25 Under-$20 Things From Target To Brag About
A jar of E.l.f. Holy Hydration! face cream with SPF 30 broad-spectrum sunscreen and hyaluronic acid because reviewers say they would recommend this more than expensive, fancy-pants moisturizers. Being hydrated as heck and saving some money? Literally, name a more iconic duo.
Note: Based on the AAD Guidelines all sunscreens should have an SPF of at least 30 and protect against UVA and UVB rays.Promising review: "I recently purchased this out of curiosity after reading several reviews as I'm still trying to find my perfect fit moisturizer for my skincare routine. I love this one for daytime use! The texture is so creamy it glides on easily, and my skin feels soft and moisturized for most of the day. It has a light fragrance, but I find it very pleasant and doesn't irritate my senses or skin. I also love that this has SPF in it. I have used many different high-dollar brand-name moisturizers, and I would absolutely repurchase and recommend this one above them all at this point." — veitah1Price: $13
A pair of over-ear wired headphones that I personally cannot believe are this affordable because their psychedelic swirl design makes them look like you bought them at one of those expensive home goods stores where, like, a pen costs $15.
Promising review: "My kids love them! They work great compared to more expensive ones that don't last long! I've used them as well when my earbuds are dead." —JenPrice: $12.74 (originally $14.99)
A minimalist belt bag for folks looking for a chic way to cart around their phone, wallet, and lip balm. If you carry a traditional bag that seems to accumulate junk until it feels so heavy, you're worried your shoulder will get pulled out of its socket (~guilty~); this is a good way to strip down to basics — and give your poor shoulder a break.
Promising reviews: 'This bag is very cute and holds so much! Definitely a good quality and easy to clean. Highly recommend for any age.' —L"The tan color looks sophisticated without being expensive. Another great product by Target!" —CPrice: $10 (available in six colors)
A dry-erase calendar that is going to make you wonder how you lived without it. Its thin gold frame makes it look like part of your gallery wall, and it's magnetized, so you can attach important invitations and receipts — or just photos of extremely cute dogs to keep your energy up throughout your workday.
Promising review: "This is a nicely sized dry-erase board to write in my family's monthly schedule. Helps keep us organized at a glance; we use a different color for each person. I enjoy using it!" —JennyNHPrice: $12.99
An adorable solar-powered LED outdoor light because warm weather is finally upon us — grabbing a few of these to light up the night will help you maximize your outdoor time. Plus, they can also charge via USB, just in case you get a run of cloudy days.
Promising review: "I kinda bought this impulsively, not because I needed it but because I just LOVED how it looked. It has a charger you can use by plugging into the wall and a solar panel on top. There are two settings—on/off and on-when-dark-detected/off. The button is a touch button; nothing actually presses down. While it's very lightweight and probably all plastic inside, the outer layer is metal. It gives off an impressive amount of light for something so small and battery-powered! It comes in many great colors, but I decided on the green. It's really beautiful!" —BreannadPrice: $10.50 (originally $15.99; available in six colors)
A Kristen Ess deep conditioning hair treatment for folks struggling with dry or damaged hair who would like a salon-level deep conditioning treatment, but here's the twist! — I would like it to not cost one bazillion dollars. Reviewers say this masque is salon-grade, and a whole jar costs about the same as one fancy salad.
Promising reviews: 'Works really well! I've only ever bought salon grade - and this is right up there! Left my hair super soft and shiny. Smells really good, too! Has lasted me a long time.' —Carlee"I really love this hair mask! I use it once per week after shampooing, and it leaves my hair so soft and smooth like I just left the salon! The smell is so nice too. Not too strong, which I love." —Dear Katy Price: $17.99
A Dash mini waffle maker, because waiting for an hour for brunch in a super-crowded restaurant, where someone will inevitably end up putting their elbow in your latte? Why live that life when you could still be in your jammies, whipping up delicious mini waffles cooked to your exact specifications?
Promising review: "I cannot say enough good things about this little waffle maker. It may be small, but it's mighty. It doesn't take up much room, is easy to store/clean, and makes fresh waffles for my family on busy mornings super fast. I just keep some waffle batter in my fridge throughout the week and use a few servings each morning. I never thought I would get as much use out of this as I do." —TeddyOatsPrice: $9.99 (available in two colors)
A pack of Pixi + Hello Kitty sheet masks that aren't just printed with adorable images of your fave cartoon kitty — they're soaked with vitamins A and C, and reviewers say they make their skin feel plump and ultra-hydrated.
Promising reviews: "Hands down, the best sheet mask I've ever tried! Leaves skin plump, hydrated, and glassy. I put mine in the fridge to chill before I applied and it just added to the overall rejuvenating effect. Go buy it!!" —Anonymous"I bought these just because they were Hello Kitty… ended up making my skin so soft and glowy for 24 hours. Evens helped the look of acne scarring." —kaitlynn jPrice: $10 for a pack of three
A can organizer, because you are playing a dangerous game when you just stack your La Croix and Olipops all willy-nilly in your fridge. This organizer works for mini and full-size cans and takes up less room than the big cardboard crate that they came in.
Promising review: "Great organization item! Sturdy. Holds up to three rows of cans. Regular size and mini cans both work." —BrittncourtPrice: $14
A mini enameled cast-iron Dutch oven for anyone who's heard a ton about Dutch ovens but isn't sure they're ready to commit to one. This mini version can help you give them a test run — and it's great for making dips, desserts, and small baked goods.
Promising review: "I made s'mores dip in this mini Dutch oven, and it came out great. Surprisingly, it was easy to clean, keeping my s'mores dip warm after taking it out of the oven. I wish there were more colors." —RaveenPrice: $14.99+ (available in three sizes)
A three-piece tropical print gardening set, because who says doing household chores can't be an incredibly glam experience? Prune those petunias in style, my friend.
Kit includes a spade, cultivator, and bypass pruner.Price: $17.50 (originally $25)
A Physicians Formula face palette that's packed with bronzers, highlighters, blush, and powder, so you can create new looks whenever your thrifty little heart desires.
Promising review: 'Yes, yes, yes!!! Absolutely love, love, love! This palette! I bought it, and it's AMAZING! It smells so good, too! The highlight and bronzer are perfect shades! I love everything about this palette so much! It does last long and for the price! It's a steal! The price of what it is should be higher, in my opinion! This palette is absolutely incredible!' —Mascara + AllergiesPrice: $19.59
An ultra-slim two-slice toaster because have you ever noticed that your toaster is weirdly enormous? Why does it need so much hardware to toast two lil' slices of bread? This narrow model will take up way less cash and counter space (but will toast your bagels just as thoroughly).
Promising review: "I first loved the minimalistic design and its lightweight. I love the tray for cleaning bread crumbs. Functional buttons are easy to understand and the toaster does a perfect job." —PlacematPrice: $19.99 (available in four colors)
A vintage-inspired trinket tray that looks like it came from a pricey homewares store — your friends will not believe it cost less than $5 and came from Target. Hey, I can't believe it, and I'm the one writing this article!
Promising review: "This trinket dish has quickly become one of my favorite decorative pieces. The design is both charming and elegant, featuring intricate patterns that add a touch of sophistication to any space. It's the perfect size for holding small items like rings, earrings, and other jewelry, keeping them organized and easily accessible. What I love most about this trinket dish is how it combines practicality with aesthetic appeal." —Monica77Price: $4.99
A vacuum wine preserver, because there are few kitchen tragedies on par with pouring a nice glass of wine, only to find that it has turned...skunky. Oxygen is the thing that turns wine from "full-bodied, with notes of caramel" to "YIKES." This handy tool pumps oxygen out of your bottle, and the stoppers seal it, helping your wine stay delicious for longer.
Promising review: 'Wonderful wine pump! Works beautifully. Where have you been all my life? Highly recommend it. Worth it. Just a few dollars more than an ordinary wine pump.' —Mickey Price: $18.99
A three-pack of '80s-style striped crew socks for anyone who's looking to work a few vintage vibes into their summer looks. These will look extremely cute pulled all the way up and paired with short-shorts and Converse.
Promising review: "I think these socks are great. I don't like thick socks, so they are perfect for me. They run a little big in the foot for me, but not at all a deal breaker for what ends up being less than $3 per pair. They also stay up nicely." —MplsMamaPrice: $8 (available in two color sets and fits women's shoe sizes 4–10)
A jar of Aquaphor healing ointment you can use for everything from fading scars to soothing diaper rashes, treating chapped lips to "slugging" your skin to lock in your serums at night. It's kind of like a Swiss Army knife, but for your skin, so it always pays to have some on hand.
Promising review: "Aquaphor is great for dry skin during the fall and winter. A little goes a long way. It's not like lotion; it's more concentrated and does a better job than just lotion." —LuluPrice: $5.49+ (available in two sizes)
A Bentgo two-tier snack cup that isn't just for kids — this is perfect for bringing two equally delicious (but totally incompatible) snacks to work. Pretzels and apple slices? Hummus and blueberries? Don't fear — the cup's two airtight compartments are totally separate, so there's no leakage (or spilled pretzel dust).
Price: $19.99 (available in five colors)
A 2-quart Crock-Pot, because it's time you let someone else cook you dinner...and yes, that someone is this lovely appliance. You can fill it up with ingredients before you leave the house and come home to a magically cooked stew, chili, pot roast, or butter chicken...it's great that some of your kitchen appliances are finally pulling their own weight over here, in.
Promising review: "Perfect size. I take this to Bunco potlucks often and it holds just the right amount of food and it's easy to travel because it's not massive. I love this thing." —CCPrice: $17.99 (originally $19.99)
A hydrating facial cleanser that wasn't just developed with dermatologists — many (including mine!) recommend it over the extremely expensive stuff you'd buy at a beauty store. And if you opt for this big ol' 16-ounce bottle, it will help you clean off impurities without stripping away your skin's natural moisture for a long, loooong time.
Promising review: "I have tried every face wash, spot treatment, acne medication, birth control, and professional facial service under the sun, and I have had acne since I was 17. I bought this, and my skin cleared up completely in three months, so much that I was able to completely stop all other topicals and oral dermatologist medications. I use the a.m. and p.m. moisturizer, too; this was really a godsend." —Ks97Price: $6.49+ (available in four sizes)
A microgel down alternative pillow because I know what you're thinking: it only costs $15?? Is this pillow made from old socks and sawdust?? HARDLY. This medium-firm pillow is made with micro-gel, so it can hold its shape and support your head as well as some much pricier models.
Promising review: "Some of the best pillows I've owned so far. I love how the packaging has a meter on it as well. These pillows bounce back unlike any other pillow I've slept on. For $15 each, this is definitely a bargain." —oreofox22Price: $15+ (available in standard and king sizes)
A faux-leather padfolio with organizational pockets and a built-in pad for anyone who likes to take old-school notes at their job (or whose job is constantly giving you tons of papers to deal with). It's way more chic than a manila folder, and will 100% make you feel like A Grown Up Doing Very Important Business (even if you're eating Dunkaroos while you do it).
Promising review: 'Love this padfolio! Love this for meetings. The neutral color goes with everything.' —JenaPrice: $15
A fold-up camp chair, because every year, summer arrives, and you realize that you need more outdoor chairs for camping, beach trips, concerts, and having guests chill in your backyard while you serve them burgers (but they must address you as "The Barbecue Wizard" while you do it). This model is about as affordable as they come, but reviewers say it's still ultra-comfy.
Promising review: "We've bought three of these chairs now because they're the perfect size—especially for adults, including men. They're not flimsy or too small like some others we've tried. Super easy to fold up and take to our kids' sports events. Comfortable, lightweight, and reliable. A great value!" —KathyPrice: $9.99
A hanging organizer for anyone starting to feel like the only way to deal with their closet mess is to leave under cover of darkness and start a new life across state lines. With three or six shelves, this organizer has room to store extra sweaters, pants, bags, hats, and even shoes. It's time to breathe a sigh of relief...and then finally deal with whatever is going on inside your bathroom cabinet.
Promising review: "Very good quality product and size. I was afraid it would not last very long, but I have had it for several months and it's still holding up. I do fill it with a lot of things. It is heavy and still has not torn or come apart. Good product." —StrangePrice: $15+ (available in two sizes)
A three-pack of drain cleaner snakes because this isn't just cheap — removing your gross hair clogs with this for a few bucks now will save you a plumber's enormous bill later.
Promising review: "Cleared the hair clog in my pop-up shower drain immediately, without having to remove the drain cap." —SSPrice: $6.29
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Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Yahoo
More states report illnesses, hospitalizations in salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers
Salmonella illnesses linked to cucumbers continue to increase, with additional cases and hospitalizations reported in more states – and another major retailer, Target has issued its own recall. The initial recall of cucumbers grown by Florida-based Bedner Growers and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales linked the produce to a salmonella outbreak across 15 states. The Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on May 19 that 26 people had gotten ill and nine were hospitalized. Health officials have now increased the number of illnesses reported to 45 in 18 states – Georgia, Indiana and Massachusetts are the latest states with cases – with hospitalizations due to salmonella poisoning up from nine to 16, according to the FDA and CDC. Tough cookie: Oreo maker sues Aldi over alleged copycat cookie packaging Eight people told health officials they had taken a cruise before becoming sick, according to the CDC. The passengers were aboard six different ships, all of which departed from Florida between March 30 and April 12 – three people were on the same ship, the agency said. No deaths have been reported in the salmonella outbreak, the CDC says. The initial voluntary recall involved cucumbers sold directly to consumers at Bednar's Farm Fresh Market. Subsequently, additional recalls have been announced by grocers such as Harris Teeter, Kroger and Walmart that repackaged whole cucumbers for sale or used them in ready-to-eat products such as vegetable trays and salads. Target issued a recall for products purchased May 7 to May 21, the FDA said in its May 30 update. Those products included individual cucumbers, cucumber two-packs, and prepared foods such as Good & Gather Lemon Pepper Greek-Style Chicken Salad, Mai Spicy Salmon Rice Bowl with White Rice, and Mai California Roll with White Rice. The complete list of more than 40 recalled products with cucumbers is available on Target's product recall page. Target was also among retailers recalling Hormel Foods' Dinty Moore Beef Stew because the product may contain fragments of "foreign material," specifically wood. USA TODAY Recall Database: Search vehicle, product and food recalls The recalled cucumbers should no longer be on store shelves, health officials said. The CDC and FDA advises anyone with cucumbers at home to throw them away if they're unsure where they're from. Wash any surfaces and items that may have touched the cucumbers. Bedner Growers was also linked to a salmonella outbreak involving cucumbers last year that sickened 551 people and hospitalized 155 across 34 states and the District of Columbia, according to the CDC. Investigators found untreated canal water carrying the bacteria used by Bedner Growers, the CDC said. While Bedner Growers and Thomas Produce Company of Boca Raton, Florida, were the likely sources of the outbreak, the CDC said, the companies did not account for all the outbreak's illnesses. Each year, salmonella causes about 1.35 million illnesses, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths in the U.S., according to the CDC and FDA. Symptoms of salmonella infection – including diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps – usually arise six hours to six days after exposure and may last 4 to 7 days. Severe infections can also include aches, headaches, elevated fever, lethargy, rashes, and blood in the urine or stool. As of May 30, the salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers has sickened 45 people in the following 18 states: Alabama California Colorado Florida Georgia Illinois Indiana Kansas Kentucky Massachusetts Michigan North Carolina New York Ohio Pennsylvania South Carolina Tennessee Virginia Contributing: Gabe Hauari and Mary Walrath-Holdridge. Mike Snider is a reporter on USA TODAY's Trending team. You can follow him on Threads, Bluesky, X and email him at mikegsnider & @ & @mikesnider & msnider@ What's everyone talking about? Sign up for our trending newsletter to get the latest news of the day This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Target joins recall of cucumbers linked to salmonella outbreak
New York Post
2 days ago
- New York Post
These 7 crisp and cool percale sheets are some of the best we've slept on
Get the deets between the sheets. If you've ever wondered what percale sheets are, you're not alone. Percale refers to a specific type of weave used in fabric, characterized by its one-over-one-under pattern. This tight, simple weave creates a crisp, breathable, and lightweight fabric. Despite popular belief, percale is not only made from cotton but can also come from a blend of silk, polyester, or rayon, as it is the weave that makes percale, not the material. One of the primary reasons percale sheets help you sleep better is their breathability. Unlike thicker or shinier weaves, such as sateen, percale allows for better air circulation, helping to regulate your body temperature through the night. The result is a smooth and cool sheet that feels refreshing against your skin, especially in warmer climates. It's no surprise that many consider cotton percale sheets to be a top choice for a good night's sleep. This is why percale frequently shows up in expert roundups like the New York Post's best cooling sheets, where breathability and moisture-wicking are key features. The best percale sheets end up on curated lists like the best bed sheets overall and even the best Target bed sheets for shoppers who want quality on a budget. Best Percale Sheets Overall: Parachute Percale Sheet Set Parachute Pros: 60-return window 100% long-staple Egyptian cotton Free shipping Tested for harmful chemicals Cons: No twin sheet options Experience the foundation of your perfect bed with this luxurious sheet set, crafted in Portugal from 100% premium, certified long-staple Egyptian cotton. Its lightweight, breathable percale weave feels cool against the skin and softens beautifully with each wash. Great for toxic-conscious sleepers, the OEKO-TEX certification ensures the fabric is tested for harmful substances, giving you peace of mind along with comfort. Size: Full to California King | Depth: n/a | Color options: 12 | Certifications: OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 | Best Deep-Pocket Percale Sheets: Boll & Branch Percale Hemmed Sheet Set Boll and Branch Pros: 100% organic cotton Made from long-staple cotton Very deep pockets at 17 inches Tested for harmful substances Also available in printed sheets, cotton percale, and solid color options Cons: The button-down shirt texture might feel too stiff for those who prefer ultra-soft or silky sheets like sateen or viscose New York Post Review: 'Immediately after placing these sheets on the bed, I noticed a difference from my usual 100% cotton set. Not to be a cliché, but the fabric felt cool against my skin. While I typically prefer viscose sheets for their silky texture, I found the wide weave of the percale helped wick moisture throughout the night and kept me cool during my usual night sweats. The button-down shirt texture may feel a bit too structured for those who favor ultra-soft or silky sheets like sateen or viscose, myself included. My husband, however, gave these sheets a 10 out of 10. What sets Boll & Branch apart is its commitment to sustainability and quality. This particular set is made from long-staple cotton, which holds up well after multiple washes and gets softer over time. The packaging is also beautiful, perfect for a wedding gift or a future grad.' Size: Twin to Split King/California King | Depth: 17 inches | Color options: 19 | Certifications: GOTS Certified Organic Cotton, STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX certified by Hohenstein # Best Organic Percale Sheets: Quince Classic Organic Percale Sheet Set Quince Pros: 100% long-staple cotton 270 thread count cotton percale 365-return window Budget-friendly Cons: Percale weave may not be preferred by those who like smoother, silkier textures Percale sheets have a crisp, breathable weave that promotes airflow due to their woven in a crisscross pattern. So, if you sleep hot, it's a great choice for you, but they tend to feel a bit more textured compared to viscose or traditional cotton. Several of our editors are fans of Quince for delivering impressive quality at a fraction of the price. By skipping retail markups and selling directly to customers, Quince keeps costs low without compromising on performance. Size: Twin to King | Depth: 16 inches | Color options: 12 | Certifications: GOTS Certified Best Pima Percale Cotton Sheets: Pima Cotton Percale Sheet L.L. Bean Pros: Affordable pricing Nine shades to choose from Twin to California King Free shipping with a $75 purchase Cons: Pocket depth only reaches 15 inches If you're after softness that doesn't fade over time, Pima cotton is a solid bet. Its long fibers give it a naturally smooth, almost silky texture that gets softer over time. Unlike some fabrics that wear out or pill, this one stays looking and feeling new even after repeated washes. Need more Twin XL picks? Check out these sets. Other places to find percale sheets are Lands' End and Pottery Barn. Size: Twin to California King | Depth: 15 inches | Color options: 9 | Certifications: n/a Best Egyptian Cotton Percale Sheets: Brooklinen Cooling Cotton Percale Core Sheet Set Brooklinen Pros: 100% long-staple cotton Tested for harmful substances Cons: Returns are subject to a $9.95 fee Egyptian cotton sheets are made from high-quality, long-staple cotton grown in Egypt, renowned for their exceptional softness, breathability, and long-lasting properties: 100% long-staple cotton. Brooklinen designed these Cooling Cotton Percale Core Sheet Sets for hot sleepers with an OEKO-TEX certification for chemical safety to protect you against any allergies or toxic materials in cheaper bedding. Size: Twin to California King | Depth: 16 inches | Color options: 18 | Certifications: OEKO-TEX certified for chemical safety Amazon Pros: Made from OEKO-TEX-certified 100% organic cotton Priced under $40 with frequent discounts Best on Amazon Cons: Limited thread count (200-range) If you're looking for high-quality, affordable bedding that doesn't compromise on comfort or sustainability, the LANE LINEN 100% Organic Cotton Full Sheet Set is a standout choice. Made from OEKO-TEX certified organic cotton with a crisp percale weave, these sheets offer a breathable, hotel-quality feel that's soft, durable, and ideal for hot sleepers. With eco-conscious packaging, reinforced seams, and deep pockets for a secure fit, this 4-piece set delivers both everyday luxury and peace of mind — all at a price that's hard to beat. Size: Twin to California King | Depth: 15 inches | Color options: 30 | Certifications: OEKO-TEX certified OneBed Pros: OEKO-TEX certified 100-night sleep trial Extremely soft Cons: Prone to wrinkling For a crisp and soft set of bed sheets, we recommend the OneBed Cool & Lazy Sheet Set. It's percale weave makes them feel similar to hotel sheets, and they come in lots of different color options. While they're prone to wrinkling, we do like the 360-degree elastic that stops edges from slipping off while you snooze. Best of all, they're OEKO-TEX certified, so if you're concerned about chemicals, rest easy. Materials: 100% organic cotton | Depth:15 inches | Colors: 11 options | Size: Twin to California King | Certifications: OEKO-TEX certified free of harmful chemicals How we tested To find the best percale sheets, we evaluated dozens of popular brands and models across several key categories: breathability, softness, wear and tear, and overall sleep experience. Although we have a small amount of percale sheets we've tested, we've gone through many, many cotton sets to understand how the material breathes. We paid special attention to how the fabric felt on the skin, how well it regulated body temperature, and how it held up after repeated laundering. We also considered consumer reviews and expert recommendations, including insights from trusted sources such as The New York Post's bedding guides, to make sure our selections aligned with what real users value most. What is the best thread count for percale sheets? When it comes to thread count, more isn't always better, especially with percale. The best thread count for percale sheets typically ranges from 200 to 300. This range offers the perfect balance of softness, breathability, and how it wears over time. Unlike sateen sheets, which benefit from higher thread counts for a silkier feel, percale's lightweight weave thrives in a lower range to preserve its crisp, cool texture. Raising the thread count above 400 can sometimes result in denser, heavier sheets that reduce airflow, counteracting one of the primary benefits of percale. When shopping for cotton percale sheets, look for a thread count in the 200 to 300 range for the most comfortable sleep experience. What is the difference between 100% cotton and 100% cotton percale? When comparing percale vs. cotton sheets, the differences are minimal because, most of the time, both are made from cotton. The label 100% cotton simply refers to the material itself, but it doesn't tell you anything about how the fabric is woven. 100% cotton percale, on the other hand, means the sheets are made entirely of cotton and use the percale weave. This distinction matters because the weave dramatically affects the feel, breathability, and performance of your bedding, allowing more air to circulate between the sheets. Regular 100% cotton sheets might use a sateen, twill, or jersey knit, all of which have different textures and thermal qualities. Percale sheets made from 100% cotton are matte, crisp, and cool to the touch, making them ideal for hot sleepers or those who prefer the just-washed feel. When comparing your options, understanding the difference between simple cotton and 100% cotton percale can help you make a more informed choice for better sleep. And if you're comparing percale vs. sateen sheets, it really comes down to personal preference. Percale sheets are matte, crisp, and tend to get softer with each wash, while sateen sheets are smoother and silkier with a subtle sheen. Bottom line? It's all a matter of personal preference. For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America's go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We're not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren't already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we're known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change. Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
Your kid's temper tantrum doesn't mean you're failing as a parent: How I stay calm and connected in the chaos.
The founders of the popular parenting platform Big Little Feelings — moms and real-life best friends Kristin Gallant, a parenting coach with a background in maternal and child education, and Deena Margolin, a child therapist specializing in interpersonal neurobiology — are back with more parenting wisdom in Yahoo's new column called , a companion to their podcast, After Bedtime With Big Little Feelings. In the second episode of their show, Gallant and Margolin dive into toddler tantrums — those challenging (and, let's be honest, mortifying) moments that can really test your patience and leave you feeling frustrated and judged by everyone around you. Here, Gallant shares five tips on how to calmly navigate a tantrum. It always seems to happen at the worst possible time. You're at Target. Or at the park. Or boarding a plane. And just as you're trying to get out the door, check out with your cart full of stuff or line up at the gate, you feel it coming. The whining and the screaming, followed by the full-body flop to the ground. Your toddler is officially having a moment. And you're officially dying inside. For me, that's the moment the shame voice kicks in: You're doing it wrong. No one else's kid acts like this. Look around — everyone's staring. They're judging you. Good moms don't have kids who scream in public. That voice? It's a liar. Here's what's actually true: Your child's tantrum is not a reflection of your failure. It's a reflection of their developing brain doing exactly what it's wired to do. Let's break that down, along with tips on how to handle a toddler meltdown. Toddlers live in what's called the 'emotional brain,' aka the limbic system. The rational, logical part of the brain that helps regulate big feelings (the prefrontal cortex) is still in development. Like, years away from being online. That means toddlers physically cannot handle overwhelming emotions in a calm, measured way because the part of the brain that would help them do that isn't built yet. So when your child loses it over a broken granola bar or the wrong color cup, it's not them being 'bad.' It's their brain being immature and developing exactly on track. You're not just dealing with a dysregulated kid, you're also dealing with every set of eyes in the grocery store or at the playground on you. The shame. The heat on your face. The desperate urge to make it stop. Let me say this as clearly as possible: You are not a bad parent because your child is struggling. You are not a failure because your child is having a hard time in public. It's actually the most human parenting moment there is. Here's a quick survival-mode guide to get through it: Regulate yourself first: Your child's brain is on fire. If yours catches fire too, it's just two brains in a blaze. Instead, take a deep breath. Literally. Ground yourself in the moment. You're not in danger, you're just in aisle 7. Forget the audience: The people staring? They've either a) never had a toddler or b) have had one and have just forgotten. Your job is not to manage their discomfort, it's to support your child through theirs. Get low and stay calm: Kneel down to your child's level. Speak softly. Your calm is contagious, even if it takes time for it to spread. Skip the lecture: This isn't a teachable moment; it's a survival one. Let the storm pass. You can talk later when everyone has calmed down and is back in their body. Have a go-to phrase: Something like: 'You're having a hard time. I'm right here with you.' It grounds both of you in connection, and that's what helps tantrums pass faster. Public tantrums feel like the worst moment of parenting. But they're actually one of the most important ones. Because when we stay present, calm and connected, even in the chaos, we teach our kids that big feelings aren't dangerous and that they're not alone in their hardest moments. And that their emotions are safe with us. That's not a parenting failure. That's parenting at its finest.
