Parents

Credit: Parents/Getty Images One of my favorite parts of being a mom is watching my daughter experiment, have fun, and feel excited to get up every day and be part of the world. Toddlers are like that—always ready to jump into a new game or adventure—and CoComelon is one of those shows that embraces kids’ love for mischief and fun.

For more than two decades, we’ve had a front-row seat to the evolution of Lance Bass. We first fell in love with him as the grounded bass vocalist from Mississippi navigating worldwide pop pandemonium in NSYNC. Before long, he was lighting up our screens as a charismatic television and radio host. Most recently, he’s added children’s book author to his ever-growing resume, giving fellow millennial parents the ultimate excuse to introduce their favorite pop idol to the next generation.

Parents/Lori Dorman & Co. Photography On the Cover: Lance Bass A Note From Senior Editor Anna Halkidis It’s almost my favorite time of year again. If you’re like me, you’ll soon be pulling out an advent calendar to start counting down to what’s meant to be the most joyous time of the year. Emphasis on the “meant to be.” Whatever holiday you celebrate, you probably know joyous usually goes hand in hand with a whole lot of stress.

Credit: Getty Images Hosting holiday traditions can be a meaningful way to connect with family and celebrate cultural heritage. Even when it feels overwhelming, the effort you put into creating joyful memories is worth it. Passing down traditions helps children feel connected to their roots and builds lasting family bonds. Every October, as the rest of the world is drowning in pumpkin spice lattes, I’m doing a test run on latkes.

Credit: GettyImaes/mixetto You don’t have to spend a lot to make the holidays feel special for your family. Free local events, family movie nights, and homemade crafts can bring joy without adding financial stress. Planning ahead and focusing on time together can help your family save money and make lasting memories. The holidays are often portrayed as a season of abundance. But presents piled beneath the tree, elaborate meals, and exorbitant travel costs often lead to financial strain.

Credit: Tang Ming Tung / Getty Images Teaching kids gratitude helps them appreciate kindness and build meaningful connections. Family rituals and shared experiences can shift the holiday focus from gifts to connection. Modeling generosity and empathy shows kids the joy of giving and helping others. Like many parents during the holidays, my husband and I spend a considerable amount of time, effort, and money choosing presents we think our kids will love.

Credit: 10'000 Hours / Getty Images I’m a big fan of the holiday sugar cookie. They’re easy, versatile, and delicious. My kids love taking turns rolling out dough, then cutting out little snowflakes or snowmen shapes. We’re also pros at decorating the sweet treats and, of course, eating them. But it’s not the only option. There are plenty of simple and fun recipes perfect for little helpers. Here are some festive confections that’ll make you and your kids feel extra jolly this season.

Credit: GettyImages/AleksandarNakic Talking through the travel plan with your kids ahead of time can help reduce stress and prevent meltdowns. Using screens during travel is OK, especially when it helps kids and parents manage sensory overload. Travel is a great chance to teach kids life skills, build empathy, and create fun family memories. Last year, more than 3.13 million people passed through U.S. airport security checkpoints on the Sunday after Thanksgiving.

Credit: GettyImages/Klaus Vedfelt Festive, alcohol-free drinks help everyone feel included and create special memories for kids and adults alike. Simple mocktail recipes can make hosting easier and more fun, even during busy holidays. Safety is key when making drinks for kids and pregnant people, so always check ingredients and avoid choking hazards.

Credit: Getty Images Giving kids home decor or furniture as gifts can make the holidays feel special without adding toy clutter. Creative presentation, like framing furniture as magical or festive, helps kids see these items as exciting gifts. This approach balances holiday joy with practicality, reducing stress for parents while still delighting kids.