Top of Mind
The cookie jar is currently being guarded by an alligator
For decades, parents were told to help kids build willpower, giving them the ability to resist temptations like sweets, video games, or screens. But newer research suggests that may not be the best strategy — because sweets and screens are just too darn powerful.
Psychologists now say success is not so much about having stronger willpower as it is about limiting temptation. Researchers studying real-life behavior found that people who perform well in school, work, and relationships are not constantly resisting distractions. Rather, they simply structure their lives so they encounter fewer of them.
What does this look like in parenting? Rather than repeatedly asking kids to say “no” to things they want, experts suggest shaping environments that make good choices easier.
That might mean leaving phones in another room during homework or keeping ultra-processed snacks out of easy reach. More tips and tricks.
Is your supplement stack actually working?
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Did You Hear
💸 Why is childcare so unaffordable?
We all know childcare is expensive, but what's the cause? Well, according to this insightful article from Forbes, one of the major contributing factors is that childcare providers are seeing increases in insurance rates and rental prices. A recent survey from the National Association for the Education of Young Children found 68% saw higher liability insurance in 2025, 66% reported property insurance hikes, and 44% faced rising rent. Many programs have raised tuition to stay afloat, even as families struggle with their own rising costs.
Literally no one is getting enough sleep
The National Sleep Foundation recommends 14–17 hours of sleep for newborns, 12–15 for infants, 11–14 for toddlers, 10–13 for preschoolers, and 9–11 for school-age kids. But a new poll found 44% of U.S. children aren’t meeting those numbers. Some aren't even coming close. In fact, a not insignificant amount of teens reported getting fewer than five hours of sleep a night!
♟️ Is it ok to let your children win?
We've all probably let our kid win a board game once or twice... or 500 times. And you might have had the thought, "Should I be letting them win?" Well, experts say yes, sometimes! A mix of winning and losing is actually better for development. Play helps children build social skills like taking turns, following rules, and handling disappointment. Read all about how to structure the wins.
⚠️ Halo Magic Sleepsuits are being recalled
Approximately 45,000 HALO Magic Sleepsuits have been recalled after being manufactured with a zipper head which can detach from certain sleepsuits. The potential detachment poses a choking hazard to infants. More info here.
🧐 Where is my mind?
New study says women actually lose part of their brain during pregnancy.
Things You Need (to sleep!)
We talked a lot about how no one is getting enough sleep, but we didn't talk about how to get more of it. First, study up on this sleep guide for parents and children.
Then take advantage of some of the "Sleep Week" deals listed below:
Momcozy, a favorite brand among new moms, is offering 20% off sitewide for Sleep Week 2026. The sale includes pregnancy pillows, breast pumps, and baby sleep essentials. The deals end Wednesday, March 11. This cooling pregnancy pillow is so good.
Good sleep often starts with the right sleepwear. Gunamuna makes swaddles, sleep sacks, and thoughtfully designed ultra-soft pajamas. For Sleep Week 2026, the brand is offering up to 30% off select sleepwear and bedding.
Tonies audio characters help kids wind down with screen-free bedtime stories, lullabies, and calming audio. Check out their deals.
Bites with Kiyah
I'm a fan of homemade Rice Krispie treats: they feel nostalgic and come together in 5 minutes (more or less). But they're also sort of plain. Except when you add sesame seeds. They make you feel fancy while also feeling like a kid.
I'm sure you're a little skeptical, but I dare you to give them a try. I use these Black Sesame seeds, but there are a lot of options out there.
Black Sesame Rice Krispies Treats
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients:
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil, plus more for greasing
6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter
¼ cup (38 g) black sesame seeds
1 (12-ounce / 340 g) bag marshmallows
¾ teaspoon coarse kosher salt or 1 teaspoon flaky kosher salt
6 cups (160 g) Rice Krispies cereal
Instructions:
Prepare the pan. Grease a 9-inch square baking pan with sesame oil.
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the milk solids at the bottom begin to brown, about 2–3 minutes. Reduce heat to low and add the sesame seeds. Cook, stirring constantly, until the seeds smell toasty, about 1–2 minutes.
Melt the marshmallows. Add the marshmallows and salt. Stir until melted, about 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and stir in the 2 teaspoons of sesame oil. Add the Rice Krispies and quickly stir until evenly coated. Immediately press the mixture into the greased pan.
Cool and slice. Let cool for at least 10 minutes before flipping onto a cutting board and slicing into squares.
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature.
Dose of Good
@alexisbarden8 I am DECEASED!!! This dude at 6 little Debbie snack cakes after school. His response, “They taste so good..” I had to cover my face becaus... See more
Here’s a Question
Do you keep snacks and sweets visible in your house for easy access?
Last week, we asked you if your family would survive a "no phone" summer, and nearly 60% of you said, "We'd be dead by June 1st" while "Yes!" and "Maybe" came in second and third, respectively.
