Care and Feeding | Slate's parenting show
Zak Rosen, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Lucy Lopez share triumphs and fails and offer advice on parenting kids from toddler to teens. Get more of Care and Feeding with Slate Plus, which unlocks weekly bonus episodes with exclusive advice and ad-free listening across all Slate podcasts.
Episodes
Dealing With Cha-Cha-Changes
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are talking about transitions. The summer time not only means fun in the sun, it also means lots of changes - from kids going to summer camp for the first time to kids starting to get ready for college. The ‘Rents unpack how they’re coping and helping their kids work through these times. Later in the episode, show producer Cheyna Roth j
A Summer Survival Toolkit
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are going to be taking a summer break after the June 11 episode. But fear not, they are still here to be your guides to a great summer. They swap ideas for keeping kids entertained without losing your sanity - from making play time a neighborhood affair to where to find the best summer deals. But first they have a round of triumphs
Leave the Dog Alone!
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen open up the mailbag and find a variety of questions. They give tips for teaching an eleven-year-old how to ride a bike, discuss how to keep a toddler from terrorizing the family pet, and offer advice to a mom looking for community in a new city. Mentioned in the Show:How to Make Friends as an Adult - How To!How to Make Friends and
How to Keep Your Wildness
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are joined by Austin Kleon. He’s the author of books like Steal Like an Artist and Show Your Work! Kleon has a new book out in June called Don’t Call It Art: 10 Ways to Create Like a Kid Again. He joins the ‘Rents to talk about rediscovering your wildness, how screens can actually help kids create, and how to cultivate a creative space
Bullying Help and Failure to Launch Syndrome
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are diving DEEP into the mailbag. They answer all your end of the year questions, like, is it too late to talk to your kid’s teacher about ongoing bullying; what do you do with a teen who won’t get off the couch and is at risk of losing his job; and more! Mentioned in the Show:Separation Anxiety in Overdrive - Care and FeedingPodca
The Secrets of Your Favorite Children’s Entertainment
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are talking all about the world of kids entertainment. And to help them out, they’re joined by non-other than the person responsible for some of the most iconic shows of your childhood—Blue’s Clues, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, and more! Angela Santomero is a children’s television creator in the grand tradition of Mister Roger and she h
The End of Hell Week
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen have a little bit of everything for you. First they share their triumphs and fails: Lucy brings tales of the theater kids, Elizabeth solicited her offering from the family, and Zak had a very special houseguest. Then, they dig into the mailbag and share your comments and triumphs. Finally, they do a dramatic reading of the hilarious ess
Bribing Kids to Read?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen debate if you should bribe your kid to read. They are joined by Katie Day Good, media educator, communication professor at Calvin University, and the author of Bring the World to the Child: Technologies of Global Citizenship in American Education. But perhaps most importantly…Katie has been paying her kids to read. She’ll explain why mo
First Dates & Diss Tracks
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen answer a classic dad conundrum. What should you do when meeting your daughter’s boyfriend for the first time? They also share their latest triumphs and fails. Including: a driving diss track, a mission impossible-type string, and the Detroit PistonsPodcast production by Cheyna Roth and Rosemary Belson. Follow us on YouTube! Jo
Are You a ‘Naked Mom?’
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen, inspired by a discussion on the Try Guys show Trolley Problems, talk about raising kids in ‘naked mom’ homes and if casual nudity actually creates pressure-free environments for children.They also share their latest triumphs and fails. Including: an amazing man-date, some needed shut-eye, a glowing night out, and a ‘bring your parents
Mother’s Day Special (Featuring Zak’s Mom!)
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are joined by a very special guest: Zak’s mom! Jo Strausz Rosen shares her motherhood journey and what it was like raising Zak and his sister. She also dispenses some invaluable wisdom about the importance of family, creativity, and friendship along the way. Podcast production by Cheyna Roth and Rosemary Belson. Follow us on Y
Should I Change My Trans Kid’s Name?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are joined by Mandy Giles, founder and CEO of Parents of Trans Youth, an organization that “provides learning, support, and community to parents and caregivers of transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse kids.” Mandy explains how parents can provide a safe, supportive space for their trans kids and helps a listener who is wondering if
Becoming a ‘Boy Mom’
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen answer a listener's question about becoming a ‘boy mom.’ They also share their latest triumphs and fails. Including: a newly-minted coach, the fastest homework ever completed, and some budding relationships. Podcast production by Cheyna Roth and Rosemary Belson. Follow us on YouTube! Join us on Facebook and email us at careand
Forcing Kids to Play Sports
On this episode: Lucy Lopez and Elizabeth Newcamp help Zak Rosen figure out if he should sign up his son for baseball, despite Ami having no interest in being on a team. They also answer a listener’s question about losing your identity amidst parenthood. This week on the Plus Playground: The one easy spring-cleaning task that will make your home feel better. Podcast production by Cheyna
My Kid Wants to Share a Bed With Their Partner. What Should I Do?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen help a listener whose 20-year-old step-kid is moving back home. Their kid’s partner is coming to visit. Which means there’s an old-fashioned question hanging in the air. Will they be allowed to share a bed?But first, they share their latest triumphs and fails. Including: an oatmeal breakdown, an unexpected use for mom underwear, and an
Third-Grade Fashion Faux Pax
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen answer a question from the Slate Parenting Facebook group about a kid who won’t stop wearing his clothes backwards. They also give a Mother’s Day PSA and talk about memorable Mother’s Day fails. This week on the Plus Playground: thoughtful Mother’s Day presents. Podcast production by Cheyna Roth and Rosemary Belson. Follo
Prom Dress Dilemma
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen help a mom who has found herself in the middle of a prom dress dilemma. Her daughter fell in love with a dress. Fantastic, right? The problem? Our letter-writer hates it. Should she say something or let her daughter wear whatever she wants? But first, they share their latest triumphs and fails. This week’s roundup includes an emerg
The Popsicle Brigade
On this episode: Elizabeth Newcamp seeks counsel from Lucy Lopez and Zak Rosen on a treat habit that has gotten out of hand. They also answer a listener question about an annoying toddler who will. not. wait. This week on the Plus Playground: A mega-round of science-y book recommendations. Podcast production by Cheyna Roth and Rosemary Belson. Follow us on YouTube! Join us on F
Support Your Child-Free Friends!
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen answer a question from a child-free listener. She's been putting in the work being a villager for her friends with kids. But now, when she needs someone in her corner, everyone is too busy. Is she expecting too much? But first, they share their latest triumphs and fails, which include: changing family culture, a movie that can’t be
Robots in the Classroom
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen discuss AI’s creep into education. Specifically, the latest news surrounding AI replacing teachers. Including: a school in Chicago announcing teacher-free learning starting this fall and first lady Melania Trump laying out a vision to have a “humanoid educator” in classrooms. They also answer a question about adding a dog to the fa
Impromptu Sex-Ed
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen share their triumphant week, which included smashed shells, sleep-over bravery, and an impromptu sex-ed explainer. They also answer a question about visiting a grandparent who is experiencing Alzheimer's. Podcast production by Cheyna Roth and Rosemary Belson. Video production by Micah Phillips. Follow us on YouTube! Join
Becoming ‘Smarter In Seconds’ w/ Blair Imani
On this episode: Elizabeth Newcamp sits down with Blair Imani, educator, historian, and content creator known for her ‘Smarter In Seconds’ series. She’s also the co-host of the podcast, Thoughts About Feelings, and the author of three books. Her latest is called Read This to Get Smarter. Blair walks Elizabeth through how to stay informed as a busy parent and break down complicated concepts to kids
Treat Your Preteen Like an Office Crush
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen help a mom who is upset her pretween is pulling away from her. They used to be super close. Now it’s all attitude and eye rolls. Is there a better way to parent a pretween? But first, they share their latest triumphs and fails—which include a trip to the bar, community aid, and money frustrations. They also share the pieces of medi
Protecting Kids on Roblox
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen give parents a primer on Roblox, the online gaming platform that is immensely popular with kids. They then share an interview from Slate’s What Next TBD. Host Lizzie O’Leary sat down with Mike Hilgers, the Nebraska Attorney General suing Roblox. Episodes mentioned: Are Your Kids Safe on Roblox?Is Gaming Taking Over Boys’ Lives
Teach Boys to Cry
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen answer a question about modeling emotions and teaching boys that it’s healthy to cry. They first check-in with Zak after the attack at Temple Israel, the Michigan synagogue that Zak went to growing up and where his family still belong. Mentioned on the show: Standing Together, a “progressive grassroots movement organizing Jewi
The Secret to Affordable Summer Camps
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen open up the mailbag to spotlight your advice on welcoming a second child into the family. They also sound the alarm (blow the bugle?) on summer camp planning. It’s time to sign up for summer activities. We need to hop to it because spots are filling up fast! Episodes mentioned:Postpartum Is Boring. Here’s How to Enjoy It.Second Kid
New Driver, Who Dis?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen help the dad of a new driver. His son just got his driver’s license and has been driving super carefully. Good right? Well, he’s not keeping up with the flow of traffic. Should he be encouraged to speed? They also share a round of triumphs and fails. Including an amazing Power Rangers-inspired trick to kill time, kids stepping up t
Preparing for Your Kid’s First Period
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are talkin’ periods! They are joined by Chloe Potter, co-founder of The Menstruality Academy, who walks them through preparing your kid for their first period, harnessing the power of the cycle, and breaking free from societal shame. (Chloe’s endometriosis podcast recommendation.) This week on the Plus Playground: planning th
Black. Single. Mother.
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are joined by former co-host and current Care & Feeding columnist, Jamilah Lemieux. They discuss her new book, Black. Single. Mother. Real Life Tales of Longing and Belonging, out March 10, 2026. Jamilah also joins for a round of triumphs and fails and answers some burning questions from listeners about life after the show. Pod
The Bad Husband Epidemic, Real or Rage Bait?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez and Elizabeth Newcamp are talking bad husbands this week. Not their husbands (though both are terrible gift givers). But it seems like everywhere on the internet lately there are a lot of wives posting about terrible things their husbands did, getting negative reactions, and then getting mad that people are attacking their husbands. The Cut even wrote a piece about it c
Can Parents Really Protect Kids From the A.I. Robots?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are talking artificial intelligence in schools. It’s everywhere! And one parent is worried about an assignment requiring her son to use A.I. They bring on Jeff Young from the Learning Curve podcast to unpack what the listener’s teacher was trying to get at, some good uses for ChatGPT (versus the bad ones), how A.I. ruined the em dash, a
Second Kid Scaries
On this episode: Lucy Lopez and Elizabeth Newcamp help Slate senior producer, Cheyna Roth, prepare to bring home her second child. They talk about everything from preventing sibling jealousy to handling two crying children at once. Then they answer a question from a prospective parent who is worried they’ll never sleep well again. This week on the Plus Playground: Life-changing baby gear vs t
Postpartum Is Boring. Here’s How to Enjoy It.
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Slate senior producer Cheyna Roth are talking the first few weeks and months of having a newborn. Let’s face it, those first few weeks and months of having a new baby are both busy…and can be incredibly boring. How can you make the most of the postpartum period? We’ve got scheduling tips, plus a little treat for you to make for yourself to enjoy
From ICYMI: Thank God For Petty Drama
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are on holiday, but we have something you’ll love from our sister podcast, ICYMI.Host Kate Lindsay is joined by Slate contributing writer David Mack to discuss the surge of niche celebrity drama unfolding in the midst of a horrifying news cycle. We’re cancelling the “Glambot guy”? Brooklyn Beckham broke up with his family via Instagram
Why Bad Bunny Made The Parents Cry
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are celebrating a global triumph. Bad Bunny’s Superbowl halftime show was transcendent. Zak’s mom even messaged Lucy during the halftime show. Lucy breaks down all of the meanings you may have missed, explains why it was so special to have Ricky Martin perform, and so much more! Then, the ‘Rents answer a listener question about a b
How To Get Your Freak On After Kids
On this episode: Let’s talk about sex, baby! Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are joined by sex therapist and author Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy to get tips and advice for keeping the spice alive after kids. They talk about how to find flirty moments when life is overwhelming, a little advice from the movie Hitch (remember that one with Will Smith?), and Dr. Eudy explains the power of whis
Wocka Wocka! We're Crafting for V-day!
On this episode: Play the music and light the lights! Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are getting crafty and talking Muppets! The Muppet Show is back with a really fun, exciting special. The ‘Rents talk about Miss. Piggy, the musical guests, and we hear from the kids on what they thought. While they’re dishing about Kermit and crew, Zak and Elizabeth each share how to make a craft tha
Going Through It? Adopt a Real Ritual.
When we think of rituals, we tend to think of face masks and wellness trends. But there are actually ways to use rituals to help heal grief and deal with stressful times. On this episode, Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are joined by ritual expert Betty Ray to talk about creative ways to help children process grief and big emotions, how to use ritual to create safety and expression, a
Getting Real About ICE In Your Neighborhood
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen, like a lot of people in America right now, are feeling stressed and overwhelmed over what is happening in Minneapolis and across the country. Recently, the situation in Minneapolis escalated even further when federal agents shot and killed ICU nurse Alex Jeffrey Pretti. This is just the latest in a massive upheaval in the city since th
Debunking Viral Parenting “Hacks”
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen want you to know that you’re still a great parent, even if you don’t sit by your kids’ bedside to gently wake them up. It’s okay! The ‘Rents sit down and debunk some of those pretty parenting tips you see all the time on Instagram. You know the ones. They have a really aesthetic, soothing background, and then say something wild like “Me
Needy Mom or Mom In Need?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen want you to know that it’s GOOD to ask for what you need! A listener’s non-verbal kid seems to be doing great at school, but the school hasn’t been communicating with mom about what’s going on for her kid during the day. Should she reach out and ask for more? Or be happy that her kid is happy?But first, they share their latest Triumphs
ENCORE! How Safe Is Your House?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are doing a deep dive on child safety at home. They bring on expert Holly Choi from Safe Beginnings to talk about the most dangerous parts of your home, tips for safety classes, why those de-choking devices aren’t worth your money, and more.But first, it’s mailbag time! We read EVERY email you send and every comment you post on our soci
A Green Parenting Win
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen get into a listener’s question about whether or not to gift a gaming counsel to their college kid. They bought the gift when the kid was doing well in school, but now they’re struggling again. Should that matter? But first, they share their latest triumphs and fails. Elizabeth is in her Worm Era and explains the wonders of vermicom
Actually Helpful Parenting Advice
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are digging into parenting styles. The new book on the block is Lighthouse Parenting: Raising Your Child With Loving Guidance for a LIfelong Bond, out in March. And it got us thinking: are all these different parenting styles - Tiger Mom, Gentle Parenting, Free Range, etc - kinda trash? They dig into their styles, how to make different
New Year's Resolutions are Trash. We Made Some Anyway.
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are talking New Years Resolutions. Do they kinda suck? Maybe! But the ‘Rents are sharing their goals and ambitions for 2026 anyway. But first, they share their latest triumphs and fails. Elizabeth’s involves fire. Zak’s involves free activities. And Lucy’s involves a sisterly text message. Join us on Facebook and email us at c
The Best of Our Slate Plus Bonus Episodes (For Freeeeeeeee!)
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are going into the vault. In a very special episode, we’re sharing some of our favorite Slate Plus bonus episodes for freeeee!!! We bring you episodes on Halloween costumes, the best lullabies, and more. If you like what you hear, you should absolutely consider subscribing to Slate Plus! This is just a little taste of the fun we have on
ENCORE! Managing Screen Time Without Losing Your Mind
The hosts are on vacation this week! So we're taking you back in time with one of our favorite episodes of the year. Elizabeth and Zak talk with Ash Brandin, author of Power On, about managing screen time without guilt or panic. They discuss realistic strategies and why screen time doesn’t define parenting quality. Then, a listener’s question about school tech mandates gets some thoughtful answers
What We Learned From Our Biggest Parenting Triumphs and Fails
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are looking back on 2025, but keeping an eye on 2026. They discuss their biggest parenting fails from this year, and what they’re looking to learn and improve on in the new year. Then, it’s poetry night! Each of the hosts wrote poems for the others to cap off 2025. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you won’t want to miss it. Podcast production
From What Next: What Kids Aren’t Learning About US History
The hosts are on vacation this week! But we’ve got an episode from What Next for you that we think you’ll love.Conservatives have long complained that teaching American history with slavery and genocide and systemic oppression is just too negative, and the Trump administration has gone as far as attacking the Smithsonian for focusing too much on “how horrible our country is.” But omitting the sham
The Great Holiday Crafting (And Drinking) Episode
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are drinking, crafting, and answering listener questions. Find out how to make a Gin Snowball, learn Elizabeth’s surprisingly easy paperbag snowflake method, and learn who Ray Keith is. While getting festive, they talk about toys of yore that changed their lives, ponder how necessary Santa is to Christmas magic, and throw out ideas for
The World Is On Fire. How Do We Tell the Kids?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen have been trying to stay on top of the news…but they’re getting bogged down and worried about it impacting their kids. Luckily What Next host Mary Harris’s literal job is keeping up on the news, and she’s got kids of her own. So, they all sit down to talk about how much to share with the kids, how to stay informed but still show up for
Hacks to Organize Your Kid’s Clutter
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are saying goodbye to clutter! Elizabeth just made yet another massive move to Hawaii and she’s revealing all her hacks, tips, and tricks for unpacking and organizing in a new house. Lucy and Zak weigh in with their own tips for keeping their houses from being overrun with clutter - especially around the holidays. Check out our YouTube
This is Our First Holiday Without My Husband. How Do We Cope?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen have a listener in the midst of a Blue Holiday. A long-time listener and her kids are grieving the loss of her husband this holiday season. She wants thoughts about navigating this time of year while still feeling such a big loss. To navigate this sensitive topic, the ‘Rents are joined by Jessica Correnti, a certified child life special
Is It The F**k You Fours? Or Something More?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are doing a double listener question episode! First up, a parent is OVER their current television show rotation. The ‘Rents give recommendations for shows in the eight-year-old to fifteen-year-old range that aren’t overly preachy or totally mindless.Then, they sympathize with a parent dealing with a clingy sixteen-month-old who won’t st
My Friend is Going THROUGH IT. How Can I Support Them?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen take a listener question about how to be there for a fellow parent who is going through a hard time. The listener’s friend’s kid is acting out and causing lots of stress. They toss around ideas about ways friends have shown up for them, ideas for support without smothering, and more.But first, they share their latest Triumphs and Fails.
Everyday Carry for Parents: Never Leave Without These
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen have animal talk! They’re joined by zoo consultant Megan Sanders to talk about ways to help kids feel or involved in making the world a better place for animals. But first, the hosts have an Every Day Carry segment! They share everything that’s currently in their bags - from favorite snacks to boredom busters and more. Podcast productio
From What Next | Is the Peanut Allergy Dead?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are handing the show over to Slate’s news podcast, What Next. Thousands of children may be avoiding peanut allergies thanks to research indicating that early exposure to—rather than avoidance of—the legume is key. Now there’s reason to believe this is true for tons of allergens – and that the great “pandemic” of kid food allergies never
Ending the Elf (On the Shelf)
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are trying to take some of the holiday stress off your shoulders. They have gift recommendations for every type of kid, from the sports obsessed (tickets to a game are always a win) to the young scientist (science kits like those from Kiwi Co. are sure to be a hit), they have ideas to help you make all the kiddos happy this season. But
How To Navigate Strained Relationships Around the Holidays
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are joined by mother-daughter writing team Leslie and Lindsey Glass. They share their estrangement and reconnection that led to their book The Mother Daughter Relationship Makeover. They give advice for how to deal with toxic personalities around the dinner table and at parties, talk about when estrangement might be the answer, and more
How to Get Through (Or Help Someone With) Postpartum Depression
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen share their experiences with postpartum depression. Then, Elizabeth is joined by Danielle Learner to talk about Danielle’s experience with postpartum depression, her activism to raise awareness on the issue, and a lot of tips and advice for people who struggle with postpartum depression or know someone struggling. Podcast production by
Help! Is My Kid Talking Enough?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are joined by Sydney Bassard from The Listening SLP to dig into everything you need to know about hearing loss, practical speech, language, and literacy with your kids. But first, Lucy weighs in on the great flower girl controversy. Podcast production by Cheyna Roth.Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask
How Safe is Your House?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are doing a deep dive on child safety at home. They bring on expert Holly Choi from Safe Beginnings to talk about the most dangerous parts of your home, tips for safety classes, why those de-choking devices aren’t worth your money, and more.But first, it’s mailbag time! We read EVERY email you send and every comment you post on our soci
When a Good Idea Turns Into a Fail
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen dig into a listener letter that hits close to home for Elizabeth. A military mom wants to know how specific she should be with her kids about her spouse’s upcoming deployment. They commiserate, and offer suggestions for how to keep the absent spouse involved even while they are away. But first, they share their latest triumphs and fails
Everything You Need to Know About Homeschooling
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen dig into homeschooling kids. They bring on special guest Julie Bogart from Brave Writer to dig into the history and current day trends of homeschooling, who should homeschool and who shouldn't, why people choose to homeschool, and so much more! Join us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask us new questions, tell
When Alcoholism Impacts the Children In Your Life
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen have a tough listener question about what to do when a relative is an alcoholic and don’t think the environment is safe for the relative’s kid. To answer this question, they’re joined by Lisa Smith from Parallel Recovery. They unpack how to set real boundaries with family members without shaming them; acceptable ultimatums; how to “pre-
My Kid is Saying 6-7…Can I Say It Too?
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are joined by ICYMI host Kate Lindsay to discuss viral slang like “67” and “41” and what it all means. They unpack the difference between “bro” and “bruh” (it’s huge!), why the harmless bit of brain rot might actually be good for kids, and more! Later, they discuss a listener's question: “how do I, a childless aunt, talk to my nieces an
“It’s Not Easy!” Parenting After a Bad Fight.
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen have a triple…fail. Lucy clapped back to her teen, Elizabeth said the thing to her kids she promised she never would, and Zak is now dealing with injuries from a bike accident. Then, they get a listener triumph with a game-ified way of doing chores and earning allowance. The ‘Rents dig into what they do in their homes for chores and deb
Is Gaming Taking Over Boys’ Lives?
On this episode: Friend of the show Jamilah Lemieux tackles helping kids get a better night's sleep. She’s joined by gentle sleep coach Macall Gordon. They discuss what to do with “live-wire kids”, how to avoid burnout when trying to get your kid to sleep, why we need to stop blaming parents for kid sleep issues, and more. But first, Care and Feeding producer Cheyna Roth joins the team to talk abo
Make My Kid Eat, Please!
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen are tackling picky eating. They’re joined by Jennifer Anderson from Kids Eat In Color to talk about helping kids navigate diet culture, how to tell if your kid is a “normal” picky eater or a problematic picky eater, why you shouldn’t try to sneak foods into foods they like, and more!But first, they share their latest triumphs and fails:
From How To! | How to Quit IVF (and Start a New Chapter)
Care and Feeding is on break, and is bringing you an exciting episode from Slate podcast How To!After seven years of trying to conceive, Lauren is ending fertility treatments and starting a new journey: adoption. She’s excited about this unexpected detour into parenthood—but she’s also grieving the loss of something deeply personal that she desired for so long. On this episode: How To!’s Courtney
A Tooth Fairy Fail
On this episode: Slate senior producer Cheyna Roth joins Zak Rosen and Elizabeth Newcamp to debate wedding ceremony etiquette. A listener’s kid is the flower girl at a friend’s wedding. But now it turns out the flower girl is NOT invited to the wedding reception. Is this fair? They dig into whether kids make a wedding better, logistics, and more. But first, in another edition of Triumphs and Fails
Help! I'm Touched Out By My Kids.
On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen have a question from a mom who is TOUCHED OUT. The ‘Rents give parents everywhere permission to establish boundaries and walk away from kids when they’re being too aggressive or just won’t leave them alone. But first, they share their latest insight into the Labubu community and dealing with the big trends your kids HAVE to be a part of
The Great Onesie Debate
On this episode: On this episode: Lucy Lopez, Elizabeth Newcamp, and Zak Rosen get real about onesies. A Slate mom wants to know if she can buy her son onesies about her. He has a lot that celebrates his dad, like “daddy’s little xyz” but none about his mom! They dish on favorite onesies, whether these outfits are actually terrible, and more.But first, they share their latest triumphs and fails: w
What to Say to Your Kids When You Can’t Deal
This week, award-winning journalist and podcaster Elise Hu joins the show to talk about her new podcast Raising Us, where she explores how parents can handle the trickiest questions kids throw their way. A mom of three, Elise shares her own experiences with curiosity, honesty, and the moments where parents don’t have a neat answer. She also helps Lucy and Elizabeth respond to a listener question a
Demystifying Car Seat Safety
On this episode: Lucy, Zak, and Elizabeth mark Child Passenger Safety Week with a conversation about car seats. Child passenger safety technician Jamie Grayson joins to break down the basics: how to install correctly, when to switch stages, and the mistakes parents don’t even realize they’re making.Here is the NHTSA car seat safety page.Listen to our last episode with Jamie: Car Seat Safety Explai
The 25 Best Picture Books of the Last 25 Years
On this episode: Lucy and Elizabeth are joined by guest host Rebecca Onion to dive into her and Dan Kois’ definitive list of the 25 best picture books of the last quarter century. Which modern stories have staying power? Which books belong beside the classics on your child’s shelf? The hosts debate and delight in the choices.But first, they share their latest triumphs and fails: hiding snacks, an
Guiding Kids Through Hard-to-Explain Headlines
Reporter and former Care & Feeding host Aymann Ismail joins Elizabeth & Lucy to talk about how to approach conversations with kids about violence in the news. The hosts discuss ways to frame scary or divisive headlines, how to balance honesty with reassurance, and how parents can manage their own reactions while guiding kids through uncertain times. Plus, Lucy reflects on her own experienc
When Sharing Doesn’t Come Easy
A listener writes in about a toddler who loves bringing toys to the playground but rarely wants to share them. The hosts unpack why sharing is so tough at this age, how parents can set expectations, and their own philosophies on how kids—and adults—learn to share. Plus, check-ins: Lucy brings a delightfully funny Italian-American teen romance story to the table.Join us on Facebook and email us at
How to Talk Divorce With Kids
tell kids about divorce. Zak, Elizabeth, and Lucy share advice on language that reassures, pitfalls to avoid, and ways to keep the focus on love and stability. Plus, triumphs and fails: Friday night plans go awry, shoe shopping mishaps, and a school drop-off turns into a win.Puppy Dogs and Ice Cream BooksJoin us on Facebook and email us at careandfeedingpod@slate.com to ask questions, share feedb
The Back-to-School Game Plan
This week on Care and Feeding, Zak, Lucy, and Elizabeth are joined by Scotti Weintraub, parenting coach, creator of Reframe Parenting and host of The Unlocking School Success Podcast. Scotti answers’ back-to-school questions and offers practical advice for navigating classroom routines, working with teachers, and helping kids feel comfortable and ready to learn. It’s all about small shifts that ca
