Miranda Rake
Miranda is a frequent contributor to Romper, where she examines parenthood from every angle, with a particular interest in maternal mental health. She explores everything from moms who use psychedelic mushrooms to why so many American moms are on antidepressants, and from the meaning of Shiv Roy’s pregnancy to how (unfortunately) great it is to drink a whole lot less. Before joining Romper, she worked for more than a decade as a food writer at publications like Imbibe, Food52, and Food & Wine. She holds a masters degree in Food Studies from NYU, and a bachelors degree in Comparative Religion & Ethics from Willamette University.
She lives in Portland with her husband and two little kids, and is passionate about all of the usual stuff, like what Phoebe Waller-Bridge is up to, how her children are sleeping, good TV, and swimming in the warm sea. She thinks you should definitely cry-it-out because everything is easier after a good nights’ sleep. She also thinks that you should do what’s right for you instead of listening to her advice, because parenting is challenging, wonderful, and — most of all — deeply personal. She thinks you’re probably a really great parent, and she doesn’t really like leaf blowers or writing in the third person. For four years, she ran a small-batch jam company, as is typical for a Portland-based millennial like herself.
Shopping
8 Sensory Holiday Gift Ideas for Sensitive Kids
Shopping for a sensory-seeking kid who hates tags and loves the idea of a weighted stuffie? Here are 2024’s greatest hits — endorsed by OTs.
safety
Against Lockdown Drills
I took my kindergartener out of school for his first active shooter drill — and then I went down a rabbit hole.
back to school
Should We Be Redshirting Boys For Kindergarten?
In certain parent circles, conversations about “redshirting” are a perfect microcosm of our general anxiety about boys.
Parenting
Pediatrician Burnout Is Reaching Crisis Levels
A remarkable new statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics draws a picture of how the pandemic pushed children’s health care to its limits — and what needs to happen now.
Sweet Like Candy
The Supplement Industry Has Come For Kids
In recent years, a growing number of parents have turned to supplements to help their kids sleep, focus, and be healthy. But pediatricians are alarmed by how little we know about what our kids are taking.
Pregnancy
Prenatal Testing Offers Pregnant Women More Information Than Ever — But No Support To Deal With It
I expected prenatal testing to give me the “all clear” on my pregnancy; I was not prepared for the murky answers to the questions I had asked.
Entertainment
Chilli Heeler Is Every Mom On Vacation, Ever, In New Bluey Episode
I just need to do these 27 things, and then I can relax. Wait, it’s not working!
been there, buddy
Is Bandit Depressed? Fans Have Questions About The New 'Bluey' Episodes
And Bluey creator Joe Brumm has answers.
yeah babe
The 13 Best 'Bluey' Episodes About Bingo
Younger siblings deserve time in the spotlight, too.
do your future self a solid
12 Easy Freezer Meals To Make Returning To The Real World A Little Easier
January is hard. Make dinner easy.
does he feel warm to you?
This Fancy Forehead Thermometer Makes Cold Season A Little Easier
Because who wants something stuck in their ear? Definitely not your toddler.
Movies
What Parents Need To Know Before Taking Their Kids To See 'The Boy & The Heron'
The new Studio Ghibli film is getting rave reviews, and has been nominated for a Golden Globe. But should you take your kids to see it?
OK, boomer
What To Do If Relatives Say Hurtful Things To Your Kid At Christmas
How to prepare, repair, and help your kid move on.
The Weather Outside Is Frightful
8 Winter Solstice Recipes To Welcome The Shortest Day
There are so many delicious ways to celebrate the (slow) return of the light.
No Batteries Required
How To Ask Relatives Nicely To Give Your Kids Experiences Instead Of Toys
All those camps and swim lessons can really add up.
Can't catch me
The Best Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Cookie Recipe, Ever
I've been making these easy gingerbread cut-out cookies every Christmas for a decade and they never fail.
Holiday Baking
7 Christmas Cookie Icing Recipes That Make Decorating A Breeze
From super simple glaze recipes to classic royal icing, there’s a recipe here for everyone.
it's the thought that counts
How To Handle Relatives Who Go Overboard With Christmas Gifts
An etiquette expert explains how to manage your kids’ feelings, as well as the onslaught of stuff.
Let It Snow
12 Calm, Cozy Christmas Movies & Specials For Toddlers
All the wonders of the season, no scary surprises.
Tree Talk
How To Keep Your Christmas Tree Fresh & Healthy, All Season Long
Hint: You can skip the soda.
