30 best collagen supplements for pregnancy

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Sep 27, 2023

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In the journey of pregnancy, maintaining optimal health is of paramount importance, and collagen supplements have emerged as potential allies in promoting overall well-being for both the expectant mother and the developing fetus. With maternal bodily changes in mind, we explore a curated selection of the 30 best collagen supplements tailored to support the unique requirements of pregnancy. Recent research underscores the significance of collagen in enhancing skin elasticity, a crucial consideration as 95% of women experience some degree of skin stretching during pregnancy, while the protein’s role in fortifying joints gains prominence given that up to 75% of pregnant women report musculoskeletal discomfort.

30 best collagen supplements for pregnancy

Elm & Rye Collagen Supplements

If you’re pregnant, you might be wondering if you should be taking any additional supplements to support the health of you and your growing baby. Collagen supplements are a great option for expecting mothers as they not only help support healthy skin, hair, and nails but also aid in joint and bone health. Elm & Rye’s collagen supplements are formulated specifically for pregnancy, using high-quality ingredients like grass-fed bovine collagen and vitamin C to ensure optimal nutrient absorption. Additionally, their supplements are flavorless, making them easy to add to your favorite drinks or food without any added fuss. With Elm & Rye’s collagen supplements, you can feel confident in supporting your body during this exciting phase of life.

Mindbodygreen Beauty & Gut Collagen+ Powder

Collagen supplements have become an increasingly popular way to support skin, hair, and nail health. While many people turn to collagen supplements for their beauty benefits, they can also play an important role in supporting gut health. Mindbodygreen’s Beauty & Gut Collagen+ Powder is one example of a product that offers both beauty and gut health benefits. This collagen supplement is made with grass-fed bovine collagen and also includes prebiotics and probiotics for digestive support. For pregnant individuals, collagen supplements may be especially beneficial for skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of stretch marks. It’s always important to check with a healthcare provider before adding any new supplements to your routine, especially during pregnancy.

PROTIVA Nurture Pregnancy Collagen Powder for Women

As women grow and nurture a life inside of them during pregnancy, their bodies undergo significant changes, which can take a toll on their skin. This is where PROTIVA Nurture Pregnancy Collagen Powder for Women comes into play. Finding collagen supplements for pregnancy can be essential for women who want to maintain healthy, radiant skin throughout their pregnancy journey. This powder delivers essential nutrients like collagen Type I, III, and IV, prebiotics, and probiotics, making it an all-in-one option for pregnant women. The powder is also tested and approved by OB-GYN doctors and does not contain any synthetic dyes, artificial flavors, or sweeteners. With PROTIVA Nurture Pregnancy Collagen Powder for Women, pregnant women can nourish their skin, while also nourishing their growing babies from the inside out.

Needed. Expertly-Formulated & Tested Prenatal Hydrolyzed Collagen Protein Powder

Expecting mothers are constantly searching for the right supplements to support the growth and development of their babies. Now, there is a new player in town for the health and wellness of mother and baby – expertly formulated prenatal hydrolyzed collagen protein powder. This supplement is specially designed to support pregnant and breastfeeding mothers with essential nutrients and protein, and with hydrolyzed collagen, the protein absorption rate is increased for maximum benefits. This collagen supplement for pregnancy has undergone rigorous testing to ensure it meets the highest standards of quality and safety. Not only does it promote a healthy pregnancy, but it also supports postpartum recovery. Say goodbye to the guesswork and give your baby the best with prenatal hydrolyzed collagen protein powder.

Biomeology Prenatal Collagen Peptides

Pregnancy is an incredibly important time in a woman’s life, and taking care of her body is more critical than ever. That’s where collagen supplements for pregnancy come in. Biomeology’s prenatal collagen peptides have been specially formulated to provide essential nutrients for both mother and baby during this crucial time. Collagen is a vital protein that helps support healthy skin, nails, hair, and joints, so it’s no surprise that it’s also beneficial during pregnancy. These supplements are high in amino acids that are essential for fetal development, making them an excellent choice for expectant mothers looking to support their growing baby’s health. Whether you’re struggling with skin elasticity or joint pain during pregnancy, Biomeology’s prenatal collagen peptides are a fantastic way to give your body the nutrients it needs to thrive.

Beli Prenatal Collagen

As an expectant mother, taking care of yourself and your growing baby is of utmost importance. One way to support your body during pregnancy is through the use of collagen supplements designed specifically for this special time. Beli Prenatal Collagen is a great option for women looking to enhance the health and appearance of their hair, skin, nails, and joints while also helping to promote healthy fetal development. This unique formula contains key nutrients like zinc, biotin, and folic acid, as well as collagen peptides, to support overall wellness during pregnancy. By simply adding Beli Prenatal Collagen to your daily routine, you can feel confident that you’re giving yourself and your baby the best possible chance for a healthy and happy pregnancy.

Spoiled Child, Liquid Collagen, Extra Strength

Collagen supplements are a popular way to keep your skin looking young and smooth. But did you know that they can also benefit pregnant women? Many collagen supplements, such as those made with liquid collagen, come in extra-strength formulas that can provide the necessary nutrients for healthy skin during pregnancy. While some may worry that taking collagen supplements could cause a spoiled child, there is no evidence to suggest that this is the case. In fact, these supplements have been linked to reduced stretch marks and improved skin elasticity in pregnant women. Consider adding collagen supplements to your daily routine for a healthy and glowing pregnancy.

Garden of Life Grass Fed Collagen Peptides

Collagen supplements are becoming increasingly popular due to their numerous health benefits. Garden of Life’s Grass Fed Collagen Peptides is a top-rated supplement that has gained immense popularity among health enthusiasts. This product is made from premium quality, grass-fed bovine collagen, which makes it a perfect fit for those conscious about their food sources. One of the best things about this supplement is that it can also be used during pregnancy. The added collagen helps increase the body’s protein supply, which is essential during this critical stage. Additionally, it helps maintain the elasticity of the skin, which can help prevent stretch marks. So, with Garden of Life’s Grass Fed Collagen Peptides, you can enjoy a healthier, better-looking body during pregnancy.

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder

Collagen supplements have become increasingly popular over the years, with many people heralding the benefits of incorporating them into their diets. However, pregnant women may be wondering if it is safe to take collagen supplements during this special time. The answer is yes, and in fact, it may even be beneficial. Collagen peptide powder, like Vital Proteins’ formula, can provide the necessary amino acids to support the maintenance and growth of a healthy pregnancy. Specifically, it can aid in the development of the growing fetus’s skin, joints, and bones. It also has potential benefits for the mother’s health, such as improving skin elasticity and reducing joint pain. Overall, adding collagen peptide powder to a healthy and balanced diet may provide added benefits during pregnancy.

Health Revolution Multi Collagen Peptides Powder

Collagen supplements have been on the rise as more and more people seek to improve their overall health. The Health Revolution Multi Collagen Peptides Powder is a supplement that has stood out amongst the rest for its various benefits. This collagen powder is comprised of five types of collagen – Types I, II, III, V, and X – which work together to promote healthy joints, skin, hair, nails, and gut. While most people may take collagen supplements for general health benefits, pregnant women may find this supplement particularly helpful as it can help support healthy fetal development. With its multitude of benefits, the Health Revolution Multi Collagen Peptides Powder is an excellent addition to any wellness routine.

BioOptimal Collagen Powder

Collagen is a vital protein in the body, responsible for the elasticity of skin, cartilage, and other connective tissues. During pregnancy, women require higher levels of collagen to support the growing fetus, but it can be difficult to obtain enough from diet alone. That’s where BioOptimal Collagen Powder comes in. This supplement is specially formulated to support healthy skin, hair, nails, and joints, making it an excellent choice for pregnant women who want to support their body’s natural collagen production. With its high-quality, grass-fed collagen peptides and easy-to-use formula, BioOptimal Collagen Powder is a great way to ensure you’re getting the nutrients you need during this important time in your life.

DR EMIL NUTRITION Multi Collagen Pills

Collagen supplements have been increasing in popularity over the past few years due to their potential benefits for skin health, joint health, and more. For pregnant women, collagen supplements may offer additional benefits for both the mother and the baby. DR EMIL NUTRITION’s Multi Collagen Pills provide a convenient and effective option for those looking to supplement their diet with collagen during pregnancy. Collagen is a key component of the skin, bones, and connective tissues, which are crucial for both the growing baby and the mother’s body. By incorporating collagen supplements into their daily routine, pregnant women may support their overall health and wellness, and potentially ease some common pregnancy discomforts. With DR EMIL NUTRITION’s Multi Collagen Pills, you can rest assured that you are providing your body with high-quality collagen from a reliable source.

FORTE NATURALS Collagen Peptide Pills

Pregnancy is a time of immense joy and excitement, but it can also be challenging for some women. One common issue during pregnancy is the depletion of collagen in the body, which may lead to various health complications. Thankfully, there are collagen supplements available that can help expecting mothers maintain healthy levels of this essential protein. FORTE NATURALS Collagen Peptide Pills are a great option for women looking to boost their collagen intake during pregnancy. Made from high-quality marine collagen, these pills are easily absorbed by the body, providing a wide range of benefits, from improving skin elasticity to supporting joint health. With FORTE NATURALS Collagen Peptide Pills, pregnant women can rest assured that they are getting the nutrients they need to stay healthy and feel their best.

Vital Vitamins Multi Collagen Complex

Collagen is a critical type of protein found in various parts of the human body. When it comes to pregnancy, collagen plays a crucial role in the development and growth of the placenta, the organ that nourishes the unborn baby. Vital Vitamins Multi Collagen Complex is a product designed to help women enhance their collagen levels during pregnancy. This supplement is made of high-quality ingredients, including collagen from four sources, which provides essential amino acids necessary for the body to produce collagen on its own. Collagen supplements for pregnancy are becoming more popular because of the numerous benefits they offer, including better skin elasticity and smoother joint movements. With Vital Vitamins Multi Collagen Complex, women can support their health and their baby’s development, making their pregnancy journey more comfortable and enjoyable.

Codeage Multi Collagen + Gut Blend Supplement

Collagen supplements have become increasingly popular in recent times, and for good reason. The benefits of collagen are vast and include promoting healthy hair, skin, nails, and, most importantly, supporting your gut health. Collagen supplements like Codeage Multi Collagen + Gut Blend Supplement take it one step further by incorporating a gut-healthy blend that includes probiotics and prebiotics. These supplements are not just for fitness enthusiasts or beauty mavens; they are especially useful for pregnant women. Studies show that collagen supplements for pregnancy can help to reduce stretch marks and improve skin elasticity postpartum. Additionally, many expecting mothers experience digestive issues during pregnancy, and these collagen supplements can promote overall gut health, which can aid in digestion. In short, Codeage Multi Collagen + Gut Blend Supplement is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a comprehensive supplement to support their health while navigating pregnancy.

OPTIWIZE Collagen Plus

Collagen supplements have become increasingly popular among pregnant women looking to boost their skin’s health and overall well-being. OPTIWIZE’s Collagen Plus is an excellent option for expecting mothers seeking high-quality collagen supplementation. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and is responsible for keeping our connective tissues healthy and strong. The addition of collagen supplements to a pregnancy diet can improve skin elasticity, promote joint health, and support healthy hair and nails. OPTIWIZE’s Collagen Plus contains hydrolyzed collagen peptides, making it quick and easy for the body to absorb. Additionally, this product is non-GMO, gluten-free, and does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives. Trust OPTIWIZE Collagen Plus to provide exceptional support during your pregnancy journey.

Like Mine Marine Collagen

Collagen supplements such as Like Mine Marine Collagen have become increasingly popular in recent years for their potential health benefits. Among them, pregnant women can benefit from collagen supplements, which can provide the nutritional support needed during pregnancy. Collagen supplements for pregnancy can help support skin elasticity, and joint health, and promote healthy hair and nails. Like Mine Marine Collagen is a premium source of marine collagen that is sustainably sourced from wild-caught fish, making it a safe and reliable option for expectant mothers. Incorporating Like Mine Marine Collagen into one’s pregnancy routine can help support both physical and mental health during this transformative time.

Nature Made Collagen Gummies with Vitamin C, Zinc and Biotin

Nature Made Collagen Gummies with Vitamin C, Zinc, and Biotin offer a convenient way to nourish your body and promote healthy skin, hair, and nails. Collagen supplements have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and plays a vital role in maintaining healthy skin elasticity, bone strength, and joint mobility. For expectant mothers, collagen supplements for pregnancy may also provide added benefits. Vitamin C, zinc, and biotin found in these gummies may help support a healthy immune system and promote healthy pregnancy outcomes. Whether you’re looking to support your pregnancy or simply enhance your overall health, Nature Made Collagen Gummies can help you reach your goals.

Physician’s CHOICE Collagen Peptides Powder w/ Digestive Enzymes

Collagen supplements have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their numerous benefits for the skin, joints, and muscles. However, what many people don’t know is that collagen supplements can also be incredibly beneficial during pregnancy. Physician’s CHOICE Collagen Peptides Powder w/ Digestive Enzymes is a perfect option for pregnant women who want to support their own health as well as the development of their baby. Collagen peptides provide the amino acids that are essential for healthy fetal development, while the digestive enzymes in the powder help to ensure proper nutrient absorption. This supplement is a safe and easy way for expecting mothers to support their bodies and promote optimal health.

Rae Wellness Vegan Collagen Boost Powder

Collagen supplements have been growing in popularity in recent years, with people of all ages and backgrounds looking for ways to improve their skin, hair, and overall health. But as more and more women turn to collagen to support healthy pregnancies, the demand for safe and effective collagen supplements for pregnancy has increased. Rae Wellness Vegan Collagen Boost Powder is one option that many women are turning to. Made with plant-based ingredients like amla fruit and bamboo extract, this collagen powder provides a natural boost to collagen production that can support healthy skin, hair, and nails during pregnancy. And since it’s vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO, it’s a safe and healthy choice for both mother and baby. If you’re looking for a collagen supplement to support a healthy pregnancy, Rae Wellness Vegan Collagen Boost Powder might be just what you need.

ELMNT Super Collagen Burn

Are you pregnant and looking for a collagen supplement to support your body during this special time? Look no further than ELMNT Super Collagen Burn. This collagen powder is designed to provide support for healthy hair, skin, and nails, while also promoting weight loss and fat burning. Made with hydrolyzed collagen peptides, ELMNT Super Collagen Burn is easily absorbed by the body, making it a highly effective supplement for anyone seeking to enhance their overall health and wellness. Plus, with no artificial fillers or additives, you can feel good about making this product a part of your daily routine during your pregnancy and beyond.

NeoCell Collagen, Vitamin C & Biotin Supplement, Beauty Builder

Collagen supplements are becoming increasingly popular for those looking to support healthy skin, hair, and nails. However, many women wonder if collagen supplements are safe to take during pregnancy. The good news is that NeoCell Collagen, Vitamin C & Biotin Supplement, Beauty Builder is formulated with non-GMO, gluten-free, and soy-free ingredients, making it a safe choice for expectant mothers. This unique blend contains 6,000mg of collagen with biotin and vitamin C, which work together to support healthy hair, skin, and nails. So, if you’re looking for a beauty supplement that’s safe to take during pregnancy, NeoCell Collagen, Vitamin C & Biotin Supplement, Beauty Builder may be just what you need.

Caribou Nutrition Multi Collagen Pills

If you’re looking for a reliable source of collagen supplements during your pregnancy, Caribou Nutrition Multi Collagen Pills may just be the answer you’re looking for. Collagen is a crucial protein that our bodies need to maintain healthy skin, hair, and nails. During pregnancy, our body’s collagen needs increase due to the growth and development of the baby. These collagen supplements from Caribou Nutrition are packed with a variety of collagen types that are essential for supporting healthy joints, bones, and tendons. They are also free of any harmful chemicals or additives, making them safe for pregnant women to consume. Incorporating these multi-collagen pills into your diet may help ensure that both you and your baby are getting the necessary nutrients for optimal health during pregnancy.

Youtheory Collagen with Vitamin C

Collagen supplements have grown in popularity over the past few years due to the many benefits they offer, especially for pregnant women. One supplement that stands out is Youtheory Collagen with Vitamin C. This highly absorbable supplement provides essential support for mother and baby during pregnancy. Collagen helps maintain skin elasticity, which is especially important for women as their skin stretches to accommodate a growing baby. Additionally, collagen supports healthy bones and joints, which can become strained during pregnancy. Vitamin C further adds to the benefits of collagen, aiding in the absorption of the supplement and supporting the immune system. With Youtheory Collagen with Vitamin C, pregnant women can feel confident that they are getting the support they need for a healthy pregnancy.

Ancestral Supplements Grass Fed Beef Living Collagen Nutritional Powder

Ancestral Supplements Grass Fed Beef Living Collagen Nutritional Powder is a popular choice when it comes to collagen supplements. It is made from grass-fed cows and contains a diverse array of nutrients such as collagen, connective tissue, minerals, and glycine. These nutrients are essential for maintaining healthy skin, bones, and joints. In addition, this nutritional powder is perfect for pregnant women who want to incorporate collagen supplements into their diet. Collagen supplements for pregnancy are extremely important because they help support the growth and development of the baby. So, if you’re looking for a collagen supplement that is both nutritious and delicious, look no further than Ancestral Supplements Grass Fed Beef Living Collagen Nutritional Powder.

Live Conscious Collagen Peptides Powder

Collagen supplements have been growing in popularity in recent years due to their potential benefits for skin, hair, and joint health. For pregnant women, the use of collagen supplements can provide additional nutritional support for both the mother and developing child. Live Conscious Collagen Peptides Powder is one option that is specifically formulated to be clean, pure, and easy to digest. This collagen powder is made from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen, with no added sugars, preservatives, or artificial flavors. It is also gluten-free, soy-free, and non-GMO, making it a safe choice for women who are expecting. Adding Live Conscious Collagen Peptides Powder to your daily routine can help support optimum collagen levels during pregnancy and promote overall health and wellness.

NeoCell Super Collagen Powder

Collagen supplements have been growing in popularity over the past few years, and for good reason. The benefits of collagen for the body span far and wide, from promoting healthy hair and nails to improving joint health. For pregnant women, collagen supplements can also play a role in supporting the growing baby. NeoCell Super Collagen Powder is a popular option for those looking to boost their collagen intake. This powder is made from hydrolyzed collagen peptides, which are easily absorbed by the body. While there isn’t much research into the safety of collagen supplements during pregnancy, many women have reported positive results from using NeoCell Super Collagen Powder during this time. As always, it’s best to consult with your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen while pregnant.

ForestLeaf – Collagen Pills with Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin C

Collagen supplements are gaining momentum in the wellness industry. One popular brand, ForestLeaf, offers collagen pills with added hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. These supplements claim to help improve the overall health and appearance of skin, hair, and nails. But where does that leave expecting mothers? Many people are turning to collagen supplements for pregnancy, as studies have shown that regular collagen intake can improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of stretch marks. However, it’s important to note that not all collagen supplements are safe for pregnancy, so it’s important to consult with a medical professional before adding any new supplements to your regimen.

MaryRuth’s Collagen Boosting Gummy for Hair Skin & Nails

Collagen-boosting supplements have been around for a while, and they’ve seen a steady rise in popularity over the years. One particular brand that has made waves in the supplement world is MaryRuth’s Collagen Boosting Gummy for Hair Skin & Nails. These gummies are packed with carefully selected ingredients that help support healthy hair, skin, and nails. But did you know that these gummies can also be a great addition to a pregnant woman’s diet? Collagen supplements for pregnancy have become increasingly popular due to their potential benefits for both the mother and the developing baby. MaryRuth’s Collagen Boosting Gummy can help support healthy skin elasticity, provide nourishment for hair, and help strengthen nails, all of which can suffer during pregnancy. As with any supplement, it’s important to consult with your doctor before adding it to your regimen.

Sanar Naturals Collagen Pills with Vitamin C, E

As women navigate pregnancy, they often wonder what products they should and shouldn’t use to support their growing baby and maintain their own health. One supplement that has recently gained popularity among pregnant women is Sanar Naturals Collagen Pills with Vitamin C, and E. Collagen supplements are praised for their ability to support healthy skin, hair, and nails, but they also provide essential proteins for bone and joint health. The addition of Vitamin C and E enhances the absorption of collagen, allowing the body to reap the maximum benefits. These collagen pills are a natural way to support overall health during pregnancy without any harsh chemicals or additives. As with any supplement, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating it into your routine.

As the curtain draws on our exploration of the 30 best collagen supplements for pregnancy, it is evident that these meticulously chosen options offer not only potential benefits for skin elasticity, addressing the 95% of pregnant women experiencing skin stretching but also hold promise in mitigating musculoskeletal discomfort, a concern reported by up to 75% of expectant mothers. Navigating the realm of pregnancy requires well-informed choices, and while these collagen supplements can play a supportive role, it’s imperative to consult with healthcare providers before incorporating any new elements into the journey of prenatal care.

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In Partnership With Operation Smile →

An Operation Smile volunteer reverses an oxygen mask so a child with a cleft condition can blow a bubble for the first time in Guadalajara, Mexico. (Operation Smile Photos)

Family, Science

How Bubbles Help Kids with Cleft Conditions

For thousands of children born with cleft conditions, Operation Smile provides simple, playful tools—like bubbles—to strengthen the skills they need to speak and thrive.

Sarah Watts

5/11/2026

While a bottle of bubbles might seem out of place in a hospital setting, you might be surprised to learn that, for thousands of children around the world born with cleft lip and palate, they can be a helpful tool in comprehensive cleft care. Lilia, who was born with cleft lip and palate in 2020, is one of the many patients who received this care.

As a toddler, Lilia underwent two surgeries to treat cleft lip and palate with Operation Smile’s surgical program in Puebla, Mexico. Because of Operation Smile’s comprehensive care, it wasn’t long before her personality transformed: Lilia went from a quiet and withdrawn toddler to an exuberant, curious explorer, babbling, expressing herself with a variety of sounds, and engaging with others like any child her age.

Lilia is now a healthy five-year-old, with the same cheerful attitude and boundless energy. Her progress is the result of care at every level, from surgery to speech therapy to ongoing support at home—but it’s also evidence that small, sustained interventions throughout it all can make a meaningful difference.

Lilia at age 1, before surgery, and at age 5, 4 years post-surgery

Cleft Conditions: A Global Problem

Since 1982, Operation Smile has provided cleft lip and cleft palate surgeries to more than 500,000 patients worldwide with the help of generous volunteers and donors. Cleft conditions are congenital conditions, meaning they are present at birth. With cleft lip and palate, the lip or the roof of the mouth do not form fully during fetal development. Cleft conditions put children at risk for malnutrition and poor weight gain, since their facial structure can make feeding challenging. But cleft conditions can have an enormous social impact as well: Common difficulties with speech can leave kids socially isolated and unable to meet the same developmental milestones as their peers.

Surgery is a vital step in treating cleft conditions, but it’s also just one part of a much larger solution. Organizations like Operation Smile emphasize the importance of multi-disciplinary teams that provide comprehensive, long-term care to patients across many years. This approach, which includes oral care, speech therapy, nutritional support, and psychosocial care, not only aids in physical recovery from surgery but also helps children develop the skills and confidence to eat easily, speak clearly, and engage in everyday life. This ensures that each patient receives the full range of support they need to thrive.

Marie, 11 months, with her mother at Operation Smile Madagascar before her cleft surgery (Operation Smile Photos)

A Playful (and Powerful) Solution

Throughout a patient’s care, simple tools like bubbles can play a meaningful role from start to finish.

Immediately before surgery, children are often in a new and unfamiliar environment far from home, some of them experiencing a hospital setting for the first time. When care providers or loved ones blow bubbles, it’s a simple yet effective technique: Not only are the children soothed and distracted, the bubbles also help create a sense of joy and playfulness that eases their anxiety.

Milagros Rojas, a volunteer speech therapist in Peru, using bubbles in a screening with a patient. (Operation Smile Photos)

In speech therapy, bubbles can take on an even more important role. Blowing bubbles requires controlled airflow, as well as the ability to form a rounded “O” shape with the lips, which are skills that children with cleft conditions may struggle to develop. Practicing these skills with bubbles allows children to gently strengthen their facial muscles, improve breath control, and support the motor skills needed for speech development. Beyond that, blowing bubbles can help kids connect with their parents or providers in a way that’s playful, comforting, and accessible even for very young patients.

Finally, bubbles often follow patients with cleft conditions home in the “smile bags” that each patient receives when the surgical procedure is finished. Smile bags, which help continue speech therapy outside of the hospital setting, can contain language enrichment booklets, a mirror, oxygen tubing, and bubbles. While regular practice with motor skills can help with physical recovery, small acts of play help as well, giving kids space to simply enjoy themselves and join in on what peers are able to do.

Bubbles at Home and Beyond

Today, because of Operation Smile’s dedication to comprehensive cleft care, Lilia is now able to make friends and speak clearly, all things that could have been difficult or impossible before. Instead of a childhood defined by limitation, Lilia—and others around the world—can look forward to a childhood filled with joy, learning, discovery, friends, and new possibilities.

CTA: Lilia’s life was changed for the better with the care she received through Operation Smile. Find out how you can make an impact in other children’s lives by visiting operationsmile.org today.

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Photo credit: Canva – A young woman blows out her birthday candles, left, and a birthday cake, right.

Family, Moms

Mom shares 19 gems of knowledge for her daughter’s 19th birthday

Every young woman should hear these.

Cecily Knobler

5/14/2026
A woman who uses the Instagram handle Hope with Holly often makes videos in which she imparts wisdom from her own experiences. She’s candid in her discussions about feminism, marriage, divorce, finding courage, and much more. So when her daughter turned 19, it seemed like the perfect time to share 19 pieces of advice for a better life.

In a Reel dedicated to her daughter, she lays it all out with precision and love. Casually putting her hair in a ponytail while slicing a watermelon—and later placing strawberries on a white-frosted birthday cake—she looks straight into the camera and declares, “This is what all women should know by the time they turn 19.”

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1. You are not here to be chosen. You are here to choose.
  “And if you build your life around being picked, then you will tolerate things that you should walk away from.”
2. Your ability to earn money will determine your freedom.
  “Love matters. But money determines if you can leave if it turns unhealthy.”
3. Attraction is not a sign of safety.
  “Your nervous system can be drawn to chaos. It’s not a sign of safety. Know the difference.”
4. A man’s potential is irrelevant. His patterns are everything.
  “Only patterns matter. Patterns are who he is.”
5. Chemistry can lie. Character doesn’t.
  “Butterflies are often anxiety. And peace often feels like boredom. But it’s what lasts.”
6. If he can’t regulate his emotions, he will regulate them through you.
  “That means control, blame, withdrawal, anger, or defensiveness. Don’t let that happen.”
7. You cannot love someone into being healthy.
  “Love does not fix trauma. Only therapy, accountability, and effort do.”
8. Marriage will not fix a relationship.
  “It will amplify whatever’s there, whether it’s good or bad.”
9. Children will expose a relationship, not save it.
  “They do not bring you closer. They just expose what’s already broken…or strong.”
10. Your standards will cost you relationships—and that’s the point.
11. Loneliness is not an emergency.
  “Rushing to fill it is how you end up in the wrong life.”
12. A man who wants you will pursue you with clarity.
  “If you feel confused about him, that’s your answer. Walk away.”
13. Sex is not a currency for love.
  “Instead, it’s the byproduct of a healthy relationship—and an emotionally safe relationship.”
14. Your body will change. Your value does not.
  “Anyone who ties your worth to your youth is not a safe person.”
15. Pay attention to how he handles the word “no.”
  “That will tell you everything you need to know about him.”
16. You teach people how to treat you by what you tolerate.
  “Boundaries are not words. They’re decisions. Enforce them.”
17. Healing is your responsibility.
  “What happened to you was not your fault. But what you allow to continue is your responsibility.”
18. Build a life that you do not need to escape from.
  “Then choose a partner who enhances it.”
19. You are allowed to want more.
  “More respect. More peace. Settling is not maturity. It’s just fear dressed up as acceptance.”
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She adds, “Now I don’t need you to be perfect, girl. But I do need you to be powerful enough to walk away from anything that’s not perfect for you. Happy birthday, honey!”

The comment section is filled with support, especially from people who say they wish they’d learned these lessons earlier.

“I can only imagine how different my life would have looked had I heard this narrative by 19. Learning all this by 39. Better late than never. Thanks, mama.”

Some are also highly focused on her decorating and baking skills: “Now let me watch this again but this time without getting highly distracted by all the layers of that awesome fruit tower.”

And one 19-year-old was especially grateful, writing, “I turned 19 two months ago, seeing every woman wishing they heard these when they were younger, I would like thank you so much that you reached me in the right time 🙂 Happy birthday to your daughter and wishing your family the best 💛”

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Photo credit: Canva Photos
A woman preparing meals, left, and a child eating broccoli, right.

Family, Parenting

Nutrition expert demonstrates foolproof method to get her picky kids to ‘eat anything’

Picky eating is often all about independence.

Evan Porter

5/14/2026

Picky eaters are a huge challenge for many parents, even though it’s considered a normal developmental stage. Harvard Health Publishing writes that young children being picky about food is one way they learn to assert their independence, for example.

Even though it’s extremely common and normal, experts also recommend that parents start early to break picky eating habits; once those habits get locked into place, they’re even tougher to break. Which is just one more thing for overloaded parents to worry about when planning meals is already difficult enough.

One well-qualified mom demonstrates her thoughtful technique for getting picky eaters to “eat anything”

Fitness coach Mel Avan, who has taught university-level health, wellness, and nutrition courses, has developed a method. It involves a lot of trial and error while raising a picky eater of her very own.

Picky eating is a challenge as old as parenting itself. Photo credit: Canva

In a video posted to YouTube, she not only explains the technique, but also demonstrates it in real time as she attempts to feed her skeptical son a noodle.

It starts with creating a little scarcity. She’s not overly animated about it, but she subtly creates the mystique that the pasta is something of a treat. “Come try this,” she says. “You can only have one piece.”

Then, she stays completely neutral. She doesn’t hype up how good it is or rave about how healthy it might be. Her son says it looks like a noodle. She agrees stoically. “It is a noodle.”

Then she, in her words, shuts up. “I let him lead the interaction. I ask questions, but I don’t share my opinion or give praise.” Not even to applaud him for being willing to try it.

Finally, she waits. Sure enough, a few minutes later, her son announces he’s hungry and that he “wants the pasta.”

Mission accomplished.

She elaborates in the caption that the entire thing hinges on decreasing pressure. A small portion lowers pressure. A neutral tone lowers pressure. A slow pace lowers pressure. And allowing the child to come to you when they want more makes it their idea to eat the food, rather than a way of appeasing you. Again, pressure.

Mom gets challenged to repeat the demonstration under more difficult circumstances

While the video went viral to the tune of more than a million views, and many viewers loved the technique on display, not everyone was satisfied.

This being the Internet, it was only a matter of time before Avan got called out and challenged: A noodle? Really? Try a piece of broccoli or some spinach.

She accepted the challenge and, in a follow-up video on Instagram, introduced a few new techniques for more challenging foods that still fit within her core philosophy.

First, she introduces an element of choice. “Do you want me to serve your vegetables, or do you want to do it with the tongs?”

Next, and once again, tiny portions. A heaping pile of something they’re skeptical about eating only makes the task more overwhelming.

Then there’s one of her more unique tactics: serving food family-style. In this case, she made her son a plate with a small amount of veggies, but also offered the entire tray at the table, where he could easily grab more with a “fun utensil.” It’s a way of giving him control.

And finally, finding even more opportunities for autonomy and control. Since picky eating is often about independence, she lets her son control things that aren’t as important, like where the ketchup goes on his plate.

Mom, and experts, weigh in on “Eat what I made or don’t eat”

In another follow-up video, Avan responds to comments suggesting that she was doing too much coddling and manipulating. Instead, some old-school parents favor the “Either you eat what I made, or you don’t eat” approach.

Avan says that, in her personal experience, this approach backfired spectacularly. When kids don’t eat, not only is it unsafe and unhealthy, but you’ll also run into a host of behavior problems as they get crankier.

At least one study has found that putting pressure on children to eat, or to eat more, can actually have the opposite effect: “Children consumed significantly more food when they were not pressured to eat and they made overwhelmingly fewer negative comments.”

And if things aren’t going well, research cited by Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia says you shouldn’t give up: It can take eight to 15 exposures to a new food before a child will willingly accept it.

The old-school parents of yesteryear got a lot more right than we’re often willing to give them credit for. However, our understanding of child psychology has grown by leaps and bounds, and clinically validated research can teach us a lot about how to handle challenges like picky eating. Lowering pressure instead of increasing it, and remaining neutral rather than excited or angry, is far more effective.

But in the end, picky eating is normal for young kids, and as long as you make a solid effort, most eventually grow out of the phase.

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As a parent, it's not always easy to know how to react in the moment.

Family, Parenting

His daughter crashed on a skate ramp, and his response was a masterclass in awesome parenting

He perfectly balanced empathy, encouragement, and empowerment.

Annie Reneau

Upworthy Staff

5/14/2026

As a parent, it’s not always easy to know how to help your kids learn from life experiences. Some lessons they learn naturally and others they learn through parental guidance, but discerning which is which and how those things overlap can be challenging.

Kids don’t come with instruction manuals, of course, but sometimes we see examples of great parenting we can point to and say, “AHA! That’s how it’s done.”

One such example comes from a dad named Robert. Back in 2022, he was teaching his then-5-year-old daughter Aubrin to skateboard and set up a mini half pipe for her to learn on. In a video on Instagram, Robert shared an exchange he had with Aubrin after she crashed hard on the ramp during a lesson.

Watch:

View this post on Instagram

What happened after she fell is the real story

It’s a sweet video that doubles as a masterclass in effective parenting. Robert communicates with a perfect blend of empathy, encouragement, and empowerment, which gives his daughter exactly what she needs to tackle her fears and persevere in what she wants to do.

Even his initial question after she fell, “Did it scare you or did it hurt you?” is helpful for making her more aware of what she’s actually feeling as well as knowing how best to help her.

Seeing this gentle parenting scenario play out is just so heartwarming. (And if Aubrin’s voice sounds familiar, you may have seen the viral “stuck-asaurus” video in which she offered delightfully colorful commentary while snowboarding in a dinosaur suit.)

Here is what was going through his mind

Robert explained his thinking behind the way he responded to Aubrin’s fall:

“Trying something new can be scary but re-trying something after slamming can be terrifying.

I had to re-gain her trust and she needed to re-establish her confidence after this slam and it was a tough but beautiful rollercoaster experience.

This is one of the biggest psychological battles we face as humans, because once that negative experience has made its home in our brain it’s very hard to get it out.

I know from intense personal experience that a bad fall can have long lasting [psychological] effects and truly believe, that when possible, it’s best to get back up and try it again with the goal being to end the session with a positive experience; to not have that negative memory ruminating in your head until the next time you return to try.

I’ve been asked a lot ‘How do you know what to say in these moments?’ and the truth is I absolutely don’t know what to say.

Seeing her slam sucks the air out of my lungs and my heart drops but I just try to stay calm and redirect with some questions or comments while surveying the situation. A parent’s emotions (depending on how you instinctively react) will oftentimes influence the child’s emotional response and it’s my goal to remove my influence and allow her to just be, to feel, to hurt at her pace and it allows me to get a better reading of how she’s truly feeling in these pivotal moments.

Ultimately I just respond from the heart. If you calmly lead with empathy and support without applying pressure you’ll do just fine.”

Beautiful insight and advice. Unfortunately, many parents are raising kids while working through wounds from their own childhoods, and when you’re battling parental instincts that aren’t particularly healthy or helpful, having it all laid out like this is really valuable.

The comments showed just how much this resonated

Commenters on Instagram and Reddit have expressed how much they appreciate seeing supportive parenting in action.

“I actually got emotional watching this…” wrote one person. “I am learning so much from your posts!!! As someone whose parents led from a place of fear a lot of the time, this is showing me so much possibility of what the opposite can look like. Thank you for being so open, we are all made the better from it.”

Parents often set the tone for how kids react. Photo credit: Canva

“I wish I had a dad like you growing up. She’s so lucky,” wrote another.

“Made me smile and also as a grown ass man, gave me watery eyes – as someone that never had this kind of treatment growing up and kind of needed it – this is the kind of dad I will be if I ever meet someone and have kids,” shared another.

Whether we were raised by gentle, supportive parents or the opposite, we can all recognize effective parenting when we see it. Thank you, Robert, for sharing such a stellar example we can all watch and learn from.

You can follow Robert and Aubrin’s ongoing family adventures on Instagram (@chasing.sage).

This article originally appeared four years ago. It has been updated.

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Photo credit: Image courtesy of @granolabarpan/Instagram (with permission) – Stay-at-home mom Catrina shares shock at learning what the 'heavy' setting on her washer means.

Family, Home Life

Mom realizes she’s been using the ‘heavy’ setting on her washer wrong for years—and fellow moms are shook

“Today years old when I realize why my blankets are sopping wet.”

Emily Shiffer

Upworthy Staff

5/13/2026

Knocking out loads of laundry is a feeling of accomplishment that is unmatched. Depending on what needs to be washed, washing machines offer a variety of settings for the ideal clean. But even the most seasoned laundry pros can admit that they don’t fully understand how to use them properly.

One mom’s washing machine mistake went viral

One stay-at-home mom shared her funny and relatable washing machine mistake. Catrina (@granolabarpan) got the shock of a lifetime when she realized that she had been using the “heavy” setting on her washer wrong for years.

“POV: today years old when it clicks why my blankets are sopping wet!!! I thought HEAVY meant heavy items being washed,” she wrote in the video’s overlay.

“Heavy on my machine means heavily soiled,” she went on to add in the comments. “I thought it meant the stuff I was putting in the machine was heavy in weight/pounds.”

Some moms are also realizing this for the first time. “Ok.. so I am 66 years old learning this???!! I always thought that heavy meant weight also ,” one person commented. Another person wrote, “Well I was today years old when I learned what heavy meant too… “

View this post on Instagram

Turns out, a lot of us have been confused

Others expressed confusion with so many settings, and reminiscing on simpler times. “Wait a minute. . I think I need to for once go and read the manual because I have been wondering about all of the options,” another user wrote. And another chimed in, “I want my old $250 3 options hot/warm/cold on/off washer back. It didn’t die it rusted out but took 25yrs to do it. I had 5 kids, plus my ex in-laws living with me.”

Struggling to understand the settings on your washing machine? You’re not alone.

“Knowing these settings helps avoid common laundry mistakes, such as using the heavy cycle for heavy fabric weight instead of heavy soil, which can lead to ineffective cleaning or damage over time,” Vanessa Ruiz, a professional organizer at Sparkly Maid San Antonio, tells Upworthy.

Washing machine settings explained

These are five washing machine settings and how they work:

1. Normal/Regular Cycle

Ruiz explains that this is your typical setting for day-to-day loads such as t-shirts, jeans, sheets, and underwear.

“These laundry loads are typically washed in warm water and the setting is rinsed with medium spin speeds through agitation in order to properly clean moderately soiled garments,” she says. “This cycle is safe enough to wash a variety of different fabric content with a somewhat dirty load.”

2. Delicate/Gentle Cycle

Ruiz notes that the delicate cycle is created specifically for delicate fabrics—lingerie, silk, lace, or embellished clothing—that may become damaged in a normal or regular wash.

“This cycle will use moderate spin speeds through gentle agitation to thoroughly dry clean and not damage clothes too easily,” says Ruiz. “This is the preferred cycle when laundry items that require extra care or are labeled ‘delicate’ or ‘hand wash’ need to be washed.”

3. Heavy Duty Cycle

The heavy duty cycle is specifically for heavily soiled items like work clothes, kitchen towels, and bedding.

“This setting uses higher water temperatures, longer wash times, and powerful agitation to remove stubborn dirt and grime. It’s perfect for those tough laundry jobs, but not recommended for delicate fabrics,” explains Ruiz.

4. Bulky/Bedding Cycle

This cycle is often confused with “heavy.”

“This cycle accommodates larger, heavier items that absorb a lot of water, such as comforters, pillows, and sleeping bags,” says Ruiz. “It uses more water, medium spin speeds, and longer wash times to thoroughly clean bulky items without causing damage or imbalance.”

5. Quick Wash

In a rush? This is the perfect setting to use.

“It is an accelerated wash cycle designed for small loads of lightly soiled clothes, usually lasting 15 to 40 minutes,” says Ruiz. “It’s great for when you need clean clothes fast and can save energy compared to longer cycles.”

Mystery solved

So the next time your blankets come out of the wash sopping wet, or your delicates come out looking worse for wear, you’ll know exactly where things went wrong. A little knowledge about what each cycle actually does can save you time, energy, and a lot of unnecessary re-washing. And honestly, if you’ve been doing it wrong for years? You’re in very good company.

This article originally appeared one year ago. It has been updated.

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Photo credit: officialstephwise/YouTube – A mom and therapist has a unique hack for bringing back the low-key childhood experience of the ’90s for her kids.

Family, Parenting

Fed-up mom creates ‘TV schedule’ to mimic ’90s television for her kids

“There are almost no natural limits anymore, so parents have to become the limit.”

Evan Porter

5/13/2026

We live in an age of unlimited choice, thanks to modern technology. At any given time, most of us have access to the entirety of recorded music, thousands of on-demand movies, and even more individual episodes of our favorite shows.

This amount of choice is enough to make a person’s brain combust, especially when that person is a child.

Therapist says “parenting was easier in the 90s” and has a clever idea to fix it

Stephanie Wise, a licensed couples therapist and coach, recently took to social media to share one of her most effective and unique parenting hacks.

“Parenting was easier in the 90s (and no one wants to admit why),” the YouTube video headline reads.

She goes on to explain her favorite hack: “Bring back ’90s tech.”

“One of the hardest parts of parenting is that everything is available all the time. Every show, every song, every snack, every answer, every distraction. And then we wonder why our kids struggle when the answer is No,” she said.

Setting up an old tube TV in the living room with only basic channels sounds great, but it isn’t super feasible in the modern world. So what Wise does in her household is create a “TV schedule” in which “certain shows only play on certain days,” she said.

An example schedule she drew up on a whiteboard shows that Sunday is for Bluey, Wednesday is for Spidey and His Amazing Friends, and Thursday is for Puffin Rock. Other days include a few options—such as The Joy of Painting or Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, old-school choices—or may call for a movie, where the kids can pick from a limited supply of physical VHS tapes.

Choices are either extremely limited or nonexistent most days, and it makes her life much simpler.

“There are almost no natural limits anymore, so parents have to become the limit,” Wise said. “All day long. And it’s so exhausting.”

This is just one small way she gives everyone a well-deserved mental break.

Well over a million people watched Wise’s video across YouTube and other social media platforms, with commenters weighing in on how the advice resonated with them.

“The other thing you’re doing is bringing back that feeling of specialness we had when we couldn’t have everything on demand. That’s priceless,” one person wrote.

“This is so brilliant. You’re also giving your kids the ability to wait, to be bored, to adapt. Those are invaluable in this instant gratification age,” another wrote.

The kids are more relaxed with fewer choices and have a new “bad guy” to blame

Wise says that her TV schedule doesn’t just make her own life easier—it eliminates the daily battles: Can I watch this? How about this? No, I don’t like this. Change it to something else.

If the kids aren’t happy with what’s on TV, Mom is no longer the bad guy—the schedule is.

She also turns any frustration into a teachable moment: “I know, babe, waiting is so hard. I wish it was Spidey day, too.”

Not only are kids more than capable of surviving such a cruel exercise in deprivation, it’s actually good for them. Wise says she uses a similar technique in the car, listening only to the radio (no Spotify), and jokes that sometimes the kids have to deal with “a song they hate and have to survive for three minutes…That’s frustration tolerance, baby.”

What is frustration tolerance? It shouldn’t come as a huge shock that it’s not great for kids (or anyone) to get exactly what they want all the time. “I try to give her opportunities to learn to cope with frustration, boredom, or disappointment,” Wise said. “I don’t want her to feel overwhelmed or controlled by her emotions, so that’s important to me.”

Researchers agree with Wise that frustration management is a crucial skill for kids to learn before becoming adults.

Her method also reduces decision fatigue for all parties involved.

Decision fatigue, especially in an era of unlimited access, can be absolutely exhausting. Research even shows that people who have to make too many decisions day in and day out can simply give up and suffer from a severe lack of willpower.

Wise tells Upworthy that she and her husband aim to keep things as simple as possible for themselves when it comes to dinner menus and weekend plans, but it’s even more important for the kids. This is where she breaks from some of the more traditional parenting advice:

“For kids, we keep it simple. I don’t do choices on things like which cup or plate or spoon. I don’t do choices for clothes. For some kids that might be helpful—let them make ‘unimportant’ choices so they don’t fight the important things—but for my daughter, I found it stressed her out and resulted in way more tantrums.”

Wise admits, though, that what works for her and her family may not be right for everyone.

@sarah.sahmdaycare
We went on a full screen break a few months ago because my kids were just way too attached and overstimulated. Now we watch low stimulation shows and no tablets, phones, etc unless we’re traveling. These are our current favorites and where to find them! 🤍 #toddler #toddlerscreentime #lowstimulatingshows #momsoftiktok #fyp #screentime #toddlertvshows
♬ Little Things – Adrián Berenguer

Wise is part of a growing movement that aims to bring back the lower-stimulation childhood many Millennials and Gen Xers grew up with. Research suggests that the media kids watch can be especially impactful, and slower-paced cartoons like Franklin or Arthur may help children with emotional regulation.

The data coming to light on modern kids’ television, screen time, and social media is alarming, but opting out completely feels difficult. Wise’s method struck a chord with other parents because it’s a simple tweak that can make a huge difference.

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Photo credit: Wikipedia & Canva – Ralph Waldo Emerson shared parenting advice for raising confident kids.

Family, Parenting

Ralph Waldo Emerson shared this simple advice that parents today can still use to raise confident kids

Emerson was the father of four children.

Emily Shiffer

5/12/2026

Ralph Waldo Emerson contributed endless wisdom through his essays and poetry during his lifetime. He lived from 1803 to 1882.

The New England author is still revered today for his insights on humanity—so much so that he continues to influence pop culture. The video game Mortal Kombat 3 re-popularized a famous Emerson quote: “There is no knowledge that is not power.”

Emerson was also the father of four children, and his 19th-century parenting advice is still relevant today.

Emerson’s kids

Emerson’s first marriage was to a woman named Ellen Louisa Tucker in September 1829. She suffered from tuberculosis and, unfortunately, died less than two years later in February 1831. Devastated by her death, Emerson wrote this short poem in 1833:

“The days pass over me
And I am still the same
The Aroma of my life is gone
Like the flower with which it came.“

He married for a second time in September 1835 to Lidian (Lydia) Jackson. The couple went on to have four children: Waldo, born in 1836; Ellen, born in 1839; Edith, born in 1841; and Edward Waldo, born in 1844.

Emerson was a devoted father. His son, Edward Waldo, wrote of his father: “He had a love and tenderness for very small children, and his skill in taking and handling a baby was in remarkable contrast to his awkwardness with animals and tools.”

He also had a close relationship with his second child, Ellen Tucker Emerson. She was equally devoted to her father and never married. Instead, she served as his secretary and editor, as well as his housekeeper and caregiver.

Emerson’s parenting advice

In a letter to Ellen dated 1854, Emerson shared fatherly wisdom that encouraged her to move on from mistakes and live confidently. It’s advice that parents today may still find applicable when trying to instill confidence in their children.

He wrote, as quoted in A Memoir of Ralph Waldo Emerson (1887) by James Elliot Cabot:

“Finish every day and be done with it. For manners and for wise living it is a vice to remember. You have done what you could; some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can. To-morrow is a new day; you shall begin it well and serenely, and with too high a spirit to be cumbered with your old nonsense. This day for all that is good and fair. It is too dear, with its hopes and invitations, to waste a moment on the rotten yesterdays.”

Emerson acknowledges that his daughter will make mistakes, but encourages her not to dwell on them for too long. Each day is a “new day,” and she can move forward with confidence without needing to be perfect.

Tips on raising confident kids

Parents can help their kids process mistakes and move forward without relying on the pressures of achievement and perfectionism. The American Psychological Association (APA) explains that this sense of being valued and supported is called “mattering.”

Mattering is defined as “the feeling of being valued to loved ones and communities, regardless of external evaluations of ‘success’.”

“Young people need to know that they can make a mistake or have a bad performance and they will still be cared about and accepted and perhaps even prized,” Gordon Flett, PhD, a research psychologist at York University in Toronto and author of Mattering as a Core Need in Children and Adolescents: Theoretical, Clinical, and Research Perspectives, told the APA.

To strengthen a sense of mattering, the APA recommends that parents try the following:

Spend engaged time with kids

The goal is to send kids the message that their worth is based on who they are, not what they do. Flett recommends that parents put away their phones and laptops during interactions to encourage better engagement and listening, helping kids feel heard and understood.

Normalize setbacks

This can be done by explaining to kids that mistakes are part of being human and that your love for them is not contingent on never making them.

“As soon as you make those things contingent on achievement, which is very easy to do in this culture, then kids start to learn very quickly that they’re only really worth something when they’ve done well, and they are a failure if they haven’t,” Thomas Curran, PhD, a social psychologist at the London School of Economics and author of The Perfection Trap, explained to the APA. “That creates a dependency on other people’s approval, which is a very quick way to perfectionism.”

Serve others

According to the APA, volunteering has been studied as a helpful way to build resilience and self-esteem while reducing the pressures of achievement. By focusing on the well-being of others, kids can also develop a stronger sense of usefulness and purpose.

“I would recommend to any parent who’s concerned about a child becoming a workaholic perfectionist who’s only focused on achievement [to] try to model going out there and being prosocial and finding some causes,” Flett said.

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A mom gave a revealing tour of her 'middle class' home.

Family, Home Life

Mom gives a tour of her typical ‘middle-class home’ and it’s exactly what people needed

A house tour we can all relate to.

Heather Wake

Upworthy Staff

5/12/2026

Sure, it’s lovely to see pristine, perfectly curated homes that look like they belong in Architectural Digest. A little inspo never hurt anyone. But as we all know, the spotless life is simply not an achievable reality, especially for those with busy lives and limited budgets (read: most of us).

But you know what? Maybe even the messy homes deserve some love. The ones with constant junk piles, unfinished projects, dirty dishes, and misplaced toys. The homes that will never grace the cover of a magazine but still do a wonderful job of containing all the moments life has to offer—the big, small, extraordinary, mundane, and everywhere in between. ‘Cause at the end of the day, isn’t that a home’s true purpose anyway?

One mom decided to show it all, unfiltered

@stephsharesitall
Lets normalize “average” because there is nothing wrong with it. Everywhere you look on social media you see big gorgeous houses in perfect condition and its hard not to compare yours to them. But its not the norm and half the time its staged. Our house is lived in, and its filled with love and tons of memories and at the end of the day thats all that matters.
♬ vampire – Olivia Rodrigo

Stephanie Murphy, a mom and TikTok creator, seems to think so. Murphy took viewers on an “average house tour,” and it was the exact opposite of aspirational. Highlighted in Murphy’s tour are the pantry door that’s remained unpainted for three years, blinds held together with binder clips, air conditioners held in place by duct tape, a full dish rack tray that’s “a permanent fixture” on their countertops, and not one but two junk drawers (honestly, that’s a little low by my count). You’ll also notice a fridge that is covered in her kid’s artwork and school pictures. Not in any cohesive way, but merely thrown on randomly, as nature intended.

Meanwhile, in the master bedroom, Murphy and her husband have two separate blankets on their bed because neither of them like to share. A genius idea, and just another example of how we really, really don’t need to continue with marital sleeping norms that don’t actually feel comfortable.

Her reason for sharing it is everything

As for why Murphy decided to showcase her “average, middle-class house,” it’s all in the caption of her video: “Let’s normalize ‘average’ because there is nothing wrong with it. Everywhere you look on social media, you see big gorgeous houses in perfect condition and it’s hard not to compare yours to them. But it’s not the norm and half the time it’s staged. Our house is lived in, and it’s filled with love and tons of memories and at the end of the day that’s all that matters.”

She further explained her reasoning to Good Morning America. “I feel like social media is full of one perfectly curated video after another, and there is just so much pressure from social media to be perfect in all aspects — to have perfect skin, perfect makeup, perfect outfit, perfect house. And the reality is no one’s perfect,” Murphy said.

“Honestly, I feel like there’s a very good chance that all those videos that we see were staged and they probably like, moved a pile of toys behind the camera to film and then moved it back when they were done. But that’s the part that people on social media just aren’t sharing. They don’t show you the behind-the-scenes and that is what I was looking to change,” she continued.

@sarahbondseats
Normal, non-aesthetic home tour for a family of 4. #normalhouse #regularmom #housetour #homedecor #homedecorideas
♬ Second Chances – Gregory Alan Isakov

People saw this and felt completely seen

Judging from the comments sections of this viral post, it seems like other people are ready for more average content.

“This is awesome! I’m constantly feeling inadequate when people have a perfect house that looks like nobody lives there!” one person wrote. “I feel seen,” added another.

Hear, hear. No need to feel inadequate about having a home that’s lived in. Imperfection has its own kind of beauty.

This article originally appeared three years ago. It has been updated.

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Photo credit: Canva – A sad baby and a happy baby.

Family, Kids

Kasai and Klarity on the rise, Emma on the outs in Social Security’s new baby-name rankings

Liam and Olivia remain unchallenged at number one.

Tod Perry

5/11/2026
As they do every year around Mother’s Day, the Social Security Administration released its list of the top 1,000 most popular baby names. The SSA is uniquely positioned to track the rise and fall of baby names because it collects information on every baby born in the United States.

The 2025 list found no major changes among the top 10 names for girls and boys. Olivia and Liam again held the number one spots in the rankings, as they have for the past seven years. The biggest changes were among girls’ names, where Charlotte rose to second place, ending Emma’s six-year run in the spot. Ava dropped out of the top 10 and was replaced by Eliana.

Three babies. Photo credit: Canva

No big changes in the top 10s for 2025

No big changes for the boys, where the top four remained unchanged: Liam, Noah, Oliver, and Theodore.

Boys’ names
1. Liam
2. Noah
3. Oliver
4. Theodore
5. Henry
6. James
7. Elijah
8. Mateo
9. William
10. Lucas
Girls’ names
1. Olivia
2. Charlotte
3. Emma
4. Amelia
5. Sophia
6. Mia
7. Isabella
8. Evelyn
9. Sofia
10. Eliana
A crying baby. Photo credit: Canva

When it comes to the names rising fastest in popularity, there were some decidedly unconventional choices rocketing up the charts. There also appears to be a clear trend toward names with a strong “K” sound.

Names that are rapidly gaining in popularity

Boys’ names
1. Kasai
2. Akari
3. Eziah
4. Jasai
5. Neithan
Girls’ names
1. Klarity
2. Rynlee
3. Ailanny
4. Naylani
5. Madisson
A happy baby. Photo credit: Canva

Kasai made the greatest leap among boys’ names, moving up 1,108 spots on the list to land at 639. Kasai means “fire” in both Japanese and Swahili. Although the name is a fast mover in the boys’ category, it has also been used as a girls’ name. It’s believed that the name is rising in popularity due to actress Skai Jackson naming her baby Kasai and the popularity of entrepreneur and rapper Kasai Guthrie.

Klarity’s origins are a bit more obvious: it’s “Clarity” with a twist, spelled with a K instead of a C. “A rediscovered virtue name with a modern makeover, Klarity has the zippy sounds of Felicity along with the familiar feel of Kate, Katie, Kitty, and Klara,” Nameberry writes.

Akari is another name with Japanese origins, meaning “star” or, depending on how it’s written, “moon,” “bright,” “light,” or “red jewel.” It’s a rapidly rising boys’ name, but it’s also used for girls.

Rynlee is a modern construction that follows the current trend of using popular names, such as Ryan, and adding a -lee or -leigh suffix. Alternative spellings include Rynleigh and Rinlee.

Another unique name is Jasai. It’s a modern take on the traditional name “Jason” and may have ancient Hindi or Sanskrit origins, meaning “victory” or “achievement.” On the girls’ side, Ailanny appears to be a recent creation centered on the opening sound “Ai,” which is often associated with love and affection.

You can access the SSA’s full name database here.
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