some privacy to your space without blocking any natural light.

A Fancy Toilet Decal With Vibrant Greens & Florals

This sticker mounts to the tank or seat lid of your toilet, adding the most charming touch with very little effort. It has gorgeous green and floral accents that instantly dress up your toilet. Most importantly, it’s easy to apply, durable, and waterproof — designed to withstand anything the bathroom brings.

A Reed Diffuser That Keeps Your Bathroom Smelling Great All The Time

Adding a reed diffuser to your bathroom is an absolute essential if you’re looking to make it feel (and smell) super bougie and expensive. That’s because it works 24/7 to let off a fresh and clean scent without a live flame you have to watch all the time. The long-lasting scent comes in a chic glass jar with eight sticks that can be added, removed, or flipped around to adjust the potency of the scent.

Dimmable Night-Lights That Look Like Flameless Candles

Why settle for ordinary (or ugly) lighting when you can have these night-lights that look like stunning flameless candles? Add some Victorian charm to your space while elevating the look of your bathroom — or even just the pathway to your bathroom. They’re fully dimmable and help create the perfect middle-of-the-night bathroom vibe.

A Peel-&-Stick Mirror Border With A Realistic Wood Grain

Adding this peel-and-stick border to a builder-grade mirror is the easiest way to instantly add some charm and dress up your bathroom — without paying for a pricey renovation. It has a realistic wood grain and comes in quite a few finishes so it can match your existing cabinets or decor. Plus it doesn’t leave any sticky residue behind if you need to remove it.

A Lotus-Shaped Container For Cotton Swabs, Toothpicks, & More

Keep your cotton swabs or toothpicks in this adorable lotus-inspired container to add a touch of whimsy to your countertop. The colorful petal parts can be removed to adjust the size of the opening which, at its largest, can hold up to 200 toothpicks or 30 cotton swabs at a time. And the whole thing has a nice bulb-shaped lid to keep these bathrooms essentials clean and dry.

A Stone Faucet Mat That Looks Expensive & Keeps Your Counter Clean

This stone faucet mat comes in two pieces that seamlessly join around your faucet, creating the perfect go-to spot to store soaps, lotions, mouthwash, makeup, and more. Made of diatomite stone, it absorbs water and dries in just 60 seconds, keeping your countertop cute and totally mess free.

Gorgeous Floral Covers To Protect & Store Toilet Paper Rolls

Obviously you want to keep spare rolls of toilet paper easily accessible in the bathroom, and thanks to these felt covers, they don’t have to be an eyesore. They slide onto your toilet paper rolls, instantly adding a charming, whimsical touch and elevating the look of your bathroom as a whole. And because they’re reusable, you can use them to keep your bathroom in tip-top shape again and again.

A Super-Absorbent Bath Mat With An Earthy River Rock Design

This bath mat is made of diatomaceous earth, making it ultra porous and ultra absorbent so it helps keep your bathroom mess free when you’re getting out of the shower or bath. It features a nonslip rubber back to help keep you from slipping and sliding around and it won’t shed or pill like textile bath mats. Plus, the river-rock inspired design adds a chic touch.

A Bathtub Side Table To Hold Your Phone, Drink, & Book

This side table is the perfect bathtub accessory if you want to keep all your relaxation must-haves — wine, water, a book, your favorite show — close at hand without worrying about them falling into the tub. It sits just off to the side so you have all your stuff while still maximizing your actual bathing space. It even has an adjustable height to perfectly fit your tub.

Golden Bolt Caps That Add An Unexpected Accent To Your Toilet

These golden caps go over the bolts on the base of your toilet, covering whatever rust, grime, and dirt naturally accumulates there while adding a touch of unexpected charm. They have a ceramic design and they slide right on so they install without any tools or heavy lifting.

A Mouthwash Dispenser With A Modern Milk Jug Shape That’s So Chic

Swapping out brand-name containers for something a little more elevated is such an easy way to make your bathroom feel bougier. This mouthwash dispenser has a rounded, modern shape with wooden accents and a stainless steel spout that looks designer without the designer price tag.

A Toilet Paper Stamp That Makes Your Bathroom Feel Like A Resort

If you want your bathroom to feel like an expensive resort, adding this toilet paper stamp is such a nice touch. It attaches to your faucet so you can easily wet the paper and create a custom letter stamp on the end of your toilet paper. It’s all but guaranteed to charm your guests and make the room feel sophisticated.

Vanity Lights That Turn Any Bathroom Mirror Into A Glam Room

These vanity lights can be mounted to any bathroom mirror, turning any space into a glam setup worthy of a Hollywood green room. They have three color temperatures to adjust depending on the time of day and they have nine dimming levels to completely customize the light to your needs. They apply with adhesive tape and they don’t leave any residue on the mirrors when removed.

A Bathtub Faucet Water Filter That Removes Chlorine, Heavy Metals, & More

If you filter your water while you’re showering, why not use this faucet attachment to filter your water while you’re bathing, too? It hangs on the faucet and removes chlorine, heavy metals, sediment, and other impurities that you don’t want to be soaking in. It lasts for up to 3,000 gallons of water, so you can bathe in peace and quiet.

Dried Eucalyptus Stems That Smell Amazing & Look Expensive

Eucalyptus is the secret to making your bathroom feel like a spa — both in fragrance and looks. These dried eucalyptus stems hang upside down from your showerhead and let off the most luxurious, relaxing scent while you’re showering. Plus, adding unexpected greenery to your space is such an easy way to elevate the overall feel.

A 3-Tier Makeup Organizer That Rotates 360 Degrees

Stop storing your makeup and skin care and start displaying it on this organizer instead. It has three tiers of storage to take advantage of vertical space and rotates 360 degrees so you always have access to all your essentials. The organizer comes decked out with golden accents and a fluted design that looks so chic and expensive while helping you save so much space on your vanity.

A Chic, Modern Trash Can With An Automatic Lid

Your bathroom trash can doesn’t have to be ugly or boring, and this bin is the proof. It has three chic wooden legs, a fluted texture, and a modern feel that actually adds to the vibe of your space. The lid keeps everything inside hidden and odor free, and the sensor automatically opens the lid so you can toss your garbage inside without touching anything.

A Nonslip Shower Mat With A Loofah-Like Texture That Also Exfoliates

This nonslip shower mat is made of a loofah-like material, so not only does it help prevent you from slipping and sliding when you’re showering, but it also exfoliates your feet at the same time. Because the surface is very porous, it can completely cover the floor of your shower without blocking water from draining properly. Shop it in tons of patterns and dimensions.

Tiny Toothbrush Stands With A Beach-Inspired Aesthetic

Keep your toothbrushes upright with these tiny stands. Made of waterproof acrylic, the stands hold the ends of your toothbrushes at an angle, allowing them to properly air out while adding a little charm to your countertop. With shells and stars layered inside, they’ll help make your bathroom feel like a getaway.

A Bidet Attachment With So Many Customizable Adjustments

Nothing is bougier than having a bidet in your bathroom, and this one has such a low profile that it can attach to the bowl of your toilet without disturbing the seat. It has front and rear cleaning options that are easy to switch between as well as adjustable water pressure and angle of rotation. This way, you can keep yourself sparkling clean after every bathroom break.

A Motion-Activated Night-Light That Hangs On A Door Handle

This motion-activated light hangs off your doorknob to automatically turn on and off when you need it most. It has a warm white hue that won’t disrupt your sleep when you get up in the middle of the night. And the base has a whiteboard that you can write on with dry-erase markers to send yourself reminders or just say hello. It charges via USB so it’s totally cordless when it’s being used.

A Toilet Paper Stand With A Cabinet For Hidden Storage

This toilet paper stand has two shelves and a cabinet for hidden storage, giving you everything you need to make your toilet paper feel less functional and more elevated. The shelves are great for candles, plants, and other bathroom essentials you want to show off, while the cabinet is great for extra wipes and other supplies you want a little more stashed away.

Under-Sink Organizers For All Your Toiletries, Paper Products, & Cleaning Supplies

These under-sink organizers are an absolute must-have to get that oft-forgotten area in tip-top shape with very little effort. The two-tier organizers are designed to fit around the pipes and all of the shelves pull out like drawers so you can easily access everything hidden in the back. They’re perfect for storing toiletries, cleaning supplies, linens, and more.

A Toilet Brush & Holder With Some Seriously Elevated Antique Charm

If you’re looking for small ways to make your bathroom feel more elevated and polished, you need to check out this toilet brush and holder. The holder mounts to the wall and features a vintage brass design with intricate details that feel oh-so fancy. And don’t worry, it’s not just pretty: The brush has strong bristles with a rounded design for 360-degree cleaning.

An Automatic Soap Dispenser That Creates A Luxurious Foam

Not only does this soap dispenser have a modern, minimal, matte ceramic design, it also has an advanced sensor that automatically dispenses soap when your hand is underneath. It also creates a super-foamy lather, dispensing the perfect amount of soap in less than a second. Just recharge it every few months to keep it pumping like new.

A Linen Toilet Paper Basket With A Lid That Doubles As A Shelf

Keep up to 12 mega rolls of toilet paper easily accessible but out of sight and out of mind with this linen basket. It has a tall and narrow design that fits seamlessly into small spaces around your bathroom. Plus, the bamboo lid doubles as a shelf for plants, candles, wipes, your phone, and whatever else you need while you’re doing your business.

A Handmade Jute Bathroom Rug With A Unique, Organic Design

This handmade toilet rug has a chic, abstract design that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a spa. Made of ultra-durable cotton jute, the rug absorbs water quickly and easily, keeping your bathroom clean while making it look and feel polished. Plus it’s washable — a critical feature for bathroom textiles.

A Wooden Shower Stool To Store Toiletries & Make Shaving Easier

This wooden stool tucks into the corner of your shower to keep your toiletries easily accessible and give you an easy angle for your foot when you’re shaving your legs. Made from acacia, it has nonslip feet to keep it sturdy and there are holes on both shelves to ensure water can properly drain.

A Bold Waterfall Faucet That’s Really Easy To DIY Install

This waterfall faucet is so easy to install on virtually any three-hole sink, turning an ordinary sink into one that feels positively luxurious. With a polished chrome finish and a clear glass basin, the faucet makes your sink the star of the show. Its eye-catching and luxurious-feeling design changes the look of your bathroom instantly.

A Shower Squeegee To Leave Your Glass With A Streak-Free Shine

If you have a glass shower or large mirrors, you need this squeegee. It hangs inside your shower and when you’re done, you can use it to clean off the water droplets on the glass. This way, you can give your surfaces a new life and create a streak-free shine until next time. The squeegee is 10 inches wide and has an ergonomic handle that makes maneuvering it around the glass a breeze.

Flameless Candles In Stunning Smoked Glass Jars

If you love the look and vibe of candles but hate having a live fire around your space, check out these flameless candles. They have realistic flickering flames and come in these elevated glass jars that feel ultra expensive. They’re remote controlled with timer intervals, dimming options, and more.

Shower Curtain Hooks With Decorative Celestial Accents

Even your shower curtain hooks can add to the vibe of your bathroom. These celestial-inspired hooks have moon and sun charms hanging off, and not only do they hold your shower curtain securely in place, but they have a rust-resistant, stainless steel construction that’s designed for long-lasting use, even in high-humidity environments.

An Electric Scrubber With 6 Brush Heads For Different Surfaces

Part of making your bathroom feel bougie is keeping it clean. Take the elbow grease out of the worst household chore and pick up this electric spin scrubber. It comes with six different heads, each designed for a different bathroom surface — a sponge for a sink, cloth for glass, flat brush for tile, and more.

A Designer-Worthy Vanity Light With A Vintage Touch

Your guests will be shocked this vanity light isn’t designer. From the vintage brass base to the green glass shades to the floral shaped-design, the light punches way above its weight when it comes to making your bathroom feel luxurious and designer-worthy. Plus it’s quite easy to install and is compatible with a ton of different bulb types.

An Oversized Rain Showerhead With An Adjustable Extension Arm

Getting the right showerhead is one of the easiest — and most budget-friendly — ways to make your shower feel like a spa with very little effort. This one has an 8-inch rain head with an 11-inch adjustable extension arm. It has powerful water pressure and silicone nozzles that prevent limescale buildup.

Waterproof Caulk Tape That Refreshes The Look Of Your Tile

This waterproof tape installs in one long, flexible strip that instantly refreshes those yellowing or cracking caulk lines around your tile, tub, or toilet. It’s flexible so it can fit rounded corners and can be cut to the perfect custom size. Plus, it creates a waterproof seal with self-adhesive that’s so easy to install.

A Dimmable Candle Warmer Light With A Glass Flower Shade

A candle warmer lamp is such a hack when it comes to setting a bougie vibe in your space. Simply place your favorite candle on the wooden base and turn the lamp on. The heat of the bulb warms and melts the wax, letting out the scent without any live flame. It has four adjustable brightness levels (the brighter the light, the stronger the candle scent) and comes with three timer options.

A Chic Granite Bowl To Warm & Lather Up Shaving Cream

Derived from natural granite stone, this bowl has a delicately textured interior which helps lather up your shaving cream with a beard brush until it’s nice and foamy. Before you use it, you can soak the whole bowl in hot water which can warm up the shaving cream to make the whole experience so much more luxurious.

A Shower Curtain Printed With Vividly Hued Masterpieces

From Van Gogh to Mondrian to Picasso, this shower curtain collection features art from the most famous artists around the world, turning your bathroom into a museum-worthy exhibit. It’s water resistant and durable, with vivid colors that truly stand out. It’s suitable for most showers and comes with 12 plastic hooks to easily hang.

Shower Soap Dispensers For A Chic, Monochromatic Look

If you want your shower experience to feel resort-like, one of the quickest ways to do it is to swap out brand-named shampoo, conditioner, and body wash containers, and instead use this matching set. Each of these three containers holds 19 ounces of liquid. They have wide mouths that are easy to refill and durable pump dispenser heads. Better yet, they even come with waterproof labels for a little extra organization.

Silicone Hair Catchers To Prevent Your Drain From Clogging

These silicone covers sit over the drain of your bath or shower to collect and trap any falling hair, preventing it from getting into your pipes and causing clogs. They have strong suction cups on the bottom that keep the hair catcher in place when it’s being used. Plus, the filter allows water to drain properly so it won’t pool at your feet while you’re showering.

Whimsical Hand Towels With A Lace Trim & Embroidered Flowers

Between the delicate lace trim, the adorable embroidered flowers, the ribbed texture, and the pastel colors, these hand towels are the most whimsical addition to your bathroom. Not only do they look bougie, but they’re also super absorbent, highly breathable, and buttery soft against your hands. They dry super quickly to keep you and your bathroom clean, too.

A Nonslip Mat That Adds Stability Inside Your Tub & Shower

This nonslip shower mat has a pebble design that looks relaxing and rejuvenating. Not only does the vinyl material and suction cup bottom help keep you from slipping and sliding while you’re showering, but it looks so luxurious. The design also allows water to flow between the pebbles to easily drain and prevent water from pooling.

A 16-Color Light That Projects Relaxing Ocean Waves

Because this light is rechargeable, it has a cordless design that can be used in the bathroom to really set the vibe while you’re bathing or showering. It has 16 colors to choose from and it reflects a mesmerizing ocean wave pattern all over your walls to make your bathroom feel like an oceanside resort. It’s remote controlled, which is nice, so you can change the vibe while you’re actively relaxing.

Storage Shelves That Install Above The Toilet To Save Floor Space

If you need to add some subtle storage to your space, this over-the-toilet shelving unit is absolutely the way to go. It has three tiers that are great for decor, plants, candles, linens, extra toilet paper — you name it. It has a waterproof coating that’s important for high-humidity areas and it has a very sturdy four-leg base to keep it secure regardless of what it’s holding.

A Gilded Tissue Box Holder That’s Bougie AF

With a stunning, vintage-inspired gold-and-white design and rhinestone accents, this tissue box holder punches way above its weight when it comes to upgrading your bathroom. The lid comes off to easily add a standard rectangular box of tissues, adding a touch of royal elegance to your space that’s truly standout. It’s perfect for anyone on a mission to transform their bathroom into Versailles.

A Waterproof Under-Sink Mat To Save Your Cabinets From Leaks & Drips

Hear me out: A waterproof under-sink mat might not seem bougie itself, but if your pipes leak, it protects your wooden cabinets from damage and mold. And a mold-free bathroom? Definitely bougie AF. The mat has raised edges that really trap water to prevent it from seeping into the wood. And it creates a nice space for you to organize everything underneath and protect your home at the same time.

Peel-&-Stick Floor Tiles That Instantly Transform Your Bathroom

If you want to transform the look of your bathroom without paying for an expensive renovation, you need to check out these peel-and-stick tiles. They have a modern floral design, elevating any dated, discolored, or old-looking tiles you already have. They’re water resistant and washable — important for high-humidity environments — and have a low-luster, textured finish that feels expensive.

A Minimalist Wall Rack That Holds Up To 6 Large Bath Towels

This wall-mounted towel rack is a great way to keep extra towels close at hand without taking up any linen closet space. It can hold up to six rolled-up bath towels — and up to 56 rolled-up face towels — creating an organized look that’s still functional and chic. Plus the setup is a breeze and takes less than five minutes.

A Bamboo Toilet Stool To Make Your Bathroom Time More Ergonomic

We’ve all been told that adding a stool to your bathroom experience puts your posture at a more ergonomic angle. This stool is made of real wood with an arc-shaped groove that fits the shape of the toilet bowl. With ultra-sturdy legs and a nonslip design, the stool can support up to 400 pounds. It also doubles as a step stool if you need to reach a high shelf in the bathroom.

A Shower Filter That Removes Chlorine & Impurities For A More Relaxing Experience

This shower filter attaches directly to your pipes to remove chlorine and other impurities to give your skin and hair new life after every shower. The multi-stage filtration works with hot and cold water while still maintaining your ideal water pressure. It’s compatible with a rain showerhead, fixed showerhead, or handheld showerhead.

Toilet Seat Cushions To Make Everything Much More Comfortable

Keep your tushy comfy and warm with these toilet seat cushions. They use a light adhesive to stick to your toilet seat, with an inner sponge layer that seriously delivers more support, all with a buttery soft finish. The best part — you can toss them into the washing machine to keep them clean.

A Wall-Mounted Toilet Paper Holder That Looks Like Tic-Tac-Toe

This wall-mounted shelf has nine compartments and comes with four decorative X-shaped sculptures so you can create your very own Tic-Tac-Toe board — just add extra toilet paper. Solid and chic, the shelves add the most hilarious touch to your bathroom while also adding the functionality of keeping spare rolls easily accessible to you and your guests.

Effortlessly Chic Peel-&-Stick Striped Wallpaper That Looks Designer

This striped peel-and-stick wallpaper effortlessly elevates the look of your bathroom, creating a designer-worthy look on a budget. It has an adhesive backing, making it ultra easy to install yourself. The modern, minimalist design can be used as an accent wall or to fill your entire space, depending on the look you’re going for.

A Mirror Decal That Reminds You How Amazing You Look

This mirror decal says, “You look amazing,” so every time you get a peek at yourself — whether you’re going to the bathroom or doing your makeup — you’re reminded of how great you look every single day. It applies so easily with an adhesive backing and it can be removed just as easily without damaging your mirror or leaving any sticky gunk behind.

Toilet Sprays That Keep The Bathroom Smelling Amazing — No Matter What Happened There

If you don’t have one of these mini toilet sprays in every bathroom of your home, you’re missing out on making sure everyone feels comfortable when nature calls at your house. Simply spray them into the toilet before you go and they create a barrier that traps odors underneath the surface of the water. This way, what happens in the toilet stays in the toilet, if you know what I mean.

Crystal Knobs That Are Ultra Luxurious & Expensive Looking

Talk about bougie: These crystal knobs have a stunning hexagonal shape and are wrapped with copper wire that adds a modern touch that’s positively gorgeous. They can be installed on any cabinet or door to instantly transform the look of your bathroom and add a sophisticated accent with very little effort or expense on your part.

]]><![CDATA[“I Want A Divorce But It’s So Much Easier To Let Him Stay” & 46 Other Mom Confessions]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/want-divorce-but-its-easier-to-let-him-stay-anonymous-mom-confessionshttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/want-divorce-but-its-easier-to-let-him-stay-anonymous-mom-confessionsFri, 28 Aug 2026 15:57:41 GMT
Getty Images

This time of the year finds moms right in the thick of back-to-school madness. Whether class is already in session for your kids or that first bell will ring after Labor Day, everything seems like it’s been in hyperdrive since Aug. 1. And that means moms are feeling all kinds of pressure and overwhelm at the moment.

But on the other side of that is a tiny glimpse of freedom. A sigh of relief. Because once the back-to-school rush settles down and everyone falls into a routine, there’s the chance (the hope, even) that we’ll get a bit of time back for ourselves. This is largely welcome, obviously. The only con? It gives us that much more time to think (maybe even ruminate) on the stuff rattling around in our brains.

For some moms, that means worrying about the future with aging parents. For others, it’s hard realizations about their own kids. And for, well, many moms, it means weighing out if it’s worth sticking around in a default-parent marriage situation where you feel like you’re just not getting the help, support, and appreciation you need.

I mean, is it really any shock that the moms had a lot to share in this batch of anonymous confessions? If you want to feel less alone in your inner thoughts, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s what moms wanted to get off their chests this week.

Scary Mommy Confessions are a tried-and-true part of what makes our site so fun. If you want to anonymously confess, look for our weekly callouts on Instagram. And to browse past Confessions, take a look here.

]]><![CDATA[Book Recommendations: 12 Books Scary Mommy Editors Read & Loved In August 2026]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/book-recommendations-editors-picks-for-august-2026https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/book-recommendations-editors-picks-for-august-2026Thu, 27 Aug 2026 21:12:05 GMT

I’m going to level with you: This month’s book recs list is... lighter. Between back-to-school shopping and last-minute beach trips and gearing up for the changing of the seasons, we didn’t manage to read quite as much. But, you know, maybe that makes this month’s picks all the more special, because they were worthy of every second of stolen time we gave to them.

This month’s editors’ book picks, not surprisingly, skew toward the seasonal shift. Sure, you’ll find a few final beach reads to squeeze in before Labor Day, but a decent chunk of the list is devoted to fall preorders (yes, including the Big Little Lies sequel we’ve all been not-so-patiently waiting on for a decade) and titles that feel cozy or spooky.

If you’re looking for something great to bury your nose in while you wait in the car-rider line (le sigh) or to get you through the first cold snap that’s inevitably coming, here’s what the Scary Mommy team read and loved in August.

*New! Before You Were Anne by Emiko Jean

*Releases Sept. 1

If you read The Return of Ellie Black and have been waiting for Emiko Jean's next Detective Chelsey Calhoun thriller, mark your calendar right now because this one sounds absolutely unputdownable. A mother is dead, her 16-year-old daughter has vanished, and the deeper Chelsey digs into the victim's past, the more she discovers that the woman who called herself Anne Walker was actually born Rika Takahashi, and her journey from a remote Japanese farm to suburban Seattle conceals decades of reinvention and secrets worth killing for. Early readers are calling it relentlessly suspenseful with jaw-dropping twists and a final page that will leave you staring into space... the fall thriller preorder worth making right now! — Katie Garrity, News & Social Editor

Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell

I read Fangirl years ago and wanted to revisit Rowell's work. I'm so glad I did! It was so freaking refreshing to read a romance about people who are not young and offensively hot, but people who felt very, very real. If you like yearning, this story has literal years of the stuff. — Katie McPherson, Associate Editor, Lifestyle & Entertainment

*New! The Unofficial Disney Parks Retro Cookbook: 60+ Nostalgic Recipes and Stories of Yesteryear by Carly Caramanna and Julie Tremaine

*Releases Oct. 13

If you have a Disney adult in your life, a foodie, or both, I genuinely cannot think of a better gift for them than this dreamy cookbook. And yes, it’s something you’ll actually read! Theme park journalists Carly Caramanna and Julie Tremaine sprinkle so many tasty little stories and anecdotes and fun facts throughout, which pair perfectly with the 60+ “extinct” recipes from Disney Parks restaurants. Think Casa de Fritos taco salad, the Writer’s Stop carrot cookie cake, the Adventurers Club’s Kungaloosh... the list goes on, and each comes with a bit of history about the dining spot where it originated. Big bonus: The cookbook itself is just so beautiful, making it a coffee table mainstay. — Julie Sprankles, Deputy Editor, Lifestyle & Entertainment

The Night We Met by Abby Jimenez

If you need one more beach read, have it be this. It's Abby Jimenez at her finest. I just love her books because they so aptly transport me out of my (very chaotic at this time of year) mind and into another, simpler world. It's just a lovely read and a great way to cap off the summer (I'm crying inside, too). — Kate Auletta, Editor in Chief

Like A Mother: A Feminist Journey through the Science and Culture of Pregnancy by Angela Garbes

I've had this book on my TBR for years, and when I saw it was available at my local library, I snapped it up. I really wish I hadn't waited until my son was 5 to dive in. The way Garbes takes you through the science and biological miracle that is pregnancy is so beautiful. But her book is far more empowering and grounded than any other "pregnancy book" I've read to date. — Katie McPherson

Magic Lessons by Alice Hoffman

In my continued quest to knock out all of the books in Alice Hoffman’s Practical Magic series before Practical Magic 2 hits theaters in September, I read Magic Lessons this month. The third book written in the series (although first chronologically, if you prefer to read in that order), it’s definitely a little darker and slower than the others. But that makes sense because, here, Hoffman goes back to 1600s Salem to explore the origin story of why the Owens women can’t fall in love without devastating consequences. The real history makes it heavier, but it’s worth it. — Julie Sprankles

New! Every Version Of You by Natalie Messer

This debut is already an instant USA Today bestseller, and I completely understand why: It follows Joey Vasquez, a 32-year-old LA lawyer who dies after driving home from a dinner party and gets sent back to relive her freshman year of college with all the knowledge from her first life, determined to finally win the best friend she has pined over for fourteen years. The twist is that the man she absolutely cannot stand keeps showing up and pulling her attention in a direction she did not plan for, and the enemies-to-lovers slow burn is genuinely chef's kiss! — Katie Garrity

New! Big Little Truths by Liane Moriarty

The Big Little Lies sequel we have been waiting a decade for is finally here! Big Little Truths picks up 10 years later with Madeline, Celeste, Jane, Renata, and Bonnie, whose kindergartners are now teenagers navigating drugs, sex, and alcohol, which honestly sounds just as chaotic and stressful as the original but make it high school. When a mysterious stranger starts lurking around the school and the principal receives a severed finger in the mail, old secrets resurface and new ones threaten to unravel everything. — Katie Garrity

*New! Sometimes I Scare Myself by Jeneva Rose

*Releases Sept. 22

The Queen of Twists just crossed over into full horror territory, and it drops Sept. 22... just in time for spooky season. Sometimes I Scare Myself is Jeneva Rose's first horror collection, featuring three standalone stories that start with setups you recognize and go somewhere you absolutely did not see coming: a 30th birthday séance that spirals horrifically out of control, a family who moves into their dream home that turns out to be anything but, and a roadside stop with a hand-painted sign that says "All items cursed — curse lifted at time of sale." The perfect preorder for anyone who loves to be genuinely scared! — Katie Garrity

New! Bigger, Faster, Stronger, Hairier: A Book For Boys

We're all familiar with The Care and Keeping of You, and I was excited to see this book in the same vein, but dedicated to boys, hit my desk. It's written by medical professionals in language that makes hormones easy to understand and awkward situations, like peer pressure and wet dreams, feel navigable and like a normal part of growing up. I learned a thing or two and will definitely be holding onto this for when my son is ready. — Katie McPherson

In The Woods by Tana French

If you have somehow never read Tana French and you are looking for a place to start, this is the one. In the Woods is the book that launched the Dublin Murder Squad series, and it is one of the most atmospheric, psychologically complex crime novels ever written. Detective Rob Ryan is called to investigate a murder at an Irish archaeological dig site, but the case keeps pulling him back to a childhood trauma he has spent decades trying to forget, and the tension between those two threads is absolutely suffocating in the best possible way. The ending is POLARIZING (according to Goodreads), but I liked it! — Katie Garrity

The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower

This series has been having a major moment, and once you start, you will completely understand why. It's 1883 London, and Emma M. Lion is a witty, fiercely independent young woman who has returned home to reclaim her inheritance from her absolutely insufferable Cousin Archibald, and the journals she keeps along the way are some of the funniest, most charming writing I have come across in years. I was laughing out loud! — Katie Garrity

Which book is going to the top of your TBR pile?

]]><![CDATA[Why Do Dogs Tilt Their Heads So Cute Like That?]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/why-do-dogs-tilt-their-headshttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/why-do-dogs-tilt-their-headsThu, 27 Aug 2026 20:25:39 GMT
Tetra Images/Jessica Peterson/Getty

There is truly nothing better than looking down at your four-legged best friend, asking them how their day was, and getting that oh-so-irresistibly-cute head tilt as if they are giving you a direct reply in the form of a shot of serotonin to the soul. If the head tilt has you just as enraptured as the rest of us, you may find yourself wondering why it is that your dog does that, if they’re truly comprehending you, or if your dog is trying to communicate something more than “I love you” with the gesture.

Dr. Megan Petroff, a residency-trained behavior veterinarian and Director of Clinical Behavioral Medicine at Gold Coast Center for Veterinary Care on Long Island, New York, tells Scary Mommy that while there is no definitive why when it comes to dogs tilting their heads, there are probably several reasons depending on the context.

One possibility is that tilting the head helps a dog better localize or process a sound.

“Dogs are extremely attentive to human communication, and when we speak to them, their brains are processing not only the sounds and words themselves but also features like our tone, emotional expression, and potentially familiar words or phrases. A head tilt may be part of that orienting and information-gathering response,” Petroff explains.

The NY-based veterinarian, who also shares content online to help educate pet owners as @LongIslandBehaviorVet, says there is also evidence that head tilting may be associated with processing meaningful or familiar information.

“One study found that dogs who were particularly successful at learning the names of toys tilted their heads more frequently when their owners asked for a toy by name,” she says. “That doesn’t necessarily mean a head tilt translates to ‘I understand you,’ but it suggests the behavior can occur when dogs are concentrating on or processing information that is meaningful to them.”

But Petroff cautions against interpreting head tilts as a sign of recognition or understanding.

“Dogs absolutely can learn the meaning of specific words and phrases, and they also respond to the rhythm, pitch, and emotional tone of our speech. A head tilt may occur when something catches their attention or when they are processing a familiar or relevant cue, but we can't look at a head tilt alone and conclude that the dog understands a particular word,” she says. “It may be more accurate to think of it as a sign of attention or information processing rather than a direct indication of comprehension.”

So if we cannot pinpoint the exact reason, is it possible our own dogs learn that we react positively to the head tilt, and could they be doing it partly because they know we find it adorable?

It’s absolutely possible.

“Dogs are remarkably good at learning which of their behaviors produce a response from us,” Petroff says. “If a dog tilts their head and their person immediately smiles, laughs, talks to them, pets them, or gives them attention, that response can reinforce the behavior.”

While head-tilting is undeniably adorable, there are instances where it can indicate an underlying health issue. “A brief, intermittent head tilt that occurs specifically when you're talking to your dog is very different from a persistent head tilt in which the dog's head remains tilted to one side,” Petroff says, adding that a new or persistent head tilt can be a sign of vestibular (balance or inner ear) or neurological disease or problems involving the ear.

Owners should contact their veterinarian, particularly if the tilt appears suddenly, persists when the dog isn't interacting with someone, or occurs along with signs such as loss of balance, falling or circling, abnormal eye movements, vomiting, difficulty walking, changes in alertness or behavior, or signs of ear pain.

Petroff says the most interesting thing about the head tilt is what it can tell us about the way dogs pay attention to us.

“Dogs aren't simply responding to the volume of our voices,” she says. “They are very in tune with our words, tone, gestures, facial expressions, and context, and they are constantly learning which of those signals predict something meaningful.”

So, the next time your dog tilts their head when you ask about their day, feel free to enjoy the moment. They may not be translating every word you say, but they are paying attention and, if that adorable little tilt gets them extra attention, they may have figured out exactly what they're doing.

]]><![CDATA[18 Back-To-School Products For Tweens & Teens 2026]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/back-to-school-products-tweens-teenshttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/back-to-school-products-tweens-teensThu, 27 Aug 2026 13:11:28 GMT

When your kids were little, back-to-school shopping was (in hindsight, at least) a breeze. You checked everything off the list of required supplies. You tossed their favorite character backpack in your cart, maybe even a matching lunchbox. Bing bang boom, you were done. Everyone was delighted.

Then the tween years hit. And teenage-hood.

Now they have so.many.opinions. The level of specificity they bring to conversations about everything from water bottles to earrings is enough to make even a seasoned negotiator sweat. But, ya know, you’re still Mom, and you still want to buy some things for your kid, too.

So, here’s your list. It won’t look exactly like their list, obviously. Some of it’s deeply practical, like the jump starter for the teen who is now (God help us) driving. Then there are the pure dopamine picks, for the joy of a Bigfoot-shaped perfume bottle.

If you’re looking for a few things you can sneak into their back-to-school arsenal, this gives you plenty of mom-editor-approved options. And prices run from $3.49 to full splurge because, well, that’s how back-to-school shopping goes.

Hollister Talia Top

According to social editor Katie Garrity, this Hollister Talia Top is the answer for any tween with very strong opinions about what she’s wearing on the first (or any) day of school.

“It’s a fitted scoopneck with ruffle trim, all-over embroidered eyelet detailing, a smocked back, and a full button closure that hits that perfect sweet spot between cute and age-appropriate,” Katie says. “It's the kind of top that looks intentional and put-together without trying too hard, which is exactly the vibe every tween is going for. It keeps selling out for a reason so grab it now before it's gone again!”

Noco Boost Air AX65 2000A 12V Jump Starter, Air Compressor & Tire Inflator

I need someone to hold my hand when I say this: I have a new driver in the house this year. GULP. And since they just got their first (used!) car, the first thing I did was start checking off all of the practical things my kid would need for it. This multi-purpose gadget was a no-brainer. It jump-starts a dead battery without needing another car or having to remember which cable goes where since it’s built so that hooking the clamps up backwards doesn’t, like, fry anything. Among its other uses: inflating a flat (or topping off a low-pressure tire), charging a phone over USB-C, and acting as a flashlight. Win, win, win, win.

Winky Lux Lip Libations

Name a tween or teen who doesn’t have an emotional support lip balm of some sort... I sure can’t. And of all the beauty stuff my teen hits me up for, a sheer tinted balm is one of the more reasonable ones. Of course I swiped one of these for myself to test it out, and I was really impressed by how moisturizing it is (thanks to the combo of squalane, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides). Also, it leaves the prettiest wash of color!

Cloud Nine Aromatherapy Hoodie

I have a very anxious 15-year-old, so I was so excited to find this really cool brand that creates a hoodie to help with just that! Obviously a sweatshirt alone isn’t going to fix anxiety, but this is a great tool to add to our anxiety toolbox. The obvious pros: super soft and cozy, comes in several great colorways. Then there’s the squishy stress ball sewn into the cuff that’s perfect for squeezing when my kid needs to feel grounded, along with a tiny pocket in the hood that holds a scented aromatherapy disc. It’s a little pricier than a standard sweatshirt, but these thoughtful little features make it so worth it. My kid is obsessed!

TAL 2-in-1 Straw and Chug With Push Lid

The water bottle is right up there with lip balm in the emotional-support-object category... probably even at the very top. My kid wanted something that actually shuts at the top (no exposed straw sticking out), light enough to lug around for theater and dance rehearsals, and, of course, cute. This checks all the boxes: stainless steel, double-walled, a lid that flips between a straw and a wide spout, and in a ton of colors and patterns. Bonus: It’s way more affordable than so many other water bottles on the market.

Denman D28 Wide Tooth Detangling Comb

We’re big fans of Denman brushes in our house, and every single person in the family has one of these wide-tooth detangling combs (well, except for my husband, who has no hair). It has fourteen extra-wide, curved teeth that move through wet hair without ripping or yanking, which, overall, means fewer tears and “you’re pulling my hair!” meltdowns. Especially life-saving if your kid has thick or curly hair.

Nomatic Travel Pack

This bag is a Scary Mommy editor fan-favorite! I use mine for travel, but as our social editor Katie Garrity points out, it’s genuinely a multi-purpose bag (which makes it great for tweens and teens).

“Yes, this pack is an investment, but I promise you this is the last backpack you will ever buy and that math starts to feel pretty good pretty fast,” she says. “The Nomatic Travel Pack is built from waterproof, virtually indestructible materials with a thoughtfully engineered interior that has a place for absolutely everything: laptop sleeve, water bottle pocket, magnetic water-resistant zipper, hidden passport pocket, and more organizational compartments than you will ever run out of uses for. It works equally well as a school bag, a work bag, a personal item on a flight, and a day pack on a trip, which means one bag genuinely replaces four. The back-to-school investment that pays for itself a thousand times over!”

Pioneer Magnetic Smart Phone Cradle

If you’ve got a new driver in the house like I do, you already know the dread that comes every time you watch them slide behind the wheel. One thing I was crystal clear about with my teen: You will NOT be messing with your phone while driving, and this Pioneer magnetic cradle and wireless charger makes that easy for them to actually follow. You just clip the holder onto an air vent and your phone snaps right on thanks to the magnetic ring. It swivels 360 degrees and comes with a USB-C cable in the box.

TAO Clean Umma Diamond Sonic Toothbrush

Now that my kid is in high school, we’re kind of out of the years when I’m supervising their brushing. But they also have a super-busy schedule, and I need to know they’re actually keeping up with their dental hygiene in there! A sonic toothbrush with a two-minute auto-shutoff definitely helps. This one runs 40,000 strokes per minute and, my favorite part, sits in a UV-C dock that sanitizes the head between uses. I would say this is for sure the kind of thing that’s a worthwhile investment during any kid’s braces era.

Vaseline Lip Therapy Mini Lip Balm

We are a Vaseline Lip Therapy-loving family, so clearly we could not wait to get our hands on the new flavors: Pistachio Donut and Pink Grapefruit. My oldest kid loves the Pink Grapefruit; my youngest and I would like to go ahead and build an apocalypse stash of the Pistachio Donut, please and thank you.

Pip Pop Endless Hoops (+ Charm)

I’m about to pull the trigger on buying these Pip Pop Endless Hoops... for my kid and for myself! Small gold hoops are practically part of the tween/teen uniform these days, and these are great because they’re designed to integrate with Pip Pop’s charms. Meaning, your kid has lots of options for accessorizing, and you know they’re all about that. As a mom, I appreciate that the hinged closure design means there’s no clasp: The post slides into place to create a secure, comfortable fit, so nothing catches on a hoodie, hair, jersey, whatever.

HP Smart Tank 7603 All-in-One Printer

With one kid in his last year of middle school, another in their sophomore year of high school, and me working from home, a good printer is a non-negotiable in our house. We just upgraded to this new HP Smart Tank all-in-one, and it is already pulling its weight. I love that you just refill it from bottles instead of having to bother with expensive-ass cartridges that we seem to run through so fast. According to HP, there’s up to three years’ worth of ink in this box! Plus, it scans and copies, and the HP app means you can print right from your phone.

Bondi Boost Miracle Mist Leave-In Conditioner + Heat Protect

“This mist has become a non-negotiable step in my daughter's morning hair routine,” social editor Katie Garrity says. “I curl her hair before school almost every day, and having a leave-in conditioner that also protects from heat damage in one single spray has genuinely cut our getting-ready time in half. It detangles, hydrates, reduces frizz, and shields against heat up to 450°F, and the strawberry gum scent is so good that she asks for it by name now.”

Limitless Innovations TotalDesk

My kids don’t always want to do homework at the kitchen table or their desks, and I don’t blame them. Even I agree that it’s way comfier to work from bed or on the couch! That’s where this lap desk comes in clutch. It has four height settings, a tilt that goes all the way to 90 degrees (perfect for reading or sketching), a little drawer to hold their pens (and which doubles as a cup holder), and a stand to prop a book or tablet up next to their laptop. As if all of that wasn’t enough, it also folds down to under three inches so you can slide it just about anywhere to get it out of the way after your teen inevitably just leaves it lying in the middle of the floor.

Squishmallows Wonder Whirl

Is perfume a total necessity for back-to-school? If you ask your tween or teen, the answer will 100% be yes. And if your kid is anything like mine and went through a STRONG Squishmallows phase (who are we kidding, they’ll be in it forever), they’ll flip over this new Squishmallows Wonder Whirl perfume. Notes of blue raspberry, tangelo, and berries make it sweet and fruity, but sakura and vanilla make it feel gourmand. Maybe the biggest draw, though, is the bottle: It’s shaped like Joelle the Bigfoot, and I’m confident it will live on my kid’s dresser long after the perfume runs out.

Willox 240W Mountable Retractable USB-C Cable

Need to solve the whole annoying cable chaos situation at your tween or teen’s desk? Look no further, says social editor Katie Garrity.

“The Willox retractable USB-C cable mounts right to a desk, nightstand, or locker shelf so there is always a charger exactly where you need it without a tangled mess of cords to deal with. It retracts when you are done so it stays neat and out of the way, and the magnetic mount means it is easy to move and reposition without any damage. The kind of small, smart organizational upgrade that makes a desk setup actually functional for a kid who is just getting into the routine of doing homework in one consistent place!”

Aloha Icons 13-Inch Keep It Light Laptop Case

I always gravitate toward Aloha Collection because their stuff lasts. It’s water-resistant, a huge draw for moms (who KNOW their damn kid is going to spill something on or in it at some point), and the ripstop nylon is really durable. At the same time, the prints are super cute and poppy, so it’s an added layer of protection for a laptop without feeling stuffy. I really like that my teen can just pop this in their backpack or grab it and go when they don’t want to schlep a bigger bag around.

Amazon Kindle Scribe (64GB)

I’ve had my Kindle Scribe for a few years now, and it’s probably one of my most favorite pieces of tech I’ve ever owned. While I’m not about to drop this kind of money on a Kindle for my 13-year-old son, who moves through life like he’s playing Smash Bros., I’m getting one for my older teen. She’s a total bookworm, so, you know, Kindle’s great for that. But what makes this different is that she can write on it. Take notes. Doodle. Import a syllabus and jot things down. You can even convert handwriting into typed text when something needs to be turned in. It’s a great investment for a kid moving ever so quickly toward the college years.

]]><![CDATA[11 Cozy Fall Dinner Recipes That Give “This Was Ordered In A Storybook Tavern”]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/cozy-fall-dinner-recipeshttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/cozy-fall-dinner-recipesWed, 26 Aug 2026 17:37:11 GMT
All The Healthy Things

Summer 2026, it’s been real. We read a good book at the beach and booked the flights and lived in the moment. But it is time: time for sweaters and candles and crisp breezes, time for spooky movies and books and just vibes. When the weather gets cool and the darkness moves in early, I yearn for something hearty, homespun, and just plain comforting. These cozy fall dinner recipes all feel like something you might find served at a storybook tavern, and would be best eaten with a goblet of wine by candlelight if you ask me.

Garlic Roasted Chicken

A Cookie Named Desire

Maybe this is just me, but when I want a cozy dinner on a cool evening, I am drawn to anything that looks like it might be served up at a medieval tavern. A big roast chicken with root veggies and rosemary, like this one from A Cookie Named Desire, fits the bill perfectly.

Slow-Cooker Short Ribs

All The Healthy Things

Slow-cooker meals are weeknight dinner champs, and I love the idea of coming home to my house smelling like All The Healthy Things’ short ribs. They look so tender and delicious, and they would be perfect served over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.

Easy Sheet-Pan Gnocchi With Sausage & Calabrian Chilies

All The Healthy Things

All The Healthy Things’ sheet-pan dinner of gnocchi, sausage, kale, and parmesan only takes about 15 minutes of prep, which is about all I have in me after a day of work and picking up my kid from school. This would be so good with a brown butter sage sauce...

Roasted Honeynut Squash With Cottage Cheese & Chorizo Crisp

The Curious Plate

This cozy fall dinner recipe from The Curious Plate is a little more elevated — perfect for a sweet date night in with a little fire in the fireplace. These roasted squash halves are stuffed with cottage cheese, crispy hard chorizo, pepitas, and red onion. It’s the perfect autumnal side or light main.

Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup

Easy Family Recipes

Chicken noodle soup is one of those magical “food is medicine” dishes that really works. With Easy Family Recipes’ tutorial, you can make it with a rotisserie chicken in way less time without sacrificing on flavor at all.

Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

Family Fresh Meals

Family Fresh Meals’ chicken pot pie casserole is way easier than making and shaping and filling a pie crust, but it’ll satisfy your pot pie craving completely. You can also save time by using a bag of frozen mixed veggies, making this a much easier alternative than the traditional dish.

French Onion Pork Chops

Averie Cooks

OK, pork chop recipes sometimes put me off because I feel like they always end up dry. However, I might just have to make Averie Cooks’ French onion pork chops. They offer all the delicious cheesy, caramelized onion flavor you want from the soup, but in a more filling format.

Healthy Pumpkin Chili

All The Healthy Things

All chili is good chili, but pumpkin chili feels especially festive of course. It can be ready on the stovetop in 30 to 45 minutes, or you can pop it in the slow cooker for four to five hours on low. All The Healthy Things breaks down all the options in her recipe.

Crock-Pot Beef Stew

Budget Bytes

Back to tavern food real quick: Picture a bowl of piping hot beef stew with a little curl of steam wafting off of it, crusty bread on the side, the whole deal. Budget Bytes’ recipe is super affordable, easy, and flavorful, and it’s one you’ll make over and over again throughout the colder months.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

A Cookie Named Desire

Butternut squash soup is a must in the fall months. A Cookie Named Desire’s recipe will teach you how to caramelize the squash to deepen the flavor before turning it into this perfect soup (and she provides lots of amazing topping ideas).

Creamy Chicken Orzo

Princess Pinky Girl

Princess Pinky Girl’s creamy chicken orzo is a delicious one-skillet dinner that is satisfying, cheesy, and perfect for leftovers throughout the week. This seems like it would actually even be a picky kid-approved meal, depending on their feelings about spinach.

Which of these cozy fall dinners is going on your meal plan this week?

]]><![CDATA[Back-To-School Shots At CVS MinuteClinic: A Mom's Honest Experience]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/back-to-school-shots-minuteclinichttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/back-to-school-shots-minuteclinicWed, 26 Aug 2026 17:25:03 GMT
Witthaya Prasongsin/Getty Images

I used to dread the back-to-school shots more than all the homework inevitably coming our way. Not because I’m anti-vax. Far from it. But the whole process feels like too many steps, too many forms, and too much time I didn’t have. Not to mention all the bargaining I had to do with my rising kindergarteners to actually let the pediatrician’s medical assistant stick them with needles.

It would start with a reminder email from the school when I’d realize I was behind on scheduling. So, I’d call the pediatrician, sit on hold, and try to line up an appointment that didn’t interfere with work, pickup, or my sanity.

And somehow, it always turned into an all-day thing. You know the kind. You think it’s going to be a quick appointment, but you find yourself in a waiting room for longer than you expect with a kid who’s becoming more anxious by the minute. And then by the time your kiddo’s name is called, it’s too late. The anxiety has taken over, and so has the hunger, crankiness, and straight-up refusal to participate in anything remotely related to a shot.

I used to put off back-to-school vaccines longer than I should, which really isn’t like me, but why invite that kind of stress when you can just not deal with it until you have to? It wasn’t because I didn’t care; it was because it was a whole production.

Last year, I hit my limit.

It was late August, and my son was starting kindergarten. School forms were due. I was staring at the immunization section as if it were written in another language, because it kind of is.

I was already at CVS with my kids. I think we went in to grab a prescription and more sunscreen since summer in southern California doesn’t really pop off until August. Just doing normal life stuff when I saw the MinuteClinic sign. I get my COVID and flu vaccinations through the MinuteClinic, but I never considered it for my kids, since shots always felt like a doctor’s office-only situation in my head.

But I checked, and it turned out we could get them done right then and there, and our health insurance covered it. There wasn’t a long wait, and we didn’t have to do a separate lab or doctor visit. So, that’s what we did.

And it was… easy. Like, weirdly easy.

We checked in and waited for about five minutes — not long enough for anyone to spiral. The waiting area was right next to the toy aisle, so that helped. We stepped into a little room with a couple of chairs and a table. It looked more like an employee break room than an exam room, which definitely eased any looming anxiety. The nurse practitioner was calm and kind, and she moved at a pace that didn’t cause my kid to panic. It all felt very manageable.

Since we were at CVS, I let him pick out his favorite candy and a cute little keychain as a reward for being cool about it. But the best part? It didn’t take over our entire day. We were in and out of there, and I think we even tackled the grocery after, like back-to-school shots were just another errand.

Editor’s note: MinuteClinic services are generally available for patients 18 months and older, but offerings and age minimums vary by state. Worth a call to your local store to confirm availability before you go.

Jill Layton started writing professionally over a decade ago when she realized her emails and texts were kind of funny. She’s a writer for Scary Mommy, Bustle, Best Products, and other fun sites. She also writes radio ads and is a ghostwriter for a comedian — don’t tell anyone. She’s the mom of two sarcastic kids and the world’s most perfect dog.

]]><![CDATA[Scary Mommy 2026 Readers' Choice Awards Best Label & Personalization Brands]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-2026-readers-choice-awards-best-label-personalization-brandshttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-2026-readers-choice-awards-best-label-personalization-brandsWed, 26 Aug 2026 16:02:50 GMT

Ask any parent and the answer is the same: Kids lose a lot of stuff. So loads of parents put labels on absolutely everything their kids bring out of the house to help stem the tide of lost items. These labels need to be practically indestructible: machine washable, dishwasher-safe, kid-proof. Here are some of the best of the best.

What is your favorite label & personalization brand? Let us know! Voting ends on 23 September 2026 at noon ET.

Photos courtesy of Mabel’s Labels, Name Bubbles

Have questions? Read the official Readers' Choice rules.

]]><![CDATA[Scary Mommy 2026 Readers' Choice Awards Best Family Command Center Tech Brands]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-2026-readers-choice-awards-best-family-command-center-tech-brandshttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-2026-readers-choice-awards-best-family-command-center-tech-brandsWed, 26 Aug 2026 16:02:36 GMT

I really don’t know how parents of multiple kids did it before inventions such as these. I guess they just had big dry erase boards in the house? These “command centers” are just so useful to keep everyone and everything on track. I can confirm they’re a godsend for the modern family. Here are some favorites.

What is your family’s favorite command center tech brand? Let us know! Voting ends on 23 September 2026 at noon ET.

Photos courtey of Amazon Echo, Apolosign, Google Nest, Samsung, Tidbyt

Have questions? Read the official Readers' Choice rules.

]]><![CDATA[Scary Mommy 2026 Readers' Choice Awards Best Kid-Safe Wearable Tech Brands]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-2026-readers-choice-awards-best-kid-safe-wearable-tech-brandshttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-2026-readers-choice-awards-best-kid-safe-wearable-tech-brandsWed, 26 Aug 2026 16:02:23 GMT

Look, we get it: Introducing technology to your kids can be scary. You want them to gain independence, but you want them to interact with the internet safely. Lots of parents just like you start with wearable tech watches that a) are harder to lose and b) serve as a great first step for your little one. Here are some of our favorites.

What is your favorite kid-safe wearable tech brand? Let us know! Voting ends on 23 September 2026 at noon ET.

Photos courtesy of Apple, Bark, Gabb, Garmin, littlebird, myFirst, Samsung, TickTalk, T-mobile

Have questions? Read the official Readers' Choice rules.

]]><![CDATA[Scary Mommy 2026 Readers' Choice Awards Best Screen-Free Device Brands]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-2026-readers-choice-awards-best-screen-free-device-brandshttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-2026-readers-choice-awards-best-screen-free-device-brandsWed, 26 Aug 2026 16:02:09 GMT

There is a time and a place for screens. But, especially when your kids are young, there’s also a time and a place for screen-free fun that still introduce the wonders of technology. From toys for toddlers to audio favorites for older kids, here are some of our favorites.

What is your favorite screen-free device brand? Let us know! Voting ends on 23 September 2026 at noon ET.

Photos courtesy of Fisher-Price, Hatch, Loftie, Mighty, tonies

Have questions? Read the official Readers' Choice rules.

]]><![CDATA[Scary Mommy 2026 Readers' Choice Awards Best Wake-Up & Light Tech Brands]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-2026-readers-choice-awards-best-wake-up-light-tech-brandshttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-2026-readers-choice-awards-best-wake-up-light-tech-brandsWed, 26 Aug 2026 16:01:54 GMT

Getting kids to sleep in their own rooms can be nothing short of challenging. These devices — whether they keep your kid company with a nightlight, or help them wake up more easily in the morning — are just the ticket to a good night’s sleep for everyone in your household. Here are some of our favorites.

What is your favorite wake-up & light tech brand? Let us know! Voting ends on 23 September 2026 at noon ET.

Photos courtesy of Casper, Govee, Happiest Baby, Hatch, Little Hippo, Momcozy, Phillips Hue, VTech

Have questions? Read the official Readers' Choice rules.

]]><![CDATA[I’m Coming To Terms With The Fact That My Children Don’t Want Kids]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/im-coming-to-terms-with-the-fact-that-my-children-dont-want-kidshttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/im-coming-to-terms-with-the-fact-that-my-children-dont-want-kidsWed, 26 Aug 2026 12:40:27 GMT
Catherine Falls Commercial/Moment/Getty Images

The first time I asked my children if they ever wanted kids, all three of them shook their heads at the same time. To be fair, we were at a restaurant and a toddler was screaming their head off. I laughed thinking that was the reason and I should’ve picked a better time to ask them such a big question. Also, they were teenagers. I guess most people really don’t really know as a teenager if you want kids or not.

But I did. My goal was to graduate high school, go to college, become a writer, get married and have kids. I was laser focused. I didn’t waiver. It was never a question.

But my kids aren’t me. Yet I figured I had plenty of time to change their minds. I had to! After all, having grandkids was a part of my life plan too, and I kind of need my children for that.

Fast forward to today: they are all in their 20s. And they are still holding strong. There’s no doubt in their minds that they don’t want kids. It has nothing to do with that crying toddler they listened to while enjoying the Chinese buffet. It’s “the world we live in.” It’s the “expense.” It's “time and energy.”

They don’t seem to feel sad about it. They are firm in their decision and don’t think it’s a good idea to bring children into this world with everything they are hearing about what’s happening to our future, to their future.

But I’m still hanging on to some hope. Maybe things will change, but I’ve also realized I have to come to terms with it all.

After all, I’ve supported every decision my kids have made. I let them stop playing sports in high school when it was clear they weren’t into it. They didn’t want to go to a traditional four-year college. My youngest rarely wears shoes and doesn’t want to drive. He’s a free spirit who wants to travel the world and work as he goes. My daughter started a business at a very young age.

And you know what? I let them go;I had faith. I trusted them and they have all created a beautiful life they very much want to share with me because I didn’t try to direct or micromanage.

I don’t want to fuck that up now by pushing my dream on them. But damn it’s been hard. There are certain things in life I thought would just happen for me. And being a grandmother was one of them.

I’ve had to work hard on this one. I’ve done my share of asking questions and telling them that having kids was, hands down, the best decision that I have ever made. They are the loves of my life. They have changed me in all the best ways and they know that. And yet, this decision is theirs to make. I’ve said my peace. This is their life. Not mine. I can be sad about it when they aren’t around. Life is full of disappointments and I need to handle this one.

Thank goodness for dogs.

Diana Park is a writer who finds solitude in a good book, the ocean, and eating fast food with her kids.

]]><![CDATA[“I Received Oral Sex On My Parents’ Kitchen Counter” & 44 Other Mom Confessions]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/received-oral-sex-on-parents-counter-mom-confessionshttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/received-oral-sex-on-parents-counter-mom-confessionsWed, 26 Aug 2026 12:37:35 GMT
Getty Images

Between trying to squeeze every last drop of goodness out of what’s left of summer and gearing up for the mental-load hell that is back-to-school, moms are wiped out. August tends to level us with a tornado of emotions: sad, overwhelmed, relieved, guilty, and yep, tired. We're out here running on fumes, yet still expected to seamlessly orchestrate the whole handoff from summer's last gasp to the school year's opening bell without dropping a single ball (or admitting how badly we need that bell to ring and give us a f*cking break).

Let's not forget about everything else we're juggling, too. There are marriages on the verge of buckling. The complexities of adult friendships. Sometimes, it's the fantasy of walking right out the front door and starting over somewhere no one knows a thing about you or your responsibilities.

None of it makes you a bad mom, although it’s hard not to feel that way when it seems like you’re all alone in these thoughts. But if our weekly Confessions have taught us anything, it’s that all this stuff — all these anxieties and fears and even the tiny joys we can’t stop thinking about — just make us human.

So, grab a comfy seat and settle in. Here's this week's haul of inner thoughts, shared anonymously by moms who needed to let it out.

Scary Mommy Confessions are a tried-and-true part of what makes our site so fun. If you want to anonymously confess, look for our weekly callouts on Instagram. And to browse past Confessions, take a look here.

]]><![CDATA[My ADHD Isn't The Problem. The Mental Load Of Motherhood Is]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/my-adhd-isnt-the-problem-the-mental-load-of-motherhood-ishttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/my-adhd-isnt-the-problem-the-mental-load-of-motherhood-isWed, 26 Aug 2026 12:36:12 GMT
Emma Chao/Scary Mommy; Getty

Everyone loves to blame my ADHD.

Forgot to RSVP to the birthday party? ADHD. Lost the permission slip? ADHD. Walked into Target for toilet paper and left with three pillows, a candle, and a pair of flip flops? Fine, ADHD.

But lately I’ve started to wonder if my ADHD is even the problem. Maybe the real problem is that I am carrying the mental load of an entire family while simultaneously trying to work and remember where I put my coffee.

Because spoiler alert: Even moms without ADHD are drowning.

From the moment I wake up, my brain is responsible for remembering that my son has lacrosse at 6pm, my daughter needs to wear blue for spirit day, the dog is almost out of food, my third grader needs her camp form signed, we are low on laundry pods, and somehow I need to figure out what everyone is going to have for dinner.

And none of those tasks are physically visible. No one sees me mentally calculating the amount of brownies I need to bring to the cookout while also wondering if I responded to the teacher's email about missing homework while also trying to remember the new wifi password.

My mental load is like having 97 browser tabs open at all times. My ADHD might add a little annoying background music playing in my brain while I’m trying to do the math, but the truth is I was f*cked long before that.

People assume that ADHD means I can’t focus. But the truth is, I focus on everything. In fact, I am focusing on too much. And because I am a mom, no one is handing me a checklist. I am the damn checklist!

I don’t have that much trouble completing the tasks. I have trouble remembering that the task exists. Remembering who needs new sneakers, which kid is currently boycotting pasta sauce this week, who needs a birthday party gift, who has an early release day; it’s a full time job just remembering to remember. And truthfully, it is frying my brain.

And of course, my ADHD doesn’t help. And sometimes it means I will lose my phone while holding it. But it’s not what’s killing me. What’s killing me is carrying the operational responsibility of my four kids, all while society is still trying to make us feel like motherhood is not a real job.

And in the past few years I have realized that medication and some simple strategies can really help my ADHD. But what I have yet to find a fix for is the fact that mothers are expected to quietly carry around a shit ton of invisible labor — all while smiling and showing up and looking cute.

So, yeah — I have ADHD. But if you dropped a neurotypical woman in my brain for a week she would likely also come crawling out like she had just been thrust into some chaotic scene of Jumanji. Because it’s not that my brain works differently; it’s that motherhood requires women to function as the unpaid interns of everyone else’s lives. And that’s enough to make anyone forget the permission slip.

Samm is an ex-lawyer and mom of four who swears a lot. Find her on Instagram @sammbdavidson.

]]><![CDATA[100+ Dolly Parton Quotes That Prove Why We’ll Always Love Her]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/dolly-parton-quoteshttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/dolly-parton-quotesTue, 25 Aug 2026 23:56:32 GMT
Getty Images

Every now and then, a person comes along with the rare ability to endear themselves to seemingly everyone. You can probably count the number of personalities who fit that description on one hand, and there’s a name that undoubtedly lands near the top of the list for most: Dolly Parton, the Queen of Country Music. A woman who, over the course of her seven-decade career and life in the spotlight, managed to make just about all of us feel like we knew her. And now, she’s left us with a whole lot of reasons why we will, in fact, always love her.

Parton passed away on Aug. 25, 2026, at the age of 80, and the outpouring of support since has proven what we already knew: She was treasured. Can you think of any figure in pop culture more universally admired? When she wasn’t singing, starring in movies, or RV’ing the country with husband Carl Thomas Dean (a favorite pastime up until his death in 2025), Parton was helping to build a new generation of book lovers through her Imagination Library. She also donated her time and resources to causes like vaccine funding, disaster relief, tuition assistance, and so much more.

All of this to say: She was the best, and the words she leaves us with will keep her legacy alive. Here are some of the greatest, funniest, and most insightful things Parton ever said.

Dolly Parton Quotes on Life & Legacy

  1. “Find out who you are and do it on purpose.”
  2. “Storms make trees take deeper roots.”
  3. “If your actions create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, then you are an excellent leader.”
  4. “I make a point to appreciate all the little things in my life. I go out and smell the air after a good, hard rain. These small actions help remind me that there are so many great, glorious pieces of good in the world.”
  5. “I always love working with children. I never had children of my own. God has his purposes. God didn't let me have children so everybody's children could be mine. That's kind of how I'm looking at it.”
  6. “The magic is inside of you; there ain’t no crystal ball.”
  7. “You can wish your life away. But if you're going to dream, you're going to have to get out and, like I always say, you have to put some wings on them dreams, and some feet and fingers and some hands. They gotta get into some stuff. You can't just sit around and think of all the things you want to do. You've got to think of what you want to do, and then you've got to get out and make that happen.”
  8. “You can be rich in spirit, kindness, love, and all those things that you can’t put a dollar sign on.”
  9. “I’ve always tried to never step on anybody to get where I am. I’ve had to walk around a few people, jump over a few of ‘em now and then, but I think you’re a true success when you’ve seen your dreams come true and you can take pride in how you did it, and take pride in and respect and appreciate the people that helped you get there.”
  10. “Sure, I'm in it for the money, but also because I love music. I picture myself in the future as a happy old lady, chubby, rosy cheeks, telling stories to the little kids. When I sit back in my rocker, I want to have done it all.”
  11. “Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.”
  12. “After you reach a certain age, they think you’re over. Well, I will never be over.”
  13. “They think I’m simpleminded because I seem to be happy. Why shouldn’t I be happy? I have everything I ever wanted and more. Maybe I am simpleminded. Maybe that’s the key: simple.”
  14. “You always want your people to be proud of what you have accomplished.”
  15. “The older I get, the earlier I get up. The second my feet hit the floor, I’m awake. I’m like, Hurry, hurry. I just love life. And I feel like we ain’t got but a certain amount of time anyway. I want to make the most of it.”

Funny Dolly Parton Quotes

  1. “It costs a lot of money to look this cheap.”
  2. “If I see something sagging, bagging, or dragging, I’ll get it nipped, tucked, or sucked.”
  3. “I was the first woman to burn my bra — it took the fire department four days to put it out.”
  4. “People always ask me how long it takes to do my hair. I don’t know, I’m never there.”
  5. “I tried every diet in the book. I tried some that weren’t in the book. I tried eating the book. It tasted better than most of the diets.”
  6. “God and I have a great relationship, but we both see other people.”
  7. “I have little feet because nothing grows in the shade.”
  8. “After Momma gave birth to 12 of us kids, we put her on a pedestal. It was mostly to keep Daddy away from her.”
  9. “People always say, ‘But you always look so happy.’ Well, that’s Botox! Nobody’s happy all the time. But I work hard at it.”
  10. “I’m not offended by all the dumb blonde jokes because I know I’m not dumb — and I also know that I’m not blonde.”
  11. “My weaknesses have always been food and men — in that order.”
  12. “Sometimes my mouth is a little too big and a little too open and sounds too much like a sailor.”
  13. “I would never stoop so low as to be fashionable.”
  14. “I have pretty good skin considering my age, and I think a lot of that is mineral oil and bacon grease.”
  15. “I like to buy clothes that are two sizes too small and then take them in a little.”

Dolly Parton Quotes On Being Yourself

  1. “I look totally artificial, but I am totally real, as a writer, as a professional, as a human being. A rhinestone shines just as good as a diamond.”
  2. “You don’t have to look like everybody else. You don’t have to be a raving beauty to be special and to be beautiful.”
  3. “I’m flashy, and I’m flamboyant. Had I not been a girl, I definitely would have been a drag queen.”
  4. “I'm a show-off basically... always have been.”
  5. “Never ignore your roots, your home, or your hair.”
  6. “I walk tall; I got a tall attitude.”
  7. “I’m like a cartoon! I’ll look this way when I’m 80. I can see it now, people will be rolling me around in a wheelchair and I’ll still have my big hair, nails, my high heels, and my boobs stuck out!”
  8. “I’ve had to go against all kinds of people through the years just to be myself. I think everybody should be allowed to be who they are and to love who they love.”
  9. “He always loved who I was, and I loved who he was, and we never tried to change each other.”
  10. “I just don’t feel like I have to explain myself.”
  11. “I feel that sin and evil are the negative part of you, and I think it’s like a battery: You’ve got to have the negative and the positive in order to be a complete person.”
  12. “I make jokes about it, but it’s the truth that I kind of patterned my look after the town tramp. I didn’t know what she was, just this woman who was blonde and piled her hair up, wore high heels and tight skirts, and boy, she was just the prettiest thing I’d ever seen. Momma used to say, ‘Aw, she’s just trash,’ and I thought, That’s what I want to be when I grow up. Trash.’”
  13. “I’m not going to limit myself just because people won’t accept the fact that I can do something else.”
  14. “People say how you stay looking so young? I say, well, good lighting, good doctors, and good makeup.”
  15. “I am comfortable in my own skin, no matter how far I’ve stretched it at times. But I know who I am and I don’t try to be nobody else. And if that ain’t good enough for you, too bad.”
Getty Images

Dolly Parton Quotes on Hard Times

  1. “The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain!”
  2. “If you don’t like the road you’re walking, start paving another one.”
  3. “We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails.”
  4. “I thank God for my failures. Maybe not at the time, but after some reflection. I never feel like a failure just because something I tried has failed.”
  5. “Adjusting to the passage of time, I think, is a key to success and to life: just being able to roll with the punches.”
  6. “I know how to stand my ground. I know how to speak up. I know how to stand sturdy. But that doesn’t mean I’ve hardened my heart.”
  7. “Everybody’s life is a soap opera, everybody’s life is a country-western song... depends on who’s writing it.”
  8. “When I wake up, I expect things to be good. If they’re not, then I try to set about trying to make them as good as I can ’cause I know I’m gonna have to live that day anyway. So why not try to make the most of it if you can? Some days, they pan out a little better than others, but you still gotta always just try.”
  9. “You don’t stop when life gets hard — you sing through it.”
  10. “With hope, there’s nothing you can’t do!”
  11. “I have always been a firm believer in working hard for what is right and for making your own breaks if you want things to change.”
  12. “Dreams nor wishes come true without a lot of hard work.”
  13. “It’s hard to be a diamond in a rhinestone world.”
  14. “Above everything else, I’ve always said I’ve had more guts than I’ve got talent.”
  15. “I’ve had heartaches, headaches, toothaches, earraches, and I’ve had a few pains in the ass, but I’ve survived to tell about it.”

Dolly Parton Quotes on Kindness

  1. “I always just thought if you see somebody without a smile, give ’em yours!”
  2. “Everybody has their own journey; they have their own way of doing things. And who am I to judge?”
  3. “Leave something good in every day.”
  4. “Funny thing is that the poorer people are, the more generous they seem to be.”
  5. “We can’t just hope for a brighter day; we have to work for a brighter day.”
  6. “Lord, I’ve got enough problems of my own to pass judgment on somebody else.”
  7. “We’re all just a bunch of sinners, but we do the best we can.”
  8. “I was born with a happy heart, and I try to keep a good attitude. It’s not true that I’m happy all the time because nobody is, and we all go through our things.”
  9. “We can’t save the world, but we can save the world we’re living in.”
  10. “There’s a scripture that says, ‘A merry heart doeth good like medicine.’ I think that’s true, too.”
  11. “I do not sit in the seat of judgment... I love people for who they are. We’re all God’s children!”
  12. “I have a strict policy that nobody cries alone in my presence.” — Steel Magnolias
  13. “I have to not harden my heart, because I want to stay open to feel things.”
  14. “It's when you treat people like freaks that you become one yourself.”
  15. “Life is sweeter when you have an attitude of gratitude!”

Dolly Parton Quotes On Work & Ambition

  1. “I always count my blessings more than I count my money. I don’t work for money, never did.”
  2. “Tumble outta bed, and I stumble to the kitchen. Pour myself a cup of ambition.” — “9 to 5”
  3. “I’m just a working girl. I never think of myself as a star because, as somebody once said, ‘A star is nothing but a big ball of gas’ — and I don’t want to be that.”
  4. “You make your choices, you make your sacrifices, and I never looked back. I knew early on that I was going to walk that road until God told me to stop.”
  5. “I had a gift of rhyme and a big imagination, and that’s just how I started and how I’m still a-goin’.”
  6. “I’m the little engine that did.”
  7. “I never have considered myself a perfectionist, but I do think of myself as a ‘professionalist’… I always strive simply to be my very best.”
  8. “You’ll never do a whole lot unless you’re brave enough to try.”
  9. “When I’m inspired, I get excited because I can’t wait to see what I’ll come up with next.”
  10. “I imagined it, I dreamed it, I worked for it, and God was good enough to let me have it.”
  11. “Being a star just means that you find your own special place, and that you shine where you are.”
  12. “I had to get rich so I could afford to sing like I was poor again.”
  13. “Some of my dreams are so big they would scare you.”
  14. “I still believe that women should get paid equal and should be treated with respect. I’m all about that. I don’t get out and have to preach it or march in the streets; I write about it.”
  15. “Success goes straight to my heart, not to my head.”
Getty Images

Dolly Parton Quotes On Her Roots

  1. “I have often joked that we had two rooms and a path — and running water if you were willing to run to get it.”
  2. “I saw early on that I could make a business out of this because I wanted money, I wanted to travel, I wanted clothes, I wanted to be loved, I wanted to be staying in fine hotels. It wasn't to get away from what I was because I knew that would always be me. I've never been ashamed of my people. I love my people and I love my home.”
  3. “I still close my eyes and go home; I can always draw from that.”
  4. “It’s a compliment to me. I mean, we were real hillbillies. To me, that’s not an insult. We were just mountain people.”
  5. “We always made jokes and said we didn't even know we were poor till some smart aleck up and told us. We didn't have any money, but we were rich in things that money don't buy. You know, like love and kindness and understanding."
  6. “I have loved performing since I was big enough to wrestle my little brothers and sisters into sitting long enough for me to sing them my latest musical masterpiece. I just hope y'all will come out and see this little girl from the hills of Tennessee walk out there on that big ole stage and make her dreams come true. Don't make me wrestle you too, 'cause I will if I have to!”
  7. “I would trade nothing for being brought up in the Great Smoky Mountains.”
  8. “Of course, you always are with the butterflies, especially when you’re young and little and you’re used to just being with your family. And then there are all these people. It’s a little different than standing in front of that tin can singing to the chickens and the dogs and the little kids in the yard.”
  9. “When I was a little girl, I used a tobacco stick and a tin can and pretended it was a microphone, and I sang on my front porch, imagining I was on the Grand Ole Opry.”
  10. “I grew up poor — very poor.”
  11. “I think that I got a really great spiritual base and creative base from my mother and my mother’s people, and I got that hard willingness and responsibility from my dad. So I think I got a good combination between my mom and dad.”
  12. “Until I was a teenager, I used red pokeberries for lipstick and a burnt matchstick for eyeliner. I used honeysuckle for perfume.”
  13. “I’m proud of my hillbilly, white-trash background. To me that keeps you humble, that keeps you good. And it doesn’t matter how hard you try to outrun it. If that’s who you are, that’s who you are.”
  14. “I was blessed to have family members who encouraged me to pursue my dreams. Whether it is your parents, or your uncles or your aunts or even the neighbor down the road, it's important that kids have someone who encourages them to chase their rainbow.”
  15. “I feel blessed that I still have the little Dolly in my heart; I'm still the same girl that wants to squeeze every little drop out of life that I can.”

In lieu of flowers, Parton’s family has asked that donations be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

]]><![CDATA[Being An Only Child With Aging Parents Is Harder Than People Think]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/only-child-aging-parentshttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/only-child-aging-parentsTue, 25 Aug 2026 16:00:23 GMT
Luis Alvarez/Getty Images

I am an only child. Even though I’m a 43-year-old middle-aged woman with bills to pay, I will always be referred to as an only child. And that’s fine by me, even if wearing the “only child” label hasn’t always been easy.

Unlike being an “eldest daughter,” which comes with plenty of relatable memes and a lot of sympathy and head nodding, there hasn’t been quite as much understanding for us only children. “Spoiled,” “privileged,” and “selfish” are often the labels we get.

Then there’s the other side of the “I would never have an only child” narrative: the belief that we’re lonely and alone. I’ve met plenty of fellow only children throughout my life, and I’d argue we are some of the least lonely people out there. We’re independent, self-reliant, and self-sufficient — almost to a fault and sometimes to our own detriment.

I’ve always loved being an only child. I’ve never wanted a sibling, and I’ve relished the close relationship I’ve formed with my parents. They really are my best friends.

This is the part that gets hard and sticky as we age: When you’re an only child and you watch your parents age, you do realize that, when it comes to them, you’re on your own. And with aging parents, as so many of us in the sandwich generation understand, it’s a tough road to navigate at times. As only children, it’s often a road we have to navigate alone.

“Only children often need to carry the emotional weight of transitioning to the caregiver and decision-maker role for their parents alone. They often need to serve as a source of support and make health or other decisions on their behalf,” says Marisa T. Cohen, PhD, LMFT, CST, a licensed marriage and family therapist and also an only child. “Without siblings who most likely have a shared narrative of the family history, taking on this caregiver role can feel incredibly isolating and may even lead to anticipatory grief.”

Additionally, says Cohen, the transition from the parent-child relationship to taking on caregiving responsibilities carries a lot of emotional weight.

“Being the only decision-maker can feel incredibly overwhelming,” explains Cohen. “Many only children worry about making the right choice because they don't have a sibling to talk through difficult medical, financial, or caregiving decisions with. Carrying that responsibility alone can lead to stress, self-doubt, and potentially burnout if they don’t have their own sources of support.”

I definitely feel that weight sometimes. Fortunately, aside from a few health hiccups over the past few years, my parents are healthy and self-sufficient. They’ve even built a gym in their house (replacing my bedroom, naturally) and are dedicated to eating well, exercising regularly, and enjoying their life.

It’s easy for me to think they will always be like this. By “like this,” I mean “around.” Able to do things for themselves. But I know this won’t always be the case.

I’m also on the other side of Canada — they’re on Prince Edward Island, while I’m in Vancouver — and that distance makes things particularly tricky. For now, they’ve been able to rely on friends and neighbors to help them, but I do think about the distance and how, one day, I may have to move my life when the inevitable happens.

Because it’s not like I have a sibling who lives closer and could check in on them if I can’t. There’s no one else to share that responsibility with. Everything is on my shoulders.

In my case, thankfully, my parents have always been pretty good about having the tough conversations. I already know their wishes, and they’ve been open about their healthcare and what they want as they get older. I also have a group of close friends from high school who have been part of this process and who I know I can lean on when the time comes.

Still, knowing what your parents want is one thing; actually navigating their aging is another. Cohen says having these conversations early can make that transition easier: “It’s helpful to have the important conversations (such as healthcare wishes, finances, end-of-life care, etc.) early. While these conversations are often uncomfortable to have, it’s best to have them when everyone can fully participate in them.”

She also recommends identifying sources of support, including professionals and social connections, so that you aren’t left to carry the burden alone.

Admittedly, I sometimes feel guilty that I haven’t been as available to help them as I would if I lived locally. But I also feel sometimes (and maybe selfishly, how on point) that I want to be able to live my life and not be solely responsible for my parents and have this enormous responsibility just because I am an only child. For any person who’s looked after a parent, only child or not, it’s easy to fall into the trap of obligation with our parents. As much as we love them, it can feel overwhelming to feel like everything is on us.

And that’s where boundaries come in. “Boundaries are important to protect your peace and preserve the relationship with your parents,” says Cohen. She says it’s important to be honest with yourself about what you realistically have the capacity for... not just in terms of your time and ability to manage logistics, but also your emotional bandwidth.

It’s also important to be clear about those boundaries and manage expectations. As Cohen explains, that might mean saying, “I am only available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to take you to appointments.”

Of course, guilt may still come up. “Sometimes guilt is inevitable, but that doesn’t mean that you are doing something wrong,” Cohen says. She adds that it can be helpful to work through those complicated emotions with the support of a mental health clinician.

Naturally, there will be many emotions, sometimes complicated ones, when our parents age. When you’re an only child and feel the weight of the relationship you have with your parents, as well as the responsibility you feel to take care of them, it’s a lot to think you’re going through it all alone. Yes, you might have a spouse or close family members, but it’s not the same thing. These two people are your parents. No one else’s. Who else will take care of them if not you?

I don’t think about it that much (out of sight, out of mind, I guess), but there are moments — especially when my parents tell me they’re going to the doctor for the tenth time in two months — when I feel like time is running out. How much longer do I have with them? And how much longer do I have before I have to start doing everything for them?

Cohen says those feelings are completely understandable. Start by acknowledging what you're feeling and remember that you don’t have to go through this alone. Caring for a parent as an only child may result in grief, anxiety, guilt, and feelings of uncertainty. Build a supportive caregiving team that includes professionals, such as therapists, home health aides, as well as trusted family members and friends who can help with tasks.”

And, she says, it’s vital not to forget about yourself in all of this. “Chronic stress can take a real toll on your physical and mental health, so protecting your own well-being is part of caring for your parents, too,” she says.

There’s also a misconception that being an only child somehow makes dealing with aging parents easier. Maybe there are fewer people to consult when a decision needs to be made, but that doesn’t necessarily make the decisions easier.

“People assume that since decisions don’t need to be run by other people (such as siblings), they are easier to make; however, the emotional toll can be much harder as there isn’t anyone to process these decisions with,” Cohen says.

That’s really the thing about being an only child: There’s no one else who shares quite the same history with your parents. You probably know your parents better than anyone, but when the hard decisions come, you’re also the only one sitting at the table. And that shit is hard.

Which is why Cohen says it’s crucial to lean on other family members or friends/chosen family. “You can also enlist professionals to join the caregiving team, which may include financial advisors, therapists, home health aides, etc.,” she says. “It is important to remember that you don’t have to approach this challenging time alone.”

I think that’s the crux of being an only child. We do think we can do things alone (and we definitely can; our life has proven this), but that doesn’t mean we have to do something as difficult as caring for our aging parents by ourselves.

While no one will understand or know the relationship I’ve had with my parents, or carry the same grief as me, that is something I will have to walk through on my own. But there are other things — the tiny things, the bureaucratic things, the supportive things — that friends and chosen family can help with.

Ultimately, though, I wouldn’t want a sibling just to have this time be “easier” on me. I don’t think dealing with aging parents is ever easy, with or without siblings.

As with anything difficult in life, I find it helpful to find the gratitude in what is, and I am grateful to be an only child and to have the relationship I have with my parents. That’s something I wouldn’t change, and that relationship will remain even when they’re gone.

]]><![CDATA[Magic Kingdom’s Villains Land Will Have Two New Attractions, Including A Maleficent Coaster]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/villains-land-magic-kingdom-disney-worldhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/villains-land-magic-kingdom-disney-worldTue, 25 Aug 2026 14:55:57 GMT
Disney

Ursula the sea witch, the evil queen with her poison apple, Scar and his band of hyenas... some of Disney’s most iconic characters (with the catchiest musical numbers) are the bad guys. And if you’ve always had a soft spot for the dark side, you’re going to love this announcement made at Disney’s 2026 D23 convention: the dedicated Villains Land coming to Disney World’s Magic Kingdom will have two brand new attractions, including a Maleficent coaster.

Disney unveiled tons of new details about its expansions at Walt Disney World Resorts in Orlando, including the exciting news that Monstropolis (located in Hollywood Studios) will open its gates to human visitors in 2027. In 2025, we learned that one big chunk of Magic Kingdom — as in multiple acres of space — will become the gloomy, mystical Villains Land inspired by the wicked characters from your favorite Disney films. Now, we have our first look at concept art for the expansion’s two new attractions.

The concept of Villains Land centers on a broken wishing well, corrupted and oozing dark magic, which Disney’s villains have come to claim for themselves. “This sinister setting is tempting for those with wicked intentions, so one by one, the villains have come here to try and claim the last of the Wishing Well’s power. Villains Land will be shaped by those who have used this dark magic to conjure the perfect new lairs for themselves. These mighty fortresses and gleaming palaces not only reflect the personality of the villains who own them, they invite guests into a tantalizing treasure trove of treats, trinkets, and more temptations,” says Disney Park Blogs.

Disney

We know there will be plenty of dining, retail, and immersive experiences in Villains Land, but so far the specifics haven’t been revealed. What we do know are the stories behind the two headlining attractions coming to this section of the park:

  • Maleficent Coaster: Hop in and race through the enchanted briar surrounding the Queen of All Evil’s mountaintop fortress before coming face-to-face with Maleficent herself. At D23, the Imagineering team said this coaster “will include elements they’ve never attempted before on similar attractions,” so fingers crossed we’re getting an extremely cool dragon.
  • Mirror Realm Dark Ride: The ride vehicle here looks like it holds a large group, similar to Frozen Ever After at Epcot. Guests will travel deep into the Evil Queen’s catacombs to where she keeps the Magic Mirror hidden away before he sweeps them away into his realm. There he’ll conjure all of Disney’s most iconic villains (using special effects and practical set pieces).

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Disney
Disney

Villains Land is one of the largest elements of Disney’s upcoming expansions acreage-wise (the size and scale have been likened to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge), but other announcements at D23 are just as exciting. A New Monsters, Inc. land is also coming and will include Disney’s first-ever suspended roller coaster themed after the door moving system inside Monsters, Inc. headquarters. Frontierland is also being redesigned into the world of Radiator Springs, complete with a road rally coaster and attractions fit for even the youngest members of the family, according to the parks. So, in the not-too-distant future, guests in Orlando will be able to stroll straight from Villains Land into Monstropolis (complete with a Harryhausen’s) and down Main Street in Radiator Springs.

Aside from entire sections of the park being built or reworked, some rides are getting a facelift, too. A new Indiana Jones attraction and an Encanto ride are slated to replace the Dinosaur and DinoLand U.S.A. attractions at Animal Kingdom. So, which announcement from D23 has you most excited?

]]><![CDATA[The FDA Approved A New ADHD Medication For Kids & Adults. Here’s What Parents Should Know.]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/new-fda-approved-adhd-medication-simtriyohttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/new-fda-approved-adhd-medication-simtriyoMon, 24 Aug 2026 21:02:02 GMT
Jecapix/E+/Getty Images

If you’re one of a growing number of women who’ve been diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, or if you’re a mom to a kid with ADHD, you probably perked up when you saw recent headlines that the FDA approved a new medication to treat ADHD in kids and adults alike. The med (brand name Simtriyo) is a daily extended-release capsule that contains an active ingredient called centanafadine. It’s the first norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin reuptake inhibitor (NDSRI) to treat ADHD and is approved for use in adults and children 6 years and older (as long as they weigh at least 44 pounds).

Scary Mommy spoke with a pediatric psychiatrist and ADHD expert to ask parents’ pressing questions about the new, headline-making drug.

How is centanafadine different from the ADHD meds that are currently available?

When it comes to treating ADHD, there are two types of medications available: stimulants and non-stimulants. The stimulant medications come in two different classes: methylphenidate-based medications (like Ritalin or Concerta) and amphetamine-based medications (think Adderall and Vyvanse).

Then, there are non-stimulant medications, which are typically used when stimulant medications cause unwanted side effects, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

“Those are the alpha agonists — guanfacine and clonidine. Then there are the norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. Those are atomoxetine, also known as Strattera, and Viloxazine, also known as Qelbree, and those work on norepinephrine,” says Dr. Michael A. Volkert, a psychiatrist with the Center for Management of ADHD at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

“What makes this different is the mechanism. This medication works on norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin. It inhibits the re-uptake of all three of those. The serotonergic reuptake inhibition is unique to this particular medication,” he explains.

This chemical makeup technically makes centanafadine a “stimulant with non-stimulant characteristics,” according to its developers. In his practice, Volkert said he would think about it and use it like a non-stimulant.

Does centanafadine work better than other ADHD medications?

Specifically, will it work better than stimulants? “If that question was posed to me, the answer would be probably not, based on the data that is available now,” Volkert says.

“Stimulants are currently the recommended first-line option by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Stimulants are very effective; they provide a noticeable difference in symptom relief. Non-stimulants as a class are less effective for ADHD symptoms.”

Non-stimulants are typically prescribed when the side effects of stimulants are problematic to the patient, Volkert says. For example, stimulants can cause appetite suppression; children with ADHD are sometimes very selective eaters, and suppressing their appetite any further could cause weight concerns, he explains.

So, who is centanafadine right for?

What matters most to parents is whether this drug might be right for their child, or better in some way than what they currently take.

This medication is still so new that it’s hard to say. Clinical trials to get FDA approval usually have “squeaky clean” patient populations, Volkert says, meaning they typically only have ADHD and none of the common comorbid diagnoses, like eating disorders, substance abuse disorders, or tic disorders. So, that data doesn’t necessarily represent every person with ADHD.

Centanafadine is a drug that acts like a non-stimulant, so starting out, physicians will probably recommend it for people who may have struggled with the side effects of stimulants.

“When you compare this medication to stimulant medications — and this data is sort of extrapolated; they have not been studied directly against each other in the same patient population — it causes less appetite suppression, less insomnia, less jitteriness, and less dry mouth. Versus other non-stimulants like atomoxetine specifically, less nausea, less fatigue, and less somnolence. Versus viloxazine, another non-stimulant, less fatigue, insomnia, nausea, and constipation,” says Volkert.

Centanafadine could be a good first medication to try in specific cases, he adds.

“It really depends on the patient, what side effects we are trying to avoid, and what comorbidities exist. For example, it will be a non-controlled medication; it likely does not have abuse potential for people with substance use disorders. It is likely going to be more safe in very underweight patients who cannot tolerate the appetite suppression sometimes associated with stimulant medications. The stimulants do have some growth-related concerns for slowing growth velocity. This new medication may not have that, but we don’t have the data on that yet.”

What about that black box warning?

If you read a news article about Simtriyo, you likely know it carries a black box warning that it can cause suicidal ideation, especially within the first few months of treatment. This is obviously a terrifying possibility for parents considering the drug to treat their child’s ADHD.

This is where having a discussion with your child’s medical provider is really going to matter; there’s a lot of nuance here, Volkert says. Anxiety and depression are two of the most common disorders that co-occur with ADHD in kids, according to the CDC, and typically “stem from challenges brought on by ADHD symptoms.” Managing the condition may take precedence.

“Untreated mental health conditions also carry a risk of suicidal ideation. When the suicidal ideation occurs due to medications, stopping the medications stops the suicidal ideation,” says Volkert.

It’s also important to be clear about what suicidal ideation means. “Suicidal ideation is not going to make somebody who’s not suicidal think that suicide is now the answer. It is more of an intrusive, unwanted thought of suicide that is then reported to parents and then the medication is stopped.”

When will Simtriyo be available?

“FDA-approved” and “available to consumers” are two different things. It’ll likely be months before the medication is able to be prescribed, Volkert says. Even then, it may be difficult to get.

“It’s not available yet in pharmacies; it’s not even stocked yet. The other thing is, it will likely require prior authorization because when medications are new, they’re not available in the generic; they’re available in the brand-name only. Being a brand new medication, I’m guessing it’s going to be expensive. Insurance companies are going to want a prior authorization, and the prior authorization generally asks you if you’ve tried other medications first. And if you have not, they might refuse it and say, ‘Try these other medications first, which are generic,’” he says.

With all that in mind, it’s hard to say when this medication might be available as a first-line treatment. For now, the guidance remains unchanged: stimulants are still considered the most effective medication for ADHD, the kind that’s most likely to “move the needle” on symptoms, Volkert says. But if you or your child have tried stimulants with mixed results, it’s still worth bringing up this new option with your medical provider.

]]><![CDATA[18 Ground Turkey Recipes, Because You Have Protein Goals To Meet]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/ground-turkey-recipeshttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/ground-turkey-recipesMon, 24 Aug 2026 19:39:26 GMT

The more time goes on, the more protein we’re supposed to eat, apparently — even just figuring out how much protein to eat is a chore since the numbers are so hotly debated on social media. Once you have your goal set and you’re recipe planning, though, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut with bland chicken breasts and protein pasta. But with these ground turkey recipes, you can eat lean protein meals all week long with pretty minimal effort in the kitchen.

With most recipes, you can easily switch between ground beef, ground chicken, and ground turkey. But I do think there are some special considerations to be made when you’re cooking with ground turkey, because honestly, it tends to get dry really easily. And nobody wants to eat their fifth meal of prepped ground turkey bowl knowing it’s going to be like chewing on eraser shavings (ask me how I know). These recipes all make the most of their main ingredient, and stay juicy and saucy and delicious despite turkey’s tendency to dry out. Chef’s kiss.

Greek Turkey Meatballs With Feta

All The Healthy Things

One of the best antidotes to a naturally drier protein? Sauce! All The Healthy Things’ Greek turkey meatballs stay nice and juicy regardless, but with the addition of all those fresh veggies and homemade yogurt sauce, you could never accuse this turkey dish of being anything but delicious.

Turkey Bolognese

Well Plated

My Italian friends, please forgive me, but turkey bolognese is a recipe option for those not as dedicated to tradition. Well Plated’s recipe is ready in 45 minutes but tastes like it’s been simmering all day, which makes it a winner in my book.

Turkey Meatball Sliders

Damn Delicious

If you make a big batch of turkey meatballs for the last recipe, you have the hardest part of this recipe already done. Damn Delicious’ turkey meatball sliders are the perfect easy recipe to follow whether you have spare meatballs lying around or not, and they’ll take very little time to throw together on a busy school night.

Burger Bowls With Special Sauce

All The Healthy Things

I don’t know about you, but I could quite literally always go for a cheeseburger. So, this burger bowl recipe from All The Healthy Things is high on my list to try in the coming weeks. You could get super creative with the toppings here — like bacon-and-bleu-cheese burger bowls or mushroom-and-Swiss — or keep it classic. This recipe calls for ground beef, but the blogger specifies that swapping in ground turkey is no issue at all.

Taco Sloppy Joes

Tessie's Table

Nothing on this planet gets drier than ground turkey when it’s overcooked, so a recipe like Tessie’s Table’s taco sloppy Joes is the perfect solution. Look at all that sauce! This feels like an easy kid- and adult-friendly recipe since you can customize your Joe with your choice of toppings.

Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Princess Pinky Girl

All the flavor with none of the assembly? Sign me up. Princess Pinky Girl knows how to get at the heart of what makes a dish yummy, and then make the steps to getting there way easier. Her unstuffed cabbage rolls are no different. The recipe calls for ground beef, but elsewhere in her post, she says ground turkey or chicken works just as well (again, it’s a saucy dish).

Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Damn Delicious

Damn Delicious’ lettuce wraps made with ground turkey might be the ultimate recipe. It comes together in one skillet, is super flavorful and high in protein, and it only takes 25 minutes start to finish. Grab some butter lettuce to scoop them up, and you really won’t even have any silverware to wash.

Easiest Burrito Bowl Meal Prep

Budget Bytes

Budget Bytes’ burrito bowls are so easy to make that it’s hard to believe they’re also so satisfying. Just brown and season your ground turkey, then add whatever burrito fillings you’d normally enjoy, like cheese, salsa, or pico, lettuce, rice, beans, you name it. This is precisely my kind of recipe — barely any cooking, plenty of flavor, and it’ll feed me many times.

Healthy Baked Ziti

All The Healthy Things

Baked ziti is a satisfying, crowd-pleasing sort of dinner for when your family just wants some comfort food. This recipe from All The Healthy Things advises that you can keep the dish a little lighter and higher in protein by using ground turkey instead of the usual beef.

Easy 30-Minute Turkey Chili

Averie Cooks

Chili is a great way to use up ground turkey with pretty minimal effort, and Averie Cooks’ version is no different. It packs tons of flavor, too. Bonus points if you top it with a little Greek yogurt instead of sour cream (because protein), and yes, cheese is protein too.

Turkey-Chili-Smothered Sweet Potatoes

Budget Bytes

You will want to add some extra fiber to your diet to complement all that protein, and this dish from Budget Bytes is the perfect way to do that while also breathing new life into your leftover chili. Top a baked sweet potato (a high-fiber food) with a heap of tasty chili, then top with cheese and fresh cilantro, and serve it up.

Zucchini, Quinoa, & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Peppers

Foodie Crush

The title of the recipe is a little deceiving, but you can make this recipe with standard ground turkey — just add a little garlic and fennel to replicate that sausage flavor, Foodie Crush says. The juicy peppers help their contents stay tender, and you’ll definitely hit all your protein and veggie goals with this meal.

Turkey & Vegetable Stir Fry

Averie Cooks

Need a fast, filling, nutritious weeknight meal? Then Averie Cooks’ turkey and veggie stir fry is where it’s at. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a great way to curb your takeout cravings while also hitting your protein goal for the day.

Easy Tex-Mex Stuffed Acorn Squash With Ground Turkey

Simple And Savory

The acorn squashes take about an hour in the oven so this may not be a weeknight dinner solution, but Simple And Savory’s recipe is pretty easy to make. If you’re a squash lover, I think this Tex-Mex ground turkey situation will really do it for you.

20-Minute Teriyaki Turkey Bowls

Entirely Emmy

Entirely Emmy is the queen of making delicious, nutritious bowls, and this ground beef bowl is the perfect recipe to sub some turkey into. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that’s ready in 20 minutes, and you can use up all the random veggies in your produce drawer.

Juicy Grilled Turkey Burgers

Feel Good Foodie

I’m all for a turkey burger, but they usually come out flavorless and dry. Feel Good Foodie’s recipe calls for the perfect blend of spices to fix that and teaches you a little patty indentation trick to help them cook evenly (this helps them stay juicy).

Mini Turkey Meatloaf Muffins

Haute & Healthy Living

Mini turkey meatloaves are not the first thing to come to mind when I’m wondering what to do with my thawed ground meat, but Haute & Healthy Living might be here to change that. They only take 20 minutes to bake, and the shredded apple and onion seem like they’d keep the final product moist. I think it’s worth a try!

Ground Turkey & Zucchini Skillet

Budget Bytes

Dinner does not have to be fancy to be good (or good for you). Budget Bytes’ turkey and zucchini skillet is filling and flavorful (you’ll need soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, grated garlic, grated ginger, and chili garlic sauce). Plus, it’s ready in 25 minutes start to finish, which you really can’t beat.

So, which ground turkey recipes will you add to your repertoire?

]]><![CDATA[How One Mom is Raising a New Generation of Adventurers]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/how-one-mom-is-raising-a-new-generation-of-adventurershttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/how-one-mom-is-raising-a-new-generation-of-adventurersMon, 24 Aug 2026 18:45:57 GMT

What's on your bucket list? Maybe it's hiking towering mountains, visiting every National Park, or spending entire days out on the water. Those dreams can feel pretty far away when you're juggling school pickups, grocery runs, and approximately 900 other things. But adventure doesn't have to disappear just because you became a parent.

Susan Kikuli isn't waiting until her kids are grown to show them the world. The Las Vegas mom of two and creator behind @mama_and_minis_adventures has made exploring part of her family's routine. Whether they're camping under the stars, paddling across a lake, or chasing down another trailhead, she's raising Christopher, 9, and David, 11, to believe there's a whole lot more waiting for them than whatever's on a screen.

"I want my kids to feel that the outdoors is their playground," says Susan, whose love of nature began as a therapeutic outlet when her boys were babies. "It's a win-win situation because they thrive outdoors just as much as I do."

Of course, saying yes to adventure is a lot easier when you have a vehicle that's just as game as you are. For Susan, that's the Ford 2026 Explorer ST. Ranked among the highest in initial quality among mainstream brands by J.D. Power, it gives her family the capability and confidence to keep chasing whatever's around the next bend. Here's how it's helping her raise two adventurous little humans.

She Treats The Outdoors Like A Classroom

Sure, fresh air has the magical ability to tire kids out before bedtime. But for Susan, that's just a bonus. It's where some of her kids' biggest life lessons happen.

"The outdoors provides a unique environment to develop problem-solving skills and resilience," she says. Over the years, Christopher and David have learned to adapt when plans change, solve problems together, and tackle challenges as a team. Some of that comes from leaving room for the unexpected.

"I encourage unstructured play and — every once in a while — the absence of routine," Susan says. Giving her boys space to wander, imagine, and explore has made them more creative and more comfortable navigating unfamiliar places. She recalls how one unexpected family detour made for one of the best memories.

"Once, I accidentally took the wrong road, and we discovered a beautiful park. We spent hours there, had a picnic, and explored a nearby trail. Though unplanned, it ended up being a highlight of our trip."

With the Ford 2026 Explorer ST serving as home base, wrong turns have a funny way of becoming the best part of the trip.

That's thanks in part to six standard drive modes built for whatever the day throws your way. They include Eco to maximize fuel efficiency, Sport for quicker accelerator response, Slippery for better control on ice, water, or loose gravel, and Trail to help maintain momentum on dirt and mud. Along with Normal and Tow modes, they give Susan the confidence to adapt to whatever road lies ahead instead of letting the terrain dictate the journey. Every new trail becomes another opportunity to show her sons what curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to try something new look like in real life.

"My goal has always been to show them what it looks like to tackle life with curiosity, resilience, and a sense of 'yes,'" she says.

She Knows Preparation Creates More Freedom

While spontaneity is part of every adventure, Susan says the secret is actually planning ahead. The whole family gets involved before they even leave the driveway, with everyone choosing one or two stops they want to make along the way. Then comes the packing. Parents know this isn't a suitcase. It's a small-scale logistics operation.

"I literally must know where everything is ahead of time," Susan laughs. "I plan everything in advance so I don't leave anything behind."

Emergency supplies, first-aid kits, snacks, water, toys, adventure gear, sports equipment, inflatable paddleboards — it all comes along. Thankfully, the Ford 2026 Explorer ST has room for everything, along with smart storage compartments that help keep it organized.

Even better, available third-row seating for up to six passengers (or seven with the second-row bench) gives everyone enough personal space to spread out. Christopher and David stay busy with journals, games, and activity books, and Susan says the extra room means fewer sibling squabbles along the way.

Which means less time digging through bags and muttering, "I know I packed it," and more time actually enjoying the trip.

"My hope is that my kids always remember that I was present," she says, "and that I was having the best time of my life raising them and exploring this beautiful world with them."

She Trusts Her Vehicle To Go Wherever Curiosity Leads

Everyone has their happy place. For some people it's the couch. For others it's a beach. For Susan, it's wherever the next adventure with her boys begins. For Susan, it isn't home or the office. "I tend to feel most like myself when I'm out having a good time exploring with my sons."

The Ford 2026 Explorer ST helps make those moments possible. Its sport-tuned suspension delivers sharper handling, while the performance brake system helps Susan stay confident and in control wherever the road takes her.

Because when you're not worrying about whether your vehicle can handle the road ahead, you have a lot more room to soak up the memories happening inside it. And with a clear head and presence in the moment, memories are made.

"Having the Explorer has enabled us to try new things, new trails, and new experiences, and given me the confidence to take on any terrain," Susan says. "One of the biggest things that gives me peace of mind is knowing that my vehicle can handle it all."

Learn more about the Ford 2026 Explorer ST.

]]><![CDATA[Taking The Detour: Why Adventure-Seeking Families Choose The 2026 Ford Explorer® ST SUV]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/taking-the-detour-why-adventure-ready-families-choose-the-ford-explorerhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/taking-the-detour-why-adventure-ready-families-choose-the-ford-explorerMon, 24 Aug 2026 18:45:44 GMT

Family vacations come in all shapes and sizes, but road trips have one undeniable advantage: nobody can tell you you're doing them wrong.

See a sign for the World's Largest Petting zoo? Merge away. Decide everyone's too invested in the audiobook to stop for lunch just yet? Keep driving. Change your plans halfway through the day because someone spotted a waterfall on the navigation? That's the beauty of having your own set of wheels, they leave room for some spontaneity. The only real requirement? A vehicle that's just as ready to pivot as your family is.

That's why families like Susan Kikuli's rely on the 2026 Ford Explorer® ST SUV. The Las Vegas mom of two and creator of @mama_and_minis_adventures spends her weekends chasing trails, lakes, and campsites with her sons, Christopher and David. She tells Scary Mommy that the Ford Explorer® ST SUV gives her the confidence to keep saying "Sure, let's see where this road goes." And it’s no wonder why. Ford happens to be ranked #1 in Initial Quality among Mainstream Brands by JD Power & Associates.*

*Ford received the lowest rate of reported problems among mass market brands in the JD Power 2026 U.S. Initial Quality Study of new vehicle owners’ experiences after 90 days of ownership. Visit jdpower.com/awards for more information. Awards based on 2026 model year. Newer models may be shown.

"Having the Explorer® ST SUV, a vehicle with adventure capabilities, has enabled us to venture off and try new things, new trails, and new experiences," she tells Scary Mommy. Here's why it's become her family's ultimate road-trip companion.

Plenty Of Room For Everyone

Any parent knows the people aren't the only passengers on vacation. There's the cooler. The snacks. The backpacks. The emergency bag. The "just in case" sweatshirt nobody wears until they absolutely need it. Somehow, it’s all supposed to fit in one car.

The 2026 Ford Explorer® ST SUV makes that part a whole lot easier.

With third-row seating for up to six passengers (or seven with the available second-row bench seats), everyone has room to spread out without spending three hours negotiating invisible seat boundaries. An available Cargo Organizer helps keep everything in its place, so when someone inevitably asks, "Mom, where are my headphones?" you don't have to unload half the cargo area just to find the one thing they're suddenly incapable of living without.

For Susan, that space isn't a luxury. It's what makes the whole trip run more smoothly. "The Explorer® ST SUV has given us the space,” she says, “Not to mention comfort to pack up our gear, spread out, and simply enjoy the ride.” And isn’t enjoying the journey what it’s all about anyway?

Comfort That Goes Beyond Comfortable Seats

Anyone who's survived six hours of "Are we there yet?" knows comfort isn't a luxury — it's survival. Luckily, the Explorer® ST is basically giving VIP lounge on wheels. Think heated and ventilated front seats, plus roomy, heated second-row captain's chairs, complete with armrests, climate controls, and cup holders.

For Susan, though, the biggest luxury isn't a heated seat. It's feeling less mentally exhausted when they finally reach their destination.

Available Ford BlueCruise enables hands-free highway driving on 97% of controlled-access highways across the U.S. and Canada while monitoring the driver's gaze to help ensure they stay engaged. It can even assist with lane changes, making long stretches of highway feel a little less tiring. Susan credits this feature with giving her the ability to navigate busy highways while still feeling confidence behind the wheel.

"This feature truly makes me more comfortable and less stressed, so I can arrive feeling relaxed," Susan says. That matters because the less energy she spends managing the drive, the more she has left for the adventure waiting at the destination.

"More than anything," Susan says, "our outdoor experiences are teaching them the importance of being present."

Navigating Life, Even When The Map Ends

The best family adventures rarely stick to the beaten path. One minute you're cruising down the interstate. The next you're winding toward a hidden lake, a campground, or a trailhead someone recommended online. Fortunately, the 2026 Ford Explorer® ST is designed for both.

Its six standard drive modes — including Eco, Sport, Slippery, Trail, Normal, and Tow/Haul — help Susan stay confident whether she's navigating highways, dirt roads, loose gravel, or muddy trails.

That's important because her family's adventures rarely look the same twice.

"From camping, to kayaking, to hiking, to biking, we love it all, and we're always open to learning and experiencing new things," she says. "The Explorer® SUV has given me the confidence to take on almost any terrain."

The best family vehicles do more than get everyone from Point A to Point B. They help make it easier to say yes to the scenic route, one more hike, the weird roadside attraction, or the last-minute campground someone recommended five minutes ago.

Learn more about the 2026 Ford Explorer® ST SUV.

]]><![CDATA[Disney Just Collabed With The NFL& Gave Each Team Their Own Dedicated Character]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/disney-nfl-collabhttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/disney-nfl-collabMon, 24 Aug 2026 17:46:14 GMT
NFL

OK, this might be the cutest thing to happen to football all year: Disney, Champion, the NFL, and Fanatics teamed up to give all 32 NFL teams their very own Disney, Pixar, Marvel, or Star Wars character match, and the whole lineup just dropped.

As a certified Disney adult, this is the kind of crossover that makes me actually want to watch football on Sunday with my husband instead of dissociating next to him with a book!

The collection includes tees, crewnecks, and fleece for every team, timed for kickoff of the 2026 season.

Here's the full lineup, division by division, so you can find your team and see who they got paired with. Fair warning, some of these pairings are so sweet and so spot on that you're going to want the hoodie immediately.

AFC East

AFC North

AFC South

AFC West

NFC East

NFC North

NFC South

NFC West

Some of these pairings feel like they were made just for the fans, like the Cowboys getting Woody, the ultimate loyal, classic cowboy. Or the Lions and Simba, two icons who both represent pride and heart. And the Seahawks getting matched with the sweet, scene-stealing seagulls from Finding Nemo is such a fun, playful nod to the fandom that it might be our favorite pairing in the whole collection.

Whichever team you cheer for, there's a character in this drop that was made to feel like yours, and that's really what makes it so charming. Cozy, nostalgic, a little bit magical, and just in time to snuggle up for kickoff.

The collection is live now at NFLShop.com, Fanatics.com, DisneyStore.com, and select retailers.

]]><![CDATA['The Pitt' Season 3: Cast, Renewal Status & Release Date Updates]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/the-pitt-season-3-cast-renewal-status-release-date-updateshttps://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/the-pitt-season-3-cast-renewal-status-release-date-updatesFri, 21 Aug 2026 17:09:16 GMT
The Pitt / IMDB

The crush heard ‘round the world in recent years: Noah Wyle as Dr. Robby in The Pitt, of course. The HBO Max hit series follows a team of doctors and nurses staffing the ER in a Pittsburgh hospital, and has received numerous awards for its honest depiction of what it’s like to be a healthcare worker in America dealing with vaccine hesitancy, gun violence, and more. Wyle’s character in particular is beloved for his brutally honest way of talking about the system, and for his portrayal of the toll of caring for patients at their worst day in and day out. Fans can’t get enough, so of course we’re all eagerly awaiting Season 3... and the first official teaser just dropped.

Here’s everything we know about The Pitt Season 3 right now, from cast updates to plot lines to (praise be) a confirmed release date.

The Pitt Season 3 Cast

One thing about The Pitt is that they’re not afraid to switch things up; the showrunners recognize that medical staff come and go, and they don’t shy from that with their own characters. HBO has already confirmed that Dr. Samira Mohan (Supriya Ganesh) will not be returning for Season 3, while Dr. Parker Harris (Ayesha Harris) has been upped to a series regular and will be joining the day shift with Dr. Robby, Collider reported. Oh, and Victoria Javadi (Shabana Azeez) will transfer from the ER to a psychiatry rotation, which may come in handy considering Dr. Robby’s breakdown in Season 2.

Six new actors have joined the recurring cast, according to Deadline:

  • Pruitt Taylor Vince will play Lance Candella, an emergency room patient. Jeremy Radin and Charlz Williams will play patients Grant Emerson and Angus Gunn, respectively.
  • Malachi Beasley and Cheyenne Perez join as student doctors Taj Osei and Marisol Elena Sambrano Monterossa.
  • Rosanny Zayas will play physician assistant Vera Delgado.

As for the rest of the ER stars — Noah Wyle, Katherina LaNasa, Sepideh Moafi, Patrick Ball, Isa Briones, Shawn Hatosy, Taylor Dearden, Fiona Dourif, and Gerran Howell — we’ll get to see them all back in action too.

The Pitt Season 3 Release Date

Production on the show began back in June. In an interview with Deadline, Noah Wyle confirmed Season 3 of The Pitt will air in January 2027.

While he didn’t specify an exact date, we can make an educated guess. Seasons 1 and 2 aired one year apart but within a day of each other: January 9, 2025, and January 8, 2026, respectively. The show airs on Wednesdays, which means a likely release date for Season 3 would fall on January 6, 2027, Forbes reported.

What will The Pitt Season 3 be about?

On August 21, HBO Max released the first official teaser for the new season. It doesn’t divulge many specifics of the storyline, but it does make two things clear: This season will have its pulse-pounding patient encounters, and Dr. Robby is so back.

The Pitt’s format is one of the most interesting things about it. Each hour-long episode tells the story of one hour of the same shift in the ER. They are generally written to feel like they are taking place in the present, in real time.

In Season 3, that will change, Wyle told Deadline. It will be set roughly four months after the end of Season 2.

“Up until now, we’ve plotted our show almost in real time when people are watching. We’ve written the shows eight months before we air, but we’ve written them to take place in the time and place in which they are being watched this season. We didn’t do that this season. What we’re depicting is Thursday, November 12, 2026, and it will be aired in January of 2027,” he said.

That’s because November 2026 was a major moment in time for American healthcare.

“That was a decision made because there’s going to be a lot of anticipation and fear and preparation going into January and the execution of the Big Beautiful Bill that will have a lot of ramifications in Americans’ lives,” Wyle said. “We wanted to focus on what those last couple of months of the year are going to be like and what most people are going to have to do to prepare themselves for a very harsh reality in the next seven to eight years, to underscore the point of how desperate this particular moment in time is.”

Of course, viewers will also get more insight into Dr. Robby’s mental health journey, with Wyle telling Deadline that Season 3 will be about exploring what his rock bottom really looks like (gulp).

While the timeline might be a little different than we’re used to, this switchup speaks to The Pitt’s commitment to covering the issues that deeply impact healthcare in America. We can’t wait to see how they handle this one.

]]><![CDATA[New 'Monsters, Inc.' Land At Disney World Will Open In 2027]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/monsters-inc-land-disney-worldhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/monsters-inc-land-disney-worldFri, 21 Aug 2026 16:27:21 GMT
Disney/D23

Fans look forward to Disney’s D23 expo every year because it always brings huge news about the Disney parks, movies, shows, and more — and this year proved to be no exception. Among the exciting updates dropped during this year’s three-day event? That the new Monsters, Inc. Land — proper name, Monstropolis — is opening to Disney World park guests in 2027. And we finally got a peek at just what we humans will get to see when it does.

Monstropolis will be nestled inside Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios. According to Disney Parks Blog, the concept behind the monstrous city picks up at the end of Monsters, Inc.:

“As Monstropolis evolved, so did its connection with the human world. You may have heard of the HR department, but you haven’t heard of this HR department … that’s right, I’m talking about the Department of Human Relations. This new team established by the city has been tasked with sinking their teeth — and in some cases, their very BIG teeth — into helping monsters better understand humans as welcomed guests.

“The newly instated department has been spearheading a moment that was once thought impossible: inviting humans into Monstropolis for the very first time. And that invitation has a name. H.U.M.A.N. Day, short for ‘Humans Understanding Monsters Are Nice,’ marks a historic milestone for the city. Part celebration, part cultural exchange, the event is designed to introduce humans to life inside Monstropolis while helping monsters discover that humans are not so frightening after all. Now that’s something to snarl — ahem, smile about!”

Disney Parks Blog

The new Monstropolis will include:

  • The Glob Theater, which will host the show “Welcome to Monstropolis”
  • Archie’s Scare Pig Pizza (a pizza restaurant)
  • Harryhausen’s Restaurant, the site of Mike and Celia’s ill-fated date
  • Scareporium (a gift shop)
  • Monsters University Alumni Club (a tribute to legendary scarers and alumni)
  • A doors-themed coaster

Monstropolis is opening in two phases, and alas, the door coaster is part of Phase 2, which does not have a confirmed opening date just yet. But one day in the not-too-distant future, we’ll all finally get to experience the incredible door vault transportation system that sparked imaginations everywhere when the original film was first released in 2001.

“The first time I saw Monsters, Inc., all I wanted to do was ride on one of those doors like Mike and Sulley,” Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro admitted to the D23 crowd in 2025. “You’ll go into the factory and experience the first suspended coaster ever in a Disney park. Remember in the movie how those claws grab the doors and hoist them up into the air to take them away? We’re doing that, too. And you’re going along for the ride.”

Disney
Disney/Pixar
Disney
Disney/Pixar

While previous Monsters, Inc. attractions have opened at other parks around the world — specifically Disney California Adventure and Tokyo Disneyland — this new addition to Hollywood Studios marks the first major Monsters, Inc. tribute at Disney World.

Up to this point, fans of the franchise who visit the Florida parks have had to make do with two small Monsters, Inc.-themed attractions: Magic Kingdom’s Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor (an underrated experience if you ask me, especially since it has excellent air conditioning) and Hollywood Studios’ Sulley meet-and-greet.

Before we know it, we’ll all be strolling the streets of Monstropolis alongside some of our favorite monsters. No word on whether Boo will make a cameo, but here’s hoping!

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