• Last updated 5/25/11 by Mothering Editorial

By Candace Walsh Issue 140, January/February 2007 When I got back from Africa, folks wanted to know why I'd gone there. When I told them it was to attend Equality Now's annual conference on female genital mutilation (FGM), the conversation invariably bumped up against a stopping point: once you know about FGM, there really is no way to conscionably go on without doing something to help. Unless you can think of a reason not to. There is the Africa reason: "Africa is hopeless and always beset by violent crises." And the busyness reason: "I have enough things to worry... read more

• Last updated 5/25/11 by Mothering Editorial

While no soother is equal to the loss of a child, you must take care of yourself even in the most difficult of times. Afternoon tea is a way to do this. Borage, said to relieve sadness and grief, is an herb known in ancient times as a tonic—it calms the heart and revitalizes the exhausted system. In the spring, you can plant some borage for your tea. Otherwise, look for dried borage at the natural food grocery store or herb shop. Place 4 tablespoons fresh or 2 tablespoons dried borage flowers and leaves in a teapot. Cover with 1 pint of boiling water... read more

• Last updated 5/10/11 by Mothering Editorial

By Sawnda Chambers Web Exclusive - December 23, 2008 He is the physical manifestation of my own toxicity. I am leaking poison, draining it straight into him. He is me. I am him. The cut umbilical cord severed our physical connection three months ago. An invisible attachment remains, grows and is strengthened. My body pours an abundance of milk at his demand, filling him to overflowing until content, we rest. Moving in silent ebbs and flows, a short time later we again join as mother and son. He is me. I am him.An itchy spot spreads on his skin. First pink, then red.... read more

• Last updated 4/10/11 by Mothering Editorial

March 24, 2011 From the National Vaccine Information Center (NVIC): An assault on vaccine exemptions is underway in Washington State by powerful special interest groups that want to do the same thing in other states. All WA state residents, who want to file a philosophical or religious exemption to vaccination without getting a signature from a doctor or medical worker, should register for the free NVIC Advocacy Portal and access guidelines and updates for how to contact legislators to educate them about the dangers of SB5005. Key contacts need to be made immediately... read more

• Last updated 1/26/13 by Cynthia Mosher

Today is World Down Syndrome Day. Join the National Down Syndrome Society’s beautiful and inspiring My Great Story Campaign to celebrate and honor the 400,000 Americans living with Down syndrome.  Please pass this message on and share with friends on facebook to honor those with Down syndrome. About My Great Story MGS was created pro-bono by NY based Ad Agency, Pedone. After 14 months of market analysis the Pedone team developed a campaign in an effort to shape the future for all people with Down syndrome. The online story book was developed by CT... read more

• Last updated 6/27/11 by Cynthia Mosher

We've discussed this before, but I think its time to bring it up again. There is a huge misconception of what Autism Acceptance (aka: Pro-Autism) means and what our motivation is that makes us, as parents, choose to accept instead of cure our children. I'd also like to discuss some of the Autism myths, feel free to add your own. To keep this within the UA please refrain from attacking those who do not hold the same opinion as you, this goes both ways. We can do this respectfully and still get our message out there. If you happen to be pro-cure and have questions,... read more

• Last updated 11/30/11 by Mothering Editorial

This page displays monthly reports on event data from the US government's Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). Reports are provided by Mothering Expert Steven Rubin, PhD, a computer scientist who maintains the online searchable VAERS database, MedAlerts, and volunteer data reporter for the National Vaccine Information Center (NVIC). Please view his bio at the bottom of this page. Ask Dr. Rubin a Question Read Past Questions & Answers by Dr. Rubin About VAERS - from the VAERS website The Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) is a national vaccine... read more

• Last updated 1/30/13 by Cynthia Mosher

By Nadine Artemis of Living Libations (my new very favorite source for aromatherapy, elixirs, and chrisms!) Sometimes, helping children to brush their teeth, or getting children to brush their own teeth, is like herding cats and, when children do brush their teeth, even when they are teenagers, do they do a thorough job? Is their brushing effective? In ancient times, children very rarely had cavities. Today, however, one of the biggest health concerns affecting little ones more than any other in North America and Europe is dental decay, ECC... read more

• Last updated 3/14/11 by Mothering Editorial

By Michael JacobsonIssue 101, July/August 2000 In the early 1970s, Dr. Benjamin Feingold, then chief emeritus of the Department of Allergy at the Kaiser Foundation Hospital and Permanente Medical Group in San Francisco, reported a link between diet and several physical and allergic conditions. Thirty to 50 percent of Feingold's hyperactive patients said they benefited from diets free of artificial colorings and flavorings, and certain natural chemicals (salicylates, found in apricots, berries, tomatoes, and other foods). Although many parents eagerly embraced the... read more

• Last updated 3/19/11 by Mothering Editorial

Here are some common herbs and their health benefits for children: Aloe vera: heals burns and wounds (used externally). Arnica: good for bumps and bruises (used externally). Astragalus: builds strengthens the immune system. Calendula: soothes skin irritations, burns, diaper rash (used externally). California poppy: calming; used in children's nighttime formulas. Catnip: calming, digestive aid; used for colic, sleeplessness,minor fevers. Chamomile: a digestive aid and calming agent. Comfrey: good for skin irritations, inflammations (should not be ... read more