Long Live the Chicago Rat Hole
Even something that starts as irony can give us a sense of community.
Americans Can’t Decide What It Means to Grow Up
Living alone tends to be idolized as a sign of maturity. But maybe that’s misguided.
Why Rich People Don’t Cover Their Windows
An unexpected status symbol has become a fixture of high-end homes.
The Vibes Are Off During the First Week of the Year
The transition to the new year brings a dreadful whiplash from rest to productivity.
Why Parents Struggle So Much in the World’s Richest Country
Raising kids shouldn’t be this hard.
My Father, the Giant
His life’s work was caring for the people he loved.
Maybe Don’t Send That Voice Note
The audio messages can encourage selfishness—unless you use them gracefully.
The Most Fun Way to Learn a Language
Pick up some slang.
The Bizarre Tragedy of Children’s Movies
Films such as The Lion King, Bambi, and Up all have upsetting moments. That doesn’t mean they’re bad for young viewers.
Dear Therapist: How Do I Talk to My Boyfriend About His Ex?
I think he may still have feelings for her.
The Great Cousin Decline
Families are shrinking. But the weirdest family role is a vital one.
The New Family Vacation
More and more Americans are traveling with multiple generations—and, perhaps, learning who their relatives really are.
You Can’t Truly Be Friends With an AI
Just because a relationship with a chatbot feels real, that doesn’t mean it is.
Bus Rides Feel Different When You’re a New Mother
Taking public transport with my baby was an act of faith—and, ultimately, joy.
The Type of Charisma That Saves a Holiday Party
If you have the gift of magnetism, use it for others’ benefit.
America Isn’t Ready for the Two-Household Child
Joint custody is a growing reality—but the country’s systems for supporting families aren’t built to accommodate it.
A Soulless Holiday-Shopping Strategy
Gifts are personal. Gift guides are not.
Let Them Cook
For Gen Z, developing culinary skills is more than an act of adulthood.
Your Friends Don’t All Have to Be the Same Age
When the young and the old befriend one another, everyone can benefit. So why doesn’t it happen more?
Dear Therapist: I Don’t Want to See My Mom This Christmas
She ruins the day, but guilt-trips me when I try to opt out.