• Home
  • About
    • New? Start Here.
    • Meet The Co-Hosts
    • Meet The Contributors
  • Sponsor
  • Contact
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Twitter

The Mom Hour

Happier motherhood starts here.

  • New? Start Here.
  • Podcast
    • Recent Episodes
    • Complete Archives
    • Search By Topic
  • Blog
  • Ages & Stages
    • Babies
    • Toddlers
    • Preschoolers
    • Big Kids
    • Tweens & Teens
  • Family Travel Hub

in Episodes on August 1, 2016 by The Mom Hour

Things We Shouldn’t Have Freaked Out About (Starting School Edition): Episode 62

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | TuneIn | RSS

When it’s your kid starting preschool or kindergarten for the first time, every detail seems mission-critical. But having sent our kids off to new classrooms year after year for quite a while now, we’re here to tell you: It’ll all be OK.

In this fun addition to our “Things We Shouldn’t Have Freaked Out About” series, Meagan and Sarah look back at the things we fretted over when our kids went off to school for the first time. With the benefit of hindsight we’ll help ease your mind about everything from potty training your preschooler to finding all the school supplies on that crazy list.

Giveaway Update!

Congrats to listener Tara who was randomly selected to win the back-to-school prize packages! Be sure to check out these great brands for fun, affordable products for toddlers and preschoolers!

Links we mentioned, or should have, in Episode 62:

  • Things We Shouldn’t Have Freaked Out About: New Mom and Toddler Editions
  • The episode we did last year about Choosing The Right School For Your Kids
  • Debunking The Myth of the “Good School Mom” (Episode 21)

TMH BTS Giveaway

How to win our Back-to-School GIVEAWAY!

One lucky listener will win our amazing giveaway package, valued at more than $230, that includes the following products (shown clockwise in image above):

  • Bumpit Bowl, the food bowl that won’t get knocked over
  • Quilted Nap Mat from Janiebee, personalized with your child’s name
  • Orbit Labels from Inchbug, also personalized with your child’s name
  • WOWBUTTER, (a taste and texture just like Peanut Butter, and safe for nut-free schools!)
  • Your choice of jacket & mittens from the Liam & Isla Snap Collection

To enter, just leave a comment here on the show notes (click here to get there if you’re reading this by email). We’d love to hear what you thought of the episode, and whether you’re signed up to receive our emails. Be sure to leave a valid email address when you submit your comment.

Content runs through Wednesday August 10 at 11:59pm. Winner will be contacted by email and will have 24 hours to claim her prize. ****UPDATE: Winner has been chosen and claimed her prize. Congrats, Tara!*****

Good luck, everyone!

Related

Filed Under: Episodes Tagged With: preschoolers, school, Things We Shouldn't Have Freaked Out About

deals from our partners


Shop Jane

When you click through these links and make a purchase, we earn a small commission at no additional cost to you (and we only partner with brands we’ve used and truly love!).

« This Is Where You Belong with Melody Warnick: Voices 03
What To Expect From The Middle School Years: Episode 63 »

Comments

  1. Jess O'Donnell says

    August 2, 2016 at 10:22 am

    It’s like you guys are reading my mind…so grateful for your time doing this podcast….thanks for putting a jittery mom at ease (for now ?)

    • Eva Esparza says

      August 2, 2016 at 11:04 pm

      I love listening to this show! I’ve been a parent for ten years, now with my third child and I can’t get over how many simple, day to day topics you bring up that somehow shed a more relaxed light on what I’ve been going through….often feeling alone. Thank you for reminding us that it’s going to be ok!

  2. Jen Alvarez says

    August 2, 2016 at 10:22 am

    Loved this episode. Hit close to home. Fingers crossed as my little one gets started this year. ?

  3. Brittany says

    August 2, 2016 at 12:04 pm

    Great episode! Thanks for easing my fears of sending my first off to preschool

  4. Liz says

    August 2, 2016 at 12:40 pm

    I loved this episode! Even though I only have a toddler, it’s great to get a peek into the world ahead. A random tip about school supplies: if your school offers a school supply kit, talk to other parents to see if it’s worth buying and for what grades. The school I worked at offered one and all of the parents and teachers would agree that the elementary kids could live without the kit, but the middle schoolers who didn’t purchase it were so lost with supplies and having exactly what they needed. Sometimes it is worth the extra money to set your middle schooler off to a good start.

  5. Lisa says

    August 2, 2016 at 1:13 pm

    Potty training twin boys starts today and I am so thankful for a new episode to distract me from the madness ??

  6. Rene' Harmon says

    August 2, 2016 at 1:46 pm

    Sarah and Meagan, thoroughly enjoyed your show and thank you for the feature of our product, the janiebee nap mat. Wishing all your fans the best of luck. Just a 3 quick facts about our mats… they are made in the USA… 100% machine washable… and meet daycare safety standards in all 50 States. For reviews your fans can click here: http://tinyurl.com/h5m4nnl

    Best of luck,
    Rene’ Harmon, Chief Designer
    http://www.janiebee.com

  7. Katie H. says

    August 2, 2016 at 1:48 pm

    Great episode! Much appreciated by this momma!

  8. Lauren says

    August 2, 2016 at 2:48 pm

    Thanks for keeping it real!

  9. Tara says

    August 2, 2016 at 2:54 pm

    Thanks for this episode! Now that August has arrived I’m anxiously awaiting the start of K4. Hoping my son has matured through the summer and is ready for more academics. He loves to play and his assessment at the end of last year showed it. Hoping he’s ready for two full days a week. Can you tell I’m nervous??? Overachiever wanna be mom right here!

  10. Sarah says

    August 2, 2016 at 3:02 pm

    I love how you all keep it real! I appreciate all of your “expert” advice. I look toward to listening each week. I also appreciate receiving the email notifications when podcasts are available. Thank you!!

  11. Kerry says

    August 2, 2016 at 3:22 pm

    Good episode! Brought back many memories! I would have liked to hear more about older kids. I have one starting his first year of middle school, yikes! I know there is a lot of anxiety for both of us. I will miss the school holiday parties ?

  12. Andrea says

    August 2, 2016 at 3:57 pm

    Love the podcast!

  13. Holly says

    August 2, 2016 at 4:07 pm

    The “Things We Shouldn’t Have Freaked Out About” episodes are my favorites! And yes, I just signed up for the email list 🙂

  14. Kat says

    August 2, 2016 at 4:20 pm

    This was exactly what I needed to hear! Thanks Mom Hour for helping me relax.

  15. Melissa says

    August 2, 2016 at 5:01 pm

    I love how you’re so ‘real’ about how you do things or feel about things! It’s great to know I’m not the only one…on so many things you talked about. I recommended this episode to 2 of my friends with kids starting school this year!

  16. Allison says

    August 2, 2016 at 5:15 pm

    Just want to say, I love your show and have been listening from the beginning. I have a toddler and love hearing of your experiences knowing you have been there. Right now I am stressed that my boy will never poop in the potty. Oh goodness, guess I really said that but that’s my life now.

  17. Jess says

    August 2, 2016 at 5:35 pm

    Here’s my freak out… Packing Montessori lunches. There are so many rules! And the teachers are totally going to judge me for what /how I pack, RIGHT?? (Though I have to say Meagan once gave a tip about packing lunch during dinner prep when the kitchen is “open” and that has been a life saver!). Thanks for the awesome show!

  18. Lucie says

    August 2, 2016 at 5:56 pm

    My daughter isn’t even in school yet, but I related so much to what was said about choosing the “right” school. I did have a spreadsheet about daycare options, ha! I just can’t imagine how stressful it will be to choose a school! Thank you for your relaxed advice! 😀

  19. Amber says

    August 2, 2016 at 6:39 pm

    I had my son in a Montessori preschool starting at age 2.5 but the school closed after the end of the school year. I’ve been debating whether to put him into a different preschool in the fall, which turns out not to be so easy, as there aren’t any schools very close to me. I also realized that his behavior got better after he stopped going to school–so I’m thinking that at 3 years old, school might just be a little too stimulating and overwhelming to him. But it’s a tough decision because he seems to really like going to school. Thanks again for your real talk and relaxed attitude that encourages me to just trust myself and my kid and do what I think is right for him.

  20. Dana says

    August 2, 2016 at 6:57 pm

    I’m embarrassed to admit that I’m still freaking out about my little one starting kindergarten and she’s my THIRD! Thanks for the talk down.

  21. Avery says

    August 2, 2016 at 7:17 pm

    From a mom who frequently “freaks out” over any and everything.. I really love this series! I have a 2 year old who is starting preschool in a few weeks and one worry I have is about making friends with other moms like you discussed – mostly because I’m 26 so I’m usually the youngest mom I come across, many times by 10 years or so. So I often feel like a little kid in a big mom pond and it’s hard to feel like I fit in! That and preschool germs/illnesses when you have a newborn at home. Any tips there? Excited for this giveaway! So fun!

  22. Kaylee Edwards says

    August 2, 2016 at 7:19 pm

    My toddler has been at 2-day a week summer camp at her preschool so it was a nice ‘soft-launch’ into preschool which will officially start on the 10th! This weeks episode reminded me that I need to volunteer at her school! #totallyforgot #newschoolmomprobz
    Love the podcast! I’ve binge-listened this summer and you ladies really brighten my day! Excited for the giveaway, crossing my fingers!

  23. Alicia says

    August 2, 2016 at 8:52 pm

    Hey-I have been listening from the very beginning, and this episode was very timely. Just signed up for the emails, and entering for the winnings-this time with a totally valid email address the FIRST time 🙂 Thanks for being awesome, ladies! Sarah, I tend towards asking more questions and wanting more teacher communication too-so glad to have you guys in my ears to help me take a deep breath and know it’ll be ok. P.S. Meagan, I am guilty of fishing for compliments on my kid too-though I didn’t realize it until you mentioned it 🙂

  24. Jaylan says

    August 2, 2016 at 9:51 pm

    We are fixing to start preschool & I didn’t even know i needed to hear this. Thank you so much.

  25. Sonya says

    August 3, 2016 at 12:17 am

    I found this podcast while looking for tips for moms with traveling spouses… That was last week. Your podcast is now part of my daily routine as a catch up on episodes in your archives. I’m loving every episode. Thank you.

  26. Amy says

    August 3, 2016 at 6:39 am

    Always good to be reminded that sometimes the things that loom so large in our worries turn out not to be such a big deal when seen from a distance! Oh, I thought that was a dragon, but when I moved my finger away from my eye it turned around to just be a gnat. 😉 Yes, I’m signed up for your emails as well!

  27. Ashley Washburn says

    August 3, 2016 at 9:40 am

    This was such a great episode and I’m listening to it again this morning! One year ago, I was freaking out over the start of kindergarten and a daycare change for our daughter. All that worry didn’t make me any more prepared. I really appreciated some of your side comments about the school social scene (for parents!) and parent/teacher communication. Those are always topics that make me wonder if I’m the weird one, or if everybody feels that way. As always, you both are SO reassuring and great mentors for moms who are less experienced.

  28. Megan says

    August 3, 2016 at 11:24 am

    You guys are awesome to listen to! I’ve got a 2nd grader and kindergartener this year. I used to panic about back to school and how to be the best “school mom”. I’ve now realized it’s just not worth trying to be something I’m not! I totally agree about finding a way to contribute to the classroom that is fitting for you! There’s always something! Thanks ladies!!

  29. Alicia says

    August 3, 2016 at 11:34 am

    Thanks for helping us keep it real! Trying not to freak out is a daily struggle for this mom 🙂

  30. Ashley Ponder says

    August 3, 2016 at 2:31 pm

    I love your podcast, and although I have only recently found y’all, I have just about listened to every episode. I love how real the two of you are and I always leave thinking it is all going to be fine. My little boy, Jack, will be starting preschool this year and he is still struggling with potty training. It has been such an ordeal. He peed on the potty at 18 months and I thought I had a potty prodigy. Ha! He is almost four and hates the potty. He is now pooping in his pullup and then taking it off himself right away without telling me. Oh the cleanups I’m having to deal with now. I would love for y’all to do a podcast on discipline. I have a very active child and all my tactics are hit and miss. It is always interesting to hear what other parents are doing/have done when it comes to discipline. Thanks again for keeping it real and keeping me laughing through parenthood.

  31. Kristen says

    August 3, 2016 at 4:59 pm

    Love this episode guys! I too find myself getting less freaked out with my younger kids versus my oldest, and everytime he enters something new my worrying nature takes over. Your mantra of “don’t worry it will all turn out ok” is going to be my new approach to new things…even if I am an anxious overworrier!
    Awesome as always. The mom hour is one of my favorites where I actually feel like I’m in the conversation but my introverted self doesn’t have to go out and talk to people! ?

  32. Becca says

    August 3, 2016 at 5:07 pm

    Perfect timing for this episode! Our school starts next week. Loved the analogy about how being a school mom is like starting high school – it’s a whole new phase. I’ve totally felt like that the last couple of years! I’m still trying to find my place at my kids’ school. Thanks for the reassurance – it WILL happen in time. You guys are like wise older sisters with great advice ?

  33. Becky Chen says

    August 3, 2016 at 7:24 pm

    I can’t believe its time already to talk about going back to school but this was a good way to ease into it. I definitely recommend getting the “school supply kit” if your school offers it. Ours is a fund raiser for the PTO and, holy moly, I don’t care about the mark up in the price, it is SO nice not to have to bring that fussy list to Target and to know that my kid is totally set on the first day. Done and done.

  34. Elizabeth says

    August 3, 2016 at 9:19 pm

    Great show–funny and relatable! I wish I could’ve listened to it last year before my daughter started preschool. But I’m still getting used to being a “school mom,” especially with a new baby in tow, so your advice, particularly in regards to socializing and volunteering, is super helpful!

  35. Kathy Rohlfing says

    August 4, 2016 at 2:49 am

    Loved your comment-“listen to that little voice”- when it came to visiting and doing so much research for that first school enrollment. So easy to get overwhelmed and overloaded with info. Also, liked the fact that Megan knew what she needed when they moved to a smaller town. It highlighted the fact that there are seasons and in each season you need to listen to what is right for your particular family. Sarah your openness about being the “newbie” that first preschool year, communication at the preschool and potty training were refreshing. Love how you two easily add perspective and added input into your ongoing conversation.
    You hit all the pressing topics with refreshing candor-loved that you stressed volunteering has so many choices-find what is right for you at this present time-everyone’s contributions matter. The parent friendship conversation was spot on. Wish you two were around when I was younger. Just goes to show you that we all learn from each other and it does indeed take all of us helping each other–we all need community. Thanks so much–finally listened to a whole show :).

  36. Kathy Rohlfing says

    August 4, 2016 at 3:00 am

    P.S. Meagan, please forgive my omitting the first “a” in your name–it is late, but still no excuse 🙂 You two have a great week!

  37. Kristen says

    August 4, 2016 at 6:49 am

    Thanks for this episode! I especially love The comments about not worrying solely about where the other “good moms” are sending there kids– I have been worrying about this as we live in a different district than most moms I know. I already subscribe to the email list. Thanks for the podcast!

  38. Sheri says

    August 4, 2016 at 9:09 am

    I love your podcast! This episode put me at ease, and helped remind me that I am not alone in my Mom worries. I always look forward to your next episode. Signed up for emails now too! 🙂

  39. Amy says

    August 4, 2016 at 10:00 am

    Great episode! I love the podcast and look forward to listening each week! Keep up the great work!

  40. Laura Tarsi says

    August 4, 2016 at 1:07 pm

    Great episode. I love the episodes where you talk about things you shouldn’t have freaked out about. I am a worrier by nature, so I find these very reassuring.

  41. Sheela says

    August 4, 2016 at 4:46 pm

    Love this podcast….I’ve lived in Michigan and now am in Ladera Ranch, CA so I feel like I have a connection with both of you! Maybe I will run into you Sarah sometime!

  42. Kirsten says

    August 4, 2016 at 6:55 pm

    This episode is such a great reminder to not worry about all of the new things coming up this year. I especially appreciated the thoughts on choosing schools since my stepson is almost ready to look at middle schools soon!

  43. Krystal says

    August 4, 2016 at 10:52 pm

    I always enjoy listening to you two talk. Thank you for reminding me not to worry so much and to just have empathy for the stages my kids are going through.

  44. Kate says

    August 5, 2016 at 11:30 pm

    Thanks for the wise words, sending my first to preschool in a few weeks! Xoxo

  45. Jacquie Kush says

    August 6, 2016 at 12:31 am

    I totally laughed at Sarah’s comment about the preschool spreadsheet – I definitely had one of those. As I am in the midst of potty training my June-birthday 2 year old to be ready for preschool in September, I appreciated the perspective that many parents are also trying to squeak in under the wire.

  46. Lindsey says

    August 7, 2016 at 10:23 am

    Such a good listen!

  47. Sheena says

    August 7, 2016 at 12:00 pm

    Love this and every episode! I feel like I always learn something new. Thanks for helping us get ready for the start of preschool!

  48. Rachel says

    August 7, 2016 at 3:31 pm

    My oldest is 3. I’m having a minor freak out about her going to Mothers Day Out 3 days a week starting on the 15th. Your episode was so helpful in making me feel calm and normal (as per usual) Love this giveaway. I’m already following on social media an on email list. 🙂

  49. Megan Free says

    August 8, 2016 at 2:03 pm

    I am so glad I found your podcast! I’m a new mom to a 14th month old and my second will be born in March. I can relate to almost each and every topic you discuss and it makes me feel better as a new mom who is constantly obsessing about little things and phases that will soon pass. Thank you for your raw emotion and honesty about motherhood! ?

  50. Lindsay says

    August 8, 2016 at 8:41 pm

    Love your show so much! Have been listening to you both for over a year now and get excited when a new episode comes out. I am already signed up for your emails and my sister has started listening to your show too since she is a new mom! Thanks so much for your advice and reassurance through the year:).

  51. Lauren says

    August 9, 2016 at 10:16 am

    SO helpful ladies! Thank you for sharing your wisdom with humor and so much straight practicality!! I am preparing to send my oldest off to preschool this year so naturally, I’m full of anxiety and emotions! Thanks for calming them!!!

  52. Lauren says

    August 9, 2016 at 8:32 pm

    New listener here! I can’t believe it took so long for me to finally listen to an episode, but I’m so glad I did! You ladies bring some great perspective to parenting. I especially loved this episode since I just have one child who is 17 months old, but will be starting at a new daycare in a couple of week (full-time for the first time). I’m trying to lesson my anxiety and hoping he doesn’t pick up on it!! Thanks for the show!

  53. Karen MacDonald says

    August 9, 2016 at 9:50 pm

    Enjoyed the episode! Hoping to win the giveaway! karentmacdonald@yahoo.com

  54. Laura says

    August 10, 2016 at 10:24 am

    I loved this episode. As a mom of three (soon to be four!), I could definitely relate to so much. I remember freaking out about little things when my oldest started kindergarten, especially the seemingly lack of information from the schools! Spot on as always ladies!

  55. Kelly Noyes says

    August 10, 2016 at 4:15 pm

    Just started listening to your podcast, and I love it. Thanks for staying positive and giving helpful information!

  56. Kristin says

    August 10, 2016 at 4:29 pm

    I am fighting the wigging out about school choice options 🙂

  57. Robin K says

    August 10, 2016 at 5:35 pm

    Hi! Love your podcast! This episode was informative, my oldest is 3 so it gives me a “sneak peek” of what is to come. I’m not yet subscribed to your email list but I will do that.

  58. Emily says

    August 10, 2016 at 6:35 pm

    Hey Meagan and Sarah! I love your podcast so much! I leave my laundry folding for Wednesday so I can fold and listen to you at the same time. 🙂 Thank you so much for being REAL and making me feel ok about not loving playing with my kids and being a bit of a mom mess! I live in Dallas TX and have 4 kids ages 3-11.

  59. Rachel says

    August 10, 2016 at 7:49 pm

    Love your podcast! I’m a first time mom, so it’s refreshing to hear what I don”t need to freak out about!

  60. Gigi Apple says

    August 10, 2016 at 8:02 pm

    Love this episode!!! My oldest is starting preschool this year and I’m so nervous…nice to know I’m not alone in this!

  61. Molly says

    August 10, 2016 at 10:06 pm

    I just recently found your podcast and LOVE it! I have an almost 3 year old and 8 month old daughter so am definitely at the beginning of this whole mom thing, but love yalls advice and perspective and just signed up for the emails! : )

Meet Meagan + Sarah

Where To Listen

Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyAndroidPandoraiHeartRadioStitcherRSS

The “Surfboard Kid”

the story behind the "surfboard kid"

Click photo to read more...

Search

Like Email?

Get episodes delivered to your inbox weekly, PLUS special occasional emails from us that you don’t want to miss.

[mc4wp_form id=”20453″]

Voicemail!

Featured Sponsors

On Facebook

On Facebook

On Instagram

themomhour

Top 10 parenting podcast hosted by @meaganfrancis (MI) & @powersofmine (SoCal). 8 kids between us, little to grown. Happier motherhood starts here.

The Mom Hour
One of our most popular blog posts EVER is refresh One of our most popular blog posts EVER is refreshed for 2022! Click this image at the link in our bio to read the just-structured-enough approach Sarah took during those long AZ summers at home when her kids were 6, 4, and 1.5. 😎 

#stayathomemom #preschoolers #summermomlife #arizonasummer #summerschedulefortoddlers #summerscheduledforpreschoolers #samplesummerschedule #summerdaysathom
New episode! Most of us enjoy having a clean and New episode!

Most of us enjoy having a clean and tidy home, but have you ever kept track of how much you do throughout the week to keep it that way? In today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah share what seven days of real-life housework looks like in our homes. We reflect on the tasks we knew went into running a home, and some surprising ones we never thought of as housework before (like picking plums and chasing chickens!). Whether you prioritize deep-cleaning on a regular schedule or tend to tidy as you go and hope for the best, it’s eye-opening and gratifying to acknowledge the work that goes into managing a home full of kids.

Find the episode wherever you get your podcasts, or click this image at the link in our bio!

#themomhour #motherhood #mompodcast #podcastsformoms #parenting #parentingpodcast #podcastlove #trypod #podcastersofinstagram #shepodcasts #endlesscleaning #housework #cleaning #tidyingup #
Math Quiz: If 3 kids dirty an average of 15 dishes Math Quiz: If 3 kids dirty an average of 15 dishes per day while away at school 7 hours per day, how many additional dishes will they dirty while home all day for summer break?

67. The answer is 67. Yes, I’ve checked my work! Maybe someone who passed calculus can explain? 🤪 -M

#mommath #drowningindishes #summerbreakisnotreallyabreak
Happy weekend - and a big thanks to our June spons Happy weekend - and a big thanks to our June sponsors! Every month, we like to take a little time to shoutout our partners who help support the show + remind our listeners of some of the great deals our sponsors are offering. For more info, specific promo codes, and links, just search the brand name on our website, and they'll pop up in our episode show notes. We also collect ALL our active promo codes (even the old ones that are still working!) in our email newsletter - which is full of other great things we want to share with you, too. Tap on this image at the link in our bio to subscribe today. 

Meet our NEW partners this month . . .
🗣️ @connectspeech (early language support!)
💙 @appahealth (1st month of mentorship free!)
💄 @thrivecausemetics (15% off your 1st order)

And welcome back to . . .
⭐️ @paireyewear (15% off your 1st purchase!)
⭐️ @autoapprove ($100 when you refinance!)
⭐️ @outschool ($15 off your child's 1st class!)
⭐️ @mindandchild ($20 off Parenting 101 course!)
⭐️ @flowkey_com (20% off subscription piano app!)
⭐️ @stitchfix ($20 off your 1st purchase!)
⭐️ @publicgoods ($15 off, no minimum!)
⭐️ @scholasticinc (books for kids of all ages!)
⭐️ @hiyahealth (50% off 1st order!)
⭐️ @kiwico_inc (30% off your 1st mo!)
⭐️ @ritual (10% off 1st 3 mo!)
⭐️ @athleticgreens (1yr of Vit.D + 5 travel packs!)
⭐️ @vionicshoes (free shipping on cute shoes!)
⭐️ @project_wren (10 trees planted when you sign up!)
New episode! If you travel with kids, it’s just New episode!

If you travel with kids, it’s just a matter of time before a trip goes off the rails in spectacular fashion. Maybe it’s a flat tire in the middle of nowhere, or an expensive vacation spent sick in a pricey hotel room. Today Sarah is joined by @catieparrish @stacybronec @emilyeroark and @lisaapayne4 – regular contributors to the show and seasoned travelers with a combined 13 kids – who share their most memorable travel mishap stories. (Full disclaimer: there will be puke-talk.) In sharing these stories, we hope to normalize that travel with kids doesn’t have to go perfectly to be “worth it” and remind you that you’re not alone if this summer’s adventures go awry. Plus, one of the only perks to surviving stories like these is that we get to laugh about them later.

Find the episode wherever you get your podcasts, or click this image at the link in our bio!

#themomhour #motherhood #mompodcast #podcastsformoms #parenting #parentingpodcast #podcastlove #trypod #podcastersofinstagram #shepodcasts #travelingwoes #travelingwithkids #familytravelmishaps
New on the blog this week from @kiamhammond: Learn New on the blog this week from @kiamhammond: Learning About Juneteenth, As A Family.

"Like many families, mine is still figuring out how to teach our children about Juneteenth, as learning the history wasn't part of my education or my husband's when we were kids. The good news is, books written for children and families are a great way for the whole family to learn (and there are a lot of them!)."

Click this image at the link in our bio to read Kia’s book recommendations and more ways to start the conversation at home with your family.

#juneteenth #history #blackhistory #parenting #juneteenthbooksforkids #summerreading
New episode! As moms, we can be hard on ourselves New episode!

As moms, we can be hard on ourselves…and sometimes we just need to hear the simplest, oft-repeated pieces of advice and encouragement to remind us that it is all going to be OK. Join Meagan and Sarah for a reflection on eight pieces of wisdom that have carried us through motherhood struggles at every age and stage. We are offering them to you, to ourselves, and to all of our future selves in Episode 369.

Find the episode wherever you get your podcasts, or click this image at the link in our bio!

#themomhour #motherhood #mompodcast #podcastsformoms #parenting #parentingpodcast #podcastlove #trypod #podcastersofinstagram #shepodcasts #momtruisms #momtruths #parentingadvice #motherhoodstruggles
Just a “hello” from last-week-me, who spent 30 Just a “hello” from last-week-me, who spent 30 minutes moving 25 chickens by hand from their home to the new chicken yard, because they refused to go on their own. And then an hour moving them back, because same.

It reminded me a lot of mothering a toddler, and got me wondering: what’s the most ridiculous thing mom life has brought you in the past week? -M
New episode! Have you ever fantasized about atten New episode!

Have you ever fantasized about attending a camp-like environment for grown-ups? Much about the classic summer camp experience is appealing to us (though not EVERYTHING--we could certainly do without the bugs), and the idea of simply showing up for a perfectly curated experience without any responsibility, or planning, sounds AMAZING. Listen to this fun More Than Mom to hear all of our must-have activities (like food and wine tastings, yoga, personal style consults and more!), things that would be a hard no (like swimming in the gross, murky lake or participating in corny, guided crafts) and our daydreams about creating a Mom Hour Retreat (maybe someday?)!

Find the episode wherever you get your podcasts, or click this image at the link in our bio!

#themomhour #motherhood #mompodcast #podcastsformoms #parenting #parentingpodcast #podcastlove #trypod #podcastersofinstagram #shepodcasts #summercamps #womenretreats #momretreat
New on the blog this week from @jaymesherrod: LGBT New on the blog this week from @jaymesherrod: LGBTQ+ Resources For Parents (And Anyone Who Wants To Learn!). 

"The fact is, none of us will get it right every time. Not with each other, and certainly not with our kids. But it’s important that we keep showing up and having the conversations anyway."

Click this image at the link in our bio to access Jayme's roundup of resources.
Not gonna lie, we're wearing kid-appointment-drivi Not gonna lie, we're wearing kid-appointment-driving and backyard-chicken-wrangling clothes today and just sorta WISHING for a little business-casual-boss-lady time together.

You're doing great, whatever you're wearing today. Sending love. - Sarah & Meagan

📸: @leo_and_laine
New episode! Among parents, technology and screen New episode!

Among parents, technology and screen time can be a loaded topic. How much is too much? Is that movie too mature? And what's the best age for a first phone? In today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah share the role technology played in our families when kids were little, and reflect on how things changed as they grew. We discuss the tech parenting choices we still stand behind today, and with hindsight, what we could have done differently.

Find the episode wherever you get your podcasts, or click this image at the link in our bio!

#themomhour #motherhood #mompodcast #podcastsformoms #parenting #parentingpodcast #podcastlove #trypod #podcastersofinstagram #shepodcasts #kidsandtechnology #screentime #techparenting ##technology #momconfidence #
Load More... Follow on Instagram

As Seen On

Today Parents
BuzzFeed Parents

Send us an email

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Email hello@themomhour.com and we’re here to help!

Play Our Latest Episode!

https://media.blubrry.com/themomhour/pdst.fm/e/content.blubrry.com/themomhour/MHepisode370.mp3

looking for something?

One of our most popular blog posts EVER is refresh One of our most popular blog posts EVER is refreshed for 2022! Click this image at the link in our bio to read the just-structured-enough approach Sarah took during those long AZ summers at home when her kids were 6, 4, and 1.5. 😎 

#stayathomemom #preschoolers #summermomlife #arizonasummer #summerschedulefortoddlers #summerscheduledforpreschoolers #samplesummerschedule #summerdaysathom
New episode! Most of us enjoy having a clean and New episode!

Most of us enjoy having a clean and tidy home, but have you ever kept track of how much you do throughout the week to keep it that way? In today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah share what seven days of real-life housework looks like in our homes. We reflect on the tasks we knew went into running a home, and some surprising ones we never thought of as housework before (like picking plums and chasing chickens!). Whether you prioritize deep-cleaning on a regular schedule or tend to tidy as you go and hope for the best, it’s eye-opening and gratifying to acknowledge the work that goes into managing a home full of kids.

Find the episode wherever you get your podcasts, or click this image at the link in our bio!

#themomhour #motherhood #mompodcast #podcastsformoms #parenting #parentingpodcast #podcastlove #trypod #podcastersofinstagram #shepodcasts #endlesscleaning #housework #cleaning #tidyingup #
Math Quiz: If 3 kids dirty an average of 15 dishes Math Quiz: If 3 kids dirty an average of 15 dishes per day while away at school 7 hours per day, how many additional dishes will they dirty while home all day for summer break?

67. The answer is 67. Yes, I’ve checked my work! Maybe someone who passed calculus can explain? 🤪 -M

#mommath #drowningindishes #summerbreakisnotreallyabreak
Happy weekend - and a big thanks to our June spons Happy weekend - and a big thanks to our June sponsors! Every month, we like to take a little time to shoutout our partners who help support the show + remind our listeners of some of the great deals our sponsors are offering. For more info, specific promo codes, and links, just search the brand name on our website, and they'll pop up in our episode show notes. We also collect ALL our active promo codes (even the old ones that are still working!) in our email newsletter - which is full of other great things we want to share with you, too. Tap on this image at the link in our bio to subscribe today. 

Meet our NEW partners this month . . .
🗣️ @connectspeech (early language support!)
💙 @appahealth (1st month of mentorship free!)
💄 @thrivecausemetics (15% off your 1st order)

And welcome back to . . .
⭐️ @paireyewear (15% off your 1st purchase!)
⭐️ @autoapprove ($100 when you refinance!)
⭐️ @outschool ($15 off your child's 1st class!)
⭐️ @mindandchild ($20 off Parenting 101 course!)
⭐️ @flowkey_com (20% off subscription piano app!)
⭐️ @stitchfix ($20 off your 1st purchase!)
⭐️ @publicgoods ($15 off, no minimum!)
⭐️ @scholasticinc (books for kids of all ages!)
⭐️ @hiyahealth (50% off 1st order!)
⭐️ @kiwico_inc (30% off your 1st mo!)
⭐️ @ritual (10% off 1st 3 mo!)
⭐️ @athleticgreens (1yr of Vit.D + 5 travel packs!)
⭐️ @vionicshoes (free shipping on cute shoes!)
⭐️ @project_wren (10 trees planted when you sign up!)
New episode! If you travel with kids, it’s just New episode!

If you travel with kids, it’s just a matter of time before a trip goes off the rails in spectacular fashion. Maybe it’s a flat tire in the middle of nowhere, or an expensive vacation spent sick in a pricey hotel room. Today Sarah is joined by @catieparrish @stacybronec @emilyeroark and @lisaapayne4 – regular contributors to the show and seasoned travelers with a combined 13 kids – who share their most memorable travel mishap stories. (Full disclaimer: there will be puke-talk.) In sharing these stories, we hope to normalize that travel with kids doesn’t have to go perfectly to be “worth it” and remind you that you’re not alone if this summer’s adventures go awry. Plus, one of the only perks to surviving stories like these is that we get to laugh about them later.

Find the episode wherever you get your podcasts, or click this image at the link in our bio!

#themomhour #motherhood #mompodcast #podcastsformoms #parenting #parentingpodcast #podcastlove #trypod #podcastersofinstagram #shepodcasts #travelingwoes #travelingwithkids #familytravelmishaps
New on the blog this week from @kiamhammond: Learn New on the blog this week from @kiamhammond: Learning About Juneteenth, As A Family.

"Like many families, mine is still figuring out how to teach our children about Juneteenth, as learning the history wasn't part of my education or my husband's when we were kids. The good news is, books written for children and families are a great way for the whole family to learn (and there are a lot of them!)."

Click this image at the link in our bio to read Kia’s book recommendations and more ways to start the conversation at home with your family.

#juneteenth #history #blackhistory #parenting #juneteenthbooksforkids #summerreading
New episode! As moms, we can be hard on ourselves New episode!

As moms, we can be hard on ourselves…and sometimes we just need to hear the simplest, oft-repeated pieces of advice and encouragement to remind us that it is all going to be OK. Join Meagan and Sarah for a reflection on eight pieces of wisdom that have carried us through motherhood struggles at every age and stage. We are offering them to you, to ourselves, and to all of our future selves in Episode 369.

Find the episode wherever you get your podcasts, or click this image at the link in our bio!

#themomhour #motherhood #mompodcast #podcastsformoms #parenting #parentingpodcast #podcastlove #trypod #podcastersofinstagram #shepodcasts #momtruisms #momtruths #parentingadvice #motherhoodstruggles
Just a “hello” from last-week-me, who spent 30 Just a “hello” from last-week-me, who spent 30 minutes moving 25 chickens by hand from their home to the new chicken yard, because they refused to go on their own. And then an hour moving them back, because same.

It reminded me a lot of mothering a toddler, and got me wondering: what’s the most ridiculous thing mom life has brought you in the past week? -M
New episode! Have you ever fantasized about atten New episode!

Have you ever fantasized about attending a camp-like environment for grown-ups? Much about the classic summer camp experience is appealing to us (though not EVERYTHING--we could certainly do without the bugs), and the idea of simply showing up for a perfectly curated experience without any responsibility, or planning, sounds AMAZING. Listen to this fun More Than Mom to hear all of our must-have activities (like food and wine tastings, yoga, personal style consults and more!), things that would be a hard no (like swimming in the gross, murky lake or participating in corny, guided crafts) and our daydreams about creating a Mom Hour Retreat (maybe someday?)!

Find the episode wherever you get your podcasts, or click this image at the link in our bio!

#themomhour #motherhood #mompodcast #podcastsformoms #parenting #parentingpodcast #podcastlove #trypod #podcastersofinstagram #shepodcasts #summercamps #womenretreats #momretreat
New on the blog this week from @jaymesherrod: LGBT New on the blog this week from @jaymesherrod: LGBTQ+ Resources For Parents (And Anyone Who Wants To Learn!). 

"The fact is, none of us will get it right every time. Not with each other, and certainly not with our kids. But it’s important that we keep showing up and having the conversations anyway."

Click this image at the link in our bio to access Jayme's roundup of resources.

Copyright © 2022 · Life, Listened
Development by Cipher