Northwestern Medicine unveils National Institute of Health Baby Toolbox | ChicagoNOW
video

Developmental scientists and medical social science experts at Northwestern University have spearheaded the creation of the most recent National Institute of Health Toolbox. This provides the newest nationally standardized assessment of cognitive, language, motor and social-emotional skill development in infants aged 16 days to 42 months. Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine's Richard Gershon discusses what led to the toolbox's creation.

Back-to-school costs up 5%: Expert shares tips to help save | ChicagoNOW
video

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."

National Middle Child Day: New book 'Being Middle' celebrates the forgotten sibling
video

Author Lori Orlinsky and her daughter Ellie join us on National Middle Child Day to share a heartwarming new book that gives middle kids the spotlight they deserve.

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
video

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.

'Queen of Kids Music' Laurie Berkner talks upcoming Ravinia show | ChicagoNOW
video

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.

'Being Middle': New book gives middle children their moment to shine | ChicagoNOW
video

Middle children, often stuck between the overachieving oldest and the youngest, don't always get the spotlight. But that's about to change. National Middle Child Day is on August 12, and a new children's book called Being Middle is shining a light on the lovable middle kid. Here to talk about it are author Lori Orlinsky and the real-life inspiration behind the story, her daughter Ellie.

'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
video

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.

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."

Wonder Bubbles and Foam Fun Fest at Oak Park children's museum
video

It's a fun activities for kids and families, the Wonder Bubbles and Foam Fun Fest at the Wonder Works Children's Museum out in Oak Park.

5 unique travel destinations that go beyond the all-inclusive honeymoon
video

Emmy-winning travel host Alle Pierce shares her top five off-the-beaten-path getaways for couples?and anyone craving a one-of-a-kind escape.

Child care costs are highest in these states, study finds

The steep cost of child care in America is weighing on parents all over the country, but those in these particular states were found to feel the pinch the most.