Mom And Dad Are Fighting | Slate's Parenting Show

On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak answer a question about a princess-obsessed little girl who keeps asking if she can marry her mom. The mom finds it sweet but doesn’t know how to respond.  Recommendations:  Jamilah: Vintage Contemporaries by Dan Kois   Zak: Keep Going First Aid Kit Elizabeth: Help Your Kids with Adolescents by DK.  If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help support our work. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episodes.  Podcast produced by Rosemary Belson and Maura Currie. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak catch up on their week in parenting—which includes a lunchbox meltdown, a terrible board game, and bribing a kid to verbalize his emotions. Then they talk about parent shaming and share some wild listener submitted stories. Finally, on Slate Plus, they talk about the thing many parents are missing.   If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help support our work. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episodes.  Podcast produced by Rosemary Belson and Maura Currie. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth do a hard pivot from winter break to summer break. They help a new parent who wants to know how she should best structure the summer for her kid and herself. They also answer a follow-up question about kids lashing out at parents in anger. Only this time, what to do if your kid calls you names when they’re not angry.  Recommendations:  Elizabeth recommends Loop Ear Plugs Zak recommends DIY soup stocks Jamilah recommends the docuseries, Don’t Pick Up the Phone.  If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help support our work. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episodes.  Podcast

On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth tackle a question about an introverted seven-year-old. She gets along with her classmates and is invited to parties but once she arrives, she keeps to herself. Her parents want to make sure she’s comfortable and having a good time—even if she’s not fully participating.  Then on Slate Plus, inspired by this article in Metro Parent, the hosts discuss what parenting trends they’d like to see in 2023 and which ones they wish would disappear.  If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help support our work. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episodes.  Podcast produced by Rosemary Be

On this episode: We dig into our overflowing mailbox and read some delightful letters about fourth grade weddings, emergency entertainment, and more! Then Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth advise a listener who is uncomfortable with how her friends parent their child. Our listener has tried to combat the parents’ unrealistic expectations and overcorrections but only sees the child once a year. Is there a good way to voice these concerns?  Recommendations:  Elizabeth recommends the Philips Sonicare app for kids.  Jamilah recommends Red Lip Theology by Candice Marie Benbow.  Zak recommends reading an actual book before bed.  If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help support our work. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us

On this episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth catch up on their eventful winter travel—including a trip to Las Vegas that “ruined” one of the kid’s childhood. Then they offer advice to a listener who doesn’t know what else to do. Her three and a half year old son will not stop calling her “stupid” any time a boundary is enforced. How can she stop the behavior while also addressing her own hurt feelings? Then on Slate Plus, Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth compare notes about how well they were able to keep the kids busy over the break to see if there’s any strategies to make the next time easier.  If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help support our work. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s

On this episode: Our favorite Plus segments of 2022. Jamilah, Elizabeth, Zak, and guest-hosts relive the funniest places they’ve been lost and the scary moments where they left their own kids behind, debate the merits of automated strollers, feel triumphant that even the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge can’t avoid the “f*ck you fours, share some of the funniest things their kids have said, and ask if you could swap bodies w/ your kid for a day—Freaky Friday style—would you?.    If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help support our work. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episodes.  Podcast produced by Rosemary Belson and

On this bonus episode from our friends at Slate's Working podcast: host Karen Han poses a listener’s question to co-host Isaac Butler about how to be a parent and how to remain a creative person. They ponder the challenges of parenthood, but also the joy and inspiration it can bring. They also share advice for staying creative and finding time for your work.  Do you have a question about creative work? Call us and leave a message at (304) 933-9675 or email us at working@slate.com.    Podcast production by Kevin Bendis and Cameron Drews. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode: Our annual holiday party. We’ve gathered the MADAF kids around the mic and they finally get a chance to share how they think their parents are doing. They do a round of triumphs and fails, play a quick game, and offer some recommendations. Plus we have a very special audio holiday card delivery. The former hosts of MADAF called in to update us on how life is going.  Recommendations:  Naima recommends Wednesday.  Noa recommends the Arthur podcast.  Ami recommends sneak attack hugs and playing with balls.   Henry recommends The Mysterious Benedict Society (TV show). Oliver recommends The Mysterious Benedict Society (Books). Teddy recommends the Bluey Board Game  If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help support our work. Join us on Facebook and emai

On this episode: We’re diving into our overflowing mailbag! Then we’re advising a parent who is hoping to break an eight-year-old out of the screentime cycle—without making TV or games a forbidden fruit.  Recommendations:  Zak recommends Homeward Bound Jamilah recommends Wednesday Elizabeth recommends the MÅLA portable drawing case from Ikea Episodes mentioned:  Behind Their Screens Surviving the Holidays With Picky Eaters Please Stop Shrieking! Supporting Gender Expression and Exploration Wrangling Preschool Tornadoes If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help support our work. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episo

On this episode: It’s a triple fail week! Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth commiserate over running out of patience and they revel in a school picture so unfortunate it could be a meme. Then they answer a question from a listener whose kid is interested in too many things and is having a hard time narrowing down the activity wish-list. Then on Slate Plus, they weigh in on a Slate Parenting Facebook group post about a 4th grade wedding that went down at school.  If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help support our work. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episodes.  Podcast produced by Rosemary Belson and Kristie Taiwo-Makan

On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth are joined by Slate writer, editor, and former Mom and Dad are Fighting host, Dan Kois, who is here to urge parents (and teens) to get trained to administer Narcan. He first wrote about the “miracle” tool in his piece: Parents, You Need Narcan. Essentially, the drug is a powerful tool that’s easy to use, widely available, and will give people peace of mind knowing that if there’s an emergency—you’re prepared.  Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth also answer a question from a listener who is wondering if they should prioritize school friends or family friends. They then finish the show with a quick round of recommendations.  Recommendations:  Zak recommends You Need a Manifesto.  Elizabeth recommends The Cinnamon Bear.  Jamilah recommends preordering Vintage Contemporaries by Dan Kois.  If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supp

On this episode: Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth recap their week in parenting. Then Elizabeth speaks with Megan McNamee, MPH, RDN, of Feeding Littles about how to feed your kids this holiday season and beyond. Then on Slate Plus, Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth discuss what to do if someone criticizes your parenting style.  If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help support our work. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episodes.  Podcast produced by Rosemary Belson and Kristie Taiwo-Makanjuola. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth advise a parent whose first grader got mad at her for looking up ‘girl sweaters’ online. The first grader has also previously said that they want to be a boy, not a girl. Our letter writer wants to be supportive but doesn’t know if she should go all-in or sit back and let her kid reveal who they are.  Additional resources:  The Center How to Be a Girl  Supporting My Nonbinary Teen (Part one of ‘Teen Talk’)  We also have an exciting update from the listener who couldn’t handle the seat-belt war and occasionally let them drive unbuckled.  Recommendations:  Jamilah recommends chicken with miso caramelized apples, based on this pork chop recipe.  Elizabeth recommends Dot to Dot In the Sky: Stories of the Aurora by Joan Marie Galat Zak recommends this Naomi Fisher Twitter thread on child development Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk ab

On this episode, the hosts give advice to a mom whose daughter is having a hard time processing big emotions, which has been leading to frequent meltdowns. They’ve tried pretty much everything she can think of but the shrieking still persists. She’s worried about her daughter being in these prolonged states and, furthermore, they’re concerned that if the screaming continues, a neighbor will call the authorities. It’s a really tricky situation and Jamilah, Zak, and Elizabeth have some suggestions.  Then on Slate Plus, they discuss setting boundaries with grandparents. If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help support our work. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas

On this episode: Zak, Jamilah, and Elizabeth advise a mom who is ashamed of her teenager’s behavior. Her son and a friend were using the word ‘gay’ as an insult when talking about her son’s best friend behind his back. She’s already talked with him but she doesn’t know where to go from there.  Recommendations:  Jamilah recommends Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.  Elizabeth recommends the books Fatty Legs and When I Was Eight.  Zak recommends the Arthur podcast.  Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episodes.  Podcast produced by Rosemary Belson and Kristie Taiwo-Makanjuola. If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help suppo

On this bonus episode from our friends at Slate's How To! podcast: As Kate’s teenage son, Sam, approached college she noticed him withdrawing. He wasn’t excited about his future and started to show symptoms of major depression. It came to a crisis point one summer night before Sam was set to leave for school. In the weeks and months that followed, Sam struggled to navigate the mental health system in search of care. And Kate? Kate was left wondering how she could help her son without being overbearing. On this episode of How To!, guest host Carvell Wallace brings on Dr. Christine Moutier, psychiatrist and the chief medical officer for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. She advises Kate and all of us on how to be appropriately supportive, especially when things get to a scary place. She also reveals how she coped when her own teenager experienced a mental health crisis.  Resources: If you or anyone you know is in crisis, dial 988 or text TALK to 741741.  American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak are joined by author and editor, Travis Nichols. He wrote a wonderful piece for Slate all about his son’s strategic, unique approach to youth baseball. He figured out that if he doesn’t swing at pitches, he’s more likely to get on base. It was incredibly effective… but not in the spirit of the game. What’s a parent to do in that situation?  Recommendations:  Travis recommends voting in the Georgia runoff election.  Zak recommends finding some long, thermal underwear. Jamilah recommends this chocolate banana cake recipe from Joy of Baking. Elizabeth recommends art from Andrea Nelson on Instagram.  If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help support our work. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us

On this episode: Elizabeth, Jamilah, and Zak help a mom who feels like her house is in chaos. She wants to know what rules and expectations she can have of her kids now they’re approaching preschool. Can they help out with chores? Should they be expected to not fight at the dinner table? What, if any, punishments are acceptable?  They talk about Julie Beck’s article, Why Did We All Have the Same Childhood? on Slate Plus.  If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help support our work. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episodes.  Podcast produced by Rosemary Belson and Kristie Taiwo-Makanjuola. Learn more about your ad ch

On this episode: Zak is joined by Andy J. Pizza, storyteller, illustrator, and host of the show, Creative Pep Talk. They talk about childhood creativity and the big emotions that come from being a part of a creative family. Then they answer a question from a dad with ADHD who is feeling guilty he doesn’t find his kid’s activities enjoyable.  Recommendations:  Zak recommends the sketches Ford Focus Group and Brian’s Hat from the show, I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson. Andy recommends the film, About Time.  If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Mom and Dad are Fighting. Sign up now at slate.com/momanddadplus to help support our work. Join us on Facebook and email us at momanddad@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell us what you thought of today’s show, and give us ideas about what we should talk about in future episodes.