Guide to more effective, nuanced discussions about infant feeding

In my previous piece on the breastfeeding backlash movement, I noted that many professionals, clinicians, and public health advocates have expressed uncertainty as to how approach the issue with the general public. It just so happens that I have a tiiiiny bit of public relations and science policy experience, and have road-tested some language and …

Six must-follow experts to follow for dope breastfeeding science

Note: I apologize for the ads. I know they're ugly. I'm working on a budget for this thing! During World Breastfeeding Week 2019, I have been reflecting on how there is a whole heck of a lot of misinformation being spread around the internet about breastfeeding in recent years. I have noticed a trend of …

Your butt on chairs: How chairs shaped human physiology

Have you ever thought about how odd it is that we’re the only species on Earth that uses a tool for sitting? Think about it. When your dog or cat needs to sit, she just...sits. But before you can sit, you need to grab an assistive device. What?Of course, we can sit on the ground …

Book Review: The Stuff of Stars

I AM SO SO SORRY ABOUT THE ADS! WORKING ON A BUDGET FOR THAT... Author: Marion Dane BauerIllustrator: Ekua Holmes Candlewick Press, 2018Ages 6-12 The Stuff of Stars describes is a "big history" book that the describes the origins of the universe and through colorful semi-abstract art, and soaring verse that is scientifically accurate and …

It’s time to talk about breastfeeding science backlash movement

Knowing the type of reactions this topic elicits, I have mulled over whether or not to write this post for a long time. But World Breastfeeding Week is a time for health practitioners and health advocates to reflect, and as someone who hails from the world of science rather than clinical, and as someone who …

Emergency Quick Start Guide to Breastfeeding

Note: I apologize for the ads. I know they're ugly. I'm working on a budget for this thing!How to use this guideIf you are really tired or drugged, and you want MINIMAL INFO ONLY, then you may read only the bolded sentences and section titles, and then read the rest if you need more details …

Why I Teach

Hello. I am here to drop the babyscience. A few years ago, at a big anthropology conference, I was a very nervous undergrad. I loved my science, and I couldn't wait to get to every talk. But I also didn't feel like I really belonged there. I was a "non-traditional" student, and I didn't know where …

Luke Skywalker’s Green Milk: “It’s Not a Breast. It’s an Udder.” And Other Science Facts You Didn’t Ask For

What’s the deal with that green milk scene in the Last Jedi? A comprehensive, insanely nerdy and ridiculous look at what this 25-second scene tells us about the ecology of the Star Wars’ universe’s newest mammal.

On Melatonin and Kids

On Tuesday, BBC.com reported that three Chicago-area daycare employees were arrested for administering melatonin to twelve toddlers at nap time, without parental consent. (Aside: Curiously, apparently the British spell it "parentel"? The wonders of variations in English word spellings never cease...) Now, if you're anything like me, you probably stared at this report, mouth agape, …

The Mission

The late astronomer Carl Sagan foretold a "technological adolescence" -- a time when humans would become completely dependent on technology and science, yet not understand it. Perhaps now more than ever, we all have a vested interest in making sure the next generation is a broadly educated, resilient, and compassionate one. The name "Raising Wonder" …