7 Things to Know This Week, Volume 1

The January–February Parenting Wall Is Real

By this point in winter, it’s brutally cold, patience is thin and motivation is at an all-time low—for kids and parents. Teachers are seeing more behavioural issues in classrooms, and families are feeling it at home too. Experts say this slump is a predictable mix of fatigue, limited daylight and too many months without a real reset. In short—it’s not you, it’s January.

👉 Here’s how to break through what we (unaffectionately) call “the Winter Wall.”

Families Are Quietly Quitting Activities—and Not Looking Back

“Quiet quitting” (prioritizing work-life balance to avoid burnout) isn’t just a trend in the workplace—it’s happening in extracurriculars too. Between rising fees, packed schedules and the competitiveness creeping into kids’ activities, more families are pulling back this winter. This shift isn’t about giving up—it’s about protecting kids from the stress and asking when competition stops being healthy.

👉 We unpack one key piece of that conversation here.

Baby Names Are Getting Softer—but Weirder

Today’s baby-name trends lean gentle in sound but wild in spelling—think Amelia turning into Ahmelya, Rowan becoming Rohwen or Caleb reworked as Khayleb. These names feel deeply personal and very now, even if they may require lifelong clarification (your adult children may curse you…or adopt the more traditional spelling). Naming trends always reflect the moment—and this one is all about being unique.

👉 Looking for inspiration? Our 2026 baby names list dropped this week.

Screen Time Rules Are Softening (and That’s Not Laziness)

More parents are easing up on strict screen limits as schoolwork, friendships and creativity increasingly happen online. Instead of counting minutes, families are focusing on content, timing and overall balance. The idea is that self-moderation and critical thinking are important skills, and that it’s crucial to help kids build real self-control around screens. What do you think?

“Swicy” Is the Flavour Trend of 2026

Savoury-sweet flavours are everywhere right now, blending subtle heat with sweetness in a way that works for the whole family. Known as “swicy,” this trend is showing up in everything from sauces to snacks—and it’s surprisingly kid-friendly. Think hot honey or chili-maple—combinations that adds interest without being overwhelming.

👉 We’re starting with an easy hot honey recipe and a few unexpected ways to use it.

The Fight Parents Are Having More Than Any Other Right Now

Ask parents what they’re arguing about and we bet the top answer won’t be money—they’ll say exhaustion. Who’s more tired, who did more, who gets a break. As mental load and caregiving pile up, resentment can quietly take over. Experts say acknowledging the fatigue on all sides—instead of keeping score—is often the first step toward reconnecting.

👉 Our relationship columnists tell you how to stop competing in the exhaustion Olympics.

How to Talk to Kids About the Scary Stuff Happening in the U.S.

Terrifying things are happening, and kids are seeing it—especially news coming out of Minneapolis and other US states. Avoiding the conversation doesn’t protect them, but telling them too much can fuel anxiety. The goal is honest, age-appropriate reassurance that helps kids feel safe without minimizing reality.

👉 Here’s how to have those hard conversations in a way that will support without scaring.