FAFO vs. Gentle Parenting: Here’s What We Think

🫶 Hello from Our Chief Mom Officer

August is National Breastfeeding Month. Whether you’re nursing, pumping, formula feeding, combo feeding (hi, that was me 🙋‍♀️), or showing up for your baby in the ways you can, you're doing great.

I carried a heavy weight with my oldest, feeling like a failure because I didn’t produce enough milk to exclusively breastfeed. I tried everything to boost my supply. If I could tell that version of myself one thing, it would be: give yourself grace.

This month is a powerful reminder of how much access, education, and support matter, and that how you're feeding (or how you fed) your baby doesn’t define your worth. You’re doing great.

Take care of yourselves and each other. ❤️

XO, Randee

P.S. As we transition into August, here are some simple rituals I’m going to try to help get clarity amid the chaos.

❤️ Gentle Parenting versus FAFO Parenting

Our IG feeds are full of debates about gentle parenting vs. “f*** around and find out” (FAFO) parenting. We’re with Caitlin Murray of @bigtimeadulting: instead of picking a side, trust your gut when it comes to raising your own kids.

And if your gut needs a little guidance, that’s okay, too. Take what you want and need from articles, experts, and friends to do what works for you and your child. Every kid (yes, even siblings!) is different. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Do your best to raise a safe, happy, and healthy human. Remember: you’ve got this.

🍼 The Ultimate Guide to Pumping & Returning to Work

Going back to work while breastfeeding is a lot emotionally, physically, and logistically. It’s totally normal to feel overwhelmed but with a little prep (and some support), it really is possible to make the transition feel more doable.

Whether you’re stressing about pumping at work, wondering how to get your baby used to a bottle, or just feeling unsure where to even begin, this honest, practical guide from our partner Motif Medical is here to help you feel ready — and remind you that you’ve absolutely got this.

☀️ Doctor’s Orders: Get Outside and Play!

Did you know doctors are actually prescribing time outside? It can do wonders for your family’s physical, emotional, and mental health. If you’ve been looking for simple ways to support your child’s development (and maybe get a little fresh air yourself!), look no further than outside your window.

🛍️ Shop Our Favorite Brands

From pouched applesauce to hemmorroid cream, we’ve rounded up the brands we love (and actually use) on our site. We’re constantly adding new favorites. Think of it as your shortcut to the good stuff.

 🎒 Back to School Season is Almost Here

Our next newsletter is packed with our favorite back-to-school picks and tons of great content to help you and your kids feel ready to take on the new school year. Know another mama who’d love this kind of support? Forward this email their way and tell them to subscribe so they don’t miss a thing.