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Mom Tips

1,186 episodes - English - Latest episode: 4 months ago - ★★★★★ - 10 ratings

Welcome to Mom Tips, your 60-second dose of positive parenting content from the team at Mom.com. Created with your busy morning routine in mind, these hacks and motherhood anecdotes are perfect to listen to while you're scrambling to get your family up and out of the house!

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Episodes

How to Stay Safe at Home This Holiday Season

December 11, 2020 06:02 - 2 minutes

Sponsored by ADT. The holidays are upon us, and while many of us will be celebrating a little differently this year, that doesn’t mean we can’t get creative or nurture important connections that will last after the last gift is unwrapped. In order to keep festivities healthy and (mostly) stress-free, here are a few ways families can spread the love while staying safe at home.

5 Things Every Mom Needs To Hear From Their Kids

December 10, 2020 06:01 - 2 minutes

Why do kids spew their version of the truth when they’re around strangers or at the doctor’s office? We want to hear our kids talk (most of the time anyway), but instead of them telling people at the grocery store our job is drinking wine or yelling at Daddy, these are the things we really need to hear from our kids instead.

My Instagram Is Basically Dedicated To My Baby, But I Don’t Care

December 09, 2020 06:01 - 2 minutes

Before I had kids, I had this idea in my head that I never wanted to be seen as “just” a mom. I was going to retain my identity, OK? And that extended to social media. My Instagram feed wouldn’t be filled with pictures of my baby. It’s not her Instagram, it’s mine. But now that she’s in the world, things are much different.

3 Reasons Why Sleeping in a Separate Bed From My Husband is Awesome

December 08, 2020 06:02 - 2 minutes

When people hear that a married couple doesn’t sleep together in the same bed — let alone the same room, inevitably, people wonder if there’s something wrong with their marriage. Rest assured — they’re likely much happier than most couples — and all their girlfriends are jealous. Here are 3 reasons why sleeping in separate beds (or rooms) from your husband is awesome.

Sleep Training My Baby Made Her A Little TOO Independent

December 07, 2020 06:02 - 3 minutes

Before my daughter was born, every mom in my life made it clear that I wouldn’t be getting any sleep for years. “Sleep while you can!” they’d say, as if anyone can sleep with a watermelon belly and a bladder that’s being squished by a fully formed child. I’m not gonna lie: they were right.

3 Ideas for Baby's First Holiday

December 04, 2020 06:01 - 2 minutes

The holidays are upon us, and while you may be scouring Pinterest for ideas on how to make your baby's first holiday season special, it's important to not get overwhelmed. Let this be the year that you finally embrace simplicity. Here are five ideas to help make the most of baby's first holiday without stressing yourself out.

4 Ways Our Angel Baby Is Turning Into a Devil Toddler

December 03, 2020 06:02 - 2 minutes

My 20-month-old son has been an angel throughout his young life, but now, as the terrible twos approach, he's beginning to develop the following devilish — or at least extremely frustrating and confusing traits.

4 Moms Offer Their Secrets to Handling Their Infant's Colds

December 02, 2020 06:02 - 2 minutes

In addition to worrying about COVID-19, it's also time to start thinking about the annual cold and flu season. Even with good hand-washing practices and social distancing, it can still be all too easy to catch a cold, especially for families with kids or babies at home.

Parents Are Raving About the 'Popsicle Shower' Trick That Helps Stop Tantrums

December 01, 2020 06:02 - 2 minutes

We emphatically present: the shower Popsicle. Sounds weird? We thought so, too ... until parents in droves began testifying that it works.

4 Ways Marriage Changes Right After Having a Baby

November 30, 2020 06:01 - 2 minutes

A baby changes everything — especially our relationships. Here are just four ways your marriage might be different after bringing home that sweet little baby.

5 Things To Know About Intermittent Fasting

November 27, 2020 06:00 - 2 minutes

Here’s what you should know about intermittent fasting before jumping in headfirst to this popular method of weight loss and eating. It's definitely not for everyone — especially when it comes to those of us who love to snack all day long — but for some, it really has been a game-changer.

5 Sweet Thanksgiving Traditions

November 26, 2020 06:01 - 2 minutes

Looking for the perfect Thanksgiving tradition to start with your family? These ideas, which range from traditional to out-of-the-box, will give you plenty of inspiration!

5 Things I Refuse to Do for My Young Kids

November 25, 2020 06:02 - 2 minutes

Now that my girls are 5 and almost 4 years old, it's time for this mom to draw some lines in the sand. I want to make sure these little ladies continue to develop in a positive way. No lazy bums growing up here. Here are a few of my brand-new rules that I have for my kids.

4 Parenting Hacks for Remote Learning We All Could Use Right Now

November 24, 2020 06:02 - 2 minutes

While some schools have opted for remote learning this year, it’s not the ideal situation for everyone. But there are ways to make it work, and we've always reminded ourselves that we can get through the hard stuff. The main thing we need to be able to do this is to be kind to ourselves, let go of that perfectionist voice in our heads, and hold on to the belief that everything is going to work out. Here are four parenting hacks that will help the kids (and parents) get through this together.

All the Things I Want to Add to My Baby Registry — But Can't

November 23, 2020 06:01 - 2 minutes

I recently put together my baby registry, and as cute as the cozy sleepers and baby blankets are, along with necessities like diapers and nursing pads, I found what I really need after I actually have the baby to be lacking. After a few babies, I’ve come to realize how absolutely essential these non-baby registry items are. If I could truly add anything to my baby registry, here's what I would want.

How to Protect Your Kids’ Prized Possessions

November 20, 2020 06:01 - 2 minutes

As parents, we know that our kids love their things. Like really love them. What mom hasn’t tried to throw out that extra-dingy blanket that’s a completely different shade from when it was purchased? Or the stuffy that only has one eye? Yep, those prized possessions are sticking around for the long haul, but that doesn’t mean we can’t keep them looking their best — even if their best is a little, well, let’s just say “well-loved.” Here are four ways to protect your child’s favorite things.

4 Ways to Foster Gratitude in Kids

November 19, 2020 06:02 - 2 minutes

It’s normal for kids to be self-centered despite all of our efforts to help them be more empathetic or appreciative. The good news, though, is that we can help them broaden their perspectives and see beyond themselves. We can help them think about others and help them approach life with an attitude of gratitude. Here are a few suggestions for fostering thankfulness in your kids.

5 Moms Share the Creative Ways They Are Celebrating Thanksgiving

November 18, 2020 06:02 - 2 minutes

The Halloween decorations have come down, and it’s nearly time for turkeys to take center stage! Thanksgiving is a time of great food, family togetherness, and lots of football on TV. This year, many families are planning a different kind of Thanksgiving. Big family gatherings aren’t safe for many folks, so people are having to think creatively about new ways to celebrate the season of gratefulness.

What It’s Really Like To Have a Big Family

November 17, 2020 06:01 - 2 minutes

Three kids is normal, but anything more turns you into a baby-making factory in other people’s minds. So, imagine what I’ve been hearing now that I have a visible baby bump PLUS four kids.

4 Ways To Simplify the Holidays This Year

November 16, 2020 06:02 - 2 minutes

The holidays are upon us, and there's no question that this year will be different from all the others. It's arguably been one of the most stressful times of our lives, and it's not letting up yet. All we want is for the holiday season to take our minds off of these challenges for a little while. In order to do this, we need to simplify the holiday season. We can do a lot to keep this fun for our kids and help take stress levels way down for ourselves and fellow parents. Here are four ways to...

How to Make the Most of Family Time This Holiday Season

November 13, 2020 06:01 - 2 minutes

While family time has taken a front row seat for most of 2020, something about the holidays makes spending time together that much more special. Whether it’s the annual traditions of bountiful table settings, colorful home décor, gift exchanges, or just gathering together after a big meal to get cozy on the couch, family time feels extra special year. Here are four ways to make the most of your time with the fam — even if it includes a bit of escape, too.

4 Ideas for Cheap Dates Married Couples Will Love

November 12, 2020 06:02 - 2 minutes

Lately, finding fun things for couples to do has been like pulling a rabbit out of a hat. Although married couples are accustomed to having busy schedules that aren’t exactly conducive to getting alone time, this year the stakes are a bit higher. Some of us are working from home together, which makes being a married couple and a parent a 24/7 situation, so carving out a special date night is essential. Check out these date ideas for married couples.

5 Things I Never Thought I’d Be OK With As a Mom

November 11, 2020 06:02 - 2 minutes

I had a whole life before I had kids. Hard to believe it, but I did. In fact, before my kiddies were born, I was a very different type of person and there were some things I swore I'd never, ever be OK with even after I became a parent. Like these five things ...

5 Creative Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving If Everyone Can't Get Together

November 10, 2020 06:02 - 3 minutes

For many families, Thanksgiving is the most epic family holiday. Generations of family all crammed around the table, creating memories and telling old family stories while sharing Grandma's famous mashed potatoes? That's the dream, but that isn't always possible. Some years, a big family gathering just isn't safe or doable, which can mean having to plan for a smaller Thanksgiving. But instead of dreading a scaled-back holiday, why not embrace it and try something new instead?

4 Things You Can Do With Your Baby Every Day

November 09, 2020 06:01 - 2 minutes

Keeping up with the daily work of engaging a baby can be hard, especially since their attention spans aren't all that long. Here are a few things you can do to ensure your baby has the basic skills they need to develop — while having a little fun at the same time.

4 Ways to Keep Your Clothes and Home Smelling Fresh

November 06, 2020 06:01 - 2 minutes

As we spend more time with our families, most everything in our homes is seeing a lot more action. From carpets to home offices to even pajamas and lounge wear, everything domestic is getting a ton of use. That’s why it’s important to keep everything looking and smelling fresh, whether it’s your kid’s favorite T-shirt that he insists on wearing two days in a row or the mattress that’s seeing a few extra naps these days. Whatever your home needs, we’ve got the lowdown on how to keep it smellin...

5 Affordable Outdoor Activities to Do This Fall

November 05, 2020 06:01 - 2 minutes

When fall arrives, so many of us dread the thought of the coming colder weather. The first cold breeze sends a shudder down the spine of summer lovers, and they immediately start stocking up on blankets and movies for hibernation until spring, only to come out for the family visit to the pumpkin patch. But there are so many activities we can do outdoors during autumn, before winter weather becomes unbearable, and we're forced indoors. And the best part? Most of it is super affordable (if not ...

5 Reasons Minivans Rule

November 04, 2020 06:01 - 2 minutes

Minivans get an uncool mom vibe rap, but trust me, they’re pretty much the best things ever. Still skeptical? Hear me out…

7 Reasons I Love Fall

November 03, 2020 06:01 - 1 minute

I know many of you love Fall. Probably just as much as I do, but I'm going to go out on a limb and say I love it a little more than the regular gal. Why? Here are just a few reasons…

3 Ways Your Newborn Will Test Your Relationship

November 02, 2020 06:01 - 2 minutes

Yes, having a new baby is beautiful, but it also creates a domino effect that impacts every other area of your life, most notably the relationship with your significant other. No one ever really tells you that.

4 Fixes for Life’s Little Messes

October 30, 2020 06:02 - 2 minutes

Let’s face it — messes happen. While we can’t prevent every challenge that’s thrown our way, we can be prepared with helpful options to make them as stress-free as possible. When you have kids, this is especially true. Dishes break. Spills happen. And, sometimes, clothing gets stained. But it’s what you do about it that counts, right? So here are four easy fixes for life’s little messes.

5 Spookily Fun Stay-at-Home Halloween Night Ideas

October 29, 2020 10:02 - 2 minutes - 3.83 MB

Halloween is the best, and this year it’s on a Saturday night with an extra hour to boot. (Thank you, end of Daylight Saving Time.) So talk about bewitching perfection! But it also happens to fall in the scary year that is 2020, during a worldwide health crisis. Here are five spooky and safe ideas for celebrating Halloween at home.

5 Tips for Cheering Up an Unhappy Baby

October 28, 2020 10:02 - 2 minutes - 3.46 MB

Even the happiest babies have moments when they seem inconsolable, especially when they’re hungry, wet, overtired, or not feeling well. If your baby’s typically cheerful attitude delves into full-blown grumpiness, snuggles, swaddles, songs, and sounds can all work to cheer him up.

My Girl Is Only 9, But I Already Need To Teach Her How To Love Herself No Matter What

October 27, 2020 10:01 - 2 minutes - 3.9 MB

Nine years old and already learning what it feels like to have her heart broken by the unkindness of the world. She already knows what it feels like to have her peers comment on her body, her face, her clothes, her family.

5 Reasons Why I'll Never Be a Perfect Mom

October 26, 2020 10:02 - 2 minutes - 3.69 MB

If you’d met me before I became a mom, you would have been impressed. Not only had I earned a master’s degree and become the boss at my job, but I also wore stylish outfits and blow-dried my hair every time I took a shower, which was daily. So when I became a stay-at-home mom, I assumed that all the drive and determination that I’d brought to my career would make me an amazing mother. Here's why I'm not even close.

4 Ways Moms Show Love (Other Than Hugs)

October 23, 2020 10:02 - 2 minutes - 3.36 MB

Don’t get us wrong — hugs are amazing. They’re comforting and just what kids — and parents, too — need when they could use some extra encouragement and support. Luckily, there are so many ways to show love — through actions, through words, or even just being there to listen. Here are four ways moms can show their love.

Real Talk: I'm So Over Playing With My Kid

October 22, 2020 10:02 - 4 minutes - 5.93 MB

As time during quarantine has gone on, the truth is, playing stresses me out. As we're infinitely looping scenarios in which his "cars are gonna crash" or a "Paw Patrol" character is stuck on the bridge, my mind is elsewhere and telling my physical body it should be there, too.

5 Halloween Traditions To Start This Year

October 21, 2020 10:01 - 2 minutes - 3.99 MB

Halloween is just around the corner and if you’re anything like us, you can’t wait to decorate your house, get your costume together, and eat all the sweet treats. Of course, this Halloween is going to be a little different from other years, but just because it might be unusual, that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun! Check out these great ideas for new Halloween traditions to start this year!

5 Things Most People Don't Know About Voting

October 20, 2020 10:01 - 2 minutes - 3.96 MB

Voting is quintessentially American. It is one of the most important rights of being a citizen of the United States and the foundation of our democracy. People have fought for it throughout history — in fact, people continue to fight for the right to vote. Today, we vote at the local, state, and federal levels. Whether we realize it or not, voting has a lot of power over the politicians and policies that end up affecting our everyday lives. As Election Day nears, we’ve decided to share ...

7 Reasons I Want to Have Another Baby

October 19, 2020 10:02 - 2 minutes - 4.35 MB

I had my first baby nine months ago, and I distinctly remember being in labor, swearing to myself, God, and anyone who would listen that I would never go through this again. Then I saw my baby boy for the first time. And now, I want another baby again. Call me crazy, but here are some of the reasons why.

5 Ways for Your Kids to Connect with Their Classmates While Virtual Learning

October 16, 2020 10:02 - 2 minutes - 4.39 MB

Seven months into this pandemic, and my kids are still virtual learning — and plan to be for at least the fall quarter. In many ways, I’m fine with that. We’ve established new routines and rhythms. We’ve found our little workspaces. We’ve relaxed rules around phones and Fortnite so they can eke out some non-Zoom connection with their online classmates during the week. But every few days, one of the kids gets vocal about missing friends amid all this online learning. So it pays to have a...

Why Does Everyone Keep Saying To Enjoy the Baby Years?

October 15, 2020 10:02 - 2 minutes - 3.53 MB

Every time I’ve attended a baby shower, everyone gives the mom-to-be the same advice: “Enjoy the baby years. They go by so fast.” But why?

Halloween Myths & Facts

October 14, 2020 10:02 - 3 minutes - 5.05 MB

The myths and facts about Halloween, and the ways in which we currently celebrate the holiday, are rooted deeply in the past. We thought it was time to dig up some of that ancient history, so we all know exactly what we're celebrating on October 31.

4 Tips for First-Time Dads on How to Actually Help Your Wife After She Has a Baby

October 13, 2020 10:02 - 2 minutes - 4.07 MB

Many first-time dads want to help their partner once the baby arrives but feel completely clueless as to how. So here’s a little cheat sheet for husbands.

The Most Popular Baby Names of 2019

October 12, 2020 10:05 - 2 minutes - 4.31 MB

Every year, people wait to hear what the most popular baby names are. The list of names, which are compiled from data and released through the Social Security Administration from the previous year, helps parents find the perfect baby name for their little-one-to-be. Some parents like to check out the list in hopes of finding the one that speaks to them, while others scan the list to find out which names to avoid — that is, if they're looking for a more uncommon name. Whatever the reason...

The Most Popular Baby Names of 2019

October 12, 2020 10:03 - 2 minutes - 4.31 MB

Every year, people wait to hear what the most popular baby names are. The list of names, which are compiled from data and released through the Social Security Administration from the previous year, helps parents find the perfect baby name for their little-one-to-be. Some parents like to check out the list in hopes of finding the one that speaks to them, while others scan the list to find out which names to avoid — that is, if they're looking for a more uncommon name. Wha...

5 Amazing Pumpkin Spice Products We're Obsessed With Right Now

October 09, 2020 10:01 - 2 minutes - 3.86 MB

It’s fall, y’all! Schools are back in session (kind of), leaves are beginning to change, and the temperature is dropping. The sweet tastes and smells of autumn are beginning to permeate the world, and it is good!

Dear Moms: Self-Care Isn't the Same as Self-Respect, and We Deserve Both

October 08, 2020 10:02 - 2 minutes - 4.08 MB

You know what? I think I’ve changed my mind about self-care. Self-care is not a shower. It’s not peeing when you need to. It’s not hydrating or going to bed instead of doing another load of washing. That is self-respect. Does my husband think he’s engaging in "a little self-care" when he hops into the shower to wash the day away? Or pours a quenching glass of tap water? (I can’t imagine that the thought even passes his mind to de-prioritize those basic rights anyway). Yet we approach th...

How To Put Down Your Phone Because, Yes, It Matters

October 07, 2020 10:02 - 2 minutes - 3.75 MB

I confess, I've been glued to my phone lately. Way worse than normal. But phones are tools. They don’t own us. They can’t. We have to set boundaries and manage them well so they don’t negatively impact us or our families.

4 Creative Ideas for Memorable Day Trips With Your Kids

October 06, 2020 10:02 - 2 minutes - 3.03 MB

Taking a quick day trip with your kids can be fun and memorable. This bonding experience can allow you to connect in a powerful way, without all the distractions of being at home. Just remember to be safe and plan for any additional rules or expectations, given current health precautions in various states and counties.