Care and Feeding | Slate's parenting show
Slate Podcasts
Jamilah Lemieux, Zak Rosen, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Lucy Lopez share triumphs and fails and offer advice on parenting kids from toddler to teens.Want more Care and Feeding? Subscribe to Slate Plus to unlock weekly bonus episodes with exclusive advice. Plus, you’ll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of the Care and Feeding show page. Or, visit slate.com/careplus to get access wherever you listen.
Should We Skip Touring the White House?
On this episode: Elizabeth, Lucy and Zak answer a listener’s voicemail about planning a field trip to DC — and trying to avoid politics. The parents at this school have very different politics than our listener, and the listener’s already gotten her 10-year-old to agree to skip the White House… but is that the right call? And can you even avoid politics on a history lover’s tour of DC?And after that discussion, we’ll of course circle up for a round of triumphs and fails.Join us on Facebook and e
After Dark: Modeling Healthy Love
On this episode: Elizabeth, Lucy and Zak get together for our annual After Dark episode. This year, Lucy’s got a question about showing affection in front of the kids… and figuring out how to demonstrate what a healthy relationship looks like without making it weird.If you want to catch up on last year’s After Dark episodes, do it: we talked about sex and did couple’s counseling.And after that discussion, we’ll of course circle up for a round of triumphs and fails.Join us on Facebook and email u
How To Plan A (Practically) Perfect Disney Trip
On this episode: Zak, Elizabeth, Lucy and Jamilah are joined by Lauren Passell, of Tink Media, for the ultimate conversation about planning and executing a Disney trip. We won’t lie — yes, it can be complicated, and expensive. But we’ll share how to manage the hard stuff and still have a great trip. Then, if you’re hanging out for the Slate Plus Playground, everyone will share their favorite memories of going to theme parks… as adults, and as kids.If you’re not part of the Slate Plus community,
Are Kids Worried About the News?
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah and Zak circle up to talk about parenting in the current moment. The Slate Parenting Facebook group has been talking recently about how to explain current events to kids — even when we wish we were unplugged, and even when we’re scared and uncertain, too. So today? We’ll just talk.And after that discussion, we’ll of course circle up for a round of triumphs and fails.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell u
Come Join the Internal Rage Club
On this episode: Zak, Elizabeth and Lucy crack open the C&F mailbag for some extended conversation on the internal rage club, parental favoritism, and Lucy’s special tea. We’ll also check in on where the hosts are this week – and then, if you’re coming to hang out on the Slate Plus Playground, it’s Groundhog Day.If you’re not part of the Slate Plus community, we hope you’ll consider joining! Keep reading to learn how.Lucy’s check-in: Avery has the flu, feels like SpidermanElizabeth’s check-in: t
Should We Pull Out Of Preschool?
We're aware of some playback issues on this episode - if you hear something weird, delete and re-download. On this episode: Elizabeth, Lucy and Zak help a listener whose son is putting up a fight about preschool. This four-year-old has never loved school, and now he has a new baby sibling to love… so he really doesn’t want to leave home. And it’s getting to the point of peeing on things out of spite. So: what now?And after that discussion, we’ll of course circle up for a round of triumphs and fa
Should We Pull Out Of Preschool?
On this episode: Elizabeth, Lucy and Zak help a listener whose son is putting up a fight about preschool. This four-year-old has never loved school, and now he has a new baby sibling to love… so he really doesn’t want to leave home. And it’s getting to the point of peeing on things out of spite. So what now?And after that discussion, we’ll of course circle up for a round of triumphs and fails.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what yo
Should We Fight In Front Of the Kids?
On this episode: Zak, Elizabeth and Jamilah talk about what to do when you’re arguing with your partner… but you have to do it in front of the kids. We’ll talk about how to model healthy disagreement — and when it’s time to hit pause.We’ll also check in on where the hosts are this week – and then, if you’re coming to hang out on the Slate Plus Playground, the hosts are listening back to their 2024 resolutions and deciding if it truly was the year of “meh.”If you’re not part of the Slate Plus com
We’re Moving Abroad To Escape Trump
On this episode: Dan Kois joins Elizabeth and Zak for a conversation about moving abroad. We got a question recently from a listener who’s moving because of the new president… so while we’ll answer her question about picking up a new language, we’ll also talk about what moving abroad can, and can’t, fix for your family.If you want more tips, be sure to check out this recent episode from our friends at How To! about how to become an expat.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slat
From Our Friends: How To Face the Future (Gen Z Edition)
We're off this Monday for the holiday but didn't want to leave you empty-eared — so here's an episode of How To! starring our friend Carvell Wallace's son. We'll be back with you Thursday for a new episode.Ezra is adrift in his early 20s. He craves a life of meaning, community, and love. But he’s struggling to find those things in a world that seems increasingly uncertain and discouraging for young people. On this existential episode of How To!, Courtney Martin brings in Andrew McPeak, author, p
My Kid Suddenly Refuses to Fly
On this episode: Lucy, Zak, and Elizabeth take flight. Our listener’s kid has suddenly decided – or realized – he’s afraid of airplanes and heights. With a big trip coming up, this parent is looking for advice… and musing on whether bribes have to be involved. Or are they simply little treats?After that, of course, we’ll circle up to share some Triumphs and Fails. Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, an
I Hate My Kid’s Friend
On this episode: Zak, Elizabeth and Jamilah help a listener who emailed us wondering how to break up a friendship. Her son is friends with an obnoxious girl who the parent would just rather not see. But, of course, friendships are complicated… and this might not be as easy as just not inviting this girl over.We’ll also check in on where the hosts are this week – and then, if you’re coming to hang out on the Slate Plus Playground, the hosts are listening back to their 2024 resolutions an
Mom’s the Favorite. Dad’s Mad.
A note: this episode was recorded just minutes after the Palisades Fire reportedly ignited in California. Jamilah and her family are safe as of the airing of this episode. If you want to help victims of any of the fires in the Los Angeles metro area, please consider donating to the California Fire Foundation, Direct Relief, World Central Kitchen, or CORE. On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth help the favorite parent. This 6-year-old says she might love mom more than dad… and dad is, unde
Encore: Parenting Fearlessly, Onstage and Off
On this episode: Lucy sits down with actress and author Mandy Gonzalez for a wide-ranging conversation about parenting, building a creative mom group, and enduring cancer treatment with your head held high. Mandy also answers questions from our own budding Broadway stars.Lucy also shares a quick update about her mom's cancer journey - and Care & Feeding's production schedule in the new year.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell
Dear Prudence: My Stepson is a Liar and Attention Seeker. Help!
We’re still enjoying the last dregs of the holiday season — but we thought C&F listeners might love to hear Zak’s recent appearance on another advice show you might’ve heard of.Guest Prudie Kristen Meinzer is joined by Zak Rosen, who co-hosts Slate’s Care & Feeding parenting podcast – and doles out his own advice on The Best Advice Show. Together, they answer letters from a listener concerned their step son is turning into an attention seeking drama queen, a cancer patient whose
The Plus Playground Highlight Reel
On this episode: we’re sharing our favorite Slate Plus segments with our whole audience, as we do every year. 2024 was a big year for our Slate Plus supporters: we launched the Slate Plus Playground, which is a whole new way to get bonus content and recommendations. If you like the Playground segments you’re about to hear, we hope you’ll consider joining us for them every week.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thoug
Parenting in an Interfaith World
On this episode: it’s the day after Christmas and the first day of Hanukkah — so we thought there would be no better time than now to sit down to talk about parenting, faith, and the cultural traditions that we adopt, and craft, for our kids.Zak is joined by Slate writer and friend of the show Aymann Ismail and interfaith relationship and parenting expert Susan Katz Miller. Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought
The 2024 Family Holiday Party
On this episode: it’s our annual holiday party! We traditionally hand the mics over to our kids at this time of year. This year, we did something a little different: our kids all interviewed each other. It’s sweet, it’s chaotic, and you’re going to love it.Some naughty elves left a glitch in the show’s audio on Dec 23. It’s been fixed and they learned their lesson.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s
My Kid Was Late and Lost Their Helper Day
On this episode: Jamilah, Lucy, and returning guest host Dillon Michael White answer a question from a member of the Slate Parenting Facebook group about being on time. This kindergartener’s class has helper days that you lose if you’re late to school that day… but what do you do when it’s your fault your kid is late? After that, of course, we’ll circle up to share some Triumphs and Fails. Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us w
Will My Kid Want My Advice?
On this episode: Zak, Elizabeth and Jamilah help a parent who’s thinking ahead to when her baby is a little bigger… and wondering how to build a close relationship with a kid who has a life of their own. How do you raise someone who wants to come to you for advice? We’ll also check in on where the hosts are this week – and then, if you’re coming to hang out on the Slate Plus Playground, we’re continuing our conversation about building trust between parents and kids… and talking about w
I’m Dreaming of a Full Night’s Sleep
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah and Zak help a member of the Slate Parenting Facebook group whose whole household is struggling with a little one’s sleepless nights. We’ll talk about how to help a kid settle, and stay settled… and why it might not be smart to watch the clock.After that, of course, we’ll circle up to share some Triumphs and Fails. Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us idea
The Trouble With Tattletales
On this episode: a member of the Slate Parenting community is wondering about how to handle tattletales. On the one hand: secrets can be bad. But on the other hand… are authority figures always there to help?We’ll also check in on where the hosts are this week – and then, if you’re coming to hang out on the Slate Plus Playground, we’re talking through the US government’s list of dangerous toys.If you’re not part of the Slate Plus community, we hope you’ll consider joining! Keep reading
My Kid Won’t Stop Saying “Stupid”
On this episode: Elizabeth, Lucy and Zak help a member of the Slate Parenting Facebook group whose almost-5-year-old is stuck on the word “stupid…” and won’t stop saying it. One parent thinks this word is unacceptable and requires punishment. The other parent is pretty sure punishment will only make things worse. We’ll weigh who’s right and whether there’s a middle ground.After that, of course, we’ll circle up to share some Triumphs and Fails. Join us on Facebook and email us at careand
The Santa Problem
On this episode: Every year, like clockwork, we start getting questions about how to do, or not do, the whole Santa thing. We’ll answer a listener's question and muse on the nature of belief.We’ll also check in on where the hosts are this week – and then, if you’re coming to hang out on the Slate Plus Playground, we’re honoring peak holiday meal szn with a round of food would-you-rathers. If you’re not part of the Slate Plus community, we hope you’ll consider joining! Keep reading to le
Sharing Gratitude and the Best Advice
We're off for Thanksgiving but still got together to share some things we're grateful for — and then, Zak is grateful to share an episode of his other show with you... all about being grateful for friendships, even in the rear-view.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episodes. You can also call our phone line: (646) 357-9318.If you en
Can I Explain Germs To My Toddler?
On this episode: we’re weighing how to teach little ones about the dangers of germs… without making it sound too scary. We’ll talk about how to explain why eating off the floor is bad… without unlocking some new fears.We’ll also check in on where the hosts are this week – and then, if you’re coming to hang out on the Slate Plus Playground, we’re calling a meeting of the C&F weed caucus to order.If you’re not part of the Slate Plus community, we hope you’ll consider joining! Keep reading to learn
Are Your Kids Safe on Roblox?
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah and Zak share advice for weighing whether you want your kids on Roblox. The company just announced some impending safety enhancements to the mega-popular online multiplayer game… but, as the hosts and our Slate Parenting community will tell you, the platform might still be a wild west.After that, of course, we’ll circle up to share some Triumphs and Fails. Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us
The Autistic Raccoon Changing PBS Kids
On this episode: Zak sits down with Zach O’Hora and Lisa Whittick – respectively, the creator and director of the new PBS Kids show Carl The Collector. They’ll talk about crafting a kids’ show with neurodiverse characters… and what it means to tell a good story.We’ll also check in on where the hosts are this week – and then, if you’re coming to hang out on the Slate Plus Playground, we’re celebrating the life and work of children’s folk singer Ella Jenkins.If you’re not part of the Slat
Parenting Under Trump 2.0
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah and Zak talk about the aftermath of the presidential election — from the policy issues that freak us out to handling grief in front of our kids. And we’ll share a ton of amazing thoughts, advice, and reassurance from the Slate Parenting community.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episodes. You can also cal
Tom and Jerry Toddlers
On this episode: Elizabeth, Lucy and Zak help a member of the Slate Parenting Facebook group whose toddlers are at each other… Constantly. We’re just glad they don’t have cartoon hammers.We’ll also check in on where the hosts are this week – and then, if you’re coming to hang out on the Slate Plus Playground, we’re talking about the long history of making stuff with your kids.If you’re not part of the Slate Plus community, we hope you’ll consider joining! Keep reading to learn how.Lucy’
Letters on Politics, Halloween, and the Impala
On this episode: Elizabeth, Lucy and Zak crack open our mailbag. You’ve been sending a ton of emails about everything from Zionism to the Red Light District to Lucy’s Impala impulses… so today, we’re sharing all that and more. And then, of course, we’ll share some triumphs and fails.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episodes. You ca
Talking To Kids About The Election
On this episode: Elizabeth, Lucy and Zak share how they’re talking to the kids about tomorrow’s election. We’ll offer tips for cutting through the noise to talk civics… and also how to address the serious, nasty, and scary. Elizabeth’s book recommendations: V is for Voting by Kate FarrellEquality’s Call: the Story of Voting Rights in America by Deborah DiesenUsborne: Politics for Beginners The Politics Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained We’ll also check in on where the hosts are this week
Is It Creepy To Photograph Other Kids’ Costumes?
On this episode: Lucy, Zak and Elizabeth answer a listener's question about something that happened last Halloween… when an older gentleman might’ve taken a photo of her young kid. We’ll talk about whether it’s as creepy as it sounds — and also, why Elizabeth is over Halloween. We’ll also circle up for a round of triumphs and fails — including an update on Lucy’s mama. Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of to
Revisiting Modern Puberty, Explained
We’re always getting questions about puberty. And even if we’re not dealing with a question explicitly about puberty, it seems like this topic always finds a way to come up anyway… like in last Thursday’s episode, for example.And puberty is always in the news – just this year, the NIH published research about precocious puberty caused by chemicals in personal care products. And Harvard researchers developed an existing theory that socioeconomic factors might be linked to an early onset
My Son Can’t Read The Room
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth tackle a letter from a Care and Feeding reader who is trying to explain code-switching to a six-year-old. This kid doesn’t seem to understand how or why to speak differently to his peers than to adults… but how can you convey that without giving him the wrong message?We’ll also, of course, circle up for a round of triumphs and fails. Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thou
Loving An Interrupter
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah and Zak help a member of the Slate Parenting Facebook group who's wondering how to help her seven and five-year-olds — and especially her son — learn how to listen. They’re both vibrant kids with a lot of ideas… so how do you not dull their sparkle, while also getting those lips a little more zipped?We also check in on what’s happening in the hosts’ lives right now. And then, if you’re joining us for the Plus Playground — out now in your podcast feed
My Kid Really Doesn’t Want “The Talk”
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak and Elizabeth help a listener whose son is at the perfect age to learn about the birds and the bees. There’s just one problem: he really doesn’t want to know. We’ll help our listener with some strategies for communicating the important stuff, while still respecting a shy kid’s limits. We’ll also circle up for a round of triumphs and fails.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of tod
From Our Friends: How To Rethink Screen Time
We're off for Indigenous Peoples' Day but didn't want to leave you empty-handed — so we're sharing an episode from our friends over at How To!Ben has two sons in the fourth grade. Like a lot of kids, they love YouTube videos, gaming, movies, and other online entertainment. Before his sons begin using social media, Ben wants to ensure they develop a good relationship with tech—and he’s ready to recruit other families at their school to agree upon some rules of engagement. On this episode
Preparing Your Family For Disaster
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak and Elizabeth share what’s in their emergency kits and talk about their approaches to disaster preparedness. We’ll also share a dispatch from our Florida correspondent — whose family is, fortunately, safe and well. If you want to help Floridians recover from hurricanes Milton and Helene, check out the Florida Disaster Fund.For more on disaster preparedness: ready.govWe’ll also circle up for a round of triumphs and fails.Join us on Facebook and email us at c
Abby Wambach Is Parenting the Wolfpack Way
On this episode: Elizabeth, Lucy and Zak are joined by author, speaker, and soccer superstar Abby Wambach. We’ll talk about her new book, The Wolfpack Way, and what it means to raise a little leader.We also slip in a quick conversation about what it’s like to blend families and become a “bonus mom.” And then, if you’re joining us for the Plus Playground — out now in your podcast feed — Abby answers the hosts’ kids’ questions, and it is precious.Join us on Facebook and email us at carean
How Do I Raise Jewish Kids Right Now?
On this episode: Zak and Elizabeth are joined by Rachel Riskind, a longtime listener and mom to three Jewish kids. Together, they’ll commemorate Rosh Hashanah by reflecting on how to raise Jewish kids in the complicated world of 2024. Our community had a ton of questions and stories to share on everything from Gaza to fasting to how to explain to teachers that Hanukkah isn't that important.We’re excited to do more interfaith conversations soon, and we want to know what you think: so, em
My Mom’s Obsessed With My Baby
On this episode: Elizabeth, Lucy and Zak help a member of the Slate Parenting Facebook group who’s struggling with wrangling her new baby… and the baby’s very clingy new grandma. Grandma’s struggled with loneliness and is-over-the-moon about the baby. But is it time to set some boundaries? And how many photos is too many?We also check in on what’s happening in the hosts’ lives right now. And then, if you’re joining us for the Plus Playground — out now in your podcast feed — we’re sharin
There Are Mean Girls in… Kindergarten?
On this episode: Lucy, Zak and Elizabeth answer a question from a listener who’s worried that her preschooler has already encountered a lot of bullying and cliques… so what is kindergarten going to be like? And why are these little kids already capable of being so mean?We’ll also circle up for a round of triumphs and fails — including an update on Zak’s talking-about-the-Holocaust dilemma.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us wh
Making (And Keeping) Parent Friends
On this episode: it’s Friendship Week at Slate, and we’re hopping aboard the friendship train to talk about the beauty, and challenges, of making friends in the parenting world… with special guest host Rebecca Onion, a senior editor for Slate.We also check in on what’s happening in Elizabeth, Zak, and Rebecca’s lives right now. And then, if you’re joining us for the Plus Playground — out now in your podcast feed — we’re talking about what happens when a friendship dies.If you’re not part of the
My Kid’s Bad At Baseball (And He Knows It)
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak and Lucy help a listener who left us a voicemail about their little athlete who’s just not great at baseball… and he also gets upset when the game doesn’t go his way. If this kid were an adult, it’d be time to have an honest conversation about knowing your strengths. But how does that conversation work with a kid?And after that conversation, of course, we’ll also debrief on our week in parenting with a round of triumphs and fails. Join us on Facebook and
Parenting With Astrology (Seriously)
Thanks to the listeners who caught a technical error in today's upload. It's now been fixed.On this episode: Elizabeth sits down with Dr. Jennifer Freed to talk about how astrology can help us parent… even if you’re a skeptic about the whole star sign thing. It’s all about figuring out how to communicate with people who see the world differently than you do, right?We also check in on what’s happening in Elizabeth, Zak, and Jamilah’s lives right now. And then, if you’re joining us for th
My Wife’s Making Me A Deadbeat Dad
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak and Jamilah are joined by Allison Price of the Care & Feeding text column to talk through one of her most recent columns. This dad lets his wife lean into her Type A tendencies… and as a result, he’s been pushed out of parenting decisions. Who’s to blame here? And why was Allison worried about commenter clapbacks?And after that, of course, we’ll also debrief on our week in parenting with a round of triumphs and fails. Join us on Facebook and email us
Toddlers Can Know Moving Is Sh*tty
On this episode: helping a little guy with some big changes. A member of our Slate Parenting Facebook Group is getting ready to move with a three-year-old (and another kid on the way) — and between the disruption, the feelings, and the impending newness, this parent wants to know how to help smooth things out for her kid. Luckily, Elizabeth and Zak are seasoned experts.We also check in on what’s happening in the hosts’ lives right now. And then, if you’re joining us for the Plus Playgro
Gus Walz Moved You, Too
On this episode: Elizabeth and Zak debrief on your reactions to last week’s special episode about Gus Walz — and we’ll touch on some elements of this story that our audience thinks we might’ve missed the first time around. And, of course, we also debrief on our week in parenting with a round of triumphs and fails. Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk
From Decoder Ring: Stuffed Animals Gone Wild
The Care & Feeding team is off for Labor Day — but we won't let that stop you from hearing something great from elsewhere in the Slateiverse. So: we're handing the mic over to our friends at Decoder Ring!Axolotls. Narwhals. Llamas. Sloths. Every few years, it seems like American kids and parents collectively decide they cannot get enough of a creature that makes teddy bears seem impossibly quaint. In today’s episode we’re going to swim after the axolotl, as it takes us to some far-flung and unex
Gus Walz Loves His Dad. Here’s Why It Matters
On this episode: Elizabeth, Lucy, and guest host Maribel Quezada-Smith circle up to talk about the viral moment surrounding Gus Walz’s appearance at the DNC last week — and what it meant to us, and our community, as parents of neurodivergent kids, and especially of boys. We’ll also tackle a round of Triumphs & Fails — including a story about a very special language lesson. Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thoug
We Need to Stop Losing Library Books
On this episode: Elizabeth, Lucy and Zak offer tips for a kid who’s really, really good at losing library books and incurring the dreaded fees. How can parents help keep track of library books… and, more broadly, do communal school supplies mean we don’t have to worry about labeling anymore?We also check in on what’s happening in the hosts’ lives right now. And then, if you’re joining us for the Plus Playground — out now in your podcast feed — we’re sharing strategies for the after-scho
Parenting Fearlessly, Onstage and Off
On this episode: Lucy sits down with actress and author Mandy Gonzalez for a wide-ranging conversation about parenting, building a creative mom group, and enduring cancer treatment with your head held high. Mandy also answers questions from our own budding Broadway stars.Then: Lucy, Zak, and Elizabeth debrief with a round of parenting Triumphs & Fails — including an update on the Rosen family’s move overseas. Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us
Introducing Didn't I Just Feed You
We’re excited to share an episode with you that we think you’ll love that comes from Didn’t I Just Feed You - a weekly podcast hosted by two long time food editors, Stacie Billis and Meghan Splawn. If you like what you hear, make sure to subscribe to Didn’t I Just Feed You wherever you get your podcasts. It's a practical companion to our show, giving you easy meal ideas every other week in their What We’re Cooking and Eating Now series while covering everything from picky eating to how
My Son Is Ruining Our Summer
On this episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Dillon Michael White help a listener whose kid is struggling hard to enjoy the summer break… and complaining about everything in the process. How can this parent nip the negativity in the bud and prevent a bad attitude from ruining everyone’s break?We also check in on what’s happening in the hosts’ lives right now. And then, if you’re joining us for the Plus Playground — out now in your podcast feed — we’re talking about how to handle sharing kid
My Kid’s a (Really) Sore Loser
On this episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth and special guest host Dillon White of DadChats and ChatsFam help a listener whose kid really, really struggles with losing. The smallest not-wins send this boy into hysterics… even though he knows all that sportsmanship stuff. So what might help — and what might this parent be missing?We’ll also debrief with a round of parenting Triumphs & Fails — including an update on Naima’s first day of middle school.Join us on Facebook and email us at carean
Is My Kid Ruining Hikes On Purpose?
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth answer a listener question about a kid who seems dedicated to making family hikes suck. He’s energetic and capable during other activities, but long walks are full of whining and fussing. What could this listener do to get him excited about family walks… and are there any options that aren’t making every walk a treasure hunt?We also check in on what’s happening in the hosts’ lives right now. And then, on the Slate Plus Playground, we’re sharing a roun
Why Is My Friend Body Shaming Toddlers?
On this episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth and Zak help a listener who’s wondering why her friend is bodyshaming her own toddler so intensely — not to mention our listener’s kid, too — and what to do about it. These kids are still little enough to avoid lifelong damage to their relationships with food, and their bodies… but where’s the line when it comes to telling this friend to shut it and let the kids eat cake?We’ll also debrief with a round of parenting Triumphs & Fails — and we'll sha
I’m Struggling to Love My Daughter
On this episode: Lucy, Zak, and Elizabeth answer a tricky question from a listener who’s struggling to feel love for her daughter. Mismatched neurodivergence might be to blame… but what is a parent to do when they don’t feel connected with their kids? How can they work on translating irritation into love — and grappling with the guilt of not feeling like a good parent? We also check in on what’s happening in the hosts’ lives right now... And then, on the Slate Plus Playground, we’re ven
We’re Friends With a Flaky Family
On this episode: Lucy, Elizabeth and Zak help a listener who’s grappling with whether it’s worth trying to keep up a friendship with a family that is just not reliable. It’s only started recently, but they show up to events and hangouts hours late… if at all… with very scant communication. The flakiness disappoints our listener’s kid, but is this worth cutting out friends?We’ll also debrief with a round of parenting Triumphs & Fails — including a quick update about the Newcamp famil
Ugh, What’s For Dinner?
On this episode: Lucy, Zak, and Chris Duffy answer a question from the Slate Parenting Facebook group about what to do when dinner rolls around. This member of the group would be perfectly happy with toast or popcorn, but also wants to make sure their toddler grows up with a healthy relationship to food. We’ll share some low-effort, high-tastiness ideas for the weeknight dinner rush.We’ll also try out a new segment called Just Checking In — where we’ll share what’s on our mind this week
Is Nudity in Art OK For Kids?
On this episode: Lucy and Zak are joined by special guest host Chris Duffy to talk about the power of a painting. Our listener has a piece of art hanging on her wall that features some nudity — and it recently startled a crew of kids over for a playdate. Should the painting be moved, or taken down? Or is our listener just becoming the fabled Cool Art House?
We’ll also debrief with a round of parenting Triumphs & Fails, and share an update about the parent who sparked the great shorts under skir
What Does My Son Need To Shave?
On this episode: Lucy, Jamilah, and Dan Kois help a member of the Slate Parenting Facebook community who’s wondering how to help her teenage son through the rite of passage that is shaving. We’ll also help out a listener whose six-year-old is an overzealous shaver, and talk through whether it’s a real problem.We also dole out a round of recommendations. Then, for Slate Plus listeners – we’re relaunching our Plus offerings and welcoming you to the Plus Playground. This week, we’re offeri
I Can’t Sleep When My Teen’s Gone
On this episode: Lucy, Jamilah, and special guest host Dan Kois help a member of the Slate Parenting Facebook group who’s unable to sleep unless everyone in the household is tucked in and all the doors are locked. That’s making it challenging to live with a 16-year-old night owl… so is the answer to just suffer through the evenings where not everyone is back in the nest? We’ll also debrief with a round of parenting Triumphs & Fails – and chat about what Dan’s been up to since we las
My Kid’s Friend Has Zero Supervision
On this episode: Zak, Lucy and Jamilah help a member of the Slate Parenting Facebook Group who’s torn about her kid’s new bestie. This girl is mostly unsupervised and tends toward naughtiness — ding-dong ditching, messy play, and watching adult YouTube — and that tendency is trickling down to our group member’s son. How can this parent make sure her home is a safe space, but still keep order? We also dole out a round of recommendations. Then, for Slate Plus listeners – we’re weighing wh
I Took a Break. Why Don’t I Feel Refreshed?
On this episode: Lucy, Zak, and Jamilah help a listener who wrote in wondering how to soften her landing after taking a break from the kids. She’s grateful for them, and for time away… but why doesn’t she feel refreshed?We’ll also debrief with a round of parenting Triumphs & Fails, and share some of your responses to our recent episode about shorts under skirts and dresses.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s
How Could We Better Support Single Moms?
We’re taking it easy after the holiday last week but didn’t want to leave you empty-eared… so we’re very excited to share an extended cut of Jamila’s recent interview with Ruby Russell, author of Doing It All: The Social Power of Single Motherhood. We’ll be back with a regular episode Thursday — see you then! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
From Our Friends: How To Take a Gap Year
Hi listeners! We're off from the holiday but wanted to share an episode of another Slate show that we think you'll love:Leo is a high-achieving high school senior on the cusp of graduation. Growing up in a rigorous school environment he faced endless pressure to follow the expected track of attending an elite university and eventually securing a good job. Yet, Leo feels slightly unfulfilled and is curious what an alternative path might look like. On this episode of How To!, Carvell Wall
Does My Toddler Need Shorts Under Her Dress?
On this episode: Zak, Lucy and Elizabeth help a listener whose daycare has requested that her toddler daughter wear shorts underneath skirts and dresses. The listener’s knee-jerk reaction is that it’s unnecessary… but we’ll offer some suggestions about what she could be missing, and why how we dress our kids is important.We also dole out a round of recommendations, and share some stuff you listeners have been loving — and, for our Slate Plus listeners, we’ll talk about the way we choose
My Kid Forgot How to Ride a Bike
On this episode: Lucy, Zak, and Elizabeth help a member of the Slate Parenting Facebook group whose daughter forgot how to ride a bike… and is now pretty insistent that she doesn’t want to re-learn. We’ll talk through how to incentivize some bravery and get siblings involved in the process.We’ll also debrief with a round of parenting Triumphs & Fails — including a triumph that wasn’t a triumph until we talked through it.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com
Vacation With a Big Group (Seriously!)
On this episode: Zak, Lucy and Elizabeth talk about the bold thesis statement of this piece from Romper Magazine… arguing that actually, traveling with a big group is the best way to relax on vacation. We’ll talk strategy for booking reservations, handing off kid duties, and casting the perfect vacation collective.We also dole out a round of recommendations for beating the heat — and, for our Slate Plus listeners, we’re taking a trip down memory lane and sharing some travel-themed trium
Preventing the Summer Backslide
On this episode: Lucy, Zak, and Elizabeth help a member of the Slate Parenting Facebook group come up with ways to prevent a summer backslide – and keep school skills fresh over the break. We got some great tips from our audience of parents and educators, too.We’ll also debrief with a round of parenting Triumphs & Fails — including a tale of middle-school heroism involving a very large cockroach.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what
I Have Five Kids and Can’t Keep My Sh*t Together
On this episode: Zak, Lucy, and Elizabeth help a member of our Slate Parenting Facebook group who’s struggling to keep her head above water. There’s always another deadline, appointment, and thing to do… and when it all piles up, it’s hard to feel like you can dig yourself out. We’ll have some concrete advice for how to move in the right direction — and more importantly, how to feel better.We also dole out a round of recommendations — and, for our Slate Plus listeners, we’re talking abo
Dads Can Suffer From Postpartum Depression, Too
On this episode: Lucy sits down with researcher and friend of the show Tova Walsh to talk about her work on dads who experience postpartum depression. Paternal mental health is a topic we don’t talk about nearly enough, so we wanted to give you some advice — and some resources to learn more and get help. Tova wants to share the following:
A conversation she hosted about understanding fathers’ mental health
Help for dads via Postpartum Support International
A training on paternal perinat
Do We Need a Stroller for International Travel?
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a listener question about whether it’s really necessary to lug around strollers and car seats during an international trip. The answer is complicated, but among other tips, we do recommend the following:
The City Mini stroller
The gb Pockit+ stroller line
The Doona car seat/stroller system
The Mifold compact booster seat
The CARES harness for plane seats
We also dole out a round of regular recommendations and share some stuff that listen
My Daughter’s Friend Is Just So Loud
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak and Elizabeth help a listener who, for a few reasons, is at the end of her rope with a friend of her daughter’s. The friend is sweet… she’s just LOUD, to the point that the listener doesn’t want to drive the girls around anymore. Where does she go from here?We’ll also debrief on our week in parenting with a round of Triumphs & Fails — including a dip in the creek.Listeners, we want your advice – and your questions – about how to prevent the dreaded summ
How Moms Became Our Social Safety Net
On this episode: Zak sits down with Jessica Calarco, whose new book – Holding It Together – is out tomorrow. The two walk through the ways in which women, and especially mothers, replace a social safety net in the United States… and, more importantly, why it doesn’t have to be this way.We also dole out a round of recommendations – and for our Slate Plus listeners, we continue Zak and Jessica’s conversation and ask Jamilah and Elizabeth what they think their unpaid labor is holding together. Eliz
Remembering Someone Your Kids Won’t Meet
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak and Elizabeth answer a listener email about how to keep someone’s memory alive. This listener is pregnant for the first time and thrilled, but also can’t stop thinking about her late brother… and all the uncle stuff he won’t get to do. We’ll offer some tips for navigating grief and helping little ones remember family members they’ll never know.We’ll also debrief on our week in parenting with a round of Triumphs & Fails — including a brush with ugly racism that got b
How Social Media Hurts Youth Mental Health
We're off for Memorial Day, but we didn't want to leave you empty-handed. So: we're thrilled to share this episode of Well, Now — Slate's new show all about health and wellness.If you like what you hear, be sure to subscribe to Well, Now wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Do My Kids Need Their Own Rooms?
On this episode: Lucy, Zak and Elizabeth answer a listener email about whether an 8 and 5 year old should still be sharing a room. The basement is a communal space, and it’s also home to some creepy crawlies… but is it worth making that work in the name of some separation?We’ll also debrief on our week in parenting with a round of Triumphs & Fails — including a postcard from a spat with a sleepy toddler.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new qu
Should My Kid Stop Wandering Around Naked?
On this episode: Zak, Lucy and Elizabeth answer a question from our Slate Parenting Facebook group about a 7-year-old who’s at home being naked at home. It’s not really a problem right now, but with puberty around the corner… will it be?We also dole out a round of recommendations — and then, for Slate Plus, we offer suggestions for mess-free (or mess-minimal) car snacks.Zak recommends: The Daily Dad Newsletter by Ryan Holiday Lucy recommends: Planet of the ApesElizabeth recommends: Mur
Why I’m Choosing Single Motherhood
On this episode: Jamilah sits down with author Ruby Russell to talk about her new book, Doing It All: The Social Power of Single Motherhood. They talk about the ways that single mothers upend the patriarchy — and why that’s a good thing.Lucy, Elizabeth, and Zak also circle up for a round of triumphs and fails — including an epic saga involving a hospital in the Philippines.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought o
Conquering the Messy Bedroom
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah and Elizabeth answer a question from our Slate Parenting Facebook group about the eternal struggle of the messy preteen bedroom. It seems like no matter what you do, there just keeps being stuff. Everywhere. So, we’ll offer some practical suggestions to help. We also dole out a round of recommendations — and then, for Slate Plus, we muse on how anyone expects anyone to manage a summer camp schedule.Elizabeth recommends: 2 Player Games: The Challenge (google
Mom Guilt Is Real, but So Is Healing
On this episode: we present two very special segments celebrating the lifelong journey of being a mom. First up: Dr. Lindsay Cavanagh is back for mini therapy sessions with Jamilah, Lucy and Elizabeth — who each share a nagging guilt they have about being a mom (and a daughter). Then: Zak, our resident dad, sit down with Luisa, mother of our very own Lucy Lopez. The two talk about maternal instincts, growing up in Cuba, and having faith in the competence of your kids… and yourself. Join
Should a 6-Year-Old Go on Solo Walks?
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah and Lucy answer a question about a very independent kindergartener. This member of our Slate Parenting Facebook group has a six year old who’s taking solo walks around the neighborhood… and while his parents are cool with it, the neighbors aren’t. How can this mom field questions about why her kid is out by himself – and should he be out, at all? We also dole out a round of recommendations — and then, for Slate Plus, we debrief on Lucy’s first prom mom exp
Kid-Friendly Kitchen Adventures (feat. Priya Krishna)
On this episode: Zak sits down with Priya Krishna, New York Times bestselling author of Indian-ish, to talk about her new cookbook for kids: Priya’s Kitchen Adventures. We’ll talk about formative international foods, picking up new culinary skills, and – of course – how to get picky eaters onboard.We’ll also debrief with a round of triumphs and fails — including a comedy fail, and a Seder community triumph.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new que
That Nagging Feeling That You’re Bad at Parenting
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah and Elizabeth give a pep talk to a listener who’s not sure she’s doing this right. Her toddler is behind his peers by a few metrics, and this parent knows it’s not a big deal… but the thought still lingers.
We also dole out a round of recommendations — and then, for Slate Plus, Elizabeth has a dilemma.
Elizabeth recommends: Can I Recycle This by Jennie Romer (Adult Version & Kids Version)
Zak recommends: When Babies Rule the Dinner Table
Jamilah recommends: Baby R
My In-Laws Have Guns. I Don’t Trust Them.
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah and Zak help a listener who’s worried about firearms in their in-laws’ home. They have a strained relationship already, and a recent argument led to threatening words that are lingering. If this parent wouldn’t let their kids be in a friend’s house with guns, should family be an exception?We’ll also debrief with a round of triumphs and fails — including two triumphs about the beauty of abandoning ship.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeeding
When – and Why – Are Teens Using Cannabis?
On this episode: Zak sits down with Dr. Nicole Schultz of UC Davis to talk about teens and marijuana. It’s a different world than when we were growing up — so we have Dr. Schultz share her understanding of why and how teens are using cannabis.Elizabeth, Lucy and Jamilah also share a round of recommendations — and then, for Slate Plus, our mom-hosts circle up to talk about how they remember being talked to about drugs… and whether DARE worked on, well, anyone.Elizabeth recommends: iHome
Ask A Weed Mom
On this episode: Elizabeth, Lucy and Jamilah answer questions from our Slate Parenting Facebook group about using marijuana as a mom. As 4/20 approaches, we decided there was no better time to tackle big-picture questions about substance use… and practical stuff too, like where to hide your stash with kids in the house.
We’ll also debrief with a round of triumphs and fails — including two different, unrelated fails involving birds.
Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.co
Parenting While Polyamorous
On this episode: Elizabeth sits down with Jes Daylover and her metamour, Ash, of the Remodeled Love podcast, to talk all things polyamory and parenting. There are a lot of misconceptions out there about what polyamory is and isn’t — so we think you’ll love hearing about how it works as a parenting co-op.We’ll also share a round of recommendations — and then, for Slate Plus, Jes and Ash stick around for a round of parenting yeas and nays.Elizabeth recommends: Reusable Water Balloons Zak
Longtime Listener, First-Time Parent
On this episode: Elizabeth, Lucy and Zak help a longtime listener who’s expecting her first baby. We’ll offer suggestions for how to manage your whole life changing in an instant – plus, enjoying the before-times, and staying afloat in the aftermath.We’ll also debrief with a round of triumphs and fails — with nary a fail in sight this week.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about wha
What’s the Deal With American Baby Food?
On this episode: a Swedish member of the Slate Parenting Facebook group is getting ready to visit the U.S. with her baby and is wondering about all things puréed, squished, and jarred. We’re here to help. We’ll also share a round of recommendations — and then, for Slate Plus, we convene a meeting of the Parents Of Picky Eaters Support Group.Elizabeth recommends: The Fish Doorbell & Fish Doorbell News ReportZak recommends: Busy Ideas for Bored Kids: Activity Cards Lucy recommends: Th
Will My Picky Eater Ruin Our Trip?
On this episode: Elizabeth, Lucy and Zak put the “feeding” in Care & Feeding by answering a question about traveling with a picky eater. Going to Kenya is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity… so should a kid with an American kid’s palate be the reason it doesn’t happen?We’ll also debrief with a round of triumphs and fails — including the sticky situation of managing a young teen’s flirty texts to her peers.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new qu
Why Can’t I Find (Or Keep) A Babysitter?
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah and Elizabeth help a listener who’s having trouble securing a babysitter for their toddler… and starting to resign themselves to just not going anywhere. We’ll talk about what might be causing the end of the teenage babysitter, and some childcare solutions that might be worth trying instead.
We’ll also share a round of recommendations — and then, for Slate Plus, we’ll share some memories of what it was like to be babysat, all those years ago.
Elizabeth recommends
My Son’s Getting Ready to Walk Home Alone
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah and Zak help a member of the Slate Parenting Facebook group who’s getting ready to have their 10-year-old walk home from school. Communication without a phone is one thing… but what about tracking and other bells and whistles?We’ll also debrief with a round of triumphs and fails — including a hotly-anticipated update about Red Lobster.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of t
Helping Little Wild Things Learn To Read
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah and Lucy offer some quick advice to a listener who’s wondering how to help a young student with possible ADHD focus up, particularly about homework.Then, Elizabeth sits down with Australian author Sally Rippin to discuss her book Wild Things — the story of her neurodivergent son’s struggles in school, and why it’s important to help kids learn when they need it. Zak, Jamilah and Lucy also share a round of recommendations — and then, for Slate Plus, Elizabeth
A Teacher Weighs In On Grades
On this episode: Lucy, Jamilah and Zak ask a teacher! We heard your desire to hear from the professionals about education… and we’re so excited to welcome dad, 9th grade English teacher, and longtime C&F listener Jeff Olsen Biebighauser to the show. We’ll talk through grades, homework, and the art of a parent-teacher conference.
We’ll also debrief with a round of triumphs and fails, of course — including stories about birthday dinners at Red Lobster, low-budget birthday parties, and the advent
Does Identity Need To Be Taught?
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah and Lucy answer a question from the Slate Parenting Facebook group… about whether identity is implicit or explicit in the way we raise kids. This mom is “an invisible minority three times over…” and musing on whether her kid would pick up on those things, even if she didn’t talk about it.We’ll also share a round of recommendations — and then, for Slate Plus, our three mom hosts share the things they miss about the baby and toddler years. Jamilah recom
“You’re Mad At Me” and Other Big Feelings
On this episode: first, a quick update about our discussions on grades. TL;DR: We hear you, and we’re already working on ways to do better. Then: Lucy, Elizabeth and Jamilah help a listener who wrote in looking for advice on a 7-year-old’s big feelings. This girl is showing some signs of negative self-talk, catastrophic thinking, and anxiety. How can her parents help de-escalate… and is it time to revisit therapy? We’ll also debrief on our week in parenting with a round of triumphs and
Should I Allow Compliments About How My Kid Looks?
On this episode: Elizabeth Newcamp, Zak Rosen, and Jamilah Lemieux answer a question that someone actually posed to Jamilah on Instagram… about whether it’s okay to entertain compliments about your kid’s appearance. A facilitator at school has suggested redirecting to character compliments when this toddler — the only Black kid in her class — is praised for her appearance. But is there place for just calling a cute kid a cute kid?
We’ll also do a round of recommendations. And then, in the Slate
Listeners Graded Our Take On Grades
On this episode: Zak, Elizabeth and Jamilah open the Care & Feeding mailbag to talk, once again, about grades. A lot of you have thoughts about our take on grades (namely, that they’re bullsh*t), so we thought it was time to revisit the conversation… but include you, too.We’ll also debrief on our week in parenting with a round of triumphs and fails, including stories about Hawaii, the Wiz, and an ongoing puke episode.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to
Kids Are Loud. Will Earplugs Help Me Cope?
On this episode: Elizabeth Newcamp, Zak Rosen, and Jamilah Lemieux talk about cutting through the noise. A member of the Slate Parenting Facebook group recently posted asking about earplugs — but there are lots of strategies for tuning out, and dealing with, the noise and energy of kids in your house.We’ll also share a round of recommendations — and then, if you’re in the Slate Plus club, we discuss a program in Philadelphia that pays parents to handle school dropoff and pickup… and wha
The Pop Culture Moms Who Changed Us
On this episode: Jamilah sits down with Andie and Sabrina of Pop Culture Moms, ABC’s newest podcast. The three talk through the origins of the show (and Andie and Sabrina’s friendship), and the onscreen moms who shaped our understanding of motherhood. We’ll also debrief on our week in parenting with a round of triumphs and fails… including some stories about learning to shower, a shower of [redacted bodily fluid], and choosing clothes for a preteen. Join us on Facebook and email us at c
You Know What? Grades Are Bullsh*t.
On this episode: Elizabeth Newcamp, Zak Rosen, and Lucy Lopez answer a question from the Slate Parenting Facebook group… wondering what counts as a good grade, and what the consequences should be at home for bad grades. We come in hot with a dismissal of the whole premise. It’s great. We’ll also share a round of recommendations — and then, if you’re in the Slate Plus club, we’re assembling our own toddler book tolerability index.Recommendations: Elizabeth recommends: This episode of Ra
Checking Our Voicemails (Romance Edition)
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak and Lucy dive into the voicemails you left us about last week’s special After Dark episodes. We’re so glad that these got you talking — so we’re closing the loop on Elizabeth and Jeff’s morning routine, and how to deal with mismatched sex drives.
We’ll also debrief on our week in parenting with a round of triumphs and fails… including some stories about the Amazon app, desk doodles, and owning your sexuality.
Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod
Decoder Ring: Why Did We All Play The Recorder?
We’re off today for President’s Day, but we didn’t want to leave you empty-handed. So! We’re sharing a great episode from our friends at Decoder Ring — where they’ll answer great questions about everything from the baby on board sign to why we all played the recorder in school.
If you like what you hear, be sure to follow Decoder Ring wherever you listen for new episodes every two weeks.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
C&F After Dark: Couples’ Therapy
On our second C&F After Dark episode: we know that Valentine’s has come and gone. But we’re not done talking about grownup stuff! Elizabeth, Zak and Lucy each sit down with their spouses — Jeff, Shira and Geno — to talk through a problem they’ve had as a co-parenting couple. The hosts chime in on each others’ problems, too. It’s an advice extravaganza… and, dare we say, a love-fest?Then, we’ll wrap up by testing how in-sync our hosts are with their spouses. It’s time for a round of
C&F After Dark: Sex and Parenting
On this episode: Elizabeth Newcamp, Zak Rosen, and Jamilah Lemieux talk about the birds and the bees. Parents don’t often get to talk about their sex lives out in the open… So this Valentine’s week, we thought we’d open the door to all things romance. First up: we answer a listener question about managing different sex drives and all the normal parenting stuff. Then you’ll hear from resident single mom Jamilah about the logistics of swiping and dating with a kid in the house.We’ll also
My Kid Has Zero Personal Bubble
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak and Jamilah advise the parent of a handsy kindergartener. The little girl comes from a cuddly family and just doesn’t have a sense of personal space… and it’s impacting her school experience as a result. How can a parent help teach the value of a bubble?
Zak found two books that might be helpful: Personal Space Camp and Personal Space Invader.
We’ll also debrief on our week in parenting with a round of triumphs and fails, and then offer some important perspectiv
My 4th Grader Needs Help Boredom Busting
On this episode: Elizabeth Newcamp, Zak Rosen, and Jamilah Lemieux help a member of our Facebook group brainstorm ways to keep a 4th grader occupied… that don’t revolve around screentime. With busy schedules and parents working from home, it’s hard to be hands-on. But we have some ideas.We’ll also share a round of recommendations — and then, if you’re in the Slate Plus club, we’ll dispense some highly subjective wisdom about the best times to do… well, everything. Recommendations: Eliza
My Son Doesn’t “Play Like A Boy”
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak and Jamilah help a member of our Facebook group who’s worried that her son isn’t making friends… because the kids at school separate into gender cliques, and he’s not into roughhousing “boy stuff.” We’ll discuss how to help this kid feel more comfortable joining games — and whether the teacher needs to be looped in.We’ll also debrief on our week in parenting with a round of triumphs and fails, and then revisit a conversation we had about a toddler with se
Is My Toddler Having Panic Attacks?
On this episode Elizabeth Newcamp, Zak Rosen, and Lucy Lopez help a listener whose toddler has suddenly developed what looks a lot like panic attacks at preschool. Nothing seems wrong at school… but the girl’s dad has been deployed for a while. What’s happening here, and how can you soothe someone so little about such big stuff?
Elizabeth wants to share these resources:
Military One Source
Sesame Street for Military Families
Maggie the Military Rat
The Invisible String
We’ll also sha
I Think I Smelled Weed On My 13-Year-Old
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak and Lucy help a listener who’s pretty sure they smelled marijuana when their young teen and a friend got in the car. The parent is wondering if they should have said something… but if so, what? And when is really too young?We’ll also go over our week in parenting triumphs and fails — including an update on Henry’s solo trip in Tokyo — and share some listener mail we got about teenage tattoos.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com
Private School Guilt
On this episode Elizabeth Newcamp, Zak Rosen, and Lucy Lopez weigh in on a classic question: what school is right for your family? Our letter writers’ kid is gifted and their family has fallen in love with a local private school — but they’re also grappling with some guilt. How important is it to give your kid the best, if it also means putting them in a privilege bubble? They also share some products and activities they’re loving right now. Then, if you have Slate Plus, is yelling actu
Mourning Parental Leave Before It’s Even Over
On this episode: Zak Rosen and Elizabeth Newcamp welcome Lucy Lopez to the team as our fourth regular host. The three of them tackle a letter from a listener who’s dreading the return to work after a year off with their newborn. We’ll offer some advice for how to soften the emotional blow and smooth out the logistical snarls — and, how to find new moments to cherish.We’ll also dive into our week in triumphs and fails, as usual — and then, we’ll share a quick piece of listener mail. Whic
Hear Me Out: Yes, You Can Self-Improve Right Now
From our friends at Slate's Hear Me Out:… new year, new you?
If you’ve resolved to make 2024 your happiest, healthiest, most organized, most peaceful, etc. year yet? You’re not alone. And if you’re pretty sure the people who have made resolutions are doomed to abandon ship before January is over … you’re not alone, either. Nor are you wrong, exactly.
In the season of giving, getting, and evaluating self-improvement advice, there’s a line between over-optimism and self-limiting skepticism. And ou
Avoiding The Toxic Comparison Spiral
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Jamilah Lemieux help a listener who’s thrilled that she and her siblings all had kids in 2022 — but, as those babies become toddlers, the temptation to compare the cousins is strong. How can this no-drama mama prevent herself and her siblings from falling into this trap… not to mention grandparents and partners?
We’ll also dive into our week in triumphs and fails, as usual. We’re off this coming Monday for MLK Day, but we’ll see you back in the
I Refuse to Replace My Husband With a Nanny
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Jamilah Lemieux help a listener who is fed up. Her husband works a lot and when he is around he’s only ‘fun dad.’ Upon experiencing burnout, the letter writer asked her husband to pitch in more—to which he suggested ‘hire a nanny.’ Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak have suggestions for rebalancing the relationship. They also share recommendations and then, on Slate Plus, they discuss the parenting resolutions they are not going to keep this y
Can I Stop My Adult Kid From Getting a Tattoo?
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Jamilah Lemieux ring in the new year with a name change. We’re now Care & Feeding! For our first advice of 2024, the hosts help a listener who funds their 18-year-old’s life — but the prospect of a tattoo has the listener second-guessing. Should they try to stop their kid from doing something they might regret (with their parents’ money)... or has that train already left the station?We’ll also dive into our holiday triumphs and fail
How Parents Can Carve Out Creative Time
From our friends at Slate's How To! podcast: Allison is on the hunt for her next hobby. One that’s satisfying. One that she can stick with. One that will fit into her family’s very busy schedule. Except…maybe she’s thinking about that last part all wrong. On this episode, Courtney Martin brings on Eve Rodsky, author of Fair Play and Find Your Unicorn Space. Eve argues that drawing—and defending—boundaries for individual, creative pursuits is necessary for living a fulfilled life. She’ll
Our Annual Best-Of Bonanza: The ‘23 Edition
On this episode: Our favorite Plus segments of 2023. Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Zak step back in time to talk tips for winter break, the photos our kids take of us, respecting those kids’ privacy when we talk about them on air, the social media accounts we’re loving, and the parenting trends we wish would disappear.Remember: we’re changing names in 2024! We’re so excited to become Care & Feeding and bring you more great advice from around the Slate Parenting universe. If you’re subscri
2023 Family Holiday Party
On this episode: Jamilah Lemieux, Zak Rosen, and Elizabeth Newcamp discuss their biggest parenting triumphs and fails of the year and reveal their favorite piece of advice they gave or received this year. Also, in grand holiday party tradition, their kids take the mic to answer your listener questions. In Slate Plus, the hosts look to the future and have a few recommendations for starting 2024 off strong. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, t
How to Not Spoil Your Kid
On this episode: the best way to show a solo parent you’re here for them—even if you live far away. Jamilah Lemieux, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen also debate what to do if your kid is constantly coming home from school with gifts. Then they discuss How To ‘Un-Spoil’ Your Kid, According To Parenting Experts by Kelsey Borresen. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we shou
Helping a 5-Year-Old Night Owl Rest His Wings
On this episode: a longtime listener writes in hoping for some bedtime guidance. Their kindergartener is a night owl, and a big reader — but now that sleepless nights are impacting his daytime hours, our listener needs help getting him to sleep.We also go over our week in triumphs and fails, and then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus: cooking recommendations for a listener, and their newly-un-allergic-to-wheat daughter.Elizabeth recommends: The Complete Cookbooks for Young Chefs
Why Is My Kid So Controlling During Playdates?
On this episode: a listener noticed that her six-year-old isn’t sharing well when his friends come over. He even told one friend to leave mid playdate. They’re wondering how to help her kid be a better host and, if things become overwhelming, take some time for himself instead of getting upset. Recommendations: Jamilah recommends eating duck. Zak recommends tossing out the tools you don’t reach for, inspired by Conor Barnes’ 100 Tips For A Better Life. Elizabeth recommends Group Buy Ins
Parents Have Taken Over My Kid’s Sport. Yikes.
On this episode: a listener writes in from the bench. Their kid is in a sports class that’s been overrun by grown-ups and siblings — on the court, doing the drills, and taking up equipment. What’s going on in this class for 3-6 year olds, and is it time to give up?We also go over our week in triumphs and fails, and then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus: how can we purge the stuffie plague, and what other toys are collecting dust?Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@sla
Traveling The World With a Blended, Mixed-Race Family
On this episode: Elizabeth sits down with Alana Best, travel blogger and author of Around the World in Black and White: Traveling as a Biracial, Blended Family. Together, they talk about how to make ambitious travel plans work, even with the littlest kids — and, how to navigate the lived reality of family members who experience the world differently because of the color of their skin.Then, Zak, Elizabeth and Jamilah go over their recommendations for the week: Elizabeth recommends: Keep
Do We Have to Visit Grandma?
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth help a listener who is conflicted over their vacation plans. Her mother-in-law lives across the country and doesn’t have a super strong bond with her young grandson. They’re wondering if they should spend their precious vacation days visiting grandma or if there’s some kind of compromise. In Slate Plus, they answer a bonus listener question about unique Christmas and Hanukkah activities that would actually keep older kids engaged. Join us on
My Toddler’s a Hitter. Should His Brother Hit Back?
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah and Elizabeth help a listener who’s actually written in to us before — but this time, he needs help with his brawling toddler. How can parents help their littler kids simmer down – and older kids defend themselves – before anyone gets hurt?We’ll also share some of the letters and voicemails that listeners have sent in recently. And we’re doing a round of recommendations, with a twist: in the spirit of Giving Tuesday, we’re sharing charities that we love to support.
My Toddler’s a Hitter. Should His Brother Hit Back?
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah and Elizabeth help a listener who’s actually written in to us before — but this time, he needs help with his brawling toddler. How can parents help their littler kids simmer down – and older kids defend themselves – before anyone gets hurt?We’ll also share some of the letters and voicemails that listeners have sent in recently. And we’re doing a round of recommendations, with a twist: in the spirit of Giving Tuesday, we’re sharing charities that we love to
How To Let Go of Kid Clutter
Kids generate so…much…stuff. A lot of it is memorable. Videos of their first words? So cute. Colorful drawings that progressively get better? Masterpieces. Trophies, stuffies, books? All valuable. The problem: There’s no way to keep everything. So how do you figure out what to cherish and what to toss? On this episode from our friends at Slate's How To! podcast, co-hosts Carvell Wallace and Courtney Martin bring in Nonnahs Driskill, professional organizer and founder of Get Organized Al
My Kid Is Copying His Black Classmates’ Vernacular
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak help a listener who’s in a quandary. Her young son started copying his Black classmates’ vernacular. She doesn’t know if or how she should correct him. Recommendations: Jamilah: Jiffy CornbreadZak: Proper Noun Song (to the tune of September by Earth, Wind and Fire)Elizabeth: Car Sickness Glasses Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about wh
The World Is Messy and Ugly. Do My Kids Need to Know?
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah and Elizabeth help a listener who’s struggling with a deep pessimism about the state of this country — and he wants to make sure that his kids have some hope to hold onto.
We also go over our week in parenting triumphs and fails. Then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus, we’ll share some strategies for explaining the war in Gaza to kids – and hopefully not frightening them in the process.
On that topic, here are some resources that our hosts wanted to share
My Partner’s Parenting Style Is Stuck In the ‘90s
On this episode: Zak Rosen and Elizabeth Newcamp are joined by Dr. Lindsay Cavanagh, a psychologist and military marriage coach. She also hosts a podcast called Married to Military. Lindsay is here to help Zak and Elizabeth answer a listener question about a couple who cannot agree on parenting styles. The letter writer loves to research and consume parenting content. The husband, on the other hand, refuses to do any education and the information discrepancy has led to disagreements on
My Baby’s On the Move, and I Need A Break
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah and Elizabeth help a listener who feels like a failure for leaning on YouTube to get their energetic 10-month-old to chill out — so they can handle household stuff for 30 minutes a day. Is this something to feel bad about?We also go over our week in triumphs and fails, and listen in on a real-time parenting moment for Zak. Then, if you have Slate Plus, Elizabeth and Jamilah tackle some common issues that crop up for us around the holidays.Join us on Faceboo
Why Isn’t Our Bedtime Routine Working?
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah and Elizabeth help out a listener who’s not sure why their family’s bedtime routine isn’t working. Their school-aged kid just won’t settle down sometimes, even after storytime and lights out – so what other tools are out there?We also share a round of recommendations, and a round of your own tips and tricks for flying with kids.Elizabeth recommends: Google Chrome Library Extension Za recommends: Puppy Chow, aka Muddy Buddies, with milk Jamilah recommends: N
Is My Son’s Play Becoming Toxic Masculinity?
Note: This episode contains discussions of murder and grief. Listener discretion is advised between 6:30 and 12:00 of this episode. You can read more about Sam Woll, a close friend of Zak’s family, here.On this episode: Jamilah Lemieux, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen help a listener who’s worried that her son’s play is skewing a little too much toward good guys, bad guys, and violence. What’s the difference between normal play and a red flag – and how can we make sure boys want to inc
This Detroit Forest School Gets Kids Outside
On this episode: Zak Rosen interviews Erin Johnson of the Detroit Urban Forest School about how her work brings kids from different backgrounds together – all in the name of appreciating the great outdoors.Then, Jamilah Lemieux and Elizabeth Newcamp share some tips for wrangling some of the trickier treats that come with parenting during Halloween. And, as always, we end with a round of recommendations.Elizabeth recommends: LectroFan Portable Sound Machine Jamilah recommends: The Golden
My Four Year Old Won’t Stop Apologizing
On this episode: Jamilah Lemieux, Elizabeth Newcamp, and guest host Ophira Eisenberg of “Parenting is a Joke” help a listener whose daughter is sorry. For everything. All the time. For no reason. Why is this happening, and how can this parent help her stop feeling sorry?
We also go over our week in triumphs and fails — and then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus, Ophira and Elizabeth tackle some of the most controversial topics in MADAF history… from toddler leashes to cloth diapers and
Flying With Kids Is Like Pulling Off a Heist
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Jamilah Lemieux, and guest host Duarte Geraldino share all their tips for flying with young kids. They talk about navigating security, in flight entertainment, and energy management throughout the trip. They also tackle a question about making sure your kid’s things come back from the lost and found. (Shout out: The Best Labels for Kids School Gear and Clothing by Lauren Sullivan.) Recommendations: Duarte: Alphabet Learning LocksJamilah: Patti Labelle’s Macar
Helping Twins Be Their Own People (Together)
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Jamilah Lemieux, and guest host Duarte Geraldino tackle twin-dom. Durate, a single dad of twins, helps us help two listeners (both of whom asked questions on our Slate Parenting Facebook page): one whose twins are at different levels of advancement, and one whose twins have a fierce rivalry. We also go over our week in triumphs and fails — and then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus, we’re taking on a bracket-style tournament to determine who are the b
Modern Puberty Explained
On this episode: Jamilah Lemieux is joined by Dr. Cara Natterson and Vanessa Kroll Bennett, authors of This Is So Awkward: Modern Puberty Explained. They explain how puberty has changed over the last few decades, what these shifts mean for today’s kids, and how caregivers can guide these young adults through this transition. If you want to check out more of Cara and Vanessa’s wonderful advice, they also host The Puberty Podcast. Recommendations: Elizabeth: Clubhouse Games (Nintendo Swit
My Niece Doesn’t Think Racism Is Real
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak and Jamilah help a listener whose niece lives overseas… and thinks that racism doesn’t exist anymore. How can the listener help educate, but not in a judgy or alienating way?We also go over our week in triumphs and fails — and then, if you stick around for Slate Plus, we decide whether Arnold Schwarzenegger’s parenting strategies deserve an “I’d Do That” or a termination. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tel
My Kid Is Neurodivergent. Do We Need a Formal Diagnosis?
On this episode: Elizabeth Newcamp is joined by Dr. Sarah Wayland, founder and owner of Guiding Exceptional Parents and co-author of Is This Autism. Together they answer a parent whose child is exhibiting neurodivergent behaviors and, as such, their pediatrician recommended an evaluation. The letter writer is nervous that an evaluation will mean that their child will be seen as a diagnosis, not for the person she is. We also go over our week in triumphs and fails — and then, if you stic
Sneaking Alone Time, Together
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Jamilah Lemieux, and Elizabeth Newcamp help a listener who loves sharing the bed with their partner and kid. However, their current sleeping arrangement is creating quite the barrier for intimacy. How can they maintain a healthy and passionate relationship while also parenting? Recommendations: Elizabeth: “We Overcame The Wind” from The Drop That Contained the Sea. Jamilah: Clue Jr. Zak: Splitting up kids on the weekend. Join us on Facebook and email us at mo
My Kid Loves Approaching Strangers. Can I Stop Him?
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Jamilah Lemieux, and Elizabeth Newcamp help a listener who’s struggling with a very outgoing kid who can’t seem to understand stranger danger. How can the listener help their child be more aware, without causing fear — and what should they do when a stranger is a little too friendly in return?
We also go over our week in triumphs and fails — and then, if you stick around for Slate Plus, we talk about no-gift birthday parties… and whether we’re tempted to ignore othe
Squeamish Feelings About a Sex-Ed Book
On this episode: Jamilah Lemieux, Zak Rosen, and Elizabeth Newcamp are joined by Slate writer, Aymann Ismail, to talk about his piece, Closed Book. He tracked down one of the most challenged books—a health and sexual education book called It’s Perfectly Normal—to see why it’s being banned. It’s “particularly blunt and graphic” yet Aymann was surprised at the feelings of embarrassment and shame surfacing as he read the book. They talk about parent’s squeamish feelings when it comes to se
When Does Pushing Kids to Succeed Become Toxic?
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Jamilah Lemieux, and Elizabeth Newcamp talk about toxic achievement culture.The three of them talk with Jennifer Breheny Wallace, journalist and author of Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic – And What We Can Do About It — about how we push our kids, and ourselves, even when we don’t need to.We also go over our week in parenting. And then, for Slate Plus, we’ll debrief on our conversation with Jennifer, and the hosts will discuss how they, an
Talking to Kids About Climate Change
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Jamilah Lemieux, and Elizabeth Newcamp talk about climate change and kids with Anya Kamenetz. Anya is a journalist who covers the intersection of the climate crisis and parenting in her newsletter, The Golden Hour. She is a former NPR education reporter and author of many books including, The Stolen Year. She has lots of wonderful information and advice for any caregiver who will be helping a kid navigate this crisis.
Recommendations
Jamilah: DenTek floss picks
Za
If You’re Tracking Your Kids, Should You Tell Them?
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Jamilah Lemieux, and Elizabeth Newcamp talk about parenting digital citizens. Elizabeth sits down with author and speaker Dr. Devorah Heitner about her latest book, Growing Up in Public. The book helps guide parents through navigating social media and phone usage for their kids — and the privacy, freedom, and surveillance issues that come along with phones. We also go over our week in parenting. And then, for Slate Plus, we’ll debrief on our conversation with
Should I Give My Kid an Allowance?
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Jamilah Lemieux, and Elizabeth Newcamp tackle two listener questions. First: How young is too young for an allowance? The question-asker’s 4-year-old really likes asking for things when they go to the store and she’s wondering if an allowance will help him learn the value of money. Second: How to make time for playdates, especially when both parents work and the weekend is pretty packed.Recommendations: Jamilah recommends Curb Your EnthusiasmElizabeth recomme
The Power Of Aunts and Uncles w/ Jake Gyllenhaal, Greta Caruso, and Dan Santat
On this episode: Zak interviews Jake Gyllenhaal, Greta Caruso, and Dan Santat about their new book, The Secret Society of Aunts & Uncles. They dive into what makes that particular relationship so special, why it’s overlooked in children’s literature, and even what goes into crafting a kids book. We also go over our week in triumphs and fails. Then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus, we share some Instagram accounts that are actually making our lives better.Zak recommends:
@o
Decoder Ring: The Quest for a Homemade Hovercraft
On this episode from our friends at Slate's Decoder Ring podcast: When Slate’s Evan Chung was a kid, he was obsessed with a mysterious advertisement that ran for decades in the scouting magazine Boys’ Life. Under the enticing headline “You Can Float on Air,” the ad assured Evan—and generations of scouts—that a personal hovercraft could be theirs for just a few bucks. In this episode, the adult version of Evan journeys halfway across the country to wield power tools, summon his latent sc
Lessons From a Racist Instagram and the Teens It Hurt
On this episode: Award-winning journalist Dashka Slater joins to talk about her new book, Accountable: The True Story of a Racist Social Media Account and the Teenagers Whose Lives It Changed. It’s a story of a teen sharing extremely racist memes and photos of classmates on a private instagram and what happened when the account was discovered. It led to even more hurt, protests, botched mediation, and a community-wide conversation about justice and what it means to be complicit. Besides
My Son Refuses to Pee at School Due to an Unreasonable Policy
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak and Jamilah help a listener who isn’t happy with her kid’s friend getting unrestricted phone access. Is there a way to enforce their family rules when they’re playing at the friend’s house? Then, Elizabeth has a back-to-school conundrum of her own and is seeking advice.
Recommendations:
Jamilah: Simply Light Lemonade with Raspberry.
Zak: Jazz Baby
Elizabeth: Caep phone strap
Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tel
Welcoming Everyone Into the School Community
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak and Jamilah help a listener who’s realized their community at school is super tight knit… to the point that new families feel left out and lonely. How can this listener and the PTA help bring newbies into the fold? We also go over our week in triumphs and fails — including potty training breakthroughs, overrated board games, and a mishap involving a glass wall. Then, on Slate Plus: handling little kids’ big feelings about going back to school.Join us on F
Family Meditation Made Easy (and Fun)
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Jamilah Lemieux, and Elizabeth Newcamp help a parent who wants to give their youngest some mindfulness tools to help with their nighttime anxiety. They share a ton of resources—so you’re bound to find something that will work for your family! This week’s non-meditation recommendations: Jamilah: Black Cake by Charmaine WilkersonElizabeth: Cino LinkoZak: GoodlesJoin us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of t
How to Talk to Kids About Hard Things
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Jamilah Lemieux, and Elizabeth Newcamp are reunited! They start the show with a round of ‘Triumphs and Fails,’ which include a back-to-school clothing haul, a budding song writer, and a difficult swim test. Then they advise a listener who is wondering how to tell their kids about the realities of life, especially when there are so many difficult conversations to be had. If you, or anyone you know, are in crisis—contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by diali
Your Eyeballs Are Gonna Fall Out of Your Head
On this episode: Zak Rosen talks with Phillip Maciak, TV critic with The New Republic, teacher at Washington University in St. Louis, and author of the book, Avidly Reads Screen Time. He explains where the concept of screen time started and how it became this marker of good (or bad) parenting. Recommendations: Zak: If You Give a Mouse a Cookie + The “Mouse Game”Jamilah: The Barbie movieJoin us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thou
The Key to Raising Athletes
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah go over their week in triumphs, fails, solo parenting, and solo travel. Then we talk youth sports before hearing an interview between Elizabeth and Kirsten Jones, nationally recognized performance coach, former athlete, and author of Raising Empowered Athletes.
Then, on Slate Plus: what if friendship, not marriage, was the center of our adult social lives?
Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought
Am I Being Overprotective?
On this episode: Zak is joined by Lucy Lopez, host of the Mamacita Rica podcast, and Doyin Richards, an author, founder of the Anti-Racism Fight Club, and Care and Feeding contributor. Together, they help a listener who thinks her husband is being too reckless with their toddler. (If you’re looking for an informative, yet entertaining, episode on car seat safety check out: Car Seat Safety, Explained!)Recommendations: Lucy: Song exploration through sampling. Doyin: Naps! Zak: This Be th
My Kid Gets OK Grades. I Feel Like I Failed Her.
On this episode: Zak is joined by Lucy Lopez, host of the Mamacita Rica podcast, and Doyin Richards, an author, founder of the Anti-Racism Fight Club, and Care and Feeding contributor. Together, they help a listener who’s struggling to mesh her own perfectionism with a kid who’s not excelling in school.That listener asked her question in our Facebook community and has gotten a ton of great help from listeners like you already. You can join us there, too.We have a week of summertime acti
Too Young For Dirty Jokes
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah are joined by Lucy Lopez, host of the Mamacita Rica podcast. They first tackle a third grader who heard a dirty joke and is now repeating it without knowing what it means. Then they have advice for a parent whose preteen has been going through toilet paper at an alarming rate. Recommendations: Zak: Parenting Advice to Ignore in Art and LifeLucy: Watching films you used to watch as a kid w/ your kids. Jamilah: Upside Down Challenge GameJoin us on Facebook
Raising Kids In a Barbie World
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah are joined by Lucy Lopez, host of the Mamacita Rica podcast, to talk about all things Barbie. Whether you played with Barbies as a kid — or are weighing whether to let your kids have them now — the summer blockbuster movie is certainly giving us a lot to talk about. Extra Listening: Why Barbie Lives OnThey also discuss their week of triumphs and fails including summer camp blues, confident fashion choices, and finding more family time. On Slate Plus: C
Is My Child a Monster?
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah are joined by Leslie Cohen-Rubury — therapist and host of the podcast Is My Child a Monster? They start by talking about lessons from therapy and how Leslie’s show is helping to make therapy advice and resources more accessible. They also help a listener whose kid pulled a disappearing act after a fight during family vacation. Recommendations: Jamilah: SuitsLeslie: All That Breathes, An Immense World by Ed Yong and an ‘awe walk.’ Zak: Hunting seashells a
My Kid Refuses Therapy. I Think She Needs It.
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah are joined by Leslie Cohen-Rubury — therapist and host of the podcast Is My Child a Monster? Together, they help a listener who’s worried that her daughter’s meltdowns might be a sign of depression. They also discuss their week of triumphs and fails — and then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus, we muse on the awkward institution that is the middle school slow dance. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions,
Summer Podcast Palooza
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak and Jamilah dish on their favorite podcasts—ones they love to listen to with their kids and shows that binge without kids. They also do a round of normal, podcast-free recommendations and then share some parenting advice from listeners. Recommendations: Jamilah: I’m a Virgo. Zak: Climb slides! Elizabeth: Learn By Sticker Book Podcast Recommendations: Summer Camp: The Case of the Phantom PooperBrains OnBut Why: A Podcast For Curious KidsWow in the WorldSto
My Son Wears Skirts. My Mom Doesn’t Like It.
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak and Jamilah help a listener decide how to support her skirt-loving eight-year-old-son — and how to get his hesitant grandmother to come around.
We also go over some ‘triumphs and fails’ from the past week — and then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus, we explore the history of the comic strip Goofus and Gallant… and what 80 years can tell us about the evolution of parenthood.
If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus me
Car Seat Safety, Explained!
On this episode: Elizabeth Newcamp is joined by Jamie Grayson, who you may know as ‘the baby gear guy.’ As we’re in the midst of summer road trip season, it’s time to revisit car seat safety. Luckily, Jamie is here to cut through the confusion while actually making safety fun. He explains how to pick the right seat for you, when to move from a carseat to a booster to the front seat, and even when it’s time to trade in your old seat.
Recommendations:
Elizabeth: LOL 101: A Kid's Guide to Writin
We’re Excited to Do a Year Abroad. My Eight-Year-Old Isn’t.
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak and Jamilah help a listener who’s planning to take the whole family abroad for a year — but their 8-year-old won’t stop raining on the parade.They also revisit some triumphs and fails from the archives — and then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus, we debate whether everyone is secretly co-sleeping with babies, and not sharing stories in fear of getting yelled at.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members
The Funny Bits Of Parenthood
On this episode: Jamilah Lemieux and Elizabeth Newcamp are joined by comedian Hari Kondabolu. They talk about Hari’s new standup special, Vacation Baby. They also answer a listener question about vacation. The letter writer’s mother requested a trip with her and her kids. No spouses or children. Is it a selfish ask? Recommendations: Hari: Vacation Baby and I’m a VirgoElizabeth: Em & Friends: A Box of Friendship and this printable for kids Jamilah: Dave If you enjoy this show, please
I Want a Huge Family. My Husband Wants Two Kids, Max.
On this episode: Jamilah Lemieux and Elizabeth Newcamp are joined by comedian Hari Kondabolu. They share their parenting triumphs and fails, including a tooth shot out by a Nerf gun, a toddler with very cool music taste, and a pottery painting catastrophe. They also advise a listener who has her heart set on a big family. Her husband wants two kids, max. Then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus, they dish on the the kids books that look a little… different after revisiting as an a
Lessons in Parenting Again
On this episode: Jamilah Lemieux, Zak Rosen, and Elizabeth Newcamp are joined by award-winning author and journalist, Desiree Cooper. At 62, Desiree started her second round of parenting when she took in her three grandkids. She wrote about her experience for the New York Times in a piece called What if I Hadn’t Been There to Catch Them?. Recommendations: Elizabeth: Sketch Pals Doodle Board from Boogie Board Des: CROWNED: Magical Folk and Fairy Tales from the Diaspora by Kahran Bethenco
I Was Assaulted as a Child. Do My Kids Need to Know?
On this episode: a listener writes in wanting advice for a difficult situation: she was sexually assaulted as a child, and now her daughter is the same age. The PTSD is affecting her ability to parent… so should she tell her children what happened? The hosts also go over their week in triumphs and fails. Then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus, they dissect the New Dad Canon proposed by the New York Times.If you or someone you know needs help, the National Sexual Assault Hotline
Your Kids Don’t Owe You Anything
From Slate's Hear Me Out podcast: … stop with the breakfast-in-bed.
As we reflect on the summertime season of parenting holidays in the U.S. — Mother’s Day in May and Father’s Day in June — it’s worth remembering that these holidays’ histories are deeply political… not unlike parenting itself.
Parenting is complicated, now more so than ever. In the best of circumstances, it’s a two-way relationship with a person who didn’t ask to be here. So what can we expect from our children?
Gabrielle Blair,
Avoiding Activity Overload
On this episode: a listener worries that her kids aren’t in enough activities. Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth offer some ideas for finding scheduling harmony and picking out activities that the kids really love.
They also go over their week in triumphs and fails. Then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus, they talk about Rebecca Onion’s piece on Slate: The Case for Leaving Strangers in Your Family Photos.
If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members
Good Enough Friends
On this episode: Dan Kois, former Mom and Dad are Fighting co-host, delivers an essay called Good Enough Friends. The piece explores the evolution of teenage friendship, online connections, and the awkward beauty of not being able to mute yourself IRL. Recommendations: Elizabeth: SUMMER READING! Pizza Hut Book It , Barns & Nobel , Everyday Reading Summer Reading Chart , Scholastic Online , Half Price Books Jamilah: The SimpsonsZak: Mushroom tacosIf you enjoy this show, please consid
I Don’t Want to Be the “Poor Mom” in My Book Club
On this episode: a listener worries that her house is too chaotic — and not fancy enough — to impress her book club. Zak, Jamilah and Elizabeth offer reassurance… and ideas for snacks.They also go over their week in triumphs and fails. Then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus, they talk about another Slate show’s episode on what happens when the kids we post online grow up… and want to reclaim their privacy.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate P
Daily Dad Wisdom
On this episode: Zak Rosen talks with author and philosopher, Ryan Holiday, about his new book, The Daily Dad: 366 Meditations on Parenting, Love, and Raising Great Kids. Elizabeth Newcamp and Jamilah Lemieux join to go over recommendations and to listen to your advice. Recommendations: Jamilah: Banana puddingZak: Using magnet tiles on your walls, which may be magnetic.Elizabeth: Summer Brain Quest books and cardsIf you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate P
The Popular Girl Wants My Son. He Doesn’t Know How to Turn Her Down.
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak and Jamilah help a listener whose middle schooler is being asked to hang out with the popular kids… and he’s worried that there’s a catch. They also go over their week in triumphs and fails — and then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus, they talk about parenting advice from child-free adults.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on man
How To Raise Kids in a Nation Full of Guns
From our friends at Slate's How To!: Guns are now the leading cause of death for children in America. Each tragedy can be visceral, whether it’s in your community or across the country. And it’s especially heartbreaking when your kid voices that fear directly, as our listener Allison recently experienced. On this episode of How To!, co-host Amanda Ripley brings in Melinda Wenner Moyer. Melinda is an author and science journalist with years covering gun violence and parenting issues. She’s also t
Why Do We Need The Tooth Fairy?
On this episode: Jamilah Lemieux and Zak Rosen are joined by Willa Paskin, host of Slate’s Decoder Ring. The three talk about the beauty of weird little rituals, and help a listener through her ick of tooth fairy-ing. Listen to Decoder Ring’s episode: Who Owns the Tooth Fairy?Jamilah and Zak also share their triumphs and fails for the week. Then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus: public schools in Akron recently tried out a no-phones policy, and it might inspire some new philoso
Creating Your Perfect Family
On this episode: Jamilah Lemieux, Zak Rosen and guest host Maribel Quezada Smith advise a couple who have one kid. They thought they were a ‘one and done’ family but they’re feeling the pressure of the biological clock and now don’t know if they should have a second before it’s no longer an option. We also have listeners weigh in on how they approach family composition. Recommendations: Zak: Embrace mismatching socks! Maribel: Laundry bags. Jamilah: Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret.
My Toddler Licks Literally Everything
On this episode: Jamilah Lemieux, Zak Rosen and guest host Maribel Quezada Smith help a listener whose toddler will. not. stop. licking. things. Is it just a phase, or can our listener redirect that desire to explore?We also tackle circulating sicknesses, upended routines on family vacation, and friendship trouble at school. Then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus: a researcher suggests that there’s a better way to raise emotionally healthy children, though it might not be popula
Desperately Missing Work
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Elizabeth Newcamp and Jamilah Lemieux tackle a heartbreaking listener letter from a mom who longs for her career. But it’s currently being overshadowed by her kids' needs and a system that isn’t built for working parents.
Recommendations:
Jamilah: Baby J on Netflix.
Elizabeth: Animal erasers
Zak: Osmo
If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many sho
Reading Rituals You (and Your Kids) Will Love
On this episode: Zak Rosen, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Jamilah Lemieux brainstorm some ideas for a parent who is mourning the loss of ‘read aloud’ time with her kid. They also discuss their week in parenting and what’s on the docket for Mother’s Day. Then, if you’re sticking around for Slate Plus, everyone shares memories of their favorite teachers and professors in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week. If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get
Preventing Potty Problems
On this episode: Elizabeth Newcamp, Jamilah Lemieux, and Zak Rosen answer a question about a little boy who was mostly potty trained but now is having daily accidents. They’re joined by Dr. Christine Stephenson, a pediatric physical therapist who specializes in kids with urinary and fecal incontinence and chronic bladder infections. She’s also the author of The Constipation Game Plan. Christine has some useful advice for stopping the accidents as well as general advice for anyone either on or st
Let Kids Eat Cake
On this episode: Jamilah Lemieux sits down with journalist Virginia Sole-Smith to discuss her new book, Fat Talk: Parenting in the Age of Diet Culture. This conversation is a special collaboration with Slate’s The Waves podcast. Virginia talks about the body shame kids face, reclaiming the word ‘fat,’ and supporting kids in the bodies they’re in. They also talk about how parents, grandparents, and other figures in kids’ lives can dismantle fatphobia and other learned behaviors that perp
Middle School Magic
On this episode: Elizabeth talks with Chris Balme, author of Finding the Magic In Middle School. He explains what drives tweens, why this period is fundamentally different than high school, and how to guide them through this transition. Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth also open up the mailbag and give some recommendations. Recommendations: Zak: Watch David Byrne sing When Doves Cry at a karaoke barElizabeth: Professor Noggin Cards, Binder RingsJamilah: Florida Man on NetflixIf you enjoy thi
Mysterious Gifts From an Estranged Mother-In-Law
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a question from a listener with an estranged mother-in-law who has a habit of sending gifts to her grandchildren accompanied by mean notes for her kids. But the issue has reached a new head, because a man in an unmarked car sat in the listener’s driveway for 15 minutes… before getting out and dropping off gifts. We also go over triumphs and fails for the week… and then for Slate Plus, the hosts take ChatGPT’s parenting advice for a spi
Mealtime Meltdowns
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth advise a listener who is fed up with her partner’s picky eating. His preferences have made it nearly impossible to meal prep, which he doesn’t help with. On top of that, he’s taken to complaining about the food in front of their kid. Recommendations: Jamilah: Cheetos’ Flamin’ Hot with LimónElizabeth: Self-Compassion Workbook for Kids Zak: Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle ZevinIf you enjoy this show, please consider signing up f
Too ‘Touched Out’ For Sex
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a question from an exhausted parent of two little kids. She is tired and ‘touched out.’ It has left her wanting to scale back physical intimacy on multiple levels but especially sex. Honestly, she says she’d love a pass to be celibate for a few years until they want to try for a third child. Then on Slate Plus, what public places should babies be banned from? If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus
Giving Up Our Family Dog
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak answer a question from a family who has a very sick dog. The dog, who is two, has been experiencing chronic health issues and requires more care than the mom and her two daughters can provide. Our letter writer is thinking about rehoming the dog but doesn’t know how to break it to her girls who have bonded deeply with their dog. Also on this show, recommendations and advice from listeners.Recommendations: Zak: Using a chafing dish to catch yo
Busting "Gentle Parenting" Myths
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak are joined by Natasha Nelson, who is known as Supernova Momma, to discuss positive parenting. Natasha explains what positive discipline actually entails, how to realistically use the approach, and what people misunderstand about gentle parenting. They also give advice to a listener who has been trying to adhere to a positive parenting philosophy but are finding themselves frustrated in the face of big temper tantrums. Then on Slate Plus, they
My Husband Isn’t Helping Out With Childcare. I’m Overwhelmed.
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth answer a question from an overwhelmed listener who is doing most of the childcare and housework for her family. Her husband isn’t helping out and is citing his ADHD as the reason why. What can they do to make the workload more manageable for everyone? Recommendations: Zak recommends letting kids take the lead in the museum.Elizabeth recommends Exit: The Game. Jamilah recommends Wellmania on NetflixIf you enjoy this show, please consider signi
Body Shamed By a 6-Year-Old
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth answer a question about a six year old who asked his aunt why her belly is so big. The question surfaced some body image issues for our listener and she was left feeling bad about herself for over a week. Now she’s wondering if she should talk to her nephew about size diversity and why not everyone appreciates random questions about their bodies.
Then on Slate Plus, they discuss How They See Us: The Humbling Tyranny of the Pictures Our Children Take
Gender-Affirming Care For Kids
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah are joined by Evan Urquhart. Evan covers anti-trans propaganda on Assigned Media, writes for Slate, and manages Slate’s comments section. Today we’re going to be talking with Evan about his recent piece, There Are Two Sides to the Debate on Health Care for Trans Kids. Here’s What You’re Missing About One of Them. People and resources mentioned: Julia Serano, Assigned Media, and Trans Safety Network. Recommendations: Jamilah recommends the Dear Culture po
How to Foster Teens
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah are joined by Evan Urquhart. Evan manages Slate’s comments section, covers anti-trans propaganda on assignedmedia.org, and has experience fostering teens, which will be extraordinarily useful for today’s questions. We recently got two letters from listeners who are thinking about becoming foster parents and are specifically interested in caring for teens. We’ll dive into what they should know. Then on Slate Plus, we are talking about Utah’s new laws restricting m
The Surprising Way Video Games Are Good for Kids
On this episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth and Zak talk about their experience with video games — and then Elizabeth speaks with Ash Brandin, also known as @TheGamerEducator, about their tips for parenting young gamers. Then the hosts issue recommendations, and respond to a listener letter asking for tips on the latest and greatest in books for young eyes and ears.Recommendations: Zak recommends: Abigail LapellElizabeth recommends: Free Run Wild My Child Treasure Hunt Jamilah recommends: Swarm
Miles Apart
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak help a listener who is having a family travel dilemma. The letter writer is wondering how to handle retired in-laws who live far away, while balancing full-time work, pets, and a child who hates flying. All of that, and dealing with a guilty spouse – who feels like they should prioritize visiting his family over taking vacations. Then on Slate Plus, they dive into a New York Times Opinion piece by Jessica Grose. It explores the unique challen
Teaching Kids to Lie
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak first answer a question about teaching a blunt kid to hold their tongue, for the sake of a friendship. Then they tackle a question about pets being underfoot now that there is a new baby in the house.
Recommendations:
Jamilah recommends Jared from Subway: Catching a Monster
Zak recommends Have I Ever Told You? By Shani King
Elizabeth recommends SQUILT Music
If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get
How To!: Face Your Kid’s Future
On this bonus episode from our friends at Slate's How To! podcast—Keith prides himself on being a good dad to his three sons. But in a post-pandemic world with looming student debt and uncertain opportunities, the future can be really scary. He’s especially worried about his middle son Ben, an introvert who doesn't know what to do after he graduates high school this year. On this episode, co-host Carvell Wallace brings on Rebecca Lavoie. She’s a versatile podcaster and former co-host on
Birthday On a Budget
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak help a listener who is worried her kid’s backyard birthday party won’t compete with the other kids’ extravagant parties. They come up with some budget-friendly ideas for creating an awesome birthday celebration. Then on Slate Plus, they talk about Everything Everywhere All at Once winning at the Oscars and all the love moms are getting. If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free exper
Swear Jar For a 6-Year-Old
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah and Zak help a listener whose six-year-old has started telling them “f*ck you.” Swearing is allowed in their house but this feels pointed and categorically different than a casual curse. How can they curb the cursing before it gets worse?
Recommendations:
Jamilah recommends giving Flaming Hot Cheetos a second chance.
Zak recommends The Nugget
Elizabeth recommends Edx Education Fun Play Number Rods.
If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Sl
My Daughter Wants to Convert to Islam. I'm Worried She Just Wants Attention.
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak answer a listener letter about a preteen who is interested in converting to Islam. Her parents are supportive and have offered opportunities to explore the faith. But instead of starting with learning more deeply about the religion, she wants to start with wearing a headscarf to school—which makes our letter writer worry that this is a performative move. Our hosts talk through ways to be supportive, but also frank about the seriousness of rel
Are Toddler Leashes OK?
On this episode: Elizabeth and Jamilah are joined by Lizzie O’Leary, host of Slate’s What Next: TBD. First up—when (if ever) are toddler leashes OK? Then they discuss In my work I see tragedy daily and think: someone worked so hard to keep this person alive by Ankita Rao. Finally, they end with recommendations. Lizzie recommends Babybug magazine.Elizabeth recommends getting ChatGPT to tell bedtime stories. Jamilah recommends Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am. If you enjoy this show, please
The Waves: Are “Cool Moms” A Menace?
On this bonus episode from our friends at The Waves, Slate senior editor Rebecca Onion is joined by NPR political reporter Danielle Kurtzleben to unpack all the fears that come with pending motherhood. They unpack Danielle’s brilliant Substack piece, “A Professional Lady Correspondent Stares Down Motherhood,” their fears of “cool moms” and…the possible merits of ”lean in feminism.” Heavy emphasis on the possible.
In Slate Plus, how Danielle navigated covering abortion post-Roe while pregnant.
I Want Mom. Not Dad.
On this episode: Elizabeth and Jamilah are joined by Lizzie O’Leary, host of Slate’s What Next: TBD. They help a mom whose toddler has practically become her shadow. He cries whenever his dad is caring for him and it’s made his bedtime routine near impossible. Our listener is desperately trying to change the situation before their youngest arrives in April. They also dive into their triumphs and fails of the week, which include: avoiding embarrassment on the big-screen, drawing body bou
Mixing God and Gatorade In Youth Sports
On this episode: Elizabeth and Jamilah are joined by friend of the show, Travis Nichols. Travis is a writer and editor from Georgia and recently wrote an interesting piece about his experience trying to find a youth basketball league for his daughters. Other parents pointed him towards an affordable, accessible option. The catch? It was run by the Southern Baptist Church. Which begs the question—should you still sign your kids up if you don’t agree with the church’s values and prayer is
Too Many Toddler Germs
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak, and Jamilah dish about traveling with kids (featuring forgotten carseats and a TSA scramble), searching for love, and appreciating your kids for the wonderfully unique people they are. They also answer two listener questions. The first is about combating the colds kids constantly bring into the house and the second is about creating a cozy sleep environment for your little ones. On Slate Plus, they dig into the mailbag and read some wonderful listener letters.
Dear Prudence: My Partner Might Be in Conversion Therapy. Help!
On this bonus episode from our friends at Slate's newly returned Dear Prudence podcast: Slate’s Prudie (Jenée Desmond-Harris ) is on the mic answering questions about conversion therapy, awkward friends, and more. Slate’s own Nadira Goffe joins to lend her wisdom.
If you want more Dear Prudence, you should join Slate Plus, Slate’s membership program. Jenée answers an extra question every week, just for members. Go to Slate.com/prudieplus to sign up. It’s just $15 for your first three months. Ag
Should We Stop Celebrating at School?
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth debrief from their week in parenting. Which included lost teeth, a mental health day, and a ski tantrum. Then they commiserate with a parent who is fed up with rigmarole around school holidays. Finally, on Slate Plus, they discuss Rihanna’s pregnancy reveal. If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be suppo
Should You Stay Together For the Kids?
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak help a parent who seems like she wants to split from her partner. But she’s worried that if she leaves and ends up splitting custody, their son isn’t going to be well cared for when he’s with his father. Recommendations: Zak recommends Family Chants!Jamilah recommends That '90s ShowElizabeth recommends The Mamas: What I Learned About Kids, Class, and Race from Moms Not Like Me by Helena Andrews-Dyer. Join us on Facebook and email us at moman
Stopping After School Squabbles
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak help a dad referee (and ultimately avoid) after school arguments between his six year old and three year old. They also talk about tangly hair, the ‘snuggle stage,’ and becoming overwhelmed when your day doesn’t go as planned.
Then on Slate Plus: they discuss the parenting section of The Cut’s new rules of etiquette.
If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network a
How Schools Failed the Reading Test
On this episode: We’re going to be talking about why so many kids (and adults) have a difficult time reading. As Emily Hanford, host of Sold a Story: How Teaching Kids to Read Went So Wrong, discovered—some US schools are not actually teaching kids how to read. Instead of teaching research-backed skills that kids need in order to become strong readers, an idea has taken hold in the US education system that students can learn the general gist of words. For some students, this teaching me
Putting Nighttime Worries to Bed
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth help a little girl who has been having racing thoughts at bedtime. She’s gone through a lot of change recently and her step-mom is trying to help her process her anxieties, which tend to present themselves as she’s trying to fall asleep. Resources mentioned: HeadspaceCircle Round Peace OutLittle Stories for Tiny PeopleA Kids Book about AnxietyBig Life JournalHelp Your Dragon Deal With AnxietyLlamaste and FriendsThen on Slate Plus: they discus
Heartbreak on the Horizon
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah are joined by Carvell Wallace, former MADAF co-host and new co-host of Slate’s How To! podcast. Up first, they help a teen that is potentially facing his first heartbreak. The girl he’s been hanging out with just found out her ex wants her back—and she’s actually considering it. Our letter writer doesn’t know how to help her son through his first major relationship hurdle.Recommendations: Jamilah: Supplementing box cake mix with pudding mix and an extra
To Snitch or Not to Snitch: Shoplifting Edition
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah are joined by former MADAF co-host and new co-host of Slate’s How To! podcast, Carvell Wallace. They dive into some tricky triumphs and fails about independence, maturity, and making end’s meet. They then answer a question from a parent who has learned her daughter’s friends are stealing makeup that they can afford to buy. Should their parents be informed? Finally, on Slate Plus, they discuss the great sleepover debate.If you enjoy this show, please cons
No, You Can’t Marry Your Mom
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak answer a question about a princess-obsessed little girl who keeps asking if she can marry her mom. The mom finds it sweet but doesn’t know how to respond. Recommendations: Jamilah: Vintage Contemporaries by Dan Kois Zak: Keep Going First Aid KitElizabeth: Help Your Kids with Adolescents by DK. If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive conte
Shame On You Too
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak catch up on their week in parenting—which includes a lunchbox meltdown, a terrible board game, and bribing a kid to verbalize his emotions. Then they talk about parent shaming and share some wild listener submitted stories. Finally, on Slate Plus, they talk about the thing many parents are missing. If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive
Summer, Already?!?
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth do a hard pivot from winter break to summer break. They help a new parent who wants to know how she should best structure the summer for her kid and herself. They also answer a follow-up question about kids lashing out at parents in anger. Only this time, what to do if your kid calls you names when they’re not angry. Recommendations: Elizabeth recommends Loop Ear PlugsZak recommends DIY soup stocksJamilah recommends the docuseries, Don’t Pick
Partying Like an Introvert
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth tackle a question about an introverted seven-year-old. She gets along with her classmates and is invited to parties but once she arrives, she keeps to herself. Her parents want to make sure she’s comfortable and having a good time—even if she’s not fully participating. Then on Slate Plus, inspired by this article in Metro Parent, the hosts discuss what parenting trends they’d like to see in 2023 and which ones they wish would disappear. If yo
Can I Tell Someone They’re Parenting Wrong?
On this episode: We dig into our overflowing mailbox and read some delightful letters about fourth grade weddings, emergency entertainment, and more! Then Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth advise a listener who is uncomfortable with how her friends parent their child. Our listener has tried to combat the parents’ unrealistic expectations and overcorrections but only sees the child once a year. Is there a good way to voice these concerns?
Recommendations:
Elizabeth recommends the Philips Sonicare ap
Breaking the Bad Word Habit
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth catch up on their eventful winter travel—including a trip to Las Vegas that “ruined” one of the kid’s childhood. Then they offer advice to a listener who doesn’t know what else to do. Her three and a half year old son will not stop calling her “stupid” any time a boundary is enforced. How can she stop the behavior while also addressing her own hurt feelings? Then on Slate Plus, Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth compare notes about how well they were able to
The 'Best-Of' Bonanza
On this episode: Our favorite Plus segments of 2022. Jamilah, Elizabeth, Zak, and guest-hosts relive the funniest places they’ve been lost and the scary moments where they left their own kids behind, debate the merits of automated strollers, feel triumphant that even the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge can’t avoid the “f*ck you fours, share some of the funniest things their kids have said, and ask if you could swap bodies w/ your kid for a day—Freaky Friday style—would you?.
If you enjoy this
Working Overtime: Balancing Parenthood With Creative Work
On this bonus episode from our friends at Slate's Working podcast: host Karen Han poses a listener’s question to co-host Isaac Butler about how to be a parent and how to remain a creative person. They ponder the challenges of parenthood, but also the joy and inspiration it can bring. They also share advice for staying creative and finding time for your work. Do you have a question about creative work? Call us and leave a message at (304) 933-9675 or email us at working@slate.com. Podca
2022 Holiday Party
On this episode: Our annual holiday party. We’ve gathered the MADAF kids around the mic and they finally get a chance to share how they think their parents are doing. They do a round of triumphs and fails, play a quick game, and offer some recommendations. Plus we have a very special audio holiday card delivery. The former hosts of MADAF called in to update us on how life is going. Recommendations: Naima recommends Wednesday. Noa recommends the Arthur podcast. Ami recommends sneak attac
Solving Screentime Struggles
On this episode: We’re diving into our overflowing mailbag! Then we’re advising a parent who is hoping to break an eight-year-old out of the screentime cycle—without making TV or games a forbidden fruit. Recommendations: Zak recommends Homeward BoundJamilah recommends WednesdayElizabeth recommends the MÅLA portable drawing case from IkeaEpisodes mentioned: Behind Their ScreensSurviving the Holidays With Picky EatersPlease Stop Shrieking!Supporting Gender Expression and ExplorationWrangling Presc
How Many Activities Are Too Many Activities?
On this episode: It’s a triple fail week! Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth commiserate over running out of patience and they revel in a school picture so unfortunate it could be a meme. Then they answer a question from a listener whose kid is interested in too many things and is having a hard time narrowing down the activity wish-list. Then on Slate Plus, they weigh in on a Slate Parenting Facebook group post about a 4th grade wedding that went down at school. If you enjoy this show, please
Why You Need Narcan
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth are joined by Slate writer, editor, and former Mom and Dad are Fighting host, Dan Kois, who is here to urge parents (and teens) to get trained to administer Narcan. He first wrote about the “miracle” tool in his piece: Parents, You Need Narcan. Essentially, the drug is a powerful tool that’s easy to use, widely available, and will give people peace of mind knowing that if there’s an emergency—you’re prepared.
Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth also answer
Surviving the Holidays With Picky Eaters
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth recap their week in parenting. Then Elizabeth speaks with Megan McNamee, MPH, RDN, of Feeding Littles about how to feed your kids this holiday season and beyond. Then on Slate Plus, Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth discuss what to do if someone criticizes your parenting style. If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll
Supporting Gender Expression and Exploration
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth advise a parent whose first grader got mad at her for looking up ‘girl sweaters’ online. The first grader has also previously said that they want to be a boy, not a girl. Our letter writer wants to be supportive but doesn’t know if she should go all-in or sit back and let her kid reveal who they are. Additional resources: The CenterHow to Be a Girl Supporting My Nonbinary Teen (Part one of ‘Teen Talk’) We also have an exciting update from the
Please Stop Shrieking!
On this episode, the hosts give advice to a mom whose daughter is having a hard time processing big emotions, which has been leading to frequent meltdowns. They’ve tried pretty much everything she can think of but the shrieking still persists. She’s worried about her daughter being in these prolonged states and, furthermore, they’re concerned that if the screaming continues, a neighbor will call the authorities. It’s a really tricky situation and Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth have some suggestions
I'm Ashamed Of My Son
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth advise a mom who is ashamed of her teenager’s behavior. Her son and a friend were using the word ‘gay’ as an insult when talking about her son’s best friend behind his back. She’s already talked with him but she doesn’t know where to go from there.
Recommendations:
Jamilah recommends Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Elizabeth recommends the books Fatty Legs and When I Was Eight.
Zak recommends the Arthur podcast.
Join us on Facebook and email us
How To!: Parent Your Depressed Teen With Carvell Wallace
On this bonus episode from our friends at Slate's How To! podcast: As Kate’s teenage son, Sam, approached college she noticed him withdrawing. He wasn’t excited about his future and started to show symptoms of major depression. It came to a crisis point one summer night before Sam was set to leave for school. In the weeks and months that followed, Sam struggled to navigate the mental health system in search of care. And Kate? Kate was left wondering how she could help her son without be
Does the Spirit Of the Game Matter?
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak are joined by author and editor, Travis Nichols. He wrote a wonderful piece for Slate all about his son’s strategic, unique approach to youth baseball. He figured out that if he doesn’t swing at pitches, he’s more likely to get on base. It was incredibly effective… but not in the spirit of the game. What’s a parent to do in that situation? Recommendations: Travis recommends voting in the Georgia runoff election. Zak recommends finding some lo
Wrangling Preschool Tornadoes
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak help a mom who feels like her house is in chaos. She wants to know what rules and expectations she can have of her kids now they’re approaching preschool. Can they help out with chores? Should they be expected to not fight at the dinner table? What, if any, punishments are acceptable?
They talk about Julie Beck’s article, Why Did We All Have the Same Childhood? on Slate Plus.
If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate
Make Parenting Less Boooooring
On this episode: Zak is joined by Andy J. Pizza, storyteller, illustrator, and host of the show, Creative Pep Talk. They talk about childhood creativity and the big emotions that come from being a part of a creative family. Then they answer a question from a dad with ADHD who is feeling guilty he doesn’t find his kid’s activities enjoyable. Recommendations: Zak recommends the sketches Ford Focus Group and Brian’s Hat from the show, I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson.Andy recomme
Why You Need Parenting “Friendlies”
On this episode: We’re bringing you part two of ‘Friendship Week!’ We’ve received a lot of questions in the last year or so about finding parenting friends so we brought in the fabulous Meagan Francis and Sarah Powers from The Mom Hour podcast to help us tackle them. Meagan and Sarah share their tips for striking up conversations with potential friends, converting acquaintances to friends, and even how to make friends outside of your kid’s social circle. Then on Slate Plus: Jamilah, Zak
The Science of Friendship
On this episode: Part one of ‘Friendship Week!’ Zak talks with Dr. Marisa Franco on her book Platonic: How the Science Of Attachment Can Help You Make—and Keep—Friends. She explains why we’re in a friendship crisis and what we can do about it. They also talk about sharing shame and the importance of durable friendships. Recommendations: Elizabeth recommends going to a great bookstore. Zak recommends Petite Maman by Celine SciammaJamilah recommends Girls5evaIf you enjoy this show, please
Youth Sports Are Out of Control
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak, and Jamilah share their parenting triumphs and fails. Then Zak talks with journalist and former coach, Linda Flanagan about her book Take Back the Game. They discuss the transformation of kids sports into the ultra competitive, time consuming juggernaut it is today. They also talk about the culture of cruel coaching and what signals parents are sending to their kids when they dedicate a significant number weeknights and weekends to kids sports. Then on S
Friendship Fiasco
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah are joined by Fiona Kong, creator of Home Sweet Homes: A Journal & Planner for Co-parents & Child. They answer a question from a parent who doesn’t know what to do. Their child’s entire friend group was invited to a party… save one kid. Apparently everyone finds the left-out kid annoying. But both the letter writer and the letter writer’s child are feeling uneasy with the situation. Recommendations: Jamilah recommends Bros. Fiona recommends Blok
Separation Made Simple(ish)
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah are joined by Fiona Kong, creator of Home Sweet Homes: A Journal & Planner for Co-parents & Child. They answer a question from a mom who is beginning the process of separating from her husband. She wants to know how she can make the transition to living between houses as easy as possible for her son. Then on Slate Plus, they discuss the adorable Halloween costumes their kids picked for this year. If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up
Parenting Is a Joke
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah are joined by stand-up comedian Ophira Eisenberg to talk about her new show, Parenting Is a Joke. They also discuss the evolution of comedy about parenting, if it’s appropriate to use your kids as source material, and which comedians are at the mountain top of this type of comedy. Recommendations: Jamilah recommends Reboot on Hulu. Ophira recommends Paddington 2Zak recommends Special Time from NPR’s Life KitIf you enjoy this show, please consider signing
Birthday Bash, Location Unknown
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah are joined by Ophira Eisenberg, stand-up comedian and host of the podcast Parenting Is a Joke. They share some funny triumphs and fails spanning from spoiled birthday presents to a dance recital mix up. Then they continue the birthday train and advise a parent who is looking for party alternatives for their son’s first birthday bash with friends. The problem? They live in a small house—too small to host a party—and don’t want to spend a fortune to rent a
One Bite Too Far
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak, and Dan debate what to do about a dad who threw a half-eaten bite of burger at his preteen. The fight started because his daughter protested that he took too big of a bite from her burger. But when he was questioned as to why he threw the bite of burger, he said he was justified because he had purchased it for her. Our letter writer is concerned that this spat is just another instance of his anger escalating. Elizabeth, Zak, and Dan share some tips on ho
Car Seat Scared Straight
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak, and Dan answer a question from a dad who is so frustrated with trying to get his squirming, shrieking kids in their car seats that sometimes… the kids win and he drives them unbuckled. Now he’s wondering if he should continue the car seat battle or if there’s a happy medium where the kids are safe and he’s calm enough to pilot the car. Then on Slate Plus, they discuss the latest automated baby gear: strollers! If you enjoy this show, please consider sign
How To!: Pick a College (And Actually Afford It)
On this bonus episode from our friends at Slate's How To! podcast: College application season is approaching fast—too fast—for 16-yr old Maya and her mother, Melissa. The problem? Maya has no idea where to go or what to study. It doesn’t help that there are thousands of schools to choose from, and little transparency about their true cost. On this episode of How To!, we bring on Ron Lieber, New York Times money columnist and author of The Price You Pay for College. He shows Maya how to
Makeup Bag of Worms
On this episode: Zak, Elizabeth, and Jamilah answer a question about a five year old who is begging her parents to buy her a makeup kit. The letter writer is reluctant as it feels like it’s too early to start caring about beauty standards but… she also doesn’t want to curb her child’s creativity. Then on Slate Plus, Zak, Elizabeth, and Jamilah discuss the high-five debate started by an op-ed in the Omaha World-Herald. Original piece: Living With Children: You shouldn't high-five a child
Behind Their Screens
On this episode: Carrie James and Emily Weinstein, principal investigators at Harvard’s Project Zero, join to discuss their book, Behind Their Screens: What Teens Are Facing (and Adults Are Missing). They’ve been researching teens and screens for over a decade and not only did they collect insights from 3,500 teens, they worked “side-by-side with teens every step of the way.” They learned that teens still want adults’ help with navigating tech and social media—they just need the convers
The Uniform Crisis
On this episode: Jamilah and Zak answer a question from a Marine whose son is a freshman at a school for Junior ROTC. The teen loves a lot of aspects of JROTC but loathes uniform day. It causes him anxiety and he’s mentioned quitting the school over the uniform. But most concerningly, the son has mentioned to his parent that he thinks about “unaliving” himself.
As a content warning, we do talk about suicide ideation in this episode. If you or anyone you know is in crisis, you can contact the Na
How to Make Your House Work For You
On this episode: Elizabeth and Jamilah are joined by KC Davis. KC is author of the book How To Keep House While Drowning, host of the podcast Struggle Care, and is well known for her TikTok content. KC shares how to divorce yourself from any shame and pressure you feel about the state of your house. She breaks down the differences between tidy, organized, and clean. Finally, she explains how to make chores not just equal but equitable.Recommendations: Jamilah recommends The Woman KingKC
Don't Fear the Diagnosis
On this episode: Elizabeth and Jamilah are joined by KC Davis. KC is author of the book How To Keep House While Drowning, host of the podcast Struggle Care, and is well known for her TikTok content.
They advise a listener who thinks her niece may be neurodivergent and is specifically showing signs of autism spectrum disorder. The letter writer doesn’t think her brother and sister-in-law have noticed yet and she wants to inform them to make sure her niece is being supported. But she has no idea
Let Them Sleep In
On this episode: Lisa Lewis, journalist, and author of The Sleep Deprived Teen joins the show to unpack the myths surrounding teen sleep. Lisa explains why teens actually need more sleep (even if they’re staying up super late), how to get schools to start later, and why you and your teen should still have a wind-down bedtime routine.
Recommendations:
Jamilah recommends Rap Sh!t, a comedy series created by Issa Rae.
Zak recommends a narrative podcast series called Mother Country Radicals.
Eliz
The Smoking Conundrum
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth advise a parent who wants to intervene but doesn’t want to break her daughter’s trust. Her middle schooler told her that her friend, who is a frequent visitor to their house, was trying to pressure her into smoking weed with him. Our letter writer isn’t super familiar with the kid’s family. Should she let them know about the smoking? Should she tell her daughter before intervening? Should she talk to the kid herself? Then on Slate Plus, Zak,
Sidelined By Negative Self-Talk
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth answer a question about a little boy who was super excited to start team sports. However, he has been really hard on himself and has slipped into some negative self-talk, including saying that he’s “the worst” and “will never get better.” They have some advice for making sure the kid enjoys his season, if he wants to continue.
Recommendations:
Zak recommends Everything Naomi Loved by Katie Yamasaki and Ian Lendler.
Elizabeth recommends How To Keep
Big Family, Big Problems
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth answer a question from a parent who would love to be more involved with other families in the community but is having a hard time finding playdates for her large, rambunctious family. They also share their triumphs and fails about spilt milk, birthday redemption, and answering a ton of questions about the Donner Party.Then on Slate Plus, they’re discussing Inside the Adolescent Mental Health Crisis. The episode of The Daily covers the rising
Vacation House Havoc
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth lend advice to a parent who will be taking her family on vacation with her sister’s family. Both families will be sharing a vacation home for a week, but the sister has a much stricter screen time policy for her children. They share some tips on how to navigate house rules when on vacation with another family. Recommendations: Jamilah recommends this NYT chocolate olive oil cake recipe with All Recipes chocolate glazeZak recommends Apples and
Between Two Homes
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth share their triumphs and fails, including a hair styling defeat. They then answer a question from a mom whose son is struggling with a 50/50 custody agreement. He never wants to go to his dad’s house and complains that his step siblings are making fun of him. Is it time to intervene? Then on Slate Plus, Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth discuss their thoughts on a Missouri school district reinstating corporal punishment as a form of discipline. Spo
Bluey Knows Best
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth are joined by Phillip Maciak, TV editor at the Los Angeles Review of Books and teacher at Washington University in St. Louis. Phillip explains why Bluey, a kids show centered around a family of dogs in Australia, is the best depiction of parenthood on TV.Recommendations: Phillip recommends reading newspaper comics with kids.Elizabeth recommends the games Stack the States and Globle.Jamilah recommends Cheers Hydrate.Zak recommends Joe Reilly’s
Mom Group Messiness
On this episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth help a letter writer who is hurt by the cliquey moms in her parenting group. All the kids get along great. But the moms constantly make her feel like an outsider, despite her initiating conversation and planning hang outs. Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth share some tips for making friends with other parents, knowing your value, and ditching people who aren’t giving you the time of day. Then on Slate Plus, they discuss Angela Garbes’ piece, The Mo
Please Just Pee
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth jump back into the potty-training trenches to help a parent who is at her wit’s end. Her kid is potty trained—or so she thought—but will not stop peeing in his pants before taking himself to the toilet. They share some tips for making the toilet actually appealing to her son. They also respond to a listener who wrote in following the How to Address Death episode and check in about their plans for the fast-approaching (or already underway) sch
Don't Want to Be the Awkward Aunt
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth dish about a baking disaster, being the non-fun mom while setting up camp, and why cool big kids make summer camp so magical. They then answer a question from an aunt who would love to be more of a presence in her nieces and nephews’ lives and support their kids at games and concerts. The catch? They don’t know how to get invited.
Then on Slate Plus, they’re discussing their favorite baby gear—a conversation inspired by Kevin Roose’s column in the New
How to Address Death
On this episode: Elizabeth and Zak are joined by Slate staff writer, Aymann Ismail. Today they lend advice to a parent who is struggling with the death of a close friend. When it comes to overdoses and suicides is it better to go over the topic with your kids or deal with it more delicately?Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episodes. Podcas
Hung Up Over Hanging Out
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak, and Aymann, advise a grandparent who really wants her granddaughter and her granddaughter's cousin to get along. Our letter writer’s first attempts haven’t gone too well and she’s even resorted to bribing—to no avail. Should she keep pushing and, if so, how? Or is it time to step back? Then on Slate Plus, they discuss A Toddler Father’s Playbook for Answering Tough Questions by David Ostow. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and n
Parenting Halfway Around the World
On this episode: Jamilah and Elizabeth are joined by Courtney Martin, author of the book Learning in Public. Today they are helping a parent who has been offered a great job opportunity that can take the family to the next level financially. The position would require them to live overseas. The catch? The family can’t go with him. Is there a way to still be present in your child’s life if you are working away from home?Recommendations: Courtney recommends the Rebel Girls app. Elizabeth
Stepmom In the Middle
On this episode: Jamilah and Elizabeth are joined by Courtney Martin, author of the book Learning in Public. If you want to hear more about Courtney’s book check out this MADAF episode. Today they’re helping a step-mom who has found herself in the middle of a complicated housing change. Her stepson wants to live with his mom full time, which is a change that has deeply hurt his dad. Now our letter writer finds herself exactly where she doesn’t want to be—in the middle. Then on Slate Plu
I’m a Prince, Not a Princess
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah are joined by Autumn Brown. Autumn is a mother, organizer, theologian, artist, facilitator, and co-host of the podcast, How to Survive the End of the World. They advise a listener wanting to help her kid better understand gender, stereotypes, and their own identity. Recommendations: Jamilah recommends Ace of Hates, a card game created by Dan Kois. Autumn recommends Already Free: Buddhism Meets Psychotherapy on the Path of Liberation by Bruce TiftZak rec
Hygiene Isn’t Negotiable
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah are joined by Autumn Brown. Autumn is a mother, organizer, theologian, artist, facilitator, and co-host of the podcast, How to Survive the End of the World.
They weigh in on a custody conundrum. Our letter writer is furious that her ex-wife is slacking on bathing their children when they’re in her care. It’s come to a head because they’ve been showing up to summer camp grimy from the previous day’s activities and in the same dirty clothes. Our letter writer want
Summer Science Fun
On this episode: Elizabeth and Zak are joined by Stephanie Ryan, author, education consultant, and creator of Let’s Learn about Science. Stephanie shows them some kid-friendly science experiments that are fun for the entire family. Elizabeth’s husband, Jeff, also joins to answer a listener question addressed to him! The listener is wondering if they should keep their small four-door car or trade up to a minivan.
Zak recommends joining an adult league, club, or class.
Stephanie recommends Osmo.
No People, Please!
On this episode: Elizabeth and Zak are joined by Stephanie Ryan, author, education consultant, and creator of Let’s Learn about Science. They help a mom whose kid is pretty introverted and has some anxiety when in new, busy places. The letter writer doesn’t want her daughter to think there’s anything wrong with being a homebody. But she does need to be able to leave the house sometimes. What can be done to help the daughter feel secure and comfortable?On Slate Plus, they discuss How to
Lost Libido
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth answer a question from a listener who lost his libido after his partner gave birth. He feels guilty and doesn’t know what to do. Should she talk to her about it and, if so, how? Recommendations: Zak recommends My Name is YoonElizabeth recommends the Webb telescope activities and photos from NASA + Comet K2 Virtual Telescope. Jamiliah recommends Patriarchy Blues Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, t
Second Child Guilt
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth share their triumphs and fails, including how Talking Heads came to the rescue—at least temporarily. Then they tackle a question from a listener who is feeling guilt about bringing a second child into their family. They obviously love the child but they feel bad that their eldest child is struggling with the change. On Slate Plus, they discuss 'Nacho parenting’ is how some blended families keep the peace by Genevieve Brown.
Join us on Facebook and ema
Run Towards the Danger
On this episode: Zak talks to filmmaker, author, and actor Sarah Polley about her book Run Towards the Danger. They talk about how losing a parent early influences how she parents now. How to handle guilt and why finding your parenting community is so valuable. They also discuss her boundaryless childhood and why she won’t let her kids be child actors. Finally, Sarah talks about navigating parenting while healing from a years-long injury.
Recommendations:
Jamilah recommends Lemon Perfect Lemon
Family Time Failures
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth share ‘Triumphs and Fails’ and answer a question from a listener whose husband and three year old compete for her attention and she’s incredibly frustrated. Then, a number of you sent in additional questions about the ripple effects of abortion bans and how to talk to children about abortion, so we’re continuing the conversation. Jamilah brings your questions to Dr. Alison Block, a family physician, abortion provider, executive producer of th
The Waves: Unpacking NY Mag’s Teen Cancel Culture Piece
On this bonus episode from our friends at Slate's The Waves podcast: On this week’s episode of The Waves, Slate staff writer Heather Schwedel and Slate senior editor Rebecca Onion sit down to talk about New York magazine cover story “Canceled at 17,” which features a boy who was ostracized by his peers after he showed a nude of his girlfriend. The talk about whether the article is a display of “himpathy,” and the fact that the writer had a personal connection to the school that she did
Beyond Birds and Bees
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth share some parenting triumphs and fails. Then Elizabeth and Dr. Joseph Currin continue to answer teen questions. (Part one of ‘teen talk’ aired on Monday.) Today the questions are all about sex education and navigating potentially uncomfortable conversations.
On Slate Plus, they take turns telling each other their best dad jokes. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to listen a
Supporting My Nonbinary Teen
On this episode: Elizabeth is joined by Slate’s Rebecca Onion to process the Supreme Court’s decision to overrule Roe v. Wade. Then, Elizabeth is joined by Dr. Joseph Currin. He is a licensed psychologist and assistant professor who specializes in identity development and sex education. They tackle questions listeners had specifically geared towards teens. This is part one of the teen questions. Be sure to tune into Thursday’s episode for part two. Roe Coverage Recommendations:Roe Is Ov
Carpooling With the Enemy
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth tackle a question from a listener who is caught in a carpool conundrum. Splitting the 30 minute drive to school has been a significant help. However, the kid they carpool with is downright rude to our listener’s daughter. What should she do?On Slate Plus, the best way to entertain your kids during road trips. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to listen and support our
The “I Want My Boobs Back” Edition
On this episode: Zak, Elizabeth, and Jamilah reminisce on some of their parents’ triumphs and fails. Then they tackle a question from a listener who just wants her daughter to stop grabbing her breasts. The daughter is looking for comfort but the constant touching is making the listener uncomfortable. On Slate Plus, Zak and Jamilah talk with Elizabeth’s dad about all things fatherhood and grandfatherhood. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now
The “Fed-Up Fours” Edition
On this episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Zak answer a question from a dad who is fed up with his four-year-old not listening. For the first time, he lost his temper and swatted her butt. He feels terrible and wants to know how to apologize. But he also wants to know how to get her to listen if a situation arises where something serious is going on and she needs to follow directions.
Recommendations
Zak: Letting your little ones pour their own syrup.
Elizabeth: Beast Academy Math
Jamilah: Americ
The “Perfect Sleep Environment” Edition
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak, and Jamilah have some relatable parenting triumphs and fails. Then Elizabeth is joined by Dr. Rebecca Spencer, principal investigator at the University of Massachusetts Amherst’s Somneurolab. Dr. Spencer shares some wonderful insight for creating a good sleep environment, navigating napping, and what your kids should (or shouldn’t) be doing right before bed. On Slate Plus, they discuss how even the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge can’t avoid the “f*ck you
The “Please Sleep Through the Night” Edition
On this episode: Zak and Jamilah are joined by Cheyna Roth, Slate senior producer and occasional host of The Waves. They speak with Dr. Erin Flynn-Evans about all things sleep for parents and kids. She worked in the Division of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital for over 10 years and she’s the co-founder of Baby Sleep Science. Dr. Flynn-Evans is here to answer some questions that will hopefully help you and your kids sleep better. RecommendationsJa
How To!: Raise a Future College Athlete
On this bonus episode from our friends at Slate's How To! podcast: Elizabeth’s son Lucas is a talented athlete who wants to compete in track and field at an NCAA Division One school. But so far he’s been running away from doing any research or planning. His mother, Elizabeth, wants to help him be recruited and maybe even get a scholarship. On this episode of How To!, we bring on Steve Magness, performance expert, former track coach for the University of Houston, and author of Do Hard Things: Why
The “Kids Are Philosophers” Edition
On this episode: Zak and Elizabeth are joined by Scott Hershovitz, author of the book Nasty, Brutish and Short: Adventures in Philosophy with My Kids and the director of the Law and Ethics Program and professor of law and philosophy at the University of Michigan. They discuss why you shouldn’t shy away from big questions, how to foster open mindedness in teens, and perhaps the biggest question of all—what’s a “floofer doofer.”On Slate Plus, they have a round of graduation-themed Triumph
The “So. Many. Questions.” Edition
On this episode: Zak and Elizabeth are joined by Scott Hershovitz, author of the book Nasty, Brutish and Short: Adventures in Philosophy with My Kids and the director of the Law and Ethics Program and professor of law and philosophy at the University of Michigan. They answer a question from a father who doesn’t know how to answer his curious daughter’s constant questions about everything from the meaning of life to if ants feel pain. How can he foster her curiosity while also helping he
The “Stop Telling Me to Workout” Edition
On this episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Zak answer a question from a listener who is in her second trimester and throughout her pregnancy she’s been sick and tired. This is her first pregnancy, and she and her husband agreed that they should try to stay in shape during it in order to help them be active parents. But despite her tiredness, her husband has been relentlessly pushing her to workout. She swears that he has good intentions. But is there a way to get him to back off? Recommen
The "Pooping Problem" Edition
On this episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Zak talk about the baby formula shortage. Then they are joined by Dr. Christine Stephenson, pediatric physical therapist and author of The Constipation Game Plan, to help a four year old who refuses to use the restroom when he’s not at home. On Slate Plus, Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Zak talk about the highly annoying time gap between school pickup and work ending. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now at
The “Place to Belong” Edition
On this episode: Elizabeth and Zak are joined by Amber O’Neal Johnston. She’s the author of A Place to Belong: Celebrating Diversity and Kinship in the Home and Beyond and has a blog called Heritage Mom. They talk about how families can celebrate their own identities while learning about and appreciating other people’s races and cultural differences. What does it mean to teach kids about “hard history,” but also celebrate cultural heritage? And, why do so many parents find it difficult
What Next: The Future of IVF Post-Roe
On this bonus episode from our friends at Slate's What Next podcast: As the country awaits a final decision on whether the Supreme Court will overturn Roe. v Wade, fertility doctors are sounding the alarm about what that could mean for the future procedures like IVF.Guests: Dr. Natalie Crawford, OBGYN and reproductive endocrinologist at Fora Fertility in Austin, Texas.Emily, an IVF patient in West Virginia. Emily asked Slate to withhold her last name so she could speak freely about her
The “How Rude!" Edition
On this episode: Elizabeth and Zak are joined by Amber O’Neal Johnston, author of A Place to Belong and she blogs at heritagemom.com. Together they tackle a question from a nanny who is fed up with preteen attitude. The boy she looks after takes his bad moods out on everyone around him, including her. She’s wondering if she can help him change his behavior or if she should find another place to work. On Slate Plus, Elizabeth, Zak, and Amber start strategizing their summer plans. Slate
The “Protecting Trans Kids” Edition
On this episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Zak talk about the wave of anti-trans legislation, the role of misinformation in this movement, and how to protect trans kids. They are joined by Jules Gill-Peterson. She is a trans historian and author of Histories of the Transgender Child, and co-host of Slate’s very own Outward podcast. RecommendationsJamilah recommends: NYT Spelling Bee Elizabeth recommends: PILOT FriXion Clicker Erasable, Refillable & Retractable Gel Ink PensZak recommen
The “Just Trash It All" Edition
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth help a listener who feels like she’s constantly walking through a maze of toys and the piles of stuff just keep growing. Both her and her partner work a ton, which leaves little time to actually clean the house. But she’s the only one pitching in… Her partner and her two kids are “incapable of cleaning up after themselves.” She’s at her wits end and seriously contemplating pitching everything. On Slate Plus, Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth discus
The “This Bedtime Is Bananas” Edition
On this episode: Zak and Elizabeth debate what to do about a bedtime battle. Our listener’s toddler is generally a great sleeper, but now her bedtime routine isn’t working anymore. If a kid is going to sleep early, does it mean they’ll be early to rise? How early is too early to put your toddler to bed? RecommendationsElizabeth: Metaphor Dice Zak: Takeya Cold Brew MakerBonus Recommendations: Summer Brain Quest BooksRun Towards the Danger: Confrontations with a Body of Memory by Sarah Po
The “I *Swear* It’s a Problem" Edition
On this episode: Elizabeth and Zak tackle a tricky question about a kid who has recently harnessed the power of swear words. He is weaponizing his words with an intent to hurt those around him and our listener has no idea what to do. Elizabeth and Zak offer up some practical advice for dealing with the in-the-moment anger, curbing the foul language, and ultimately making amends.
On Slate Plus, Elizabeth and Zak discuss hobbies that help them relax and rejuvenate. Slate Plus members get a bonus
The “Changing The Children’s Music Game” Edition
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak expose the mini-monsters that parents accidentally create. They have some very fun—very scary—listener submissions. But honestly, who doesn’t need a snack for every car ride?Then Zak interviews comedian, dad, and podcaster Chris Garcia about his new show Finding Raffi. They talk about how Raffi captured kids’ ears and hearts, his lasting legacy, and how he’s changing parenting philosophies. RecommendationsZak recommends finding little moments
The "I Actually Have a Favorite Kid…" Edition
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak take on a really difficult question from a mother who realized she has a favorite child. She loves her baby but doesn’t actually like her that much and she’s worried that her feelings toward her child are calcifying. What can she do to bond with her baby? On Slate Plus, how to deal with picky eaters. Is it okay to eat the same meal day after day? What can you do to make new scary foods more palatable? What are your favorite ‘Trojan horse’ mea
The “Wondering About Work” Edition
On this episode: Elizabeth and Zak tackle a question from a listener who is stretched thin between work and her kids. She’d love to be a full-time parent but she’s worried she’ll not be as interesting if she does transition. What should she do? They also have some fun listener updates, including one who had a very unexpected and very funny confrontation about porn. The hosts give recommendations that will help your kids have a memorable summer. But they’re not the only ones who deserve
The "College Indecision" Edition
On this episode: If you’ve noticed high school seniors stressing a little more lately, it may be because college decision deadlines are just around the corner. Zak and Elizabeth are joined by Slate’s Heidi Strom Moon to discuss how to support teens in their decision without overstepping. They answer a question from a dad who is currently trying to walk that line as his son is caught between his dream school and the school he can actually afford. Resources: Debt Nation: The faces and liv
The “ADHD Accommodations” Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Zak tackle a question from a listener whose child was recently diagnosed with ADHD. The letter writer’s husband, who also has ADHD, lacked support in school and it had a lasting impact on his education. They want to avoid history repeating itself for their daughter. How can they ensure she is properly supported and that she feels empowered by all the strengths that come along with ADHD. The hosts also set intentions for the week and give r
The ‘Mind Your ‘P’s and ‘V’s’ Edition
On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth tackle body boundaries. Our listener has two little kids who are pretty comfortable doing things like sharing a bath or getting changed in the same vicinity. But something happened the other morning that has her worried. How can she teach consent and autonomy without creating any body shame? On Slate Plus, they debate if parenting actually makes them happy. The article they discussed is called What Becoming a Parent Really Does to Your Happin
The ‘Cherishing Your Childless Friends’ Edition
On this episode: Elizabeth, Zak, and Jamilah answer a question from a listener who is feeling left behind by her friends who are parents. She says she’s really tried to be supportive and isn’t receiving support in return, especially when she’s celebrating accomplishments like earning a PhD and publishing her first album. All of this has left her feeling that she’s worth less if she doesn’t have a kid. Is there a way to rekindle the relationships? Recommendations: Zak recommends watching
The ‘Great Chore Divide’ Edition
On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak tackle a classic dilemma. Should you pay your kids to help around the house? What chores are age appropriate and how can you tailor your expectations to different children? They also do a round of Triumphs and Fails and announce that Mom and Dad are Fighting is moving to a twice a week schedule. Episodes will come out on Mondays and Thursdays. On Slate Plus, they discuss whether or not you should pull elementary school students out of state-w
The "Childcare Crisis" Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah and Zak are joined by Julie Kohler, a writer, gender justice advocate, and host of the podcast, White Picket Fence. First they tackle a question from a listener who is trying to figure out how to connect with her partner’s kid. Then they talk with Julie about the childcare crisis, which she focused on for the latest season of her show. She explains why the US is still so far behind in terms of implementing care economy policies and what supports should be
The “Estranged Grandparent” Edition
On this week’s episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a tricky question from a parent who doesn’t have a relationship with her father for a good reason. But now that his health is failing, she’s wondering if she should introduce him to her daughter. Then, they tackle how to make school drop-off smoother. On Slate Plus, they discuss Jessica Grose’s piece, I’ll Say It Again: There’s More Than One Way to Raise Kids Who Thrive, and dish on what philosophies they use in their own parent
The “Russian Roots Conundrum” Edition
On this week’s episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a complicated question about a listener with family ties to Russia who is seeking advice on how to explain to her young children the invasion of Ukraine and how to help them handle the schoolyard teasing. Then, how to keep your toddler entertained in the stroller on the way to school. This family is looking to up their game on the 25 min walk to school. And on Slate Plus, what's one silly, or serious thing that we should impleme
The Waves: What I Wish I Knew Before I Started IVF
On this bonus episode from our friends at Slate's The Waves podcast: We’re talking about infertility treatments–and what happens when they don’t work. The Waves producer Cheyna Roth shares her personal struggles and talks about going through IVF with Slate’s Dear Prudence columnist, Jenée Desmond Harris. They talk about what they wished they had known before starting IVF, how to be a good friend of someone experiencing infertility, and Jenée offers advice on how to cope with IVF. Later
How To!: Stop ‘Having It All’ (Before You End Up With Nothing)
On this bonus episode from our friends at Slate's How To! podcast: Janey is the very definition of a woman trying to “have it all.” She’s an occupational therapist by day, a ghost writer for influencers by night and in between co-hosts a podcast. On top of that, she has two sons who play travel sports and a husband who works long hours. It’s left Janey wondering if she’ll ever catch her breath. On this episode of How To!, we bring on Amy Westervelt, who’s no slouch herself. She’s a jour
The “Vanilla Sex” Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan is back from book leave and has an announcement. Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a wild question about a teen asking if her mom has “vanilla sex.” How should the parent respond to an intensely personal question like that? Then Elizabeth and Jamilah pepper Dan with questions about his time on the show, including his biggest regret. On Slate Plus, if you could swap bodies w/ your kid for a day—Freaky Friday style—would you?
Recommendations:
Elizabeth recommends When
Turning Into a Math Monster
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Zak, and Jamilah tackle a question from a parent worried that tense homework sessions are fracturing her relationship with her daughter. When should you keep pushing your kid so they succeed and when should you back off? Then, they’re advising a parent who is simply burned out. It’s something a lot of parents are feeling and they’ve got some tips to make life a little more manageable. On Slate Plus, they’re juggling stressful sports schedules. Recommen
The “I Love You, Even When You’re Mad” Edition
On this week’s episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a complicated question about navigating unwanted attention—especially if the attention may be chalked up to a child’s appearance. Then they are joined by Deborah Farmer Kris, parent educator, education journalist, children’s book author, and founder of Parenthood365. They talk about how to help kids identify and manage their emotions—and what parents can learn themselves in the process. Check out Deborah’s new book I Love You All the Tim
The “Cotillion Conundrum” Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth dive into the complicated world of cotillions. A listener is wondering if she should enroll her biracial daughter if all of her friends are participating. Kristen Richardson, author of The Season: A Social History of the Debutante, joins to give some wonderful context and advice. They then tackle a question about sending a toddler to summer camp. On Slate Plus, they’re daydreaming about family vacations. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment o
The "Taking a Toddler to a Funeral" Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Zak, and Aymann aren’t shying away from the difficult conversations. First, they answer a listener question about how to handle death with a toddler. Should you take a toddler to their grandparent’s funeral? Should you explain death? Should you let them see you cry? Then, Zak is talking with comedian Chris Gethard about his new essay Dad on Pills, available on Scribd. They get candid about parenting, mental health, and a rather upsetting joke. On Slate
The "Playdate Vaccination Card" Edition
On this week’s episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth debate if there's proper etiquette when asking if a kid is vaccinated. Plus, they have some ideas for how to smoothly handle the interaction if the answer is no. Then, they take on the case of the annoying neighbor. Should you tell the kid to buzz off if he can’t play nice? On Slate Plus, secrets, secrets are no fun… but are they outright bad? Recommendations:Jamilah recommends Budsies.Elizabeth recommends the Buddha Board.Zak recommen
The "Family History Fiasco" Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Zak, and guest co-host Jaime Green attempt to fix a communication disaster. Our listener received some long-awaited genetic testing results and she was crushed when her partner seemingly couldn’t care less. Can she make him care? Then Elizabeth talks with Larissa Maloney of Active Kids 2.0 about how parents and kids can stay active at home. On Slate Plus, Jaime’s extremely relatable article about how hard it is to be a parent of a kid under five inspired a cath
The "Is Elmo Petty?" Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Zak open up their cookbooks and share their favorite kid-friendly vegetarian recipes. They also debate how to help kids form sibling bonds that will last long after childhood. Then, we are joined by Rachelle Hampton and Madison Malone Kircher, hosts of ICYMI, Slate’s podcast about internet culture. They explain Elmo’s viral feud with a pet rock. If you want to hear even more, check out their episode. Elmo also joined our show if you want t
The “Hey… How Are You?” Edition
On this week’s episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth help a mom understand her new step-daughter’s personal boundaries and love language.
Then they have some wonderful tips for a mom of twins who has quite the conundrum. One of her daughters has needed a lot of medical care and procedures, including brain surgery. Now her other daughter, who is non-medically complex, is jealous of all the attention her sister is receiving and asking to go to the doctor daily. How can she make sure the needs of b
The Best of 2021 Edition
On this week’s episode: Our favorite Plus segments of 2021. We revisit one of the funniest—yet most horrifying—bathroom discoveries. We uncover the soundtracks to our parenting and brainstorm the School House Rock songs we need right now. We also gripe about Yes Day and hide from our kids. Don't miss the member-exclusive segment on MADAF every week. Sign up for Slate Plus now at slate.com/momanddadplus and you'll also get to skip the ads, read everything on Slate.com, and support this s
The “Stay in Your Own Candy Cane Lane” Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak advise a mom who is feeling hurt that her mother-in-law has swooped in and taken over traditional “mom moments” behind her back. Is there a way to politely tell her that she needs to stay in her own lane? Then the hosts share the most useful piece of advice they received this year. In Slate Plus, they play a round of holiday hot takes which includes the classic conundrum: should you just tell your kids Santa’s a myth? Recommendations:N
The “Bah Humbug” Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak help a parent who feels conflicted about traveling to see family during the holidays. They love their relatives and rarely see them, but they are exhausted and not so excited to make the trek this year. Should they still go? Then, a listener’s toddler is afraid of everything. How can they validate their child’s experience while helping them navigate a sometimes scary world?
On Slate Plus, the hosts talk about Zak’s quarantine ennui. He’s bee
The “Snoopy Phone” Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak help a parent who has been monitoring their teenage daughter’s text messages. Have they crossed a line, or are they doing their due diligence to ensure their child is safe? Then they answer a question from a parent whose 2 year-old daughter wants her ears pierced. How early is too early, and who should be making this kind of decision? On Slate Plus, the hosts talk about how one Black mother’s video about her night doula went viral, spa
The “Toys or Trash” Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak help a parent who is sick of their generous neighbors constantly sending over hand-me-down toys. The letter writer is already running out of space in their house. Is it OK to simply refuse? Can they donate the toys? Would tossing the toys crush the neighbors’ generous spirit? Then they answer a question from a dad whose daughter needs surgery. How can he explain the procedure without frightening her?On Slate Plus, the hosts talk about
The “Real Thanksgiving” Edition
On this week’s episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Amber Smith advise a listener who wants to provide their preschooler with a less whitewashed history of Thanksgiving. They have some helpful tips for explaining the real thanksgiving in a more realistic, age-appropriate manner. Zak then sits down with Jenny Rosenstrach, bestselling author and creator of Dinner: A Love Story, to strategize how to include your child in holiday cooking and avoid Empty Celebration Syndrome. If you want to hear more
The “Vaccinated For the Holidays” Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak help a parent who is in over her head when it comes to bath time. Her little one used to love taking baths but has since changed her mind. Now bath time is a nightmare for both of them. Then they’re joined by Dr. Syra Madad, an infectious disease epidemiologist with New York City Health + Hospitals and Harvard’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs. She shares how parents can keep their family, especially kids who are still too y
The “Screen Time Semantics” Edition
On this week’s episode: Zak, Elizabeth, and Greg Lavallee advise a listener whose rambunctious little one is on his third visit to the emergency room. How can our listener teach him that he can get hurt if he keeps up with the daredevil antics? They also debate how to talk to kids about screen time and how to set up healthy boundaries with devices. On Slate Plus, they lament the impending winter clothes chaos.
Recommendations:
Greg recommends asking your cool adult friends to give your kids com
The “Out the Door or Bust” Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Zak help a listener whose kid just will not get out the door in the mornings. Next, they dive into a debate about the purpose of homework and who gets to decide how much homework a child is required to do. On Slate Plus, they discuss an interesting package from Romper called Parenting at the End Of the World. Recommendations:Elizabeth recommends the card game Boom Goes the Dynamite.Zak recommends the musician Caspar Babypants. Jamilah reco
The “Temperamental Toddler” Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak debate if a distracted toddler deserves to be pulled out of their gymnastics class. Next, they advise a mother who is nervous about a long flight with her toddler. From getting a toddler to wear a mask to entertaining snacks, the hosts have tips for all aspects of the flight. We’re playing a round of hot takes in Slate Plus. So stick around for some spicy parenting opinions. Recommendations:Jamilah recommends Popeyes’ hottie sauce coll
The “All Things Green” Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Aymann hotly debate a question about a kid who is vegan but decides to eat meat at their friend’s house. Is 13 mature enough to make their own dietary decisions or should the kid’s parents be told? Then, Jamilah talks with Lauren Linder, mom and attorney for a cannabis company, about how they incorporate cannabis into their parenting. In Slate Plus: Aymann talks about the effect of toxic masculinity on paternity leave. If you want to hear more from
The “Poopin’ In the Closet” Edition
On this week’s episode: Aymann, Jamilah, and Elizabeth tackle a desperate dispatch from a parent who just wants their kid to go to bed. Instead he is pooping in the closet. Then they take on the case of the threenage temper tantrums. How can you calm a kid who is being completely irrational? In Slate Plus: They’re talkin’ tech. Specifically, the gadgets that have transformed their parenting. If you love recommendations, you’ll definitely want to stick around for that discussion.
Recommendations
Bad Behavior Edition
On this week’s episode: Aymann, Elizabeth, and Jamilah discuss their triumphs and fails for the week. Then they answer a question from a listener whose 5 year old has been acting out at school recently. How can she encourage her child to change his behavior?Later, they share some advice with a listener whose 16 year old has not taken kindly to her mother’s boyfriend of 3 years. What can she do to bridge the divide between her partner and her daughter?In Slate Plus: We’re discussing movi
Disaster at the Dentist Edition
On this week’s episode: Aymann, Elizabeth, and guest-host Amber Smith discuss their triumphs and fails for the week. Then they answer a question from a listener whose child has become deeply afraid of the dentist and other medical procedures. How can she help prevent her daughter’s fears from becoming phobias?Later, they share some advice on how to politely deter other parents' from making comparisons of your children. In Slate Plus: Hiding from your kids. Because sometimes, parents jus
Baby Bank Account Edition
On this week’s episode: Aymann, Elizabeth and Jamilah discuss their triumphs and fails for the week. Then they answer a question from a listener whose baby has received a lot of monetary gifts. At 5 months old, does her baby need a bank account?
Later, they share some tips to help you evaluate schools. Beyond testing scores, how do you determine which school you should send your child to?
In Slate Plus: When to take a hands off approach vs. a hands on approach with your kids when you see them
Makeup-Obsessed Toddler Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Aymann and guest-host Michaela Smith discuss their triumphs and fails for the week. Then they answer a question from a listener whose 4 year old daughter has recently become obsessed with wearing makeup. Should her mother be worried about this new development or just let it play out naturally?Later, they have some advice for a parent whose toddler is dealing with some separation anxiety. What can she do to help support her daughter through these diffic
Bored at School Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth and Aymann discuss their triumphs and fails for the week. Then they answer a question from a listener whose first grader is bored at school. Should her mother have a talk with her daughter’s teacher or wait and see if things change in a few weeks?
Later, they have some advice for a parent whose 11-almost-12-year-old son is campaigning hard for a cell phone. Would a phone serve as a helpful tool or a terrible distraction?
In Slate Plus: We’re getting
Playdate Etiquette Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth and Aymann discuss their triumphs and fails for the week. Then they answer a question from a listener who feels she’s being borderline ghosted by other parents after their children’s playdates. Later, they have some advice for a parent whose 12 year old son is very set in his views as they pertain to religion but his mom worries that this may cause problems down the line for one of his new friendships. How can she help her son navigate this potential co
Attention-Seeking Toddler Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Aymann discuss their triumphs and fails for the week. Then they answer a question from a listener whose 4-year-old daughter has developed some attention-seeking behaviors with the arrival of a newborn sibling.Later, they have some advice for someone whose 6-year-old is struggling to learn table manners. How long will mealtimes be a struggle before the constant and repetitive “chew with your mouth shut and sit at the table” bears fruit?In S
Morbidly Curious Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Aymann discuss their triumphs and fails for the week. Then they answer a question from a listener whose 6 year old daughter has become fixated on finding a cure for death. Later, they have some advice for a parent whose own parents are excellent grandparents to her children but who often cross some boundary lines. In Slate Plus: The latest UN report on climate change. How can we discuss this with our children without scaring the crap out o
Bad Friends Edition
On this week’s episode: It’s Dan’s last show before book leave! Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Dan discuss their triumphs and fails for the week. Then they answer a question from a listener who is wondering how she should help her son navigate a friendship that’s not so friendly. Later, they have some advice for a mother who would like to avoid talking about her daughter right in front of her, but that’s hard to do when you’re a single parent.In Slate Plus: Summer jobs, entrepreneurial kids, a
Self-Expression-ish Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and guest host Courtney Martin discuss triumphs and fails, co-housing and Courtney’s new book, Learning in Public: Lessons for a Racially Divided America from My Daughter's School. Then they answer a question from a listener who is wondering how to help her child adapt to wearing a uniform at school while still encouraging self-expression. Jamilah suggested to mix things up by adding in fun ties, like this one she dressed her daughter in a few
Quitting the Olympics Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Dan, and Jamilah discuss how we should be talking to our kids about Simone Biles’ decision to withdraw from the Olympics. Then, they answer a question from a listener who is wondering how to deal with their bad babysitter. The problem is, the babysitter is grandma. In Slate Plus: Is it a faux pas to request no gifts at a child’s birthday party? Or is it OK? Recommendations:Elizabeth recommends Draw Your World, a sketch book for kids (or adults!) that
Are These Books Age-Appropriate? Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth and Dan answer a letter from a mother who worries that her 8-year-old daughter may be reading books that aren’t age-appropriate.Then, they share some tips with a listener who wonders if potty training right before vacation is a good idea. In Slate Plus: The super-moms set to compete in the Tokyo Olympics.Thanks to Goodnight World for their support. Recommendations:Elizabeth recommends GLOPLAY, a glow-in-the-dark sticker company for your kids, or for you
The Mortified Mom Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Isaac Butler answer a letter from a concerned mother who worries that she’s not able to fill the void of her step-daughter's biological mother. Then, they share some advice for a listener whose son is having trouble reacting appropriately to gifts he doesn’t like. In Slate Plus: 14-year-old Zaila Avant-garde wins the 2021 Scripps National Spelling Bee. Recommendations:Elizabeth recommends the Brickit App: an app that helps you find your mi
Did Dan Kois Kill the Segway?
In a special episode, Dan shares his new episode of Slate's Decoder Ring documentary podcast about his time as a junior book agent working on selling a secretive book proposal called IT, a codename for what would eventually be revealed as the Segway personal scooter. This is the story of the invention and development of a potentially revolutionary device, how Dan may or may not have doomed it, how the hype got out of control, and how that speculation helped birth the modern internet. If
The Picking Fights With Your Kid Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a letter from a concerned partner who’s sick of watching a significant other pick fights with their kid — but doesn’t know if or how to step in. Also, Rachelle Hampton and Madison Malone Kircher join us for a new edition of In Case You Missed It, Mom and Dad. This week they’ll be explaining what the deal is with someone your kids probably know but you might not: YouTube star James Charles, and his return to the platform after se
The Waves: Should You Become a Mom at 25?
Hi Mom and Dad Are Fighting listeners. We recently relaunched The Waves, Slate's podcast about feminism and gender, and this week's episode--a conversation with Atlantic writer Elizabeth Bruenig about her decision to have kids when she was young--seemed like something you might enjoy.
If you enjoy it, please consider subscribing to The Waves in your favorite podcast app.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I Don't Want to Trailblaze Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Dan, and Jamilah answer a question from a parent who is wondering how to help her 10-year-old who struggled to learn during this last year of school. What can she do to help her daughter catch up this summer?
Then, they advise a hard-working architect who really wants some architect-mom role models to look up to when trying to figure out work-life balance. Stepping in to help is Dr. Barbara Faga, who has blazed her own trail, as a professional, parent and an
The Built-in Babysitter Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah is joined by former Mom and Dad are Fighting co-host, Rebecca Lavoie. They weigh in on whether or not an older stepchild should be forced to babysit their stepsiblings. They also counsel a mom who is concerned about her husband’s theatrical and rather upsetting behavior. As mentioned in the show, our second question does contain discussion of suicide and suicidal ideation. So if you’d prefer to skip the question, jump ahead 17 minutes. If you, or anyone y
Knuckle Sandwich Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth have advice for a mom who is less than pleased at her in-law’s ongoing joke with her toddler. Let’s just say the joke involves knuckle sandwiches and a fake punch to the eye. Can she raise her concerns without causing conflict? Or should she just let the joke slide? Then—a very special guest joins the show… Jamilah’s mom, Isoke! She chats about what it was like raising little Jamilah and tells a hilarious story about the time Jamilah d
The Cross-Country Chaos Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Dan, and Jamilah counsel a mother who is feeling guilty that she’s having a hard time bonding with her second child. She, of course, loves her son very much. But sometimes wishes her family could revert back to happier days when she had only one kid.
Then, you are hopping in the Newcamp minivan to travel from Florida to Colorado and hopefully pick up a few useful tips for the next time you decide to spend days in the car with your kids.
In Slate Plus: Of cour
The Quiet as a Mouse Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah and Elizabeth are joined by Isaac Butler, co-host of Slate's Working podcast. They advise a family who just moved into a new building. Not even 24 hours after meeting their downstairs neighbors, they received a potentially passive aggressive note about their kids’ noise level. How can they maintain peace in the building while letting their kids play? Then—what should you do when your kid wants to quit a sport midseason? In Slate Plus: Will the slower pace
Acne Flashbacks Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan and Elizabeth are joined by Doyin Richards, Care & Feeding columnist, bestselling children's author, and founder of the Anti-Racism Fight Club. They counsel a mom who had terrible acne growing up and now is stressing over her son’s breakouts. Then they have a question about a little boy who is obsessed with gender norms and a mom who’s worried she’s obsessing about it too much. In Slate Plus: How has giving advice changed the way the hosts parent? Slate P
The Silent Treatment Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth and Jamilah are joined by Emily Flake, cartoonist and author of Mama Tried and That Was Awkward. They advise a parent whose husband is ignoring their teens and giving them the silent treatment when they anger him. Then they have some tips for a mom who is desperate for some alone time. In Slate Plus: The hosts try to predict what their kids will be up to in five years time. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up n
MOOOOMMMM, Where’s My Stuffie!? Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan and Jamilah are joined by Gabrielle Horton, co-host and executive producer of NATAL. They advise a mom who is sick of searching for her kid’s lost stuff, especially because she, too, often misplaced things as a child. She learned to develop routines that work for her. But she wants to opt out of helping her kid with finding lost items. They also answer a question about a girl who is feeling left out. Her bestie and her mom both go to therapy and she now wants
Bickering Grandparents Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan and Jamilah are joined by Slate’s Allison Benedikt. They debate if a letter writer’s bickering parents need to knock it off or if it’s okay to squabble in front of the grandkids.Then, they sit down with Dr. Tova Walsh, professor of social work at the University of Wisconsin, to discuss her new research about how moms who gave birth in March 2020 are coping with a very strange first year of parenting. In Slate Plus: What to do about kids' expensive—but oh so d
Indoor Parent Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah and Dan debate if an indoor-loving mom needs to suck it up, sign her kid up for soccer, and actually go to games. Then, Jamilah sits down with Virginia Sole-Smith, journalist and author of The Eating Instinct and Burnt Toast, a newsletter about parenting while navigating diet culture and fatphobia. They talk about helping kids develop healthy relationships with food and their body, especially when parents are struggling with those issues. In Sl
Targeting Bans That Target Trans Kids Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Dan and Elizabeth talk with Alex Chen, founding director of the LGBTQ+ Advocacy Clinic at Harvard Law, about bills that prohibit transgender youth from playing sports and accessing gender-affirming health care. Check out his piece here.
The hosts also tackle a question about a father in a blended family who seems to be prioritizing his daughter with his previous wife over his son.
Then, the hilarious hosts of ICYMI, Rachelle Hampton and Madison Malone Kircher,
Toddler Ponzi Schemes Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth argue whether or not a toddler is obligated to join a sticker ponzi scheme if the invitation came from his cousin. Then, Jamilah talks to Rose Aka-James, National Membership Director of Black Mamas Matter Alliance, about the work being done to address the systemic racial disparities when it comes to Black maternal health. Check out BMMA’s Black Maternal Health Week Virtual Conference. In Slate Plus: We’re pitching modern issues that ju
Slumber Party Predicament Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth and Jamilah are joined by Isaac Butler, co-host of Slate's Working podcast. They answer a question from a mother wondering when and how to tell her daughter that she had an older sister who died prior to birth. Then they dive into sleepover politics. Should the guest list be altered to accommodate cousins who really want an invite? In Slate Plus: We’ve got tips for helping your kid be more creative. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each w
Potentially Too Provocative Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth and Dan debate if you should tell a teen that what they are wearing isn’t appropriate in certain situations. Then, they advise a woman who is pregnant with her family’s second child. Their first child is white and the second child is biracial. The letter writer is concerned that her mother-in-law will treat their second child differently because of the baby’s race. In Slate Plus: What’s the best way to get rid of kid art? Slate Plus members get
Privacy, Please! Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Dan, and Jamilah counsel a parent whose kid felt hurt and slighted when her Zoom playdate abruptly ended. Then they tackle a close quarters situation: a little kid is asking for privacy in the mornings. But the family has two other kids to dress and a limited amount of space in their apartment. What should they do now that her morning routine is making it hard for their entire family to get out the door? In Slate Plus: Gabe Roth, Slate's editorial dire
End of the Pandemic Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan talks with Emily Oster, professor at Brown University and data-driven parenting author. She also writes ParentData, an evidence-based newsletter that has been a vital resource for many parents navigating the pandemic. Emily and Dan talk about how families should act now that more families are falling into the ‘mixed-vaxxed’ category and what to expect for the upcoming spring and summer.
Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth also tackle a question from a listener who has fallen
The Boy-Girl Friend Divide Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah and Dan are joined by longtime friend of the pod, Jessica Winter. Jessica just released her next novel, The Fourth Child. They answer a question from a mom of a little boy whose current friend group is all girls. She’s worried that he’s going to be ditched and without a group of friends as they all age. Then they tackle a question from a mom who has had it with her kids’ shouting a rather annoying nonsense word.In Slate Plus: Inspired by Jessica’s little
You Drive, You Pay Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth argue about if teenage drivers should chip in for the privilege of driving, especially when the teen in question is not making a ton of money. Then they jump into a couple’s argument over swearing in front of the kids.
In Slate Plus: It’s the classic debate. Oatmeal raisin v. chocolate chip cookies. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to listen and support our work.
Recommendations:
Elizabeth rec
Temperamental Teen Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Dan, and Carvell commiserate with a parent whose teen is taking every little correction to heart. Then Elizabeth sits down with Erika McLemore (@sitbymyfire on Instagram) to discuss how parents should incorporate lessons on Indigenous peoples, cultures, and land acknowledgements into play. She also shares a bunch of wonderful resources for parents and kids to continue educating themselves on language, history, and current issues central to the Indigenous experi
Sunday Night Blues Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah and Elizabeth are joined by Zenovia Stephens, founder and CEO of Black Kids Adventures. They strategize ways a mom can help her tween power through her Sunday night blues. Then they debate if large age gaps between kids really leads to emotional distance and weak bonds between siblings.
In Slate Plus: Zenovia talks about the importance of getting yourself and your kids outside. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to
Backseat Combat Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Elizabeth, and Jamilah debate how to negotiate a ceasefire in the backseat of the minivan. They also counsel a mom whose daughter will not quit it with the fake cough. In Slate Plus: They send platonic Valentines to friends who have made these trying times a little easier. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to listen and support our work.Recommendations:Elizabeth recommends Tea Time Around the World by Denyse W
Concussion Chaos Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Dan answer a question from a mom with an ongoing head injury. She wants to be there for her energetic 3-year-old. But the commotion sometimes hurts. How can she get her little one to play quietly? Then the hosts answer a question about being a fun adult figure for her friends’ kids. In Slate Plus: Get ready to refresh your shelves because the hosts have a lightning round of book recommendations. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MA
College Sticker Shock Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth talk with New York Times columnist Ron Lieber about his new book, The Price You Pay for College. He’ll explain why college costs so much, what parents and students should be asking when picking a school, and how to deal with not being able to afford your kid’s dream school.
Then the hosts answer a question from a mom who is struggling with resentment and regret over having a kid at all.
In Slate Plus: Slate’s Rebecca Onion joins to discuss t
Dino Dilemma Edition
$On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Dan, and Elizabeth debate how to teach a kid about dinosaurs when the parents differ ideologically about evolution and creationism. They also answer a question about prepping a teen for her first concert by herself, whenever it’s safe to see live music again.
In Slate Plus: The hosts discuss the best hand-me-downs they’ve received and what they are most excited to pass along to their kids. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads.
No Ma'am Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Dan debate if it’s OK to teach your child to use gendered titles of respect, like sir and ma’am. Then they answer a mother who seems to do the lionshare of housework. Now her husband wants to seize an opportunity to be a stay-at-home father and she’s worried she will no longer be as valuable to the family. In Slate Plus: What to do if you’re the rebel and your kid is the one who loves rules. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF
DIY Sex Talk Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Dan answer a question from a family where one parent feels that giving the sex talk to a tween violates the child’s privacy. Then they’ll debate what to do about a husband who regresses into a surly teenager when his parents are around.
In Slate Plus: The parenting story of the weekend: Bean Dad. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to listen and support our work.
Recommendations:
Elizabeth recommen
Good Riddance 2020 Edition
On this week’s episode: Our favorite Plus segments of 2020. We’ve got some funny stories about odes to neighborhood racoons and barfing kids. We’ve got therapeutic screams into the void. We also have important segments on colorism, racism, and equity and how the pandemic is impacting the adoption system. If you like what you hear on the show, sign up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to listen and support our work.In Slate
Holiday Hullabaloo Edition
On this week’s episode: We gathered all of the Mom and Dad are Fighting hosts, kids, and partners around the mic for a holiday party extravaganza. It’s an abundance of chaos and cheer to make up for all of the canceled holiday parties this year. Up first is Triumphs and Fails with a twist. Then the kids and partners answer listener questions about them. Followed by a super silly round of everyone’s favorite—Would You Rather. In Slate Plus: Everyone is revealing the holiday traditions th
I Want Better Grandparents Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Dan answer a question about a little girl who wishes her Memaw and Pepaw would be better grandparents. They also debate what to do when a beloved stuffed animal gets lost and your kid is heartbroken.
In Slate Plus: Slate’s Sam Adams joins to talk about kids texting, emailing and finding their written voice. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to listen and support our work.
Recommendations:
Dan rec
Cordially Uninvited Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Dan weigh in on whether you are a jerk for uninviting a family from your pod’s holiday plans. Should you follow invitation etiquette during a pandemic? Then they debate how to handle a parent giving a kid a book that might be too mature. Is it too late to take the book back? Or should you prepare to explain the mature content? In Slate Plus: The hosts reveal the worst gifts they’ve ever given and received. Slate Plus members get a bonus se
Spoiling Santa Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a question about a kid who was told Santa wasn’t real. Now she is basing her continued belief on whether or not she gets a horse for Christmas. They also answer a question from a sister who is worried about her younger brother’s slacking in school. In Slate Plus: How are Santas adapting? Is it time to retire the tradition of sitting on Santa’s lap? Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up no
Thankful In Spite of Everything Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth gather around the virtual Thanksgiving table to share the major and minor things that got them through this wild year. They also answer a listener question from a mom nervous about changes to her kids’ education as they move across the country.
In Slate Plus: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth duke it out over the best and worst Thanksgiving foods. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to listen and suppo
My Child is Obsessed With a Squash Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth and Jamilah debate how to have conversations with kids about body types. How do you model a healthy body image with your child? They also give advice on what to do when your child has a deep emotional attachment to a fruit. This might be a good time to talk about the life cycle of produce.
In Slate Plus: Elizabeth and Jamilah talk about two new released studies showing how the pandemic is making mothers more frustrated with their partners and kids. They even t
You Will Have Fun and You Will Like It Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Dan debate when it’s appropriate to celebrate a sibling’s pregnancy, especially if the road to conception has been tough. How can you delineate between excitement and celebration so the mom-to-be feels supported without feeling pressure to share the news with others, if that’s not something she’s comfortable with at this stage? They also advise a family who has realized—they don’t actually know how to have fun as a unit. It turns out, the
Parenting and Politics Edition
On this week’s episode: With votes still being tallied, Dan and Jamilah are joined by Slate’s Dahlia Lithwick to debrief about the election and figure out how to talk about what’s going on with kids. They’ll answer a question from a parent who asks: How can you tell your kids it’s going to be OK if you’re just not sure that it will? They’ll also answer a question from a mom who is grappling with how much screentime is too much for her kids who are glued to The Simpsons. In Slate Plus: D
No Candy for You Edition
On this week’s episode: Since Halloween festivities have been curbed by COVID-19, Elizabeth, Jamilah and Isaac Butler have some ideas on how to celebrate safely. They answer a question about a kid who dresses up for Halloween but wants nothing to do with it this year. Then they answer a question about how to handle all the candy, especially this year when Trick-or-Treating is a safety risk.In Slate Plus: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Isaac reminisce over their favorite costumes and debate whi
Reopening Schools Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth interview Dr. Joseph Allen from Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health who argues that remote school is failing our kids. Allen explains why virtual dropout is so concerning, especially to low income and minority students. They also discuss leadership failures and what infrastructure schools need to make sure they are safe for students, teachers and staff. Following the interview, they answer a wild listener question about body sh
The Teacher Roundtable Fall Report Card
On this week’s episode: Jamilah Lemieux checks in with four of Slate’s Ask a Teacher columnists to see how this very unusual school year is going. Brandon Hersey, Cassy Sarnell, Matthew Dicks, and Amy Scott talk about ways their teaching styles have changed, some unexpected positive outcomes, and ways parents can help teachers help their kids.Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to listen and support our work.Catch Jamilah’s Slate Live show
Live From Our Living Rooms Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth taped a live version of the show. If you want to watch the recording of the livestream, you can catch it on Slate’s Facebook and YouTube channel. It was super fun! They answered audience questions live and even had a super special guest, Shasha Léonard, to read the questions. And, as always, they shared triumphs and fails as well as recommendations. In Slate Plus: They talked with Slate’s Greg Lavallee about his wonderful piece: Why I’
Enjoy the Ball With Abby Wambach
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah and Dan are joined by two-time Olympic gold medalist and FIFA World Cup champion, Abby Wambach. She has some advice for raising a leader, on and off the field. She also talks about inspiring the next generation of leaders in her new book, Wolfpack (Young Readers Edition). Then Elizabeth, Jamilah and Dan debate how to deal with parents who shout at their kids from the sidelines. In Slate Plus: We have a bonus round of classic sports ‘Triumphs
Corruptible Toddler
On this week’s episode: Dan, Elizabeth, and guest host Maya Feller answer a question about balancing extracurriculars with middle-school homework. And they advice a parent who desperately wants to tell the kids next door to get off her lawn.
In Slate Plus: Looking for fun, family-friendly fall recipes and activities? We’ve got ideas! And if you’re an autumn grouch, we also have some anti-fall propaganda from a host who will enthusiastically commiserate with you. Slate Plus members get a bonus
There’s No Such Thing as a Polite 3-Year-Old
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth and Rebecca answer a question about a mother who “feels like less of a parent” now that she shares 50/50 custody of her daughter, post separation. They also answer a question about how to teach a “threenager” to be polite. In Slate Plus: We reflect on Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s passing. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to listen and support our work.Recommendations:Elizabeth recommends actually using
Pandemic Friends
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a question about a grandmother, who struggles with alcoholism, asking to take her grandkid on an overnight roadtrip. We also have a follow-up question about making friends with other parents during the pandemic. In Slate Plus: We talk about the increase in mom shaming, online and among friends, during the pandemic. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to listen and support our work.R
Quitting Kindergarten
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Dan answer a question about a kindergartener getting fed up with attending school via screen. They also answer a question from a mom worried that her little one said he wanted to kill her. In Slate Plus: We reminisce on the totally cute, not annoying, cartoons our kids loved. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to listen and support our work.Recommendations:Dan recommends the Asterix comic ser
What's For Lunch?
On this week’s bonus episode: Elizabeth and Jamilah are joined by registered dietitian, Maya Feller, to discuss lunches for in-person and at-home learners. How can parents make sure their kids are eating nutritious meals that still taste good? What can parents do about kids that graze in the kitchen all day? And when should they start packing their own lunch? Follow Maya Fuller on Instagram or her website. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions,
Fluid Fashion
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a question from a parent adjusting to her young son wanting to wear girls clothing. They also answer a question about a mom who just needs some space from her preteen who glommed on to her during quarantine. In Slate Plus: We settle whether or not it’s ridiculous to share astrology with your kids. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to listen and support our work.Recommendations:Eli
Before Bullying Begins
On this week’s bonus episode: Elizabeth and Jamilah are joined by Emily Bazelon to discuss bullying. A lot of interactions are classified as bullying, but what instances should actually be classified as bullying? Can parents prevent bullying? When should parents step in? How should children respond if bullying occurs?
Mentioned on the show: Sticks and Stones: Defeating the Culture of Bullying and Rediscovering the Power of Character and Empathy by Emily Bazelon.
Join us on Facebook and email
Gap Year Guidance
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Elizabeth, and Carvell answer a question from a parent trying to support their college-age daughter who decided to postpone her education for a year. They also answer a follow-up question about how to approach conversations about race with a 5 year old after an initial attempt didn’t go so well. In Slate Plus: Jamilah and Carvell talk about teachers that impacted their lives, for better or for worse. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each w
The Lazy Parent's Survival Guide
On this week’s bonus episode: Elizabeth and Jamilah discuss how to approach homework in a way that kids can complete their work without it becoming an ongoing chore for the entire family. They also have tips on what parents should do if they are routinely becoming overwhelmed by the amount of homework their kids are receiving.
Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk ab
College Campus Conundrum
On this week’s episode: Jamilah and Elizabeth are joined by Natalie Hopkinson.Natalie is an assistant professor in the doctoral program in Howard University’s Department of Communication, Culture and Media Studies. She is also an award-winning essayist, critical-cultural scholar and the author of three books: A Mouth Is Always Muzzled: Six Dissidents, Five Continents, and the Art of Resistance, Go-Go Live: The Musical Life and Death of a Chocolate City, and Deconstructing Tyrone. They d
Talk to the Teacher
On this week’s bonus episode: Elizabeth and Jamilah are joined by Ask a Teacher columnists Amy Scott and Brandon Hersey to discuss how parents should approach their kid’s teacher to make sure they form a good, working relationship. What’s the best way to communicate important information without overwhelming or overstepping? Now that some schools are opting for virtual learning, how can parents replicate the brief, but important, conversations that happen at pick up or in the halls?
Join us on
Radical Rabbit Hole
On this week’s episode: Jamilah and Elizabeth are joined by Denene Millner. Denene is an award-winning journalist, New York Times best-selling author, founder and editor of the parenting website MyBrownBaby.com, runs the inprint Denene Millner Books, and hosts two shows: Speakeasy with Denene and A Seat at the Table.
We have two listener questions this week. One is from a mother who is concerned about her teenage son’s rather conservative media consumption. They’ll also answer a question about
Study Sanctuary
This episode is brought to you by Target. See how easy it is to get ready for school this year, with Target.
On this week’s bonus episode: Elizabeth and Jamilah discuss creating distraction-free study spaces at home, whether kids are finishing their homework or attending class online. But, with many parents also working from home, space is in demand. How can parents maximize their space by rethinking their home’s function?
Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new
Study Sanctuary
This episode is brought to you by Target. See how easy it is to get ready for school this year, with Target.
On this week’s bonus episode: Elizabeth and Jamilah discuss creating distraction-free study spaces at home, whether kids are finishing their homework or attending class online. But, with many parents also working from home, space is in demand. How can parents maximize their space by rethinking their home’s function?
Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new
Calorie-Counting Grandma
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth debate how to deal with a calorie-counting grandmother whose obsession with body image may rub off on her grandkids. They also answer a question from a mom looking for tips for how to better handle her young child’s anxiety. In Slate Plus: Shasha Léonard is here to hear your screams into the void. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to listen and support our work.Recommendations:Elizabeth
Should You Redshirt Your Kindergartener?
This episode is brought to you by Target. See how easy it is to get ready for school this year, with Target.On this week’s bonus episode: Elizabeth and Jamilah are joined by Slate Writer Ruth Graham to discuss whether or not parents should hold their kindergarten-aged children back a year. For some kids, kindergarten is their first introduction to a classroom setting. Is it worth waiting until in-person classes are safe? Or should kindergarteners start getting used to virtual learning?
So… You Want to Be a Homeschooler?
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Dan, and Elizabeth debate the pros and cons of learning pods and homeschooling for the upcoming school year. Why are people doing it? Who does it benefit? Who does it harm? Then, for parents who have decided to homeschool their own children due to health concerns, Elizabeth talks homeschooling 101 with two homeschool extraordinaires: Monica Olivera of MommyMaestra and Latonya Moore of Joy in the Ordinary. In Slate Plus: Allison Benedikt debriefs Dan on h
Bosslady in Crisis Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Dan answer a question from a boss who is trying to figure out how her company can support employees who are caring for kids. They also talk with Slate’s Rachelle Hampton about student loan debt. She has some advice for parents sending their kids to college about deciding when and if debt is worth it.In Slate Plus: Should parents tickle their children? Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to lis
The Teacher Roundtable Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan is joined by four of Slate’s Ask a Teacher columnists to candidly discuss back to school plans. Brandon Hersey, Cassy Sarnell, Matthew Dicks, and Amy Scott outline their district’s plans and debate if current guidance, or lack of guidance, is enough to keep students and staff safe. If the school opts for a version of in-person classes, can teachers keep everyone safe? What will happen if, or when, a student or teacher gets sick? Will online education be effec
The Toddler On the Run Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Dan, and Elizabeth weigh in with their best tactics to locate a young child in an emergency. They also answer a question from a mom who really wants to give her young daughter a sibling but is debating if the extra chaos is worth it. In Slate Plus: Summer camp-esk activities that kids can do independently. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to listen and support our work.Recommendations:Dan recommends Doodl
Goes Right Through Him Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Dan answer a question about a 3-year-old who forces himself to pee immediately after drinking water. We also have a follow-up question from a parent whose child recently came out to her as trans. Slate’s Evan Urquhart joins the hosts to help advise the parent on how to best support her son. In Slate Plus: We have a plethora of fun, achievable outdoor DIYs for you to try with your family this summer. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment o
Grandma Has a Favorite Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a question from a parent wondering if it’s okay to benefit from the grandparent babysitting service when the other grandkids are left out. They also answer a question from a soon-to-be step-aunt who wants to make a good first impression on the pre-teen. It’s fireworks season and the hosts swap funny amature fireworks stories in this week’s Slate Plus segment. Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads.
Talk to Kids About Racism Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Rebecca are joined by Trina Greene Brown, the founder of Parenting for Liberation, to answer questions about race and police violence. The first question is from a parent puzzling over an appropriate age to introduce her kid to privilege and institutionalized racism. The second question is from a mom whose young son enjoys interacting with the police. Is there a good way to explain police violence to a toddler? We have a very special Slate
Visit From Mike Birbiglia Edition
On this week’s episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Dan talk with comedian Mike Birbiglia about his new book, The New One: Painfully True Stories From a Reluctant Dad. They discuss what it’s like to not connect to your newborn right away, finally understanding parenting cliches, and comedy during quarantine. The hosts also answer a question from a parent who feels that their young one is transitioning from mommy to mom way too early. For Slate Plus, Slate Staff Writer Ruth Graham joins to
New to News Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a listener question about introducing kids to consuming news. What news sources are age-appropriate? How can parents contextualize current events for kids? The hosts also answer a question from a mom worried that getting a cat will cause tension in the house. For Slate Plus, they discuss J.K. Rowling’s new children’s story The Ickabog and the children’s illustration contest that’s accompanying the book.Slate Plus members get a b
At Home With Elmo Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth talk to Elmo about his new show, The Not-Too-Late Show, and how life at home is going for him and his family. Parents, if you want to listen to the family-friendly Elmo segment with your kids, zip ahead to 14:30. Autumn Zitani, curriculum producer for Sesame Street and the Not-Too-Late Show, joins the show to talk about what kids will learn from the new show and how this will fit into evening routines. They also answer a listener question from
The Graduation-ish Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a question from a listener who really wants to celebrate her son’s graduation. But her senior wants zero acknowledgement of the milestone. They also answer a question from a mother whose 9-year-old has a name that sounds vulgar when said aloud. For Slate Plus, beloved former Mom and Dad are Fighting co-host Allison Benedikt tells a wild story about a questionable neighborhood raccoon, a heartfelt shower song, and makeshift trap.
Make Believe Murder Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a question from a parent worried about pretend play that involves imagined violence. Plus, we have personalized game recommendations with Jessica Waldock from the homeschool and parent blog, The Waldock Way. It’s our Everyone Is Fighting Now segment this week, and it’s for all ages. To listen to Everyone Is Fighting Now, zoom ahead to about 35:50.For Slate Plus, Slate’s Heather Schwedel explains the baby name that stumped the wo
Cut It Yourself Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth answer a question from a listener whose stepmother wants to be called grandma. While the letter writer is thrilled her stepmother wants to be so involved with her granddaughters, how will she explain to her daughters that their grandmother isn’t her biological mother?On our Everyone Is Fighting Now segment this week: is it finally time to attempt an at-home haircut? The hosts talk to 9-year-old barber Neijae Graham-Henries and her moth
Master of LEGO Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth revisit last week’s quarantine pod discussion and talk to Dr. Saskia Popescu about the risks of being in contact with another family during stay-at-home orders. Plus, LEGO Masters contestant Boone Langston joins to talk about awesome builds, the show and how kids can up their LEGO game. It’s our Everyone Is Fighting Now segment this week, and it’s for all ages. To listen to Everyone Is Fighting Now, zoom ahead to about 51:00. Or if you
The Pandemic Pod People Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth debate the advantages and risks of adding families into their quarantine bubble. Social distancing guidelines and epidemiologists have warned about increased risk of catching Covid-19 with increased exposure to others. But what if absolute social distancing isn’t working for your family?
For the Everyone is Fighting Now segment, the hosts answer a question from a listener who is worried her daughter is more convinced than ever that her imagin
Dad Can Play Too Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth advise a mom whose son’s “mommy-only” phase isn’t helped by the fact that her husband doesn’t like little-kid games. How can he engage while being entertained? Plus, Dan tells a story about theater, college decisions, and the importance—or unimportance—of due diligence. It’s our Everyone Is Fighting Now segment this week, and it’s best for teenagers. To listen to Everyone Is Fighting Now, zoom ahead to 33:30. Or if you are listening to
Going to the Zoo During Coronavirus Edition
On this week’s episode: Jamilah and Elizabeth are joined by Rumaan Alam to discuss splitting custody during coronavirus. Can one parent, concerned about safety, keep the child without first discussing it with their co-parent? How can this issue be resolved without escalation? For our new family-friendly segment, Everyone Is Fighting Now, the hosts are joined by Megan Ryder Sanders, a zookeeper at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado. Megan answers questions from kids, including: how th
The Will We Overcome Boredom Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth discuss updating your will. It’s important to have an updated contingency plan in these uncertain times. But how can you be sure if you are leaving your kids to the right people? They also answer a letter from a mom who is going stir crazy after a few days at home with her child. How can parents be stimulated while playing, sometimes boring, games with their kids? For Slate Plus, we have quarantine schedule mutiny! We’ll hear from the
The Cross Country Conundrum Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth discuss parenting anxiety. Is it OK for a letter writer not to be overprotective? Or does parenting anxiety keep children safe? They also answer a letter from a woman whose stepdaughter is struggling on the other side of the country. How can you help when you’re so far apart? For Slate Plus: Dan, Jamilah, and Elizabeth turn their host mics over to THEIR KIDS! The mini-hosts tell us what they like and don’t like about staying home with
We Are All Homeschoolers Now Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan and Jamilah are joined by official third host of Mom and Dad are Fighting… Elizabeth Newcamp! They discuss their new homeschool schedules and Elizabeth gives Dan and Jamilah tips on how to make their plans attainable, especially since they are also working from home. For Slate Plus: TV shows and movies for quarantine entertainment that will entertain kids and parents alike.Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week, and no ads. Sign up now to l
The Quarantine’s a-Comin’ Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan and Jamilah are joined by Carvell Wallace to discuss how the Coronavirus has been impacting their areas and what they are going to do if their schools resort to online learning. We also ask Carvell YOUR catch-up questions, as posted on the Slate Parenting Facebook page! For Slate Plus: a listener question from a parent worried about her teenage son and stepson’s not-so-friendly competition for her affection.
Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on MADAF each week,
The All Kids, All the Time Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan and Jamilah are joined by Emily Farranto to answer a question from a listener who works with kids and is thinking about having her own. Is constant contact with kids overwhelming? We also have a question from a mom whose son was hospitalized at 4 months after getting sick. But now her husband’s germaphobia is making daily life difficult. For Slate Plus: what forgotten historical figures would make the best costumes? Slate Plus members get a bonus segment on M
The Hyphenation Headache Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan is joined by Elizabeth Newcamp and Gabriel Roth to answer a question from a mom debating whether her son should take her last name or her husband’s last name. Or they could hyphenate, but will that burden her son later in life? We also have a question from a dad whose son plays travel hockey, even though he sucks at hockey. For Slate Plus, Elizabeth tells us the truth about homeschooling. Sign up for Slate Plus.Recommendations:Dan recommends the graphic novel
The Trampled on the Playground Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan and Jamilah are joined by Elizabeth Newcamp to answer a question from a mom worried about her young kids’ safety at the park. Is it okay to tell off older kids for not playing nicely? We also have a question from a listener who is looking to have a child and wants to set healthy boundaries with her mother when it comes to discipline tactics and alcohol consumption. Plus, a BONUS question from a mother who doesn’t know if she can accept the money her parents s
The I Hate You Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan and Jamilah are joined by Isaac Butler to answer a question from a mom trying to make up for a verbal slip in a moment of frustration. And we have a question from a mom who wants to fend off family pressure to baptize her child. For Slate Plus: a mini Mom and Dad are Fighting reunion! Dan talks to Allison Benedikt about her adventure taking Sam to the Westminster Dog Show. Sign up for Slate Plus here.Recommendations: Dan recommends Every Kid Outdoors, a progr
Let Black Girls Be Girls Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan and Jamilah are joined by poet, performer, and activist Staceyann Chin to field a question from a mom who’s worried she should give her son a year to grow before he starts kindergarten. Scott Brown, author of the YA novel XL and short guy, calls in to help. The hosts also discuss disproportionate expectations of maturity placed on black girls during childhood. For Slate Plus: a question from a mom wondering if she is can worry about her white son’s experience
The Basketball Families Edition
On this week’s episode: A question from a mom who is feeling like the only parent at home due to her husband’s time-consuming commitment to assistant coaching a high school basketball team. Also, Jamilah wrote about her experience talking about Kobe Bryant’s death in this week’s Care and Feeding column. The hosts discuss Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and the challenge of talking about death with kids. During the discussion Elizabeth recommended two books: Margaret Wise Brown’s The Dead Bird and M
The Odd Girl Out Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan and Jamilah are joined by Elizabeth Newcamp to answer a question from a mom with sons who is bothered when people ask her if she wants a daughter. While she loves having boys, the questions are annoying because, deep down, she thinks having a mother-daughter bond would be nice. They also answer a question from a mom looking for an appropriate way to ask parents if they keep guns in their house before letting her kids go over to play. For Slate Plus, Dan, Jami
Already Over the Christmas Presents Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan and Jamilah are joined by Care and Feeding columnist Nicole Cliffe. They answer a question from a mom whose brother’s suicide attempt is causing her to reevaluate her son’s relationship with his uncle. He’s recovering, but can she trust him to look after her eight year old? They also answer a question from a father whose kid regrets choosing an iPad over a Switch. Should he just break down and buy the Switch? And how can he teach his son that getting the next
Pretty White Boy Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan and Jamilah are joined by Laura Tisdel to answer listener questions. A mom wonders how to deal with the privilege disparity between her biracial black daughter and her white son after she noticed her son getting preferential treatment at daycare. Plus, a mom asks about taking the fall for her daughter when her daughter feels uncomfortable standing up to a friend. For Slate Plus, the hosts talk about the parenting vices they won’t be giving up in 2020. Sign up for Slat
New Year, New Us
On this week’s episode: Jamilah is joined by former MADAF host Gabriel Roth to talk about their New Year’s parenting resolutions. Plus, they answer a listener question from a mom wondering if her husband’s napping is selfish. For Slate Plus, Jamilah and Gabriel compare the parents they thought they would be with the parents they actually are. Sign up for Slate Plus here. Recommendations: Jamilah recommends the Creatable World Deluxe Character Set, gender non-conforming dolls from Mattel
Peek Behind the Curtain
From yelling at kids to teens gallivanting around Europe to breast milk taste tests, 2019 has been a year of wonderful questions and conundrums from you—our fellow parents. On this week’s special edition: our favorite moments from this year’s Slate Plus segments. If you like what you hear in this episode, sign up for Slate Plus. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to tell us what you thought of today’s show and give us ideas for what we should talk about in future ep
This Was Not in the Parenting Handbook
On this week’s episode: Jamilah is joined by Rebecca Lavoie to answer this week’s listener questions from moms contemplating changing schools because their biracial daughter is bothered about not fitting in, and a mother whose childcare provider is offering to do it for free. How can she ensure her neighbor is properly compensated for this service? For Slate Plus, Jamilah and Rebecca take advantage of Dan’s absence and respond to his article “The Decade in Dads” article with the Decade
Slate Presents: Lockdown
If you have any school-aged children in your life, you know that lockdown and active shooter drills have become a routine part of their school experience. These drills now take place in 95 percent of American schools.
What you’re about to hear is a collaboration between Slate and The Trace, a nonprofit newsroom covering gun violence in the United States. It’s an audio project featuring firsthand accounts from kids of all ages about what it’s like to go through these drills. We hear a lot about
Candy Cane Lane
On this week’s episode: Dan and Jamilah are joined by guest host Michelle Herman, novelist, professor, and Care and Feeding columnist. They answer listener questions from a parent looking for ways to make Christmas enjoyable and a mother who is feeling left out of mother-child bonding experiences. For Slate Plus, Dan tells Lyra’s favorite new joke. (It’s awful.) Sign up for Slate Plus here.
Recommendations:
Michelle recommends asking your kids for advice. And not just tech advice!
Jamilah
Home Alone
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and guest host Katherine Goldstein answer listener questions from a parent looking for ways to enjoy family visits and a neighbor who is worried for the kids next door who were left behind. For Slate Plus, what should you NOT say to someone expecting twins. Sign up for Slate Plus here.Recommendations:Jamilah recommends matching outfits with your kid.Katherine recommends Shrinky Dinks as a creative way to pass a few hours.Dan recommends That Was Awkw
Live from Miami
On this week’s episode: Dan and Jamilah are live from the Miami Book Fair where they are joined by Pamela Paul, author of How to Raise a Reader and Adam Mansbach, author of Fuck, Now There Are Two of You. This week the hosts discuss scaring their kids with inappropriate books and making the most out of children with different schedules.
For Slate Plus, the hosts discuss if parenting really is harder nowadays—or do we just hear more about the trials and tribulations in books, blogs or even, ahem,
Whoops...A Baby!
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and guest host Elizabeth Newcamp answer listener questions from a mom who is contemplating telling her son he was unplanned before his father tells him. Plus, a guide to making friends with other parents from a military mom who has to do it every three years. How can you make the leap from school yard acquaintances to actual friends? For Slate Plus, the hosts reminisce about amusement park memories. Can parents actually have fun? Or is it all about
Keep Your Head Above Water
On this week’s episode: Dan, Jamilah, and guest host Greg Lavallee answer listener questions from a parent whose daughter is afraid of the water and a mom who needs a response strategy for a disrespectful kiddo. For Slate Plus, the hosts strategize date night. Are microdates the solution to a busy schedule? Or is it worth the effort of hiring a babysitter to go out? Sign up for Slate Plus here.Recommendations:Jamilah recommends a newfangled entertainment destination… a place where you c
Into the Unknown
This episode is brought to you by Everlane. Check out your personalized collection today at everlane.com/momanddad.
On this week’s episode: Jamilah, Dan and guest host Ezekiel answer listener questions from a mom whose ex-husband’s abrupt move may upend her living arrangements. And the hosts strategize how they’ll survive Elsa’s new big song in Frozen 2 with Slate’s Ruth Graham. For Slate Plus, the hosts advise parents on how to talk to kids about big social issues, like climate change and raci
Parent Under the Influence Edition
On this week’s episode, Rebecca, Jamilah and Dan answer listener questions from a mom who wants to know if a few drinks while watching the kids is a bad decision or modern parenting. And a question about a grandpa with advancing Alzheimer’s. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. For Slate Plus, the Faith Smith joins the hosts to talk about her spectacular parenting fail. Sign up for Slate Plus here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphon
Jesus, Take the Wheel!
On this week’s episode, Rebecca, Jamilah and Dan answer listener questions from a mom who wants to better deal with her kid’s identity and a dad who is insisting his kid learn to drive. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. For Slate Plus, the hosts answer a bonus listener question. Sign up for Slate Plus here. Recommendations:Rebecca recommends the app, Wordscapes.Jamilah recommends making your home colorful. Dan recommends the lemon and ginger se
You Need To Calm Down
On this week’s episode, Rebecca, Jamilah and Dan answer listener questions from a mom who wants to know if it really makes a difference whether you yell at your kids and another mom who wants to make sure she doesn’t overshare her mental health issues with her kid. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. For Slate Plus, the hosts talk kid-approved scary movies. Sign up for Slate Plus here. Recommendations:Rebecca recommends having fall-themed actives
Breast Milk Taste Test
On this week’s episode, Rebecca and Dan answer listener questions from a mom struggling with whether it’s okay to offer breast milk to her curious kid and a mom who thinks it’s uncool to be disrupted by a kid during a performance for kids. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. For Slate Plus, Rebecca makes an announcement. Sign up for Slate Plus here.Recommendations:Rebecca recommends you hate watch Ghost Adventures.Dan recommends Kopp’s Frozen Cus
Birthday Parties and Birthday Suits
On this week’s episode, Rebecca. Jamilah and Dan answer listener questions from a a mom disagreeing with a father about their young boys showering with her and a mom who thinks her child’s unsupportive father shouldn’t be invited to a birthday party. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. For Slate Plus, Jamilah talks about parental separation anxiety. Sign up for Slate Plus here. Recommendations:Rebecca recommends the nonfiction podcast, Passenger
Introducing Hang Up and Listen: Kids Play the Darndest Things
Hey, Mom and Dad Are Fighting listeners, Hang Up and Listen, Slate's sports show, did a special episode about youth sports, which we thought you might enjoy. If you dig it and would like to hear more, subscribe to Hang Up and Listen wherever you get your podcasts!
Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Slate’s Allison Benedikt to answer your questions about youth sports. Topics covered include whether and how to teach your kids how to talk trash, how to balance sports time with family leisur
Suburban Appropriation
On this week’s episode, Rebecca. Jamilah and Amy answer listener questions from a questioning the appropriateness of a local organization and a mom who wants her husband to be better about raising a body positive child. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. For Slate Plus, Amy gives some teacher-ly advice. Sign up for Slate Plus here. Recommendations:Rebecca recommends having two dogs in your home.Jamilah recommends visiting Target to check out the
Sponsored: It's a Playdate
In this episode of How to Raise a Parent, we’re exploring friendship from a kid’s eye view. Have you ever seen your child walk up to a kid they’ve never met before on the playground and spend the whole day together like old friends? Children seem hardwired to create these instant, easy friendships, but for a lot of grownups, making friends doesn’t come so easily. In our quest to reconnect with the pure approach to friendship we see in kids, we talked to two guests with interesting perspectives o
Wrap It Up
On this week’s episode, Jamilah and Dan answer listener questions from a mom who is feeling anxious about her teenager wanting to buy condoms and a co-parenting dad who has some concerns. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. For Slate Plus, Dan shares an excerpt from his newly released book, How To Be A Family. Sign up for Slate Plus here. Recommendations:Dan recommends the carnivore compromise, the Impossible burger.Jamilah recommends the kids bo
How to Be a Family Edition
On this special midweek bonus episode, Dan Kois shares the first chapter of the audiobook of How to Be a Family, plus Dan is joined by retired MADAF all-stars Allison Benedikt and Gabe Roth to talk about the trip around the world, the lessons Dan and his family learned, and all the fails along the way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Back To Work and Back To School
On this week’s episode, Rebecca, Jamilah and Dan answer listener questions from a mom who is worried she won’t be able to do it all and a mom who wants to keep her parents from putting her kid into a gender box. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. For Slate Plus, the hosts share their favorite parenting books. Sign up for Slate Plus here.Recommendations:Dan recommends a hilarious and thoughtful obituary.Jamilah recommends the super-fun game of He
Introducing How To! With Charles Duhigg
Is there a right way to let kids struggle and fail? How do you raise resilient children? And most important, when should you help out, and when should you chill out? We ask Dr. Wendy Mogel, author of The Blessing of a Skinned Knee to advise a Portland, Oregon couple who worry about their son getting wet in a squirt gun fight.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to How To With Charles Duhigg, wherever you listen to podcasts.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bittersweet
On this week’s episode, Rebecca, Jamilah and Faith answer listener questions from an aunt struggling to confront her niece’s traumatic experience and a non-parent that wants to be more useful to her friends with kids. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. For Slate Plus, Jamilah and Faith chat about back to school time. Sign up for Slate Plus here. Recommendations:Faith recommends joining a fancy gym.Jamilah recommends co-working spaces. Rebecca re
Am I A Spoiled Brat?
On this week’s episode, Rebecca, Jamilah and Dan answer listener questions from a mom that wants her mother to be more supportive an a worried grandma who is looking for the right way to have a tough conversation with a child. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. For Slate Plus, Rebecca shares how the big day of dropping her kid off at college went. Sign up for Slate Plus here. Recommendations:Dan recommends the comic series, Real Friends, by Shan
Favorite Grandma
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
EuroTrip
On this week’s episode, Jamilah and Dan answer listener questions from a mom that’s having second thoughts about a second kid and a mom whose kid wants to travel across Europe. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. For Slate Plus, we talk with Mini Milah, Jamilah’s six year-old daughter, about her new favorite restaurant. Sign up for Slate Plus here.
Recommendations:
Dan recommends the book, Indebted: How Families Make College Work At Any Cost, by Caitlin Z
What's Up With All Those Nannies?
On this week’s episode, Rebecca, Jamilah, and Tom answer listener questions from a mom that doesn’t seem to understand the need for nannies and a mom that wants to have more inclusive birthday parties. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. For Slate Plus, we talk with our guest host, Tom Scocca, about sharing the news with your kids. We use Tom’s most recent Slate article, Where Taking the Concerns of Racists Seriously Has Gotten Us, to kick off th
Playground Beer
On this week’s episode, Dan, Rebecca, and Jamilah answer listener questions from an introverted dad who wants to raise a social kid and from atheist parents struggling with attending events at their local evangelical university. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. For Slate Plus, we talk about how to deal with differeing parenting philosophies among co-parents, inspired by Michelle Herman’s Care and Feeding column. Sign up for Slate Plus here. Re
Exclusive Besties
On this week’s episode: The hosts answer listener questions about exclusive best friends and a kid that uses an offensive word during a fight. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. For Slate Plus, we talk to Jamilah about her Care and Feeding column.Recommendations:Dan recommends going on a kid-led road trip.Jamilah recommends saying yes. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to tell us what you thought of today’s show and give us
Carpool Liability Waiver
On this week’s episode: The hosts answer listener questions about a mom who has some strong concerns about their kid carpooling and a friend who’s worried that they might be overstepping. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. For Slate Plus, we take another question from a listener.Recommendations:Rebecca recommends the travel app, Tripit.Dan recommends the book, The Gifted School by Bruce Halsinger. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@sl
Fish and Candy
On this week’s episode: The hosts answer listener questions about a mom who wants to know what to do about a sort of stepson and another about a kid who’s hanging out with a kid that counts calories. We also welcome Amy Scott as this week’s special host. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. Amy brings Ask-A-Teacher to Slate Plus.Recommendations:Rebecca recommends the YouTube series, Star Wars by the Numbers. Dan recommends day camp as the ultimate
What's Up With Your Boyfriend?
On this week’s episode: The hosts answer listener questions about a mom who wants to know what to do about a sexist boyfriend and a mom who wants to know what to do about her kid being left out in the dark after hanging with a friend. We also welcome Jakada Imani as this week’s special host. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. On Slate Plus, Jakada talks about how he manages his career and family.Recommendations:Rebecca recommends the German time
Teen in Need
On this week’s episode: The hosts answer listener questions about a teen in need of some support about their sensitive mom and what to do about a little that likes dressing up as problematic princesses. We also welcome Aminta Steinbach as this week’s special host. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. On Slate Plus, Aminta talks about life as a live-in aunt.
Recommendations:
Rebecca recommends a gif that exemplifies sibling relationships.
Dan recommends c
Don't Forget Grandpa
On this week’s episode: The hosts answers listener questions about a mother who wants to ensure her kids remember their grandpa after he passes and the importance of table manners at dinner. We also welcome Doyin Richards as this week’s special host. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. On Slate Plus, Doyin shares just why the world thinks he’s a super-dad.
Recommendations:
Rebecca recommends ordering sheet cake from your local grocery store.
Isaac recom
Bed, Bath, and Biting Edition
On this week’s episode: The hosts answers listener questions about what to do when your kid refuses to shower and a kid that refuses to stop biting. We also welcome Jamilah Lemieux as this week’s special host. As usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. On Slate Plus, Jamilah shares her co-parenting story. Recommendations:Rebecca recommends using Slack at home for handling parenting tasks.Dan recommends the book, Share Your Smile by Rebecca Telgemeier.Ja
Dan Kois Returns Edition
On this week’s episode: The hosts answers listener questions about what to do with your kid that refuses everything, even the fun stuff, and another about what it even means to have siblings. We also welcome Dan Kois back to the show. And as usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. On Slate Plus, the hosts share their thoughts on Mary Jane. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Pollen Prank Edition
On this week’s episode: The hosts answer a listener question about what actually matters when parenting your kid. We also say farewell to Gabe and Carvell. And as usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. On Slate Plus, the hosts recap their favorite moments and lessons on the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Theatrical Charlatan Edition
On this week’s episode: Gabe and Carvell interview podcaster and author Theresa Thorn about her upcoming picture book, It Feels Good To Be Yourself: A Book about Gender Identity and answer a listener question about a narcissistic theatre teacher. And as usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. On Slate Plus, Theresa Thorn shares her own parenting fail. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Violating The Uber Pool Code Edition
On this week’s episode: Gabe, Carvell, and Rebecca answer a listener question about what to tell your kids when you’re getting a divorce but staying in the same home. And as usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. On Slate Plus, Gabe finally explains where his British accent went. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Washing Dishes on an Infomercial Edition
On this week’s episode: Dan, Carvell, and Rebecca interview Darcy Lockman, author of All the Rage: Mothers, Fathers and the Myth of Equal Partnership, about her article in the New York Times, “What ‘Good’ Dads Get Away With,” and we answer a listener question about what to do about a mean teenager. And as usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. On Slate Plus, Rebecca explains why she hates Mother’s Day. Dan recommends the movie, Being John Malkovich. Re
Stupid Box Edition
On this week’s episode: Gabe and Rebecca answer listener questions on what to do after you discover your kid isn’t a child prodigy and how to get your teen to maybe surf waves instead of the internet. And as usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. On Slate Plus, Rebecca shares a fail so epic you have to tune in to find out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On The Table Edition
On this week’s episode: Ruth, Gabe, and Carvell answer listener questions on when to consider getting a vasectomy and how to make sure your kid doesn’t become obsessed with their looks. And as usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. On Slate Plus, Ruth talks about what it’s like to have a religious Easter with a three year-old. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Frank Edition
On this week’s episode: Rebecca, Gabe, and Carvell answer listener questions on how to set rules for adults at a one-year old’s birthday party and what to do when parents project their childhood traumas onto to their kids. And as usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. On Slate Plus, Rebecca shares an update about that summer camp with racist practices.
This episode is brought to you by the following advertisers:
Little Passports, for adventurous kids with cur
Teenager Under the Bed Edition
On this week’s episode: Rebecca, Gabe, and Carvell answer listener questions about when to limit a five year old’s Batman intake and if parents should settle for second best when it comes to kid car seats. Yes, you read that right. And as usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. On Slate Plus, Rebecca dishes on her lavish time on a private jet.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Pre-School Nemesis Edition
On today's episode, Rebecca, Gabe, and Carvell answer listener questions about communicating with an ex-spouse's family after divorce and what to do about challenges between a stepdad and kid. They also share their triumphs and fails of the week and offer up some exciting recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ages Ten And Up Edition
This week, Rebecca, Gabe, and guest host Katherine answer listener questions about putting the pressure on your kid after getting into a prestige school and solutions on getting your kids to play nice with each other. And as usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Make The Chicken Dance Edition
This week, Rebecca, Gabe, and Carvell answer listener questions about the looming fear of talking with your kid about death and if it's okay if your ten year-old is into Amy Winehouse and other adult things. And as usual, we share our triumphs and fails and offer up some recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Free Lunch Edition
With Gabe and Carvell out this week, Rebecca and Isaac are holding down the fort. Today, they talk with the authors of the book Pressure Cooker: Why Home Cooking Won't Solve Our Problems and What We Can Do About It, answer a listener question about placing your kids in a religious pre-school, and share their thoughts on Operation: Varsity Blue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Broken Promises Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss follow-up to the piña colada censorship story, husbands that break promises, estranged fathers, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
CSI: American Girl Doll Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss temporary visiting dog fails, teacher's strikes, doll-related crime scenes, bedwetting at science camp, and husbands in need of encouragement. This episode is brought to you by the following advertisers: Grove. For a free $30 Mrs. Meyers gift set, go to grove.co/momanddad.Gobble, get $50 off your first box, go to gobble.com/momanddad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Presenting Decoder Ring: Baby Shark
Decoder Ring is Slate's culture documentary show and this month they have an episode on a subject of special interest to Mom and Dad Are Fighting listeners: Baby Shark.
Baby Shark is an megaviral YouTube video, an unstoppable earworm, a top 40 hit, a Eurodance smash, a decades old campfire song, and the center of an international copyright dispute. This month on Decoder Ring we explore the strange history and conflicted future of the song, what makes it so catchy, and how it came to be.
Learn m
Do You Like Pina Coladas? Edition
Gabriel Roth, Carvell Wallace, and Rebecca Lavoie are joined by Katherine Goldstein to talk about her brand new podcast The Double Shift, a show about working mothers. They also discuss a follow up email from last week's discussion about telling your kids about their biological parentage, plus as always: triumphs and fails and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Marching Band Clown Pants Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss a trio of parenting fails, a really tough question about telling your kid that her dad isn't her biological dad, and another about a kid that has to be winning at all times. This episode is brought to you by Blinkist. Start your free trial today at blinkist.com/momanddad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Toddler Rabies Edition
Rebecca Lavoie and Carvell Wallace receive a transmission direct from the scene of a temper tantrum, and discuss a question about telling your kids about estranged parents. Plus, learn which member of the Lavoie household is officially a narc. This episode is brought to you by the following advertisers: Grove. For a free $30 Mrs. Meyers gift set, go to grove.co/momanddad.Gobble, get $50 off your first box, go to gobble.com/momanddad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/
What Next: Anti-Vaxxers Brought Back the Measles
The latest measles outbreak in the Pacific-Northwest is a self-inflicted wound. One that Texans, and Americans alike, should all pay attention to.
Guest: Dr. Peter J. Hotez, co-director of the Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development.
Tell us what you think by leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or sending an email to whatnext@slate.com. Follow us on Instagram for updates on the show.
Podcast production by Mary Wilson, Jayson De Leon, and Anna Martin.
Learn more about your ad choi
Pesto in a Tub Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss Gabe's greatest-of-all-time parenting triumph, opening up to your kids, making it to year sixteen, whether divorced parents have it easier, and the anxiety of being an older parent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom and Dad Are Fighting: This Job Sucks Edition
On this week’s episode, Allison, Carvell, and Gabe answer questions from listeners about what to think of their unaccompanied teenage kids and what’s reasonable to expect from an 11 year old who struggles with writing. Plus: parenting triumphs and fails, recommendations, and more. And on Slate Plus this week: peeing in public, yay or nay?
Recommendations:
Allison recommends The Boxcar Children Mysteries & Jesse Kelley tweet: kids robotics competition
Gabe recommends Ruffles All-dressed Chips (F
Introducing Josie & Jonny are Having a Baby (With You!)
We're here to introduce you to a new podcast: as new parents, comedians Josie and Jonny bring their humor and genuine curiosity into each conversation to get answers to questions they’re completely clueless about. Each episode of their podcast, Josie & Jonny are Having a Baby, features creators of all types talking candidly about what it means to raise a baby into a full on adult human. Check it out here in Apple Podcasts.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Grandma Inception Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Gabriel Roth discuss picky eaters with The Sporkful's Dan Pashman, a listener question about kids and creative problem solving, "Triumphs and Fails" and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Accidental Beauties Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Isaac Butler discuss tyrannical grandmas, musical bribery, triumphs and fails, recommendations, and more. This episode is brought to you by: Fabletics, get two leggings for just $24 at fabletics.com/momanddad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Behind the Velvet Rope Edition
Gabriel Roth hosts a cultivated selection of some favorite Slate Plus segments to ring in the new year, featuring Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, Allison Benedikt, and Isaac Butler, subjects include: how to talk to your kids about "bad guys", a New Hampshire social media scandal, practicing what you preach, and the story of Gabe's own circumcision. This episode is brought to you by the following advertisers: Clorox. Head to cloroxforschools.com to find out how to keep your family heal
Friend Zone Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace are prompted by a Washington Post series of three stories about raising boys in the #MeToo era to discuss teenagers, modern masculinity, "the friend zone", and more. Plus a listener question about the grandparent's favorite kid, "Triumphs and Fails", and recommendations.This episode is brought to you by the following advertisers: American Express, don’t do business without it.Clorox. head to cloroxforschools.com to find out how to keep
Time Is My Co-Parent Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Gabriel Roth discuss the role of step parents, and their relationships to the birth parents of their step-kids. Plus, a detailed and swear-filled account of Rebecca's dramatic recent injury, "Triumphs and Fails", and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to the Man Cave Edition
On this week’s episode, Carvell and Gabe discuss an accidental dirty joke fail while getting a Christmas tree and a rare bureaucratic triumph. Then, they take questions from listeners about how to deal with a son’s friend who is being a jerk but is also dealing with grief and what to think of your kid’s passionate - yet perhaps difficult - professional artistic ambitions. In Slate Plus, executive editor Allison Benedikt joins to discuss a Chanukah-related technological triumph.
Recommendations:
Introducing: Who Runs That?
Gabriel Roth talks to Seth Stevenson about his new podcast, Who Runs That? and introduces an episode that's perfect for MADAF listeners. In it, Stevenson talks to Aerin Nicole, CEO of the children's clothing company, Kickee Pants. If you enjoy this episode of Who Runs That? please subscribe using the Apple Podcast link below or whichever podcast listening method you prefer. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/who-runs-that/id1439828799?mt=2 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megap
Parent Like it's 1985 Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Gabriel Roth discuss whether to confront an overprotective daycare, how to make sure your kids aren't "the mean ones", Triumphs and Fails, "endorsements" and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Family Game Night Edition
Carvell, Rebecca, and Gabe are joined by Noel Murray to discuss Slate’s new package on family games: the best, the worst, and more, including Rebecca’s spirited defense of the game Clue. Then, is a mother-in-law’s insistence on saying dinner prayers with atheist kids grounds for a confrontation? Plus, watching your kids fail creatively, a laundry-based triumph, and watching swim lesson money swirl down the drain. In Slate Plus, another installment in Rebecca’s continuing family saga. L
Nerf Gun Fantasy Edition
Gabriel Roth, Carvell Wallace, and Mary Harris discuss Gabe's annual Autumn Sing fail, Carvell's new job as a PA on his son's film, Mary's daughter's competitive , Nerf Gun Christmas gifts, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Grandma's Baggage Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Gabriel Roth discuss an academic turnaround in the Lavoie household, Californian air quality, a kid's dislike his grandma, and a tough question about the life of an unsupported military mom. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Weed Stash Edition
Carvell Wallace, Rebecca Lavoie, and Gabriel Roth discuss what to do when your teenager discovers your weed stash, some major parenting fails, recommendations, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Patronising Mirth Edition
Gabriel Roth and Rebecca Lavoie discuss a recent Slate article attacking THIS VERY PODCAST with the writer, Rebecca Onion. Also, empty thermoses, parent teacher conferences, and a question about sleepovers and night terrors Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Don't Go to France Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace answer a listener question about a 6-year-old who's getting a little too close to her boyfriend. Then they decide whether it makes sense to bring a newborn baby along for an overseas vacation. Zulily, for $20 off your first order, go to zulily.com/momanddad.Little Passports, inspire your kids to learn about the world with Little Passports - subscribe today at littlepassports.com/MOMANDDADGobble, for $50 off your first box, go to gobble.c
Don't Look Free Childcare in the Mouth Edition
This week: Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss homework triumphs, a followup on yelling, questions about watching your insecurities play out in your children, and whether to get on grandma's case for letting the kids watch screens. This episode is brought to you by Blinds.com. Get 20% off anything today when you use the code MOMMANDDAD at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Cold Turkey Edition
Carvell Wallace, Rebecca Lavoie, and Gabriel Roth discuss YELLING! and other subjects including kids mocking the weight of their teachers, the privilege conversation, stolen cell phones, and making sick days fun.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Frivolous With Money Edition
Carvell Wallace, Rebecca Lavoie, and Gabriel Roth discuss questions about kids and divorce, plus "Triumphs and Fails" and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Get It Together Edition
Gabriel Roth, Carvell Wallace and Rebecca Lavoie discuss surprising teen triumphs, depressing school lunches, the boredom of tears, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SPECIAL: Surviving a School Shooting, From a Teacher's Point of View
In an intimate conversation, three educators who survived school shootings talk to Slate’s Dahlia Lithwick about the trauma of going back to the classroom. For a transcript, visit Slate.com/TeacherPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Toxic Preschool Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Gabriel Roth, and Steve Lickteig discuss (relatively) late-in-life bicycle lessons, correcting your kid's college essays, toxic masculinity, a potentially toxic preschool teacher, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Recovering Fruitbat Edtion
Carvell Wallace, Isaac Butler, and Ruth Graham discuss how to get your kid to go to sleep already, angry-driving with fussing toddlers, letting go of expectations around your kids, and the ethics of breaking into your teenager's phone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Kidnappers Not Going to Let Me Use My Phone! Edition
Carvell Wallace, Rebecca Lavoie, and Gabriel Roth discuss the tyranny of demanding teens charge their phones, beginning of school-blues, balancing time between kids, and an interview with Slate's Rebecca Onion about how parenting groups are making it impossible to leave Facebook, plus triumphs and fails and a question about finding black friends for your black kids, and how to talk to your white friends about race. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Age of Fear Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace talk to Kim Brooks, author of Small Animals: Parenthood in the Age of Fear, as well as a listener question about a neighbor on the sex-offender registry, plus triumphs and fails and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bad Grandpa Edition
Carvell Wallace, Dan Kois, and Katherine Goldstein discuss calendar fails, the mundane unfairness of paying for daycare with a health care savings account, when to teach kids to clean up after themselves, and listener questions about dealing with a chauvinist grandpa and how and when to talk to your kids about a conspicuous confederate flag on the side of the interstate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Call Me By Your Screen Name Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss a fun game about getting kicked in the face, what it means when children lie for attention, and whether a 17 year old boy should be dating a 25 year old man via Tinder. Plus, Triumphs and Fails and recommendations, as always. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Eighth Grade Edition
Allison Benedikt, Carvell Wallace, and Rebecca Lavoie discuss taxidermied animals, being without your kids, summer camp compromises, a listener question about whether to take a young child on a trip to Africa, and an interview with Bo Burnham, writer and director of the movie "Eighth Grade" and Betsy Bozdech, Executive Editor at Common Sense Media to talk about the film. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sponsored: Coffee & Crayons Episode 1: Teaching Inclusivity & Kindness with Amy Webb
Usually in this feed, you get Mom and Dad Are Fighting, a show about parenting triumphs and troubles. This week, we’re bringing you something a little different. A co-production between Target and Slate Studios, this is Coffee & Crayons, a podcast about navigating the highs and lows of back to school time. It’s a series of conversations full of insights and advice to help families thrive during tricky transitions. In this episode, Join host Mallory Kasdan as she talks with Amy Webb
Sand Couch Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace continue the conversation about King Kong and the gorilla suit, discuss sand couches, teen films, feminist slogans on two year old boy's t-shirts, and the grooming habits of teenage boys. Subscribe to Coffee and Crayons today wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Guy in a Gorilla Suit Edition
Gabriel Roth, Carvell Wallace and guest host Dana Stevens discuss the difficulty of homespun ABBA cover sessions, trusting teens, perfectionist tennis lessons, bad dads, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Blockchain Baby Names Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Gabriel Roth discuss how to pick a baby's last name, the allure of Avenger's pajamas, salvaging a love of baseball out of a personal hatred, driving in cars with teens, and how to deal when your boy keeps getting called a girl at school.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Accidental Drunkenness Edition
Gabriel Roth, Carvell Wallace, and Rebecca Lavoie discuss mysterious sibling bonding, weird eye infections, relatives who bully kids, and younger sibling-induced touchiness.
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Co-Parenting Conundrum Edition
Rebecca Lavoie and Carvell Wallace discuss haunted AirBnBs, California kids, overbearing mom-reminders, low-key deadbeat dads, co-parenting responsibilities, screen time habits to model for your kids, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Summer Break Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Gabriel Roth discuss summer break! Is it better to structure your kid's summers or let them veg out? Carvell's kids, Ezra and Georgia drop by the studio to offer their opinion on the subject. Plus, picking playdates based on incomplete information, and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
How to Take Summers Off and Still Get Promoted
Michelle Hickox has found a way to build a powerful career as a CFO, and take summers off and still get promoted. How? First, she had to believe that she could, then she had to prove to others it was possible. Now she wants everyone to know how she did it. Mom and Dad Are Fighting bring you this story from Slate’s new Better Life Lab podcast. Subscribe to Better Life Lab via:Apple PodcastsOvercastSpotifyStitcher Google PlayOr wherever you get your shows. Learn more about your ad choice
Do More Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss the situation at the border, anti-mom bias in the workplace with Katherine Goldstein, how not to model vices for your kids, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Easy Baby Envy Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Gabriel Roth discuss feeling envious of parents who's parenting comes easily, how to rearrange a physical household post-divorce, new college scholarships, the diversity of the senate page program, and kids birthday party gift-opening etiquette. Plus "triumphs and fails" and recommendations.
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Make Daycare Great Again Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Sam Adams discuss whether one should employ the services of a Trump supporting day-care, what to do about bath-supply snatching kids, high school graduations, guitar lessons, and much more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Circumcision Conundrum Edition
This week we're joined by Wendy Zukerman of the podcast Science Vs. to discuss the science and ethics behind circumcision, plus failed video shoots, painting bedrooms on vacation, too-voracious readers, where babies come from, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Existential Tantrum Edition
Rebecca Lavoie and Carvell Wallace discuss Carvell's kids anti-authoritarian tendencies, what it means to be "Henry's mom", a tough question about a manipulative ex husband, and how to deal with tantrums when you're depressed, anxious, and pregnant. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Great Grandma Name Debate Edition
Carvell Wallace, Rebecca Lavoie, and Isaac Butler discuss the question tearing the Slate Parenting Facebook group apart: do you let a grandparent name herself "Nama"? Plus, finding parental commiseration, one-weekend-potty training, and more.
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Make Your Own Dang Breakfast Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Dan Kois discuss sibling solidarity in the face of morning lateness, new solutions to those morning routines, difficult parents and destination events, the effect of a parent's mental illness on their children, plus triumphs and fails, and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Four Wheelers and a Hot Tub Edition
Gabriel Roth, Carvell Wallace, and Rebecca Lavoie discuss the danger inherent in eating watermelon rinds, kid's bad taste in music, if and how to forbid teens from having sex, the rudeness of texting, and more.
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Joyless Slog Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Allison Benedikt discuss kid anger fails, reading getting in the way of basic life functions, the joy of barely passing German class, the joyless slog of the early parenting years, and what to do about teens and drinking and the friends they drink with. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Falling Piano Edition
Gabriel Roth and Carvell Wallace are joined by Marlo Mack of the How to be a Girl podcast to discuss executive functions, when to badger your kids about hand-washing, disclosing sensitive information to soon-to-be-relatives, whether a mom should push her ex-husband to allow their transgender son to start taking hormones, and why it's so taboo to leave a baby alone in an empty house, even for a short time.
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Reservoir Puppies Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss reluctant playdates, college manipulation, digital loss in the iCloud, how to have a familial relationship with your step-son, kids noticing violence on TV, and much more.
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Fascist Haircut Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss raising children of a different skin color from your own, whether we should allow kids to have fascist haircuts, spring break schedules, Dungeons & Dragons, bro dates, and more.
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Anonymous Sex Question Box Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss the terror of not teaching a child to ride a bike, Rebecca's "beautiful" daughter, fluids, and a difficult question about a child with a potential and non-specific disability.
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Technological Dystopia Edition
Carvell Wallace, Gabriel Roth, and Rebecca Lavoie discuss an educational math game called Prodigy, and how to deal with a kid's potential over-interest in a video game, then a follow-up to the controversial chicken pox discussion from a few weeks back, and "Triumphs and Fails" and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Simpering Airhead Mermaid Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Katherine Goldstein discuss failed voice lessons, resigning yourself to chicken nuggets, dude time, what to do about sexist cartoons, how to cope with friends with bad parenting technique, plus recommendations and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Minimalist Hellscape Edition
Carvell Wallace, Rebecca Lavoie, and Gabriel Roth discuss the cause and treatment of childhood anxiety with Lynn Lyons, LICSW. Also an overwound Leo, a follow-up about summer camp for kids-of-color, managing kids acquisition of knick knacks, and more.
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Chickenpox for the Soul Edition
Carvell Wallace, Allison Benedikt, and Gabriel Roth debate the ethics of exposing anti-vaxxer's kids to the chicken pox, when to step in on undeserved discipline, suspicious Harriet Tubman essays, and much more. Please fill out the Slate podcast survey at slate.com/podcastsurvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professionalized Childhood Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss a followup from last week's toxic mother-in-law situation, mean kids, forced activities, the power of Black Panther, Mickey Mouse t-shirt privilege, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Vintage Suitcase Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss a parable of vintage suitcases, valentines in the yellow room, false accusations of serious crimes, lazy dads, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Secret Twins Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Gabriel Roth discuss how and whether to reveal a stuffed animal related conspiracy, whether sexual abuse at camp should worry parents, teaching boys to wash their clothes, the sexism of dress codes and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Binky Barter Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace and Katherine Goldstein discuss a mostly successful binky-for-trains program, answer questions about a difficult divorce, and reading, plus more "Triumphs and Fails" and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Fifteen Candles Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss a question from a listener about racism in the classroom, and another question about children counting calories. Plus "Triumphs and Fails" and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Too Cool For School Edition
Carvell Wallace, Rebecca Lavoie, and Gabriel Roth interview Ann Hulbert, author of Off the Charts: The Hidden Lives and Lessons of American Child Prodigies, and take a question from a listener with daddy problems. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Look Who's Back Edition
Carvell Wallace and Gabriel Roth are joined by Allison Benedikt to discuss Ruth Graham's article “My Life Is a Waking Nightmare” about the world of online parenting advice, answer a question about a grandparent who doesn't visit often enough, plus "Triumphs and Fails" and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Becoming Aunt Gertie Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss a question from a listener about whether to let an abusive step parent into the life of her children, and another question about when and how often to let children win at games. Plus "Triumphs and Fails" and recommendations.
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Potty Camp Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss how many performances of Bye Bye Birdie is too many, what's normal around divorced families holidays, and how to potty train without ruining your child. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Spurious Holiday Grinch Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace gather round the podcasting hearth for a holiday edition of Mom and Dad Are Fighting, with holiday-related listener questions and recommendations, plus "Triumphs and Fails" and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Your Child is Made of Meat Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss Periscope's problem with online predators with Slate's April Glaser, Rebecca's big news, Carvell's creeping fail, and Gabe's three kiss accident in "Triumphs and Fails" and "Recommendations". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
"What's Elf on the Shelf?" Edition
Rebecca Lavoie and Katherine Goldstein explain Elf on the Shelf to Carvell Wallace, dealing with estranged parents and how to introduce them to your kids, whether following the rules too much is bad for kids, and the joy and sorrow of holiday traditions. Plus Triumphs and Fails and recommendations.
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Grandpa Rules Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Gabriel Roth discuss their annoyingly triumphant week, how to raise your kids outside of the influence of toxic masculinity, and what to do about a doting grandpa. Plus more in Triumphs and Fails and Recommendations.
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Who's Your Mommy Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Gabriel Roth discuss the effect of leather jackets on teen boys, why Sartre is so annoying for parents, questions about when it's OK for a kid to call a step-parent "mom" and if giving kids freedom also enables their tantrums. Plus, triumphs and fails and recommendations.
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Sadistic Track Coach Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss how to deal with verbally abusive dad-coaches, Gabe's not-messed-up weekend with Leo, a question about in-laws whose culture you disagree with, and more in Triumphs and Fails and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If You Give a Mouse a Handout Edition
Gabriel Roth, Carvell Wallace, and Katherine Goldstein discuss the welfare state critique of To Give a Mouse a Cookie, children's negotiating skills, potty training, Shrinky Dinks, and more. Plus an interview with Lauren Brody, author of The Fifth Trimester about the complications of going back to work after having a baby, and a listener question about whether to get back on IVF again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What's Under the Bed Edition
Carvell Wallace, Rebecca Lavoie, and Gabriel Roth discuss phone etiquette, what to do about a teenage boy's under-bed ephemera, trick or treating, a tough question about a father who doesn't get along with his son, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Your Life Is Terrible Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss carpool politics, daddy's girls, and how late capitalism makes fools of us all in listener questions, "Triumphs and Fails", and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Poison Resentment Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Gabriel Roth sit down with John Culhane, author of Slate's Hey, Daddy! column about being a gay dad of twins, plus step-parenting resentments, the sad end of bedtime reading time, and Rebecca's new family project in listener questions, "Triumphs and Fails" and recommendations.
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Some Kids Are Jerks Edition
Rebecca Lavoie and Gabriel Roth talk to Elissa Strauss about her article in Elle, "The Leftover Embryo Crisis", answer a question about dealing with friends whose kids don't get along with their kids, plus "Triumphs and Fails" and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Full Brony Edition
Gabriel Roth and Carvell Wallace discuss broken phones, how to gift an inheritance, My Little Pony: the Movie, and are joined by Slate's Aisha Harris to tackle a tough question about American Girl dolls. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Parental Obsolescence Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace and Gabriel Roth sit down with Suzanne Bouffard, author of THE MOST IMPORTANT YEAR: Pre-Kindergarten and the Future of Our Children to discuss the state of pre-K education. Plus, "triumphs and fails", and recommendations. It's pledge season on Slate podcasts join at Slate.com/momanddadplus for bonus segments and ad-free shows! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Emotional Bloodshed Edition
Gabriel Roth, Carvell Wallace, and Rebecca Lavoie discuss how to deal with a longterm toddler beef, how to feel about well subsidised adult stepchildren, teen street harassment, and more. Plus "Triumphs and Fails" and recommendations. It's pledge week on Slate Podcasts! Sign up for Slate Plus at Slate.com/momanddadplusLove this podcast? Well did you know you can listen to it on Spotify while still enjoying your favorite tunes. It's easy, just look for the "Podcasts" section within the B
The Competitive Step-Parenting Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Gabriel Roth, and Carvell Wallace answer a call about managing the adult relationships in a step-child's life, and Carvell shares news about his son's computer. As always, we've got triumphs and fails, and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dude Where's My Carvell Edition
Rebecca Lavoie and Gabriel Roth answer listener questions about how to help other kids understand her son with Down's Syndrome, and sharing household responsibilities. Plus a tooth-fairy revelation and more in "Triumphs and Fails" and two unorthodox recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Abstraction of Hooptyism Edition
Carvell Wallace, Rebecca Lavoie and Gabriel Roth discuss the politics of choosing a guardian for your kids and what to do about a daycare center that's been a little lax on vaccines. Plus Carvell's hit-and-run and Rebecca's new car-related freedom in "Triumphs and Fails".Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by Blue Apron. Create delicious, home-cooked meals with fresh ingredients delivered right to your door. Get your first THREE meals FREE – with FREE shipping – when you go to Bl
Three Fails Edition
Carvell Wallace and Allison Benedikt are joined by Ami Cooper to talk about her experience raising a trans sixth grader. Plus triumphs and fails (spoiler alert: all fails), and recommendations.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by Spotify. Stream every episode of our show and other podcasts on Spotify now. Just open the app, tap Browse, and look for us in the Podcast section. Learn more at spotify.com/podcasts.
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Happiest Podcast on Earth Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss how to talk to your kids about recent events in Charlottesville Virginia, and whether smartphones are "destroying a generation," with Lisa Guernsey and Janelle Krupicka. Plus triumphs, fails, and recommendations. Today’s episode is brought to you by Little Passports. Check out Science Expeditions, the new educational subscription with themes like Rockets and Solar Power that kids and parents love. Learn more at Little Passports.c
Teenage Fashion Plate Edition
Rebecca Lavoie and Carvell Wallace discuss choosing a school district in a segregated city, and how to encourage a teen's individual style while keeping their values intact. Plus triumphs and fails and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Eating Your Feelings Edition
Rebecca Lavoie and Gabriel Roth discuss whether to worry about a 9-year-old's weight gain, and how to inject some passion into passionless pre-teen. Plus triumphs and fails and recommendations.Mom and Dad are Fighting is brought to you by RXBAR Kids. RXBAR Kids is a clean label snack bar made with high-quality, real ingredients designed specifically for kids. Find at Target stores OR For 25% off your first order, visit RXBAR.com/MOMANDDAD and enter promo code MOMANDDAD at checkout. And
The Return of the Dan Edition
Carvell Wallace, Nina Aron, and Dan Kois sit down with clinical psychologist Dr. Ava Siegler to talk about her new book, What Do I Tell My Kids?: Parenting in the Age of Trump, which includes an essay by guest host Dan Kois. They discuss the origins of the project, how to talk to your kids about difficult political situations, where we stand now, and whether we should have hope for the future of politics. In Triumphs and Fails, Carvell panics over his daughter's trip to the amusement park, Nina
Adventures in Babysitting Edition
Gabriel Roth, Carvell Wallace and Rebecca Lavoie discuss a very unusual quandary involving the inappropriate email address of their babysitter, plus babysitting in general, triumphs and fails, and recommendations.
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Do What You Can Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss raising Muslim kids in America with Rabia Chaudry of the podcast Undisclosed. Plus, what to do about bad kid friends, Triumphs and Fails and recommendations.
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Happy Independence Day Edition
Carvel Wallace, Rebecca Lavoie, and Gabriel Roth take questions about reconciling disparate parenting styles and how to make space for an introverted kid, plus Triumphs and Fails and recommendations. Mom and Dad are Fighting is brought to you by Casper, an online retailer of premium mattresses. Get 50 dollars toward any mattress purchase by going to Casper.com/MomAndDadand using the promo code MomAndDad. And by Blue Apron. Create delicious, home-cooked meals with fresh ingredients deli
Aggressive Little Hugger Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss feedback from last week's question on having a second child, talking to kids about a dying caregiver, and what to do with an aggressive hugger, plus Triumphs and Fails and their recommendations. Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by BarkBox. For a FREE EXTRA PREMIUM TOY added to your BarkBox every month, visit barkbox.com/momanddad when you subscribe to a 6 or 12-month plan, then select “Yes, Please!” when asked “Have a p
Welcome to the Gun Show Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Gabriel Roth discuss what to do about a child's growing interest in guns, having two children versus one, plus their Triumphs and Fails, and recommendations. Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by Bombas. For every pair of socks you buy from Bombas, they donate a pair to someone in need. To get your pair—or more—visit Bombas.com/MOMANDDAD, and you’ll get an additional twenty percent off your first purchase. And by Cuyana. Cuyana designs timele
Teenage Invasion Edition
Rebecca Lavoie and Carvell Wallace are joined by actual teenager and Carvell's son, Ezra Wallace. They discuss what life is like for a biracial teen, plus triumphs and fails, recommendations and an Ezra lightning round. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Empathy Redux Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Gabriel Roth, and Carvell Wallace return to a poorly-answered listener question about empathy with UCLA post-doctoral researcher Nicole McDonald. Plus recommendations, divorcing uncles, and Triumphs and Fails. Today’s episode is brought to you by Little Passports. Check out Science Expeditions, the new educational subscription with themes like Rockets and Solar Power that kids and parents love. Learn more at Little Passports dot com slash MOMANDDAD, where listeners can s
Bureaucratic Nightmare Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Gabriel Roth are joined by Andee Brown to talk about her son's struggle with mental health. Plus, Triumphs and Fails, recommendations, and a listener question about whether to have another child under difficult circumstances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Here’s Steve Instead of Carvell Edition
Carvell is sick, so Steve Lickteig joins Gabriel Roth, and Rebecca Lavoie to discuss how to teach empathy in young kids and sibling dynamics, plus triumphs and fails and recommendations. Today’s episode is brought to you by Little Passports. Check out Science Expeditions, the new educational subscription with themes like Rockets and Solar Power that kids and parents love. Learn more at Little Passports dot com slash MOMANDDAD, where listeners can save 40% off their first month with coup
Porn, Actually Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Gabriel Roth discuss dealing with media you find problematic and whether it's worth trying to filter it for your kids, the n-word, broken nanny dates, and more, in Triumphs and Fails and Recommendations. Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by BarkBox. For a FREE EXTRA PREMIUM TOY added to your BarkBox every month, visit barkbox.com/momanddad when you subscribe to a 6 or 12-month plan, then select “Yes, Please!” when asked “Have a playful pup?”
Dude Where's My Car Edition
Rebecca Lavoie, Gabriel Roth, and Carvell Wallace discuss the youtube abuse controversy surrounding DaddyOFive, together time after a divorce, lost cars in triumphs and fails, and recommendations. Today’s episode is brought to you by Little Passports. Check out Science Expeditions, the new educational subscription with themes like Rockets and Solar Power that kids and parents love. Learn more at Little Passports dot com slash MOMANDDAD, where listeners can save 40% off their first month
Touchhole Edition
In our first weekly episode Rebecca Lavoie, Carvell Wallace, and Gabriel Roth discuss getting back to work after a long absence, post-vacation troubles, and disappearing nannies. Plus, hamster trouble in Triumphs and Fails, and recommendations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bible Movies Edition
Gabriel Roth and Carvell Wallace answer listener calls concerning unwanted bible movies and when parents should explain sibling-relationship boundaries to their kids. Also, a difficult fail regarding rising housing prices in the Bay Area and a trip update from Dan Kois in Slate Plus. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Leave us a message at 424-255-7833.Today’s episode of MADAF is brought to you by Little Passports. Check out Science Expeditions, the new educational subscription, w
Deathbed Sandwich Generation Edition
Gabriel Roth, Rebecca Lavoie, and Carvell Wallace discuss coping with a dying parent as a parent, plus charades, laid-back husbands, and listening to your kids in our weekly triumphs and fails and recommendations.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by Blue Apron. Create delicious, home-cooked meals with fresh ingredients delivered right to your door. Get your first THREE meals FREE when you go to BlueApron.com/MomAndDad
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Sperm In Top Hats Edition
Gabriel Roth is joined this week by writer Carvell Wallace and Rebecca Lavoie, host of Crime Writers On..., to discuss those parenting hacks you just can't live without. They also answer a call from a listener struggling to decide if medication is right for her child. Also, the conclusion to last episode's daycare dilemma, on Slate Plus.
Have a question you'd like us to answer? Leave us a message at 424-255-7833.
Today’s episode of Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by Little Passports
Designer Genes Edition
Gabriel Roth is joined this week by writer Carvell Wallace to discuss tips on how to parent tweens into thoughtful adolescents. Then they chat with Bonnie Rochman, author of The Gene Machine, to discuss the emerging science of birth-related gene selection. Also, a listener call about getting kids out the door in the morning and a Slate Plus daycare dilemma.
Have a question you'd like us to answer? Leave us a message at 424-255-7833.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by Blue Apron. Cre
Allison's Viking Funeral Edition
Mom and Dad Are Fighting say goodbye to Allison Benedikt with help from a secret special guest. (Spoiler: It's Dan Kois!) Gabe and Allison also talk with author and teacher Matt Dicks about ways to get the most out of your parent-teacher conferences. Also, a listener call about retaining friendships with parents when you don't have kids and Dan Kois shares a New-Zealand-specific parenting fail on Slate Plus.
Have a question you'd like us to answer? Leave us a message at 424-255-7833.
Also, tak
Teenage Life Coach Edition
Gabriel Roth, Slate senior editor, and Rebecca Lavoie, host of Crime Writers On..., talk about how children have replaced dads as the economic drivers in the household. Then, they offer tricks for parents struggling to find time for homework. Also, an Allison Benedikt triumph on Slate Plus and a listener call about older-brother meanness.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by Blue Apron. Blue Apron’s meal kits are delivered right to your door, and make cooking at home easy. Get your fir
Child Care War Machine Edition
On today's show, hosts Allison Benedikt and Gabriel Roth chat with journalist Bryce Covert about the surprising history of child care in America. Then, they talk with professor Diane Levin about how children often segregate friendships along gender lines by the time they reach preschool age. Plus, a conflicted listener wrestles with supporting football, just in time for the Super Bowl and Allison shares a big announcement...
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by Blue Apron. Blue Apron’s
The Sad Laura Ashley Bat Mitzvah Dress Edition
On today's show, hosts Gabriel Roth, editor at Slate, and Lizzie Skurnick, author of That Should Be A Word, talk about Lizzie's experience as a single mother raising a son whose father is an anonymous sperm donor. Then, they chat with Dr. Devorah Heitner, author of the book Screenwise, about the unspoken rules that influence kid's choices on social media.Also, a listener question about bringing young daughters to this weekend's Women's March on Washington and a particularly complicated
The Hardest Age Edition
On today's show, hosts Allison Benedikt and Gabriel Roth chat with Suniya Luthar, Foundation Professor of Psychology at Arizona State. They discuss her recent study, which shows that the middle-school years are often the most stressful for families. Slate's Brow Beat editor Sam Adams also joins to talk about Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and wether it's too violent for children. Plus, a listener call about homophobic parents.Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by Casper, an online retailer
See Ya Dan Kois Edition
This is the last one with Dan Kois, guys! On today's show, Allison and Dan talk with Matthew Herrity - a high school junior in Arlington, VA - who's protesting a rezoning plan that would lead to significant racial and economic changes at his school. Then, we take a walk down memory lane with Mr. Kois and revisit some of his most memorable fails over the years. Also, a listener call about how to respond when your youngest boy wants to wear girl stuff. Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought
Unexpected Loss Edition
On today's show Allison and guest host Gabriel Roth talk with Debbie Haine Vijayvergiya, an advocate for stillborn awareness, about her heartbreaking experience delivering a stillborn child. Then, they discuss children's birthday parties, why they're so terrible, and how to make them better.Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by Little Passports. Give your kids the gift of adventure with Little Passports. Find special Holiday deals and get a peek inside the monthly packages at LittlePassp
Trump, Turkey, and Teens Edition
Dan and Allison invite Emily Bazelon, host of Slate's Political Gabfest, and author Dwayne Betts, onto the show to discuss this month's surprise election outcome and how they're talking about Trump's presidency with their kids. Dan also chats with director Kelly Fremon about her fantastic new movie "The Edge Of Seventeen." And in our Slate Plus segment, the crew explains what they're thankful for this year.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by Texture. Get access to your favorite magazi
Why Isn't My Kid's Teacher Returning My Texts Edition
Dan and guest host Amy Scott discuss a new OshKosh B'Gosh ad campaign that will feature Asher Nash, a child with Down syndrome. They offer advice to a mother dealing with a racist neighbor. Amy explains how to have a non-terrible relationship with your kid's teachers. And in our Plus segment, Dan talks about how he'll explain Trump's unexpected victory to his daughters.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by Little Passports. Give your kids the gift of adventure with Little Passports. Fi
Mom's With Her Edition
Allison and Dan ask moms of girls how they're talking to their daughters about the coming Hillary presidency. Lisa Guernsey, author of “Screen Time,” gives an update to the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines for kids’ device usage. In the Plus segment, LV Anderson tackles the important Halloween question: should teens go trick-or-treating?
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The National Clown Threat Edition
Allison and Dan dive deep into the mythology of killer clowns. RJ Palacio, best-selling author of “Wonder,” stops by the studio to talk about her quest to spread kindness. And for the Slate Plus segment, Will Saletan discusses the futility of attempting to regulate his teenager’s bedtime.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Six Kids and Twelve Nannys Edition
Dan and Allison search for insight into the mystery of Brangelexit by speaking with two members of a real-life big family, Noreen Malone and her mom, Mary Ellen Brennan. Also, Siân Stevens, an aging services specialist, talks about the important conversations we all must have with our aging parents. In the Slate Plus segment, Aisha Harris reminisces about "All My Children," as a tribute to the show's creator, Agnes Nixon, who died on September 28th.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit meg
The How Soon Is Too Soon To E-Mail the Teacher Edition?
Dan and Allison discuss the thorny issue of parent-teacher communication with Matt Dicks. And Belle Boggs, author of The Art of Waiting: On Fertility, Medicine, and Motherhood, shares her story of infertility. In the Plus segment, Slate writer John Swansburg delivers a Snuffleupagus of a triumph. Or is it a Big Bird fail? You decide.
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The Mom and Dad Have Answers Edition
Allison and Dan spelunk deep into their psyches to answer listener calls.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The “Doping for Kids” Edition
On this week’s show, Allison Benedikt and Jessica Winter are joined by two hosts of Slate’s Hang Up and Listen to discuss how to be a good parent while watching the Olympics with your kids, and then talk to novelist Rumaan Alam about the lack of diversity in children’s books.
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Mean Girls and Lazy Guys Edition
On today's show Dan Kois and Allison Benedikt talk with Rosalind Wiseman about the new edition about her classic guide to girls' friendships and discuss the division of household labor.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by Green Chef. Their organic meal kits make cooking healthy food easy. Get four meals free with your first order when you go to greenchef.com/momanddad.
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Blame Dan and Donald
Mom And Dad Are Fighting is taking a break this week. Blame Dan and Donald Trump.
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What to Expect When You're Unexpectedly the First Lady Edition
On today's show Dan Kois and Allison Benedikt discuss how to talk to your kids about weight and Dan interviews the soon-to-be First Lady of Iceland.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by Boll and Branch. Get 20% off your entire order, plus free shipping, by going to BollandBranch.com and using promo code momanddad.
And by the new podcast Dog Smarts. Each episode features leading researchers and academics that tackle questions of language, memory, intelligence, and even love as they perta
Tale of Two Cities Edition
On today's show Allison Benedikt and Jessica Winter discuss school segregation with The New York Times' Nikole Hannah-Jones and parenting a difficult toddler.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by BollandBranch.com, offering luxury bedding at affordable prices. Order right now and they'll give you 20 percent off, plus free shipping. Get sheets, towels, blankets, duvet covers, and more at BollAndBranch.com and use the promo code MOMANDDAD.
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Dads and Dogs Edition
On today's show Allison and Dan discuss putting a family pet asleep and for Father's Day we'll hear stories about dads from Slate staffers.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by BollandBranch.com, offering luxury bedding at affordable prices. Order right now and they'll give you 20 percent off, plus free shipping. Get sheets, towels, blankets, duvet covers, and more at BollAndBranch.com and use the promo code MOMANDDAD.
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Extreme Bedtime Edition
On today's show Allison and Dan discuss absurdly early bedtimes for kids and then make some summertime resolutions.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by BollandBranch.com, offering luxury bedding at affordable prices. Order right now and they'll give you 20 percent off, plus free shipping. Get sheets, towels, blankets, duvet covers, and more at BollAndBranch.com and use the promo code MOMANDDAD.
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Is Grit Good? Edition
On today's show, Allison and Dan discuss game theory parenting and whether children need grit to succeed.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by BollandBranch.com, offering luxury bedding at affordable prices. Order right now and they'll give you 20 percent off, plus free shipping. Get sheets, towels, blankets, duvet covers, and more at BollAndBranch.com and use the promo code MOMANDDAD.
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Mothers and Meddlers Edition
On today's show, Allison and Dan hear stories from Slate staff about their mothers and talk talks with actor Susan Sarandon about motherhood and the movie The Meddler.Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by BollandBranch.com, offering luxury bedding at affordable prices. Order right now and they'll give you 20 percent off, plus free shipping. Get sheets, towels, blankets, duvet covers, and more at BollAndBranch.com and use the promo code MOMANDDAD. And by Little Passports. Inspire your kid
Positive Opposites Edition
On today's show, Allison and Dan talk to the owner and chef of a vegan preschool and then debate the latest child psychology trend in parenting discipline of not punishing kids for bad behavior.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by BollandBranch.com, offering luxury bedding at affordable prices. Order right now and they'll give you 20 percent off, plus free shipping. Get sheets, towels, blankets, duvet covers, and more at BollAndBranch.com and use the promo code MOMANDDAD.
And by Little
Defending Easter Edition
On today's show, Allison and Dad talk with Brooklyn principal Anna Allanbrook about what to do when parents have a problem with their principal or other school administrators and then Dan calls the Easter Bunny on the phone and asks why Easter is the worst holiday.Mom and Dad Are Fighting is brought to you by BollandBranch.com, offering luxury bedding at affordable prices. Order right now and they'll give you 20 percent off, plus free shipping. Get sheets, towels, blankets, duvet covers, and mor
Trump is a Very Bad Man Edition
On today's show, Allison and Dad talk to parents about raising a transgender child and how to talk to your kids about Trump.
Mom and Dad are Fighting is brought to you by BollandBranch.com, offering luxury bedding at affordable prices. Order right now and they'll give you 20 percent off, plus free shipping. Get sheets, towels, blankets, duvet covers, and more at BollAndBranch.com and use the promo code MOMANDDAD.
And by Club W, leading the "grape to glass" wine revolution. Answer just six simp
Dóna Prump Edition
Dan Kois discusses social media and teens with author Nancy Jo Sales and Black-ish with Slate's Aisha Harris.
Mom and Dad are Fighting is brought to you by BollandBranch.com, the company that makes luxury bedding affordable. Order right now and they'll give you 20 percent off, plus free shipping. Get sheets, towels, blankets, duvet covers, and more at BollAndBranch.com and use the promo code MOMANDDAD.
And by the New York Times bestseller The Opposite of Spoiled by Ron Lieber—a taboo-shatterin
Live from Brooklyn Edition
On this week's show, Dan and Allison are live at the Bell House in Brooklyn and discuss city parenting, surrogacy, and have an artist's roundtable with children's book authors and musicians.
Dan Kois and Allison Benedikt are live at the Bell House in Brooklyn. On this week's show, Dan and Allison talk about city parenting, surrogacy, and have an artist's roundtable with children's book authors Matt de la Peña and Rebecca Stead, and children's recording artist Laurie Berkner.
Mom and Dad are Figh
Live Show Lateness
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is going to go up on Saturday this week because of our live show taping at the Bell House in Brooklyn. If you're in New York, we would love to see you. You can buy tickets at Slate.com/live.
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Better Get a Shotgun Edition
Dan Kois and Allison Benedikt discuss the Zika virus with an OBGYN and the new HBO Sesame Street.
Mom and Dad are Fighting is brought to you by BollandBranch.com, the company that makes luxury bedding affordable. Order right now and they'll give you 20 percent off, plus free shipping. Get sheets, towels, blankets, duvet covers, and more at BollAndBranch.com and use the promo code MOMANDDAD.
And by Club W, leading the "grape to glass" wine revolution. Answer just six simple questions at ClubW.c
The Worst Time for Your Milk to Come In Edition
Dan Kois and Allison Benedikt discuss iPads in the classroom and talk with two mothers who had their children days apart.
Mom and Dad are Fighting is brought to you by BollandBranch.com, the company that makes luxury bedding affordable. Get the nicest sheets you've ever owned for about half the price of what stores are charging. Order right now and they'll give you 20 percent off your order, plus free shipping. Go to BollAndBranch.com and use the promo code MOMANDDAD.
And by Club W, leading the
The Failed Resolutions Edition
Dan Kois and Allison Benedikt discuss parenting and money with New York Times columnist Ron Lieber and then check with Slate staffers about how they did on their 2015 New Year's resolutions.
Mom and Dad are Fighting is brought to you by BollandBranch.com, the company that makes luxury bedding affordable. Get the nicest sheets you've ever owned for about half the price of what stores and boutiques are charging. Order right now and they'll give you $50 off a set of sheets, plus free shipping. Go t
Dan Goes to the Mall Edition
Dan Kois and Allison Benedikt discuss the Every Child Succeeds Act and Dan goes to the mall to talk with dads about how they really feel about holiday shopping. Mom and Dad are Fighting is brought to you by Prudential’s 40/40 Vision, a multimedia microsite exploring what life—and the future—looks like to today’s 40-somethings. Hear what inspires real people, the hopes they have for tomorrow, and much more. See yourself in their stories at slate.com/4040vision/family. And by Little Passp
The Dear Prudence Edition
Dan Kois and Allison Benedikt discuss how to talk with your kids about the terrible news of the world with teacher Matthew Dicks and then Slate's new Dear Prudence columnist Mallory Ortberg answers listeners' parenting questions.
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Another Obama Administration Official Edition
In this episode of Slate's parenting podcast, Allison Benedikt and Dan Kois talk to education secretary Arne Duncan and discuss passing along faith to your kids when you have none.
Mom and Dad are Fighting is brought to you by Prudential's 40/40 Vision, a multimedia microsite exploring what life - and the future - looks like to today's 40-somethings. Hear what inspires real people, the hopes they have for tomorrow, and much more. See yourself in their stories at slate.com/4040vision/family.
The Agony of Defeat Edition
Dan Kois and Allison Benedikt discuss the appropriate screentime for kids and childhood sports heartbreak.
Mom and Dad are Fighting is sponsored by Little Passports. Keep your kids busy this summer with Little Passports, the award-winning subscription for kids. Right now, Mom & Dad Are Fighting listeners can save 40% on their first month with promo code MOMANDDAD40. Learn more at littlepassports.com/momanddad.
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Live from Basically The White House Edition
From Washington D.C.'s Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, Dan Kois and Allison Benedikt talk with Stephen Thompson of NPR's "Pop Culture Happy Hour" about the joys and pitfalls of passing along your pop culture taste to your children, White House Senior Advisor Valerie Jarrett about work-life balance, and John Dickerson of Slate's Political Gabfest and CBS's "Face the Nation" about presidential parenting.
Mom and Dad are Fighting is sponsored by Frank Einstein and the BrainTurbo—the third install
Adult Trick or Treat Edition
In this episode of Slate's parenting podcast, Allison Benedikt and Dan Kois talk with Meredith Fein Lichtenberg about parenting with cancer, and then discuss the most important holiday of the year, Halloween.
Mom and Dad are Fighting is sponsored by Frank Einstein and the BrainTurbo—the third installment in the hilarious New York Times bestselling children’s book series filled with inventions, science experiments, and baseball playing robots—by former National Ambassador for Young Peoples’ Lit
Two Truths and a Lie Edition
In this episode of Slate's parenting podcast, Allison Benedikt and Dan Kois discuss why it is important to let your kids fail and foster parenting.
Mom and Dad are Fighting is sponsored by Frank Einstein and the BrainTurbo—the third installment in the hilarious New York Times bestselling children’s book series filled with inventions, science experiments, and baseball playing robots—by former National Ambassador for Young Peoples’ Literature Jon Scieszka and mad scientist illustrator Br
Hikes for Whiners Edition
In this episode of Slate's parenting podcast, Allison Benedikt and Dan Kois discuss how to get your kids to enjoy nature and the cost of summer for poor families.
Mom and Dad are Fighting is sponsored by Frank Einstein and the BrainTurbo—the third installment in the hilarious New York Times bestselling children’s book series filled with inventions, science experiments, and baseball playing robots, by former National Ambassador for Young Peoples’ Literature Jon Scieszka and mad scientist illust
Back to School Edition
In this episode of Slate's parenting podcast, Allison Benedikt and Dan Kois discuss parental math anxiety and back-to-school from the teacher's perspective.
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Lower Your Expectations Edition
In this episode of Slate's parenting podcast, Allison Benedikt and Jessica Winter the state of college tuition with Slate's Jordan Weissmann and the insane world of the Radar family parenting vlog with Slate's Amanda Hess.
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After "Sex After Baby" Edition
In this episode of Slate's parenting podcast, Dan Kois and Allison Benedikt sort through listener responses to a segment about sex after pregnancy. And, a trip down the rabbit-hole of organic food for kids. Plus triumphs and fails with a vinyl soundtrack by Randy Newman.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is sponsored by Little Passports. Keep your kids busy this summer with Little Passports, the award-winning subscription for kids. Right now, Mom & Dad Are Fighting listeners can save 40% on their first
Sex After Baby Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where Allison Benedict and Jessica Winter talk about bed wetting and sex after having a baby.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting Is Sponsored by Little Passports. Keep your kids busy this summer with Little Passports, the award-winning subscription for kids. Right now, Mom & Dad Are Fighting listeners can save 40% on their first month today with promo code MOMANDDAD40. Learn more at littlepassports.com/momanddad.
And by Audible.com, offering more than 180,000 audiob
Dad And Dad Are Fighting Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where Dan Kois and Dan Check discuss how to deal with judgmental parents and gay parenting with Andrew Solomon.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is sponsored by Little Passports. Keep your kids busy this summer with Little Passports, the award-winning subscription for kids. Right now, Mom & Dad Are Fighting listeners can save 40% on their first month today with promo code MOMANDDAD40. Learn more at littlepassports.com/momanddad.
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Live from Durham Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast live from Durham, North Carolina. Allison and Dan are joined by Superchunk frontman and Merge co-owner Mac McCaughan to life as a touring dad, the worst children's songs, and play a song from his latest album.
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Your Kids Are Not Getting a Scholarship Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where we discuss the endless Hell of travel sports for kids and parenting lifestyles of Upper East Side mothers with author Wednesday Martin.
Mom And Dad Are Fighting is sponsored by Bluum, helping new families finding the products they need, from pregnancy to preschool. Discover a personalized box new goodies for your child delivered to your doorstep every month. Get 40% off the first month of a new subscription when you visit bluum.com/momdad and use the pro
Attacking Molly Weasley Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where we one New York's school controverserial program to teach children about race and the decision to become a single mom at 41 with Rachel Sklar.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is sponsored by Bluum, helping new families find the products they need, from pregnancy to preschool. Discover a personalized box of new goodies for your child, delivered to your doorstep every month. Get 40 percent off a new subscription when you visit bluum.com/momdad and use the prom
Xenomorph Mom Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where we discuss talking to children about death and our favorite moms from TV and film.
Mom and Dad Are Fighting is sponsored by Macmillian, a publisher of children's books, including Tractor Mac. A favorite of families across the country, Tractor Mac depicts life on the farm through fun and heart-warming stories about friendship, teamwork, and more. Tractor Mac is on sale now from Farrar Strauss Giroux. Tractor Mac is on sale now from Farrar Straus Giroux Bo
Barrenness Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where we discuss child support and being child free.
Mom And Dad Are Fighting is sponsored by Stone Reset by Gemvara. Get 15% off the stone reset of your choice at Stonereset.com/momanddad.
And by Macmillan, a publisher of children's books, including "The Skunk" by Mac Barnet and Patrick McDonnell. The Skunk is on sale now from Roaring Book Press.
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Quantity Time Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where we discuss spending more time with your teens and what it's like to confront your childhood bully.
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Tampon Falling Out of Your Ear Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where we discuss attending sex ed with your teen and how to deal with guns in people's homes.
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"Is My Kid a Narcissist?" Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where we discuss whether we are unintentionally raising narcissistic children and edler care with Bettyville author George Hodgman.
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Call Your Mom Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where we discuss raising charitable kids with Ron Lieber and then give our moms a call.
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Vaccinate Your Kids Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where we discuss how to deal with parents who do not vaccinate their children and snowday activities.
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If I Only Had a Girl Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where we discuss free range parenting and how children watch movies. Link to our podcast survey: www.slate.com/survey
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I Quit Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where we discuss when to allow your child to quit an activity and parenting with chronic pain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Better Luck This Year Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where we discuss parents' New Year's resolutions and take questions from non-parents.
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The Truth About Santa Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where we discuss Santa and toys that require a bit of building.
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Where Can a Parent Score Some Weed? Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where we discuss baby names and weed-smoking parents.
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Disdaingate Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast where we discuss stay-at-home parenting and unpack Dan Kois' complicated feelings about it.
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"You Put That Ninja Sword Where?" Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast on children's sexual explorations and parenting kids' phone usage.
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The Your Own Personal Fantasyland Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast on the dos and don'ts of allowance and the magical wonder that is Disney.
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"Mom Jeans, Dad Jokes" Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast on teen sexual health and pop-cultural mockery of parents.
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"Should I Even Be a Parent?" Edition
Listen to Slate’s parenting podcast on whether you should allow your kids to play football and the decision to become a parent.
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"The Porn Talk" Edition
Listen to Slate’s parenting podcast on talking to your children about porn and whether the tradition of the family meal is overrated.
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"It Costs How Much?" Edition
Slate's Allison Benedikt speaks with Stacia Brown and Dwayne Betts about how black parents talk to their children about racism and the police. Allison is then joined by Slate's Jessica Winter to discuss the Department of Agriculture's eye-popping report on what it costs to raise a child.
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Mom And Dad Are Fighting: The Indigo Child Edition
Slate's Allison Benedikt and Dan Kois discuss changing standards of childhood independence and talk to Slate TV Critic Willa Paskin about Bravo's new show "Extreme Guide to Parenting".
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Mom And Dad Are Fighting: The Slate Staff Call-In Extravaganza Edition
Slate's Dan Kois answers listeners' parenting questions with Hanna Rosin, Katy Waldman, Jordan Weissmann, Amanda Hess, Julia Turner and Troy Patterson.
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Mom And Dad Are Fighting: The Ethan Hawke in a Minivan Edition
Listen to Slate’s parenting podcast on Boyhood, with special guest dad Richard Linklater, and pre-pregnancy contracts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom And Dad Are Fighting: The Magic Beer Fridge Edition
Slate's Dan Kois and guest host Emily Yoffe (Slate's Dear Prudence columnist) discuss preparing your kids for peer pressure, talking with girls about their first period, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom and Dad Are Fighting: The Pre-School Pomp and Circumstance Edition
Listen to Slate’s parenting podcast on maternal mental illness and Kindergarten Graduations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom and Dad Are Fighting: The Trash Can Football Edition
Listen to Slate’s parenting podcast on teacher gifts and Father’s Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom And Dad Are Fighting: The Two Kids in a Hot Car Edition
Listen to Slate’s parenting podcast on college dropout intervention and the ethics of intervening in other people’s parenting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom And Dad Are Fighting: The Open Hearts by Jane Seymour Mother's Day Necklace Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast on campus sexual assault, talking to kids about different kinds of families, and Mother's Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom And Dad Are Fighting: The What's in That School Lunch Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast on school lunches and the stigma of having, and being, an only child. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom And Dad Are Fighting: The Grand Canyon Heat Stroke Edition
Slate's Allison Benedikt and Dan Kois discuss paternity leave with the New York Times' Michael Roston, and talk about the pros and cons of adventurous parenting with Slate's Amanda Hess. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom And Dad Are Fighting: Live And Let Lice Edition
Slate's Allison Benedikt and Dan Kois discuss why you should not help your kids with their homework with journalist Dana Goldstein, and whether or not head lice are really that big of a deal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom And Dad Are Fighting: Don't Be So Bossy Edition
Slate's Allison Benedikt and Dan Kois talk about new changes with the SAT with author Todd Balf, and discuss Sheryl Sandberg's "Ban Bossy" campaign. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom And Dad Are Fighting: The City vs. Suburbs Edition
Listen to Slate's parenting podcast about losing the Asperger's diagnosis, and the great debate: Where is it better to raise kids, in the city or the suburbs? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom And Dad Are Fighting: Everything Is Awesome Edition
Slate's Dan Kois and Allison Benedikt talk to the creators of American Promise, a documentary that follows two black boys from kindergarten through high school graduation, and discuss the Lego Movie. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom And Dad Are Fighting: I Am The Standard Edition
Slate's Dan Kois and Allison Benedikt discuss gap years before college and are joined by author Jennifer Senior to discuss "All Joy and No Fun", her new book about modern parenting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom And Dad Are Fighting: The Be Present Edition
Slate's Dan Kois and Allison Benedikt discuss the pros and cons of summer camp and are joined by blogger Carla Naumburg to talk about mindful parenting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom And Dad Are Fighting: The Holiday Swirl Edition
Slate's Dan Kois and Allison Benedikt discuss parental "hate reads", and are joined by author Susan Katz Miller to talk about holidays in interfaith families. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mom and Dad Are Fighting Ep. 1: Don't Test My Kids
In the debut episode of Slate's new parenting podcast, Allison Benedikt and Dan Kois discuss the small but growing number of parents who opt their children out of standardized tests, and the new Disney movie Frozen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices