What #MeToo Has To Do with Motherhood

It seems like every time you go online, the worst of humanity is in your face. Social media is media, and tends to show the extremes of human behavior. But while you can get the worst of things, you also see the best of humanity online too. This week, we rounded up stories of survival, support, and a little bit of wisdom too for Well Rounded’s Weekly Links.

1. Last weekend we saw an incredible display of the power of social media as sexual abuse, harassment and assault survivors posted their stories with the hashtag #MeToo. Originally founded by grassroots activist Tarana Burke in 2007, the #MeToo tag went viral overnight as people of all genders, orientations and backgrounds stepped up to share their stories. Moms across the internet are adding their voices in a powerful way–read one mom’s essay here.

2. Most women have been told not to share the news about their pregnancies until after the first trimester, but that frequently means no one is there to support you if a miscarriage happens. To commemorate the difficult experiences being shared and to mark Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, the #IHadAMiscarraige campaign commissioned a line of prints reminding us that women deserve support throughout all stages of their pregnancy, available for free here.

3. The campaign to end mom shaming usually covers hot button issues like feeding styles and sleeping arrangements, but very little is said about shaming single mothers. From implying that they “should’ve picked a better husband” to passing them up for promotions because of imagined child-care issues, single moms are often the subject of gossip, ridicule and unfounded speculation. Read a fantastic essay on single-mom shaming and how to recognize it here.

4. Just in time for cold and flu season, the popular and ingredient-conscious brand Little Remedies has rolled out a new book, A Little More Wisdom. Though short, this book is filled with gorgeous illustrations and tips on how to care for your baby from day one. The book is available as a free download here.

5. Okay, so the love affair that most moms have with Target is no secret, but we’re really impressed with the new expansion to Cat & Jack, the superstore’s signature line. After releasing a selection of sensory-friendly clothing in August, the brand has rolled out an adaptive-friendly assortment made for children living with disabilities. The line has items for boys and girls and includes closet staples like hoodies, puffer jackets, tees, leggings and bodysuits, all with side and back snaps zippers and hidden abdominal access. Most pieces are under $19.99, and are available on Target.com starting October 22nd.