Don’t read this before bedtime

…How parents can help kids get through common friendship problems. Scripts included. 

…Why we sometimes sound like our parents when we're talking to our kids, and how we can stop.

…These simple ways you can teach your kid about money to set them up for success. You’ll want to bookmark this.

…How parents of trans kids are rushing to find treatment options amid gender-reaffirming care bans. Plus, a look at states protecting this care.

…Two things to check out this weekend: The movie version of Judy Blume’s iconic book and Dolly Parton’s new children’s book.

Q: Should I discipline my child in public? Or wait until we’re alone?

Discipline is about safety, and if your kid is doing something that could harm themselves or others, then you should intervene, even if it’s in public, says Dr. Naline Lai, a pediatrician at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Here’s what she says parents should keep in mind:

• Dangerous or disruptive: If your kid bites another child or starts banging on chairs during a school play, then you should discipline them. How you go about that is up to you. But you shouldn’t feel embarrassed or ashamed to correct their behavior in public, says Dr. Lai. 

• Addressing behaviors in private: There’s a difference between disciplining and teaching self-calming skills, says Dr. Lai. If your son is throwing a tantrum at the grocery store, that’s an opportunity to comfort them and show them how to self-soothe. In that scenario, it could be helpful to go to a quiet, private space so they can calm down and you can have a conversation. 

• Be consistent: The way you discipline depends on your family dynamic and personal preferences. But you should be consistent in how you choose to redirect your kid’s behavior. And remember: Setting limits and disciplining them will have long-term benefits for your kid, says Dr. Lai.

Do you have a parenting question you want answered by an expert? Ask anonymously here. Your question could be answered in next week's email.

Can’t Stop Bedtime Scrolling? Try These Steps

Researchers sometimes call mindless scrolling “revenge nighttime procrastination.” Aka, an attempt to reclaim your time. But it could be hurting you. Not only are you delaying your sleep cycle, but the sleep you get will probably be subpar, says Carleara Weiss, a sleep scientist and research assistant professor at the University of Buffalo. That’s no good since we know quality sleep is important for mental and physical health. 

Here are some tips from Weiss to prevent bedtime scrolling:

• Schedule scrolling for another time: You can do it on your lunch break, while you’re drinking coffee, or after you put your kids down for a nap. Or add it to your calendar if that helps. Anytime but bedtime.

• No screens 30 min – 1 hr before bed: The blue light from your phone, TV, or computer reduces the melatonin we naturally produce, says Weiss. That means you’re not getting the deep, refreshing sleep most parents desperately need. Pro tip: Set an alarm to alert you that it’s time to get off your phone and prep for bed. 

• Create a new bedtime routine: Try something new, or bring back a classic. Read a book, take a long shower, or meditate. Aim to get at least 7 hours a night. We know, it sounds impossible. But changing your routine can help you get there.

• Stay consistent: This could be especially hard for night owls, but don’t give up. Creating a new habit takes at least 6 weeks, says Weiss.

Bookmark This Link to Monitor Product Recalls. You're welcome.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is the gov agency responsible for issuing recalls on a variety of products (like Mockingbird strollers or MamaRoo swings). They issue and enforce mandatory safety standards, ban products that aren’t safe, and issue recalls to help people avoid unnecessary risks, injuries, or even death. 

Each alert on their site gives background on why the product is considered dangerous and how you can get help from the manufacturer for a refund or replacement. 

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