Think online-purchased breast milk beats bottled formula? Think again. A recent study in Pediatrics journal indicates that breast milk bought on the Internet may contain a far higher concentration of bacteria than breast milk obtained from a milk bank. (Huffington Post)
There is a new in vitro fertilization option for women trying to conceive. The procedure takes half the time, costs half the price, and is twice as effective as the conventional method. The mini-IVF is particularly effective for women in their late 30s to early 40s and is said to be safer. (Daily Mail)
Check out this millennial mom’s analysis of how we are raising our children. From posting their over-documented childhoods on social media to over-stimulating them with screens, she worries that we may be hurting more than we are helping. (Babble)
Learning to play an instrument is more beneficial than what meets the ear. Children who play instruments learn how to express themselves, collaborate with others, process different points of view, and see the results of their effort as they improve. Check out Joanne Lipman’s proposed correlation between music and success. (The New York Times)
A once anti-video game mother explores the benefits of educational apps. Using these increasingly popular kids apps as learning tools can satisfy a child’s desire for screen-play, while teaching them science, math, and much more. She still monitors her twins’ technology time and doesn’t discredit the importance of hands-on interaction. (Mommyish)
Moms who blog—and lovers of good taste and quirky writing—can find good company in Joanna Goddard’s “A Cup of Jo.” In a recent interview with Elizabeth Street, Goddard shares everything from how she finds inspiration in being a mom to how she continuously generates blog ideas. (Elizabeth Street)
PBSkids.org has a new look and new content for both parents and kids. The site’s youngest fans (2-8 years) can quickly find content they love and parents will be pleased to see greater educational information. (Parents)
You don’t have to break the bank to turn your home into a spooktacular haunted house—check out these DIY Halloween crafts. (Daily Candy)
Even when you’re feeling particularly frustrated with your little one, try to turn down the volume. Disciplining kids by yelling can decrease their self esteem and lead to depression and anxiety. (ABC News)
Beloved satirist David Sedaris reflects on family, loss, and the logistics of beach vacations in an essay that is both heartbreaking and hilarious. (The New Yorker)
