New Mexico to become first state to offer universal child care
New Mexico will be the first state to provide free universal child care. Find out what this means for families.
Back-to-school costs up 5%: Expert shares tips to help save | ChicagoNOW
Back-to-school season is officially here, and parents are facing a different kind of homework: managing the rising costs. Prices for supplies, tech, and activities are up about 5% compared to last year. Financial expert Pattie Ehsaei discusses smart and practical strategies to help families stretch their dollar while still setting kids up for a successful school year.
Most parents fall into debt for their children: Survey
A survey reveals that soaring living costs are pushing most parents into debt. Many say it’s becoming “unmanageable."
Illinois lawmaker, DCFS dispute legality of intern investigators in child abuse cases
An Illinois lawmaker is accusing DCFS of breaking state law by allowing uncertified interns to conduct child abuse and neglect investigations, while the agency says all investigators meet legal certification requirements.
Naming your baby? Speech pathologist shares toddler-friendly name tips | ChicagoNOW
If you're expecting a baby, you've probably already considered the usual factors: family ties, popularity, and maybe avoiding an ex's name. Have you ever thought about how easily your child will be able to pronounce their name? Chloe Conrad, a licensed speech-language pathologist, went viral for naming a few baby names she'd personally skip because they can be tough for toddlers to say.
Disney influences thousands of baby names every year: See the list
A new study is revealing the most popular baby names inspired by Disney characters. Here’s which names made the list.
'Queen of Kids Music' Laurie Berkner talks upcoming Ravinia show | ChicagoNOW
While this guest began her career playing in rock bands, she's now known as the "Queen of Kids music," credited with launching a brand new genre with award-winning albums and over a billion streams. Laurie from the Laurie Berkner Band shares how she connects with families and what fans can look forward to at her performance at Ravinia this weekend.
These are the best states to have a baby, new study finds
Here’s which state topped the list as the best state to have a baby, thanks to top-tier health care, low infant mortality and strong family support policies.
'Trump accounts' for newborns could grow to $1.9M, Treasury says
Even without additional contributions beyond the initial $1K deposit, the Treasury estimates the account could grow to $13,800 in 18 years.
Should you talk to babies like adults? A development expert explains | ChicagoNOW
There's a "momfluencer" on TikTok named Alex Bennett who talks to her baby like an adult. It's gone viral, and it's very cute. So we wanted to know, is this good for the baby? Or is there a reason there's "baby talk?" Michigan State Professor Dr. Claire Vallotton explains the best way to talk to a baby.
CDC: US fertility rate dropped to all-time low in 2024
The fertility rate has been sliding in America for close to two decades as women wait longer to have kids or choose not to have them at all.
Nearly two-thirds of parents say they’ve gone into debt for summer camp or activities
Summer child care is breaking the bank. A new survey reveals how much parents are spending to keep their kids busy during the break.
Viral 'Daddy Strolls' give Chicago fathers space to share wins and struggles
A Chicago dad founded the Daddy Victory Club to give fathers — especially Black dads — a supportive space to share parenting challenges, celebrate small wins, and connect through viral “Daddy Strolls."
Poll shows most Americans feel child care costs are a 'major problem'
Most Americans agree child care costs are a major issue in the U.S., but they don’t agree on how to fix it.
