Happy Monday,

I hope everyone had a great weekend! I want to send out a huge congratulations to our friend Sam on the birth of his son. It’s funny, and I wonder if anyone can relate: the news of friends having their own children sends waves of anxiety through me, almost as if I'm back in the delivery room myself. The stress, fear, and overwhelming joy— it’s like I'm transported back, reliving those intense emotions. 

I think this shared emotional journey, from our individual yet interconnected experiences, binds us as parents. Each new birth not only brings back a flood of memories but also reinforces our collective journey through the highs and lows of parenthood. It's a reminder of the incredible strength we possess and the support we can offer one another, as we go through this life-altering adventure together.

Trending Stories & Insights

• TSwift x NFL: Say what you will about Taylor Swift’s entry into the NFL, but there is one undeniable fact: it has allowed dads and daughters to create a whole new bonding experience. Though I wish she was still cheering for my Eagles, I’m very appreciative of her for this

• When to stay home: Varying guidance on when to keep children home from school has created tons of confusion, leading to what many see as nationwide epidemic of chronic school absences. Some advocates and school systems — and the state of California — are now encouraging kids to come to class even when they have a cough, sore throat or other illnesses like lice or pinkeye

• It’s never too late to apologize: In a recent viral video, this mother demonstrates what might be the perfect ‘punishment’ for her daughter after she was caught bullying a classmate

Tip of the Day

• Family style: Meals that are placed in the center of the table instead of individually plated grant kids more autonomy at the table and expose them to a variety of foods in a pressure-free environment. Here are 7 tips to make this type of meal / plating work

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One Big Idea

Raising the Happiest Kids on Earth

At the heart of Dutch parenting lies a powerful, often overlooked component that enables their children to be cited as some of the happiest in the world: a comprehensive social safety net. This framework, deeply woven into the fabric of Dutch society, includes generous parental leave, subsidized childcare, healthcare for all, and even a four-day workweek, creating a supportive environment where children can explore their independence safely and parents can raise them without the constant stress of economic anxiety. This starkly contrasts with the American experience, where parents are often forced to navigate fears of economic and safety concerns with far less governmental support. The disparity highlights not just different parenting philosophies but fundamentally different approaches to societal welfare and child raising.

The Netherlands offers a compelling blueprint for how a society can foster an environment conducive to raising happy, confident children. The Dutch model showcases that when families are supported through robust social policies, children's well-being and independence naturally flourish. In contrast, many American parents face a reality where such freedom and security for their children seem to be unattainable luxuries, only reserved for those who are extremely well off. This comparison is not purely academic; it's a reflection of the tangible impact of social policies on the everyday lives of families. As we consider the future we want for our children, the Dutch example highlights the critical role of a social safety net in creating societies where all children can thrive. The path forward doesn’t just require an individual effort but collective action and commitment to systemic change.

Here’s a dad joke

Why couldn't the bicycle stand up by itself?

Scroll to the bottom of the newsletter for the answer!

Time(out) for Memes