Do Parents Really Know What They Are Doing?

Through the years, parenting advice has changed from generation to generation. Jennifer Traig takes readers on a journey through time in her new book, "Act Natural: A Cultural History of Misadventures in Parenting" to look at advice dating back to the 18th century. In her humorous narrative, she dives deep into the cultural and generational differences of parenting.

Traig shares historical parenting advice that would seem unthinkable today like, considering colostrum toxic and instructing mothers to feed their newborns honey instead. We know now this would only trade the antibodies in breastmilk for botulism. She also notes that advice like this was often administered by male doctors.

“Parenting is so hard; and like our kids, we’re all looking for permission to slack off in some areas.” Traig explains, noting that what she wants most as a parent is some reassurance she isn’t doing it wrong.

More details about Traig’s new book here.