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Camryn-MomBrain

When the News is Scary and Kids have Questions
Hi Friends!

It's no secret that life has been….heavy. We are here to support you as you navigate theses conversations in your home. Let's get to it with MomBrain expert, Katie Abney, LPC and LMFT-S sharing 5 tips.
You can check out MomBrain.com to continue the conversation.

If your child isn’t asking/talking about it and isn’t directly impacted by it then there is no need to approach it
Just because something devastating or scary is happening in the world, doesn’t mean you need to talk to them about it. Follow their lead. If they are asking questions, talking about it to you or others, directly impacted by it or if they seem worried then thats your cue to approach it.
Be Honest
It is really important to be truthful with your children—kids sense when information is withheld, which can increase anxiety. Share honest, age-appropriate answers without unnecessary details. For example, if asked, “Will people trapped in a fire die?” you can say, “That’s why firefighters rescue people and bring them to safety.” NOTE** If unsure how to answer, it’s okay to say, “I’ll find out and let you know.”
Validate Their Feelings and Reassure that They are Safe
Asking questions is a great way to get a better idea of what they know about the event and what is specifically worrying them. That way you can provide the validation and reassurance they need. Reassurance can look like: “Mommy and daddy know what to do and will keep you safe” or “Look at mommy’s face, do I look worried?” You can also go over a safety plan with them so they feel secure in knowing what will happen if they are ever in a similar situation.
Limit Exposure to the News
The bulk of the information your kids are receiving about something going on in the world needs to come from you as much as possible. The news often amplifies fear with scary headlines and graphic images that are difficult for a child's brain to process.
Find Ways to Help and Give Back
Showing how people come together during/after natural disasters or difficult events in the world is critical for kids to see. Providing opportunities for a child to be involved in helping or giving back to those affected by a world event or natural disaster is a powerful way for them to be part of the “good” during the devastation. It also gives them an active role instead of feeling helpless.
Important Take Away
As a parent, the most important thing for you to remember is to regulate your own emotions when talking to your kids. Kids hear our words BUT they see and feel our energy. The undercurrent of what we are saying is what really runs the show.

One way to help? Our friends at La Lumiere New York (Austin mom founded) are donating 100% of their profits from the “I love LA” collection to LAFD and Baby2Baby. Over $13,000 has been raised so far!

Camryn-MomBrain

Wrinkles? Acne? Sleep deprivation? We can’t help with the last one, but we’ve got the first two covered!

Hi Mamas!
We know mom life can be a lot—busy schedules, never-ending to-do lists, and somehow, zero time for yourself. But don’t worry, we’ve got you!

Today, MomBrain expert Caroline Cordell Day, MMS, PA-C, a board-certified physician assistant at Blue Ridge Dermatology, is sharing her top skincare tips to bring back your glow.

Keeping It Simple: 2 Skincare Must-Haves - I know there’s a lot out there, but if you try just two things, make it these!
Neuromodulators (aka Botox & Dysport)
These quick, 10-minute treatments smooth fine lines, relax facial muscles, and give you that fresh, lifted look. Bonus? They can also help with TMJ, tension headaches, and even facial asymmetry. Best results come from quarterly treatments, and results last about three months!
Retin-A (Your Skincare MVP)
This powerhouse prescription reduces pores, brightens skin, and boosts collagen production. Mixed with a little moisturizer (like Neutrogena Hydroboost), it helps smooth fine lines, fade sun damage, and even treat breakouts.
Pregnant & Missing Your Botox & Retin-A? We Feel You!
Pregnancy-safe skincare does exist! As a dermatology PA and a mom, I’ve got the best tips to keep your skin glowing (and acne at bay) while keeping it baby-safe.
Here’s a simple AM/PM routine to improve skin texture, reduce pore size, and brighten your complexion:
AM:

Wash face:
Sulfo-Lo Bar (Amazon) – For red or acne-prone skin
Salicylic Acid cleanser (<2%) – For texture and complexion improvement
Glycolic 10% or less (lotion, serum, or pad) – For smooth skin and radiance
Vitamin C serum 15-30% – Revision is a favorite for brightening!
Physical sunscreen (SPF 30 or greater) – Zinc or titanium dioxide-based

PM:

Makeup Remover: Micellar water on a cotton round
Cleanser (same as AM)
Prescription from your dermatologist:
Azelaic acid 14% / Clindamycin 1% / Sulfur 10% (compounded) – For acne-prone skin
Azelaic Acid 14% – For those without acne
Safety First!
There are a few products to avoid during pregnancy:
Salicylic acid >2%
Glycolic Acid >10%
Retin-A (tretinoin or any brand alternative)
Topical Dapsone
Topical Spironolactone (Winlevi)

Camryn-MomBrain

10 Things Your Pediatrician Wants You to Know!
Together with: Claire Day-Del Monte Realty, Houston, TX

Dr Cara Lye, MD, has over a decade of experience as a hospitalist at Texas Children's Hospital and has seen it all! She currently works in private practice serving families in Austin, TX and is a mom to three amazing kids!
Dr Lye is 'MomBrain Founder Pick' by Camryn whose family has received exceptional care, especially during a rare diagnosis.
Take it away Dr. Lye-Thanks for being a part of Mombrain!

Kids are Cats Until 4 Years Old
Toddlers can be a real hot mess...a fun one but hot nonetheless.They're also like cats—fun but untrainable. Before age 4, you can’t "train" them like a puppy. After 4, it gets easier. So, when you start to lose it, just remember: they’re in their cat phase, and it’s totally normal!
Always Quality over Quantity
Parenting can feel overwhelming, especially when juggling work, new siblings, or life’s demands. I always tell families as they prepare to add siblings or are in a busy season, to remember, it’s the QUALITY, not quantity, of time that matters. Spend 10-15 minutes of device-free time daily with your child, letting them choose the activity. Make it special—this small effort strengthens bonds and benefits both parent and child.
Skip the “Healthy vs Unhealthy” "Good vs Bad" Talk
Shifting how we talk about food helps kids avoid guilt and shame which can lead to unhealthy eating patterns. Instead of "healthy/unhealthy," use terms like "sometimes/always foods" or "short/long energy foods." This approach removes judgment and encourages better choices.
Consistency is Key
Whether it is sleep training, picky eating, helping them learn a new skill, or discipline the most important thing is consistency. I tell parents not to tackle something big like sleep training until they feel like they can commit and be consistent.
The Human Body is Amazing! Remind Your Kids.
Try to talk about what bodies can do and not what they look like or should look like. Reminding them the amazing things their bodies and minds can do helps them to understand how special they are. One of my favorite things to do is to let my patients listen to their own heart beat. Their sweet little faces hearing their own heart for the first time is really magical. Think of ways you can help them see how special they are just by being them!
Picky is as Picky Does
Most toddlers go through a picky phase and this is SO normal. Best thing we can do as parents is to continue to offer a variety of healthy options and not limit what we offer to only what we know they will eat. Always have a safe food on their plate, avoid the power struggles and forcing them to take bites in order to get a reward...they are SO smart and this usually makes it worse.
7.Okay the (big) Feeling
Big outbursts often stem from kids struggling to express feelings. Helping them name their emotions can make a big difference. For example: "I see you're upset we have to leave the playground. It's okay to feel that way, and we’ll come back, but we need to go now." Acknowledging their feelings helps de-escalate situations.
Be Vulnerable
Along the lines of acknowledging and helping your child communicate their feelings, I am always so grateful when parents are willing to be vulnerable in front of their children and share their own experiences. It helps them to feel less alone, reminds them that we are humans and enables us to connect with them and support them more.
Sorry Mom, Power Struggles are NORMAL
Power struggles, whether with toddler tantrums or older kids defiance, are a normal part of development. Try to think of ways you can give them control like offer them choices: “It’s time to put on your shoes—do you want the blue or purple ones?” This works especially well after school when kids feel drained from a day with little control.
No Dumb Questions. I Want to Know the Full Story.
The more I know and have context for parents' concerns the more I can help. If I understand what your worry is, then I can better address it. I always encourage my families to ask questions because it allows me to meet them where they are and make sure we are all on the same page.

Camryn-MomBrain

Hi Friends,

At MomBrain, we’re all about connecting moms with trusted advice and support. That’s why we’re excited to highlight Katie Taylor, a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS), founder of Child Life On Call and one of the incredible experts in our community.
Katie shares invaluable tips for preparing your child for surgery—especially during school breaks when families often schedule medical procedures. Here’s a sneak peek into her advice:

How to Prepare Your Child for Surgery

Be Honest
Explain what will happen using age-appropriate language. Keep it simple and reassure your child that you’ll be with them every step of the way.
Give Them Control
While they may not have a say in the procedure, letting them make small choices—like what to bring to the hospital or whether to sit in mom or dad’s lap—can help them feel empowered.
Advocate for Your Child
You know your child best. Share their unique personality traits with the medical team to build rapport and ensure personalized care.

Katie’s expertise as a Child Life Specialist is just one example of the kind of guidance you’ll find on MomBrain. You can tag her in your questions or visit her profile for personalized advice.

To see her in action, alongside other moms giving their advice, look at this post on preparing for your child's upcoming tonsillectomy.

Looking for more? Katie also recommends downloading the SupportSpot app for healthcare preparation guides and a free introductory call with Child Life Specialists.

At MomBrain, we’re here to make motherhood—and moments like these—less overwhelming.

Camryn-MomBrain

Hi Friends,

At MomBrain, we know the holidays can be a magical time—but they can also bring challenges like managing kids' expectations and encouraging a spirit of helpfulness. That’s why we’re thrilled to highlight Flora McCormick, a licensed counselor and Parent Coach and one of the incredible experts in our community.

Flora shares practical strategies to help parents raise kids who are more helpful and less “entitled” during the holidays. Here’s a sneak peek at her advice:

3 Ways to Help Kids Be More Helpful and Less Entitled This Holiday Break

Privilege + Responsibility = Appreciation
Teach kids that responsibility comes before privilege. When they have a sense of responsibility, they’re more likely to appreciate the rewards that come with it.
Consider this simple equation—privilege without responsibility = entitlement. So helping kids to have a sense of how their responsible actions lead to their privileges helps kids develop gratitude and an understanding of how to contribute to the family and world around them.
Incorporate chores into your plans for the new Year: As we pivot into 2025, it's a great time to agree with your partner on some age-appropriate chores you'd like to have the kids help with this year. Assigning small, age-appropriate tasks helps children feel a sense of significance and belonging in the family and we know from child psychologist Alfred Adler and child psychiatrist Rudolf Dreikers these are two central needs in childhood!
And tie those chores to the privileges they have: ie. “When your room is clean, then you can go to your friend's house,” or “When you’ve helped with the chores, then we can watch a show.” It's like being sure we eat our dinner before dessert. If we allow kids to have any privilege they want, and then hope they will be helpful AFTER...it's like saying, "Sure. Have dessert first, but I still expect you to eat dinner." It's likely setting you up for failure.
Less Is More
It’s easy to go overboard during the holidays with toys, gadgets, and gifts. But studies show that excess can backfire, leaving kids overstimulated and irritable.
Consider fewer, more meaningful gifts: Fewer gifts lead to more thoughtful play and better emotional balance.
Clean out before Christmas: Help kids donate old toys they no longer use to families in need. This fosters a sense of gratitude and understanding of giving.
Preemptively clear space: Before the holiday rush, remove items that have been gathering dust. Not only does this make room for new gifts, but it also teaches kids that material possessions are not endless.
Make It Clear: Teach Them How to Help

If you want your kids to be more helpful this holiday season, it’s important to provide clear guidance on what that looks like. Sometimes, they may not know how to offer help unless we teach them.
Use simple phrases: Instead of expecting kids to automatically see when help is needed, teach them a simple script. “Honey, when you see others unloading the car/dishwasher/etc, I'd like you to say, "How can I help?” This script gives them a clear, actionable way to contribute.
Make expectations explicit: For example, if you're unloading groceries, say, “I need your help to bring in the bags. What can you carry?” Or if they see someone struggling with a task, encourage them to ask, “How can I help?”
Praise positive efforts: When they use the phrase or step in to help, be sure to offer positive reinforcement. As my favorite mentor Dr. John Sommers-Flanagan says, "What gets noticed, gets repeated."
By making your expectations clear and providing kids with simple tools to be helpful, you empower them to take initiative and feel proud of their contributions.

Flora’s expertise as a Parenting Coach is just one example of the kind of guidance you’ll find on MomBrain. You can tag her in your questions, visit her profile for personalized advice or learn more about Sustainable Parenting.

At MomBrain, we’re here to make motherhood—and the holidays—more joyful and less overwhelming.

Camryn-MomBrain

I brought this topic to my therapist recently and she said, <generally speaking > When the husband goes to work he goes to work. When the wife goes to work she is working+coordinating carpool+scheduling dr appointments+ organizing playdates+ keeping up with where kids are/supposed to be and what they need.
How can you make your schedule look more like your husbands? I'm looking into hiring a "mother's helper" as they are more cost efficient but will help me stay organized and be another set of hands around the house. Stay tuned!

Jaime-MomBrain

@SustainableMama should be able to answer this! We took her parenting course and it was life changin!!

Camryn-MomBrain

How thoughtful and considerate of you! My husband gave me an additional band for our 5yr and I typically just wear my bands and keep my ring in the safe for special occasions. How about keeping the stones and rearranging for a refreshed look?

Jaime-MomBrain

Leaving the Workforce to Be a Stay-at-Home Mom? Here’s the Real Talk You Need!

Thinking about trading deadlines for diaper duty? You’re not alone! Many moms wrestle with the big question: "Should I leave my job to be a stay-at-home mom?" Let’s break it down—mom style.

The Real Struggles (We See You, Mama!)
Career vs. Family: Feeling torn? You’re not imagining it—it’s HARD to juggle it all!
Money, Honey: Losing an income is real. Budget, plan, and maybe find a side hustle.
Identity Crisis: You’re more than a snack-fetcher. Keep a hobby, stay connected, and don’t forget YOU.

So… Should You Do It?
Ask yourself: Can we afford it? Will I miss work? What’s best for my family right now?
Look into options: Remote work, freelancing, or part-time gigs could be a sweet spot.
Trust your gut: There’s no perfect answer. Do what feels right for YOU.

Being a SAHM is rewarding but also challenging—so give yourself grace. No guilt, no pressure. Just love (and maybe some coffee).

Camryn-MomBrain

Such a good question and tale as old as time. My answer: You don't.
If you're working then you have to outsource. Hire someone to fold your laundry and clean up the kitchen a couple times a week, out source lawn care, grocery shopping etc
This is the only way that I have found that it's manageable. I absolutely do not want to spend the time with my kids frantically trying to stay afloat...I doubt any of us do. It is expensive to hire help, but it's priceless for the sanity saving aspect.
You just simply cannot do two full time jobs. At least, I haven't been able to!

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