My top 10 for 2024
Introduction
2024 was a special year: I welcomed baby #2.
I learned just how different two babies (and postpartum experiences) can be. Parenting a newborn and toddler is a whole new level of challenging. This time, sleep deprivation and postpartum anxiety also pushed me in ways I didn’t expect.
But I’m so grateful for resources that gave me the tools, skills, and connection I needed to navigate this year as a new mom of two.
Here are my top 10 favorite resources in 2024:
I made the switch to formula earlier this time. Breastfeeding and low milk supply were the biggest stressors for my first postpartum experience. So I went into the second experience with more confidence in making the decision that was right for me. This report helped me feel more empowered and educated about the current state of feeding.
#9. Fair Play by Eve Rodsky
I discovered this book when I was pregnant with my first and ‘fair play’ has become the code word with my husband for re-balancing chores and making sure we’re on the same page. Read more about the book here.
#8. ParentData by Emily Oster
Data-driven insights for my endless parenting questions–from timing crib transitions to ‘is Cocomelon bad for kids’. ParentData’s database of articles is my go-to when I start to get overwhelmed and anxious, from tackling new parenting experiences to understanding the latest data and evidence impacting my kids.
#7. Good Inside by Dr. Becky Kennedy
My bible for bedtime battles, not listening, sturdy leadership, and so much more. Listening to Dr. Becky’s podcast was the balm I needed to get through rough moments of parenting—to learn new skills to build connection with my fierce and strong-willed toddler to understanding that I’m not alone in the journey. Read more about the book here.
#6. Real Self-Care by Pooja Lakshmin, MD
Re-defining self-care with boundaries and values that actually stick. This book perfectly captured what I’ve learned through a lot of work with my life coach and therapist. I know these professional services aren’t accessible and affordable for everyone, so was thrilled to see this book come out as a low-cost and high-impact option for building a self-care practice. Read more about the book here.
#5. Moms First
A growing grassroots movement with easy-to-use tools to advocate for child care and paid leave as economic priorities. Inspired by one of my favorite books Pay Up by Reshma Saujani.
#4. Chamber of Mothers
Finding ‘my people’ when Chamber of Mothers launched a new state chapter in Minnesota in 2024. I’ll never forget that first meeting, uniting with other Minnesota moms who are passionate about fighting for paid leave, affordable child care, and maternal mental health.
#3. Motherly
The wellbeing platform that helped me publish my first story about my postpartum experience and launched my journey into advocacy on behalf of new moms. I also love their weekly Monday texts that always lift me up at the right moments.
#2. Amma Parenting
A local support group in Minnesota, where I met with 7 other new moms weekly. This was my second new mamas class with Amma, this time with moms of two, and one of the best things I did for my postpartum adjustment. It’s a safe, judgement-free space to say, ‘I haven’t slept since Tuesday.’
#1. Postpartum Support International
I can’t say enough about this organization. I started volunteering for Postpartum Support International shortly after having my first and I’m so glad I had more information about mental health disorders going into my second. It includes all kinds of FREE support for new moms—from a hotline to a provider directory that led me to the right therapist for my journey.
2024 wasn’t easy. But my kids inspire me every day to model the resilience and compassion I want to see in them. These resources made my experience feel lighter and more empowered.
To all new moms — cheers to a healthy and strong start to 2025.
