The hottest Parenting Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Tuesday night dinner

What Do We Do Now That We're Here? • 2408 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Film Parenting Emotions
  1. Finding moments of presence in everyday life can create special experiences, like enjoying dinner while listening to film scores. It's important to appreciate these small, joyful moments before they become memories.
  2. Film scores can evoke strong emotions and help connect with deeper feelings. They can change a regular evening into something meaningful simply through music.
  3. Building community and connection is crucial for emotional support. It helps both parents and lonely individuals find joy and purpose together.

How I taught my 3-year-old to read like a 9-year-old

The Intrinsic Perspective • 26836 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🚌 Education Child development Tutoring Reading Cognitive Science Parenting
  1. Teaching a child to read early can lead to them enjoying books and reading for pleasure. This habit can help with their brain development and emotional well-being.
  2. Using methods like reading together, fun activities, and spaced repetition can make learning to read more effective and enjoyable for kids.
  3. The process of teaching reading requires patience and flexibility, as each child learns at their own pace. Making it fun is key to keeping them interested.

Ask a Divorced Person (in 2025)

Culture Study • 2795 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Relationships Divorce Parenting Mental health Social Dynamics
  1. Divorce can be a positive step for people in unhealthy relationships. It can bring freedom and greatly improve overall happiness.
  2. It's normal to feel guilty and uncertain about wanting a divorce, but it's important to prioritize your own happiness and well-being.
  3. Communication about feelings and the state of a relationship is key. Talking openly with a partner can help clarify whether to stay or leave.

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 659 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media Lifestyle Consumption Parenting Observations
  1. Democratic officials misrepresented the economy, causing confusion among voters. It's important to get the facts right so people can understand what's really happening.
  2. The writer mentions a personal struggle with family illnesses, showing how common it is for sickness to spread in households. It's a reminder that health can change quickly.
  3. The author shares a mix of articles and perspectives they consumed, emphasizing the value of staying informed through different sources. Reading widely can help us understand various viewpoints better.

'Aging is another word for living'

What Do We Do Now That We're Here? • 4220 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Aging Mental health Parenting Self-care Lifestyle
  1. Aging should be seen as a natural part of life, not something to fear or fight against. Embracing the changes can lead to more joy and freedom.
  2. Taking short breaks for self-care can really improve your mood and relationships. It's important to carve out time for yourself, even if it's just a little.
  3. You don’t always have to keep your options wide open. Sometimes, making firm choices can lead to more happiness rather than feeling stuck in endless possibilities.
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When the student is ready, the teacher will appear

Austin Kleon • 7873 implied HN points • 23 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Education Parenting
  1. It's back to school time, which can make parents reflect on how fast their kids are growing up. Keeping busy with projects like writing or crafting can help with those feelings.
  2. Many famous artists and writers use simple supplies like scissors, glue, or index cards to create their work. It shows that you don't need fancy tools to be creative.
  3. A mixtape can be a fun way to connect different themes or moments in life. It's also interesting how the term 'blue moon' can mean two different things depending on how it’s used.

Our Product is Permission

Freddie deBoer • 12407 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media Social Trends Parenting
  1. Many people today often make excuses for their choices, believing life is too hard to do what's right instead of what's easy. This mindset can lead to unhealthy habits and a lack of personal accountability.
  2. There has been a cultural shift where values like authenticity, artistic integrity, and genuine relationships are being overshadowed by the pursuit of fame and comfort. It’s important to continually challenge ourselves and be open to growth.
  3. The rise of social media has allowed people to embrace slouching standards in lifestyle and behavior, leading to a rejection of former norms like dressing well or valuing hard work. It's crucial to recognize the impact of these changes on our culture.

Girl Belongs to the World

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 2096 implied HN points • 18 May 25
🎭️ Culture Parenting Humor Social Behavior Child development Relationships
  1. Kids have a moment when they realize they are joking, which shows a shift in their social understanding. It's fun to see their expressions change as they enter this new playful space.
  2. Adults can joke without needing a clear transition, showing sophistication in humor. This helps keep conversations lively and engaging.
  3. As a parent, kids may see you as a tool for fun or food, and they'll get more independent as they grow. Children can quickly shift from playful to serious, showing their cleverness in social interactions.

Links, May 2025

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 755 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🎭️ Culture Media Society History Parenting Politics
  1. The 'Lost Cause' narrative around DOGE is misleading. People need to recognize the falsehoods behind it to address real budget issues.
  2. Cruise ships are getting bigger and better because they aren't held back by strict regulations. This shows how market decisions can lead to impressive innovations.
  3. The unification of Italy was influenced more by foreign victories than by internal strength. It's interesting to see how some states are formed in unusual ways.

Why are tech people suddenly so into homeschooling?

Cloud Irregular • 3400 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🚌 Education Homeschooling Child development Parenting
  1. More tech parents are choosing to homeschool their kids. They see it as a way to give their children a better, more tailored education.
  2. Many homeschooling parents want to 'opt out' of average society. They think that keeping their kids away from regular school and its challenges can help them succeed.
  3. Homeschooling can help kids learn valuable skills, but it might also lead to issues with social connection and resilience. It's important for kids to experience challenges to grow.

40 Thoughts On Turning 40 | #287

Boundless by Paul Millerd • 489 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Personal Growth Relationships Parenting
  1. Making big life changes can be really scary, but they often lead to positive outcomes. It's never too early to take risks and explore what truly makes you happy.
  2. Finding work that you love can take time, but it's worth the effort. Good work should feel fulfilling not just now, but also when you look back on it.
  3. Parenting is tough and full of surprises, but it's also incredibly rewarding. It reminds you to embrace joy, learn from your children, and focus on what's really important in life.

In Defense of the Great American Sleepover

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 5420 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Childhood Parenting Social norms Education Traditions
  1. Sleepovers are an important part of childhood and can help build friendships and social skills. They create lasting memories and experiences together.
  2. Some people believe that fewer sleepovers could lead to better academic outcomes and more focus on studying. They suggest prioritizing education over social activities.
  3. Critics of eliminating sleepovers argue that balance is key. Both social experiences and academic pursuits are important for a well-rounded development.

why it's impossible to finish anything, especially the good things

Both Are True • 245 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
📚 Literature Essays Writing Creativity Parenting Personal Growth
  1. Distractions often keep us from finishing our ideas. When we start something, everyday things like parenting or chores can pull us away.
  2. The closer we get to completing a project, the more we might doubt its worth. It's common to think an idea isn't good enough as we work on it.
  3. Acknowledging our fears about sharing finished work is tough, but creating and putting it out there is essential. We have to be brave and share our creations, no matter the fear.

#206: Hosting parties, having babies, being “original”

Maybe Baby • 1192 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Friendship Parenting Socialization Originality Connection
  1. Making friends can happen at any age, and it's normal to want connection. Even if life changes, there are always people looking for friendship.
  2. Hosting parties can be a great way to connect with others, even for introverts. It's about taking a chance to invite people and create opportunities for fun together.
  3. Knowing when you're ready to have kids is personal, and it's okay to feel unsure. Communication with your partner is key, and thinking about your family dynamics can help you decide.

How Jonathan Haidt Won the Fight Against Smartphones in Schools

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 4655 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🚌 Education Teaching Methods Child development Digital Literacy School Policy Parenting
  1. Having rules about smartphone use in schools helps students connect better with their teachers. Many teachers noticed students paying more attention and being more respectful after limiting phone use.
  2. The shift away from screens in the classroom has made a positive difference in students' behavior and engagement. Teachers are seeing students who are more willing to participate and communicate.
  3. Promoting more unsupervised play can help children develop important social skills. This balance is important to counteract the heavy use of technology in their lives.

18 Paying Pitch Calls and a Chance to Write About Chilly Movies

The Sub Club Newsletter • 317 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Writing Movies History Media Parenting
  1. There are 18 different pitch calls available this week for writers looking to get paid. It's a great chance for anyone to get their stories published.
  2. Writers should focus on making their stories feel timely and relevant. Adding a current angle to historical topics can help attract interest.
  3. There's a free workshop available to learn how to write effective pitches. It can help improve your chances of getting published by teaching you what editors want.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 40

Why is this interesting? • 120 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Arts Literature Social Events Nature Parenting
  1. Casual parties can be fun! In the past, people would invite friends over last minute and not worry about getting dressed up.
  2. Beavers can also be great helpers. Their dams saved a Czech government a lot of money because they help manage water flow.
  3. Reading to kids is more than just fun. It can improve breathing and create special moments between parents and children.

Where the Magic Doesn’t Happen

After Babel • 3133 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Technology Education Faith Parenting Philosophy
  1. Technology can make personal development harder. Instead of helping kids grow and learn, instant access to things distracts them from meaningful experiences.
  2. Magic, or instant and effortless results, should not be in places where kids learn and grow. Schools, homes, and churches need to avoid tech that takes away from real relationships and hard work.
  3. Even a short break from screens can help families reconnect. When tech is removed, people quickly find joy in being together and engaging in real life.

The Year The Phone-Based Childhood Began To Reverse

After Babel • 2302 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Child development Parenting Technology impact Social media
  1. Many believe that 2012 marked the start of a mental health crisis for young people, but 2024 might be when it starts to improve. There is a shift in awareness about the negative effects of smartphones and social media on kids.
  2. The problems children face today include being overprotected in real life while not being protected enough online. This has led to a deep concern for young people's mental health and has sparked conversations about how to fix it.
  3. It's important for kids to have opportunities for risk and independence while playing. Allowing them some freedom can actually make them safer and help prevent potential mental health issues.

How to Show Up For Your Friends Without Kids — and How to Show Up For Kids and Their Parents

Culture Study • 5719 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Community Relationships Parenting Self-care Social norms
  1. Many people feel left out or lonely, regardless of their life situation. It's important to remember that everyone has their own struggles and we should support each other instead of comparing who's worse off.
  2. People want and need help, but often don’t ask for it. We need to communicate better about how we can support each other in our daily lives.
  3. Building and maintaining friendships takes effort and can be messy. Sometimes it's not fun, but it's valuable because it helps us feel connected and cared for.

if you drink enough coffee you start peeing coffee

Both Are True • 155 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Parenting Writing Mental health Creativity Personal Growth
  1. It's okay to write about simple, everyday things, like kids or pets. Those topics can hold deep meaning, even if they seem easy.
  2. Children can remind us of the joy and love in life. They let us see the world differently and embrace our own innocence.
  3. Life doesn't have to be hard or complicated. Sometimes the best ideas come from a place of relaxation and simplicity.

The way you wanted to feel

Austin Kleon • 5295 implied HN points • 28 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Film Parenting Philosophy
  1. Riding a bike can make you feel like a kid again, giving you a sense of joy you wanted when you were younger. It's important to give yourself those little joys in life.
  2. Think about what you loved doing as a child because it can help you discover your passions today. Reflecting on those moments can guide your hobbies and career choices.
  3. Creative work often connects with childhood memories. Embracing what made you happy as a kid can inspire you to be more creative and fulfilled now.

Why I Don’t Homeschool

The Analog Family • 1458 implied HN points • 19 Aug 24
🚌 Education Public Schools Homeschooling Child development Curriculum Parenting
  1. The public school system in Ontario can be good enough for many families. It offers physical activities, creative learning, and outdoor experiences, unlike some more extreme examples seen elsewhere.
  2. The author loves her job and doesn't want to pause her career for homeschooling. She feels it's important to balance work and family life while still providing education.
  3. Education is about more than just school. The author believes in filling learning gaps with real-life experiences, discussions, and activities at home, emphasizing ongoing education outside of the classroom.

The Momfluencer Who Went to Jail

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 867 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social media Parenting Influencers Abuse Childhood
  1. Ruby Franke, a social media influencer, was arrested for child abuse after her son showed signs of neglect. This case shines a light on the darker side of online parenting.
  2. Her daughter Shari has shared her experiences growing up, highlighting the difference between Ruby's public persona and the reality at home.
  3. The situation raises questions about the impact of sharing family life online and how it can hide serious issues beneath the surface.

Best of The Free Press: We’re All Gonna Make It

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1799 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Travel Philosophy Parenting
  1. Even in tough times, there's a sense of optimism that things can get better. It's about hoping for change and taking action instead of giving in to despair.
  2. People are finding joy in unexpected places, like celebrating together even when plans go wrong. It's about making the best out of challenging situations.
  3. There’s a shift in how young people view education, with many choosing southern colleges over prestigious Ivy League schools for a more enjoyable experience and a different environment.

Don't Tell Your Parents

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 170 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Childhood Empathy Entertainment Parenting Perception
  1. Kids see the world differently than adults do. They have unique perspectives and experiences that adults often struggle to understand.
  2. Entertainment for kids used to create a sense of adventure and secrecy, but now it often feels like adults are trying too hard to be relatable. This can take away the excitement for children.
  3. Empathy is important for both kids and adults. Understanding each other's viewpoints can help bridge the gap in communication and lead to better relationships.

[Débrief] 10 choses à savoir sur le TDAH

L'Atelier Galita • 179 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Neurology Psychiatry Education Parenting
  1. ADHD is not just about attention problems. People with ADHD can have intense focus (hyperfocus) on things they enjoy, but struggle to concentrate on tasks they find boring.
  2. ADHD affects both men and women equally, but many women go undiagnosed because the symptoms can present differently compared to men, leading to a lack of awareness.
  3. ADHD isn't just a childhood issue; many adults also experience it, but they often suffer in silence because they weren't diagnosed as kids and the school environment makes symptoms more apparent.

Vigil

The Intrinsic Perspective • 18132 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24
📚 Literature Essays Nature Animals Philosophy Parenting
  1. The author finds a wounded rabbit and reflects on the nature of life and death. He is torn between wanting to help the rabbit and recognizing the harsh realities of nature.
  2. Through caring for the rabbit, he grapples with his own moral beliefs about animal life and the contradictions in being a meat-eater.
  3. As he takes the rabbit to a wildlife rehabilitation center, he contemplates the bigger questions of existence, connecting his feelings about the rabbit to deeper ideas about life and its fragility.

15 things I consumed this thing

Maybe Baby • 550 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Parenting Personal Politics Trends
  1. A lot is happening with the Israel-Hamas conflict and there was a recent ceasefire agreement discussed in a New Yorker interview. It's interesting to learn how these agreements come about.
  2. Balancing life with a toddler can be tough, especially when they keep you up at night. It shows how parenting can be challenging and exhausting.
  3. Consuming different media can give us fresh perspectives on ongoing events. It’s good to stay informed and think about how various stories connect to our lives.

America Should Not Become a Nation of Tiger Moms

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1321 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Parenting Education Society Mental health Creativity
  1. Life is about more than just chasing a high salary or getting into a prestigious college. People need to enjoy their lives and find happiness in other ways.
  2. Overly strict parenting, like the 'Tiger Mom' approach, can lead to anxiety and depression in children. It's important to let kids have fun and make friends instead of just focusing on grades and achievements.
  3. A society that values creativity and risk-taking is important. Not everyone needs to be competitive; we need people doing everyday jobs too, like fixing cars or caring for others.

#196: What else is there?

Maybe Baby • 2845 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Community Parenting Mental health Personal Growth Social connection
  1. Cleaning can be a way to cope with feelings of anger and frustration. Taking action, like organizing your space, can help you feel more in control.
  2. Being part of a community can help reduce feelings of isolation. Simple interactions, like greeting neighbors or attending local events, can bring joy and connection.
  3. Leaving your comfort zone is important for personal growth. Taking small steps to engage with the world outside can lead to better mental health and a sense of belonging.

Pressed by Moms for Liberty, Florida school district adds clothing to illustrations in classic children's books

Popular Information • 12854 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Censorship Children's Books Education Parenting
  1. Florida school district adds clothing to illustrations in classic children's books due to challenges from Moms for Liberty
  2. Challenges included concerns about nudity and obscenity in books like 'In The Night Kitchen'
  3. Alterations to books in libraries raise questions about censorship and the rights of readers

#202: A Maybe Baby year in review

Maybe Baby • 806 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Essays Parenting Style Podcasts Existential
  1. The author reflects on a year of ups and downs in their writing journey, sharing insights from their personal and creative life.
  2. There are exciting offerings for subscribers, including essays, recommendations, and podcasts that cover various topics, especially parenting and culture.
  3. A special promotion is available for new subscribers, making it a good time to access exclusive content and connect with the community.

Embracing NYC through a cold February

Soaring Twenties • 131 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Urban life Parenting Personal Growth Travel Family Dynamics
  1. Embracing your current situation can lead to personal growth. Finding beauty in everyday life, even in a cold winter, can make you appreciate your surroundings more.
  2. Dreaming of nicer places won't change your challenges. Problems don’t disappear just because you’re in a different location; what matters is how you deal with them now.
  3. Instead of wishing for a perfect scenario elsewhere, focus on making your current life fulfilling. Cherishing the little moments with loved ones can bring warmth to even the coldest days.

The BIG GUIDE to teaching LITTLE PEOPLE how to sound out words

The Intrinsic Perspective • 7162 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🚌 Education Teaching Parenting Literacy Child development Learning methods
  1. Teaching kids to read can be done much faster at home than in traditional schools. A few minutes of one-on-one tutoring each day can help them start reading within a year.
  2. Many current reading methods are too complicated for young kids. It’s better to make learning fun and game-like instead of following strict rules and lessons.
  3. The process of teaching reading should begin with simple sounds and slowly progress to full sentences, focusing on what interests the child. This makes reading enjoyable and engaging.

I should not be left to my own devices

Jeff Giesea • 798 implied HN points • 03 Sep 24
🎭️ Culture Society Mental health Parenting Media Digital Culture
  1. The rise of smartphones and social media has led to increased anxiety and depression in Gen Z, starting around 2010. Parents are encouraged to be stricter with screen time while allowing more freedom in real life.
  2. Many adults, including parents, struggle with their own screen addiction, making it hard to guide younger generations. It's important to recognize personal habits before teaching children about healthy device usage.
  3. Empathy for Gen Z's struggles is crucial, as they face unique challenges in a digital world. Understanding their experiences can help foster better communication and support.

why isn't there an A24 for kids?

Both Are True • 316 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Parenting Entertainment Media Art
  1. Kids' shows often lack quality and depth, making parents feel frustrated. There's a desire for children's entertainment to be more meaningful and engaging.
  2. There's a call for a new type of kids' entertainment, similar to the indie film vibe, that tackles real emotions and experiences. The idea is to create stories that aren't just light and fluffy.
  3. Finding good, classic content for kids can be a challenge. Parents want options that are both entertaining and enriching for their children.

The Book of Love

Everything Is An Emergency • 2525 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
📚 Literature Memoir Creative Writing Personal Reflection Parenting Grief
  1. The author grapples with how to keep the memory of her deceased husband alive for their newborn daughter. She wants to make him a real part of Athena's life, not just a memory.
  2. Writing serves as a way to confront grief and maintain a connection with the past, helping the author hold onto memories of her husband while also creating new stories with her daughter.
  3. The author reflects on the difficulty of moving forward after loss, balancing the urge to keep her husband's story alive while also accepting that she must let him go in some ways.

Elon Musk the dadfluencer + The female creator safety tax

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 2508 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Social media Influencers Parenting Safety Music
  1. Elon Musk is trying to change how people see him by showing himself as a caring dad. He brings his son to public events to create a more relatable image.
  2. Female creators face higher safety costs than male creators, often needing to spend a lot of money to protect themselves from threats like doxxing and stalking.
  3. Spotify's influence on music has changed how artists create and how listeners enjoy music. The platform's algorithms have reshaped music production and industry dynamics.