Nola Family May 2026

NOLA May 2026

nola family MAY 2026 Parent Fearlessly

Perfection or Pressure?

Gear Up for College

Boys Don’t Cry —OR DO THEY?

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CONT ENT S May 2026

in each issue

6 8 9

THE MAMA FILES

FROM THE BOOKSHELF

SPOTLIGHT

10 18 24 26

MOM ABOUT TOWN THINGS TO DO THINGS WE LOVE

SNAPSHOTS

features

PHOTOS BY FREEPIK.COM

COLLEGE PREP SERIES: THE “BEFORE YOU ARRIVE” SUMMER GUIDE From smart packing and dorm setup to roommate tips, this guide breaks down exactly what your child needs to do ahead of move-in day. EMOTIONAL SUPPRESSION IN BOYS: IMPORTANCE OF TEACHING LANGUAGE A conversation about teaching boys the language of feelings and how to express what they feel—instead of shutting it down. 12 PERFECTION OR PRESSURE? RECOGNIZING ANXIETY IN HIGH-ACHIEVING KIDS A personal reflection exploring how perfectionism in young children can quietly do more harm than good. 14 16 THE “PERFECT” MOM The reality of the “perfect” mom—offering an honest look at how to navigate the pressures with real support, balance, and self-worth.

what’s on the web

Mother’s Day Gift Roundup Celebrating moms who deserve love—and kids who love to show it.

Local Family-Style Takeout Meals A guide to quick and easy dinner options near you.

Pack the Perfect Boat Day Picnic Meals, snacks, and drinks that travel well on the water. End-of-Year Fun for Teachers Wrap up the school year with these classroom activities.

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THE Mama FILES

nola family

MEET OUR TEAM AMY L. FOREMAN Publisher EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor AMANDA CIANI MADELINE PISTORIUS AMELIA ROESSLER JULIANNA STEEN Associate Editors ART/PRODUCTION CHLOE ALLEN Production Manager KAYLA DUPREE MADELINE MILETELLO ASAREL SMITH MCKINNA SPROLES Graphic Designers MORGAN ESPENAN Digital Content Coordinator SARAH MILLER MERCEDES MITCHELL SABRINA SMITH BREE WAY Client Success Representatives JILLIAN NORMAN Production Intern ADVERTISING/MARKETING CRYSTAL BARRETT ANTOINE COURTNEY KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ RYN WHITESIDE Senior Account Executives CAMILLE CAVIN JENNIFER HOFFMANN KAYLEIGH MONTANA JILLIAN WRAY Account Executives ELISABETH BARRETT Marketing Coordinator COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES Director of Community Partnerships ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN Chief Executive Officer LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Operations GAYLE GAUTHREAUX Director of Finance ALEXIS ALEXANDER Senior Executive Administrator

Growing up these days really isn’t much different than when I grew up. Except now, everything is online, and there’s a digital footprint that follows you. Most of these kids don’t really understand the importance of keeping things offline. One wrong post and whatever future you had planned is gone—poof, up in smoke. Raising Teens, One Post at a Time

But maybe the bigger difference isn’t just what’s at stake—it’s the audience.

We made mistakes too—just without the audience.

Today’s kids are growing up in front of invisible crowds, where every moment can be shared, judged, liked, or ignored. And that kind of constant exposure doesn’t just shape their choices—it shapes how they feel about themselves. A post that doesn’t get enough attention can feel like rejection. A comment meant as a joke can linger. And the pressure to present a perfect, curated life? That’s a heavy weight for anyone, especially a child still figuring out who they are.

And as a parent—especially one raising three teenagers—I can tell you, this phase of parenting is not for the faint of heart.

There’s a constant balancing act between giving them independence and wanting to protect them from a world that feels louder than it used to. You want to trust them, while quietly worrying about the choices they’ll make when you’re not around. You second-guess how much to say, when to step in, and when to let them learn the hard way.

Some days, it feels like you’re parenting in the dark—guiding them through something you never had to navigate yourself.

It’s not just about protecting their future opportunities anymore. It’s about protecting their sense of self.

Because when everything is public, it becomes harder to have private moments of growth—the kind where you mess up, learn, and move on. Without those moments, mistakes can start to feel permanent.

So we talk. We remind. We worry a little. And we hope they learn to pause—to think—not just about what they’re posting, but how it might make them feel later.

CONTACT US EDITORIAL@FRG.INC CORPORATE OFFICE (225) 292-0032 3636 S. SHERWOOD FOREST BLVD., STE. 540 BATON ROUGE, LA 70816

Amy L. Foreman Publisher Email amy@frg.inc to tell me about topics you’d like to see in future issues. Because growing up hasn’t changed nearly as much as the stage it happens on—and right now, that stage never really turns off. NOLA FAMILY MAGAZINE is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. Paid advertisements appear in FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) publications, including print and other digital formats. FRG does not endorse or evaluate the product, service, or company, nor any claims made by the advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. Some content in this magazine was created with assistance from AI tools and has been reviewed and edited by our human editorial team. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. NOLA FAMILY MAGAZINE Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.

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M ay is Mental Health Awareness Month and the New Orleans Public Library has great books for all ages about mindfulness, managing stress, getting in touch with your emotions, and more.

from the bookshelf

CHILDREN In The Magical Science of Feelings: Train Your Amazing Brain to Quiet Anger, Soothe Sadness, Calm Worry, and Share Joy , clinical social worker Jen Daily helps kids understand the science behind feelings. The book takes readers on a lively tour of the brain to see where anger, anxiety, sadness, and joy start, and offers activities for calming emotions. Today My Brain is a Dinosaur by Kyla Mora is an award-winning, authentic perspective on neurodiversity. Through engaging illustrations and thoughtful explanations, Mora gives readers an authentic glimpse into what life can feel like for kids with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent traits. The Whatifs by Emily Kilgore is a great pick for kids who struggle with anxiety. By personifying our worries as imaginary monsters called “whatifs,” kids learn how to manage unknowns of daily life. MIDDLE GRADE How to Handle Stress for Middle School by Silvi Guerra is a great guide for kids dealing with a notoriously difficult time. With topics ranging from breathing strategies and managing emotions to developing a growth mindset and challenging their brain mistakes, this book is an awesome tool for your middle schooler. In Moonflower by Kacen Callender, a nonbinary child named Moon struggles with overwhelming depression but finds escape in a magical spirit realm where they have adventures with a friend named Wolf. The Summer of June by Jamie Sumner is a middle grade novel about a 12-year-old girl who shaves her head to start fresh and tackle her severe anxiety (trichotillomania) over the summer. Her goal is to become a “lion” instead of a “mouse” with the help of her supportive single mom, a new friend, and a secret library garden. TEENS Ab(solutely) Normal: Short Stories that Smash Mental Health Stereotypes is a young adult

anthology edited by Nora Shalaway Carpenter and Rocky Callen. Featuring 16 short stories by authors with lived experience with mental health conditions, the collection aims to challenge stereotypes through diverse formats like prose, verse, and graphics, and includes author notes and resources. Mental health problems in young people are on the rise, and teens want resources to help friends in crisis. I’m Here: A Peer Counseling Guide for Teens by James J. Crist aims to be just that. With advice around problem-solving, goal setting, conflict resolution, and what to do when someone’s problems put the person or others in harm’s way, this book shares important helping skills teens can use to listen to and support one another. Your Brain Needs a Hug by Rae Earl is a judgement-free guide for living well with your mind. The author offers personalized, friendly advice on the A-Zs of mental health, social media, family, and friendship. With coping strategies and humor-filled anecdotes, this is a perfect read for feeling happier and healthier.

Kelly Jones is an outreach librarian for the New Orleans Public Library. Marie Simoneaux is the media and communications coordinator for the New Orleans Public Library.

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BUILDING BETTER Sleep:

spotlight

BY AMANDA MILLER | PHOTOS BY FREEPIK.COM

F or the past 35 years, the National Sleep Foundation has worked to change the way Americans think about sleep. At the center of that mission is CEO John Lopos, who shares that the organization was founded by people who were very active in the sleep field and committed to elevating sleep as a pillar of health.

whether there is evidence to back what they’re saying.

as the Consumer Technology Association, to further educate people of all ages. When sharing these messages, the Foundation has a way of making research and guidelines easier to understand. He adds, “We work as communicators to try and simplify the message.” Right now, the Foundation is focusing on sleep technology. “If you use them appropriately and responsibly, they can help with your sleep, and that’s everything that can measure or track your sleep. These are technologies that people can wear or have around their home. That’s one area that is really starting to blossom,” he says. Lopos acknowledges that many products are being developed right now, tech-related or not. “If you’re watching television on any given day, you can probably pick out three or four different things that are advertising how they can help people with their sleep. The most important thing there is, consumers sometimes need help sorting through the products and understanding what they’re saying about the product,” he says.

One of the most compelling parts of this work is the growing recognition that sleep affects everything from cognitive function to emotional wellness and performance. The Foundation especially emphasizes sleep within families. “One person sleeping poorly in the household really affects the other sleepers,” Lopos says. “That’s something we’ve been focusing on: the appreciation of how important sleep is within the household and the family to help build the best sleep for families.”

While some organizations focus on sleep disorders and sleep medicine or research, the National Sleep Foundation focuses on the public at large. “We don’t have a membership. Our constituency is the public, so our mission is really one of helping the public understand the importance of sleep for their health and their well-being,” explains Lopos. A major driver of that awareness has been Sleep Awareness Week, launched nearly 30 years ago to coincide with spring’s time change, when many are experiencing sleep disruption. This campaign is designed to highlight the importance of sleep. Beyond awareness campaigns, the National Sleep Foundation has shaped national conversations by publishing evidence- based guidelines, consistently creating content, and partnering with groups, such

Lopos’ takeaway for families is simple: “Practicing healthy sleep behaviors is

something that anyone and everyone can do, and they are fundamental to people’s health, performance, happiness, and ability to thrive. A family that prioritizes healthy sleep is going to not just sleep better, but they’re going to have a much more fulfilling life.”

Lopos recommends that before purchasing a product, consumers should check to see

To learn more, visit thensf.org.

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ROBIN BARNES

mom about town

AND PERSONAL LIFE? ROBIN: I’ve learned to stop striving for balance, but striving for seasons. I’m about to enter the festival season and I have an album coming out. So I might be busier at the studio, but I’m the first person they see when they wake up and go to sleep. That makes me feel like I can do my job, because I know my girls are good. And I’m really grateful to have help. Festival season is tough, but luckily, their grandparents are amazing. My husband and I work together, but we have to actively go on dates because we recognized we weren’t making time for the two of us. We decided to have “Tuesday time.”We don’t talk about work, music, or kids; just about how we feel, things we want to do, and things that are exciting, not stressful. ADVICE FOR MOMS READY TO GO FOR IT? ROBIN: Wanting to do it is the first step, and starting to do it is the next. But going from one step to the next is huge. I put a lot of pressure on myself; most moms do when we feel like we’re not doing everything right. I think pursuing your career is one of the most beautiful things you can do for your children. It’s something that is a challenge and not going to be perfect. But it is possible. Find friends that believe in you, and lean on them. DO YOU HAVE ANY FAMILY TRADITIONS? ROBIN: In my family, everything’s passed down from eldest daughter to eldest daughter through our oral storytelling—over nine generations in Louisiana. Because I have daughters now, they’re going to be the next generation of stewardship for our family and our culture. WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU? ROBIN: I am really excited about my new album. It’s inspired by my family history and my heritage, but it’s something that’s for all of us. It’s an album about celebrating life while also paying a beautiful tribute to our culture, and bridging the gap between New Orleans and Louisiana. Everything is so intentional. I can confidently say that someone’s favorite song is on this album.

Husband: Casey Occupation: Singer, songwriter, and founder of Move Ya Brass fitness and lifestyle movement Children: Two daughters Hobbies: Singing and golfing

PHOTO BY CHANSEY AUGUSTINE.

BY MADELINE PISTORIUS

M eet “The Songbird of New Orleans,” Robin Barnes, a multi-award winning and charting singer and songwriter. As a New Orleans native, Barnes creates songs that preserve and pass down culture to the next generation. Her new album, Louisiana Love , reflects both her roots and her heart to keeping those traditions alive. When she’s not in the studio or performing on stages, Barnes is at home with her husband and daughters, embracing the same traditions that shaped her. WHAT DREW YOU TO MUSIC? ROBIN: My entire family is in music. My dad plays bass, my brothers play instruments, and we all performed in church. My first solo performance was when I was six years old, and I had to sing “How Great Thou Art” at my church. Seeing how moved people were by my performance struck something in me that made me want to continue doing this— something that makes people be present and in the moment, and brings me joy. MOST EXCITING CAREER MOMENT? ROBIN: I had a manager tell me that a little girl from the Lower Ninth Ward could never get on the Billboard charts. I ended up charting with my EP. I am an advocate for believing in yourself despite people telling you no. I live my truth, and I really like to think that I’m inspiring the next person to follow

their dreams—especially my girls. As a mom, I give my all to this career, because I want them to know that if they choose something that everyone thinks is just a dream, they can do it and they can follow their dreams. ARE YOUR KIDS INTERESTED IN MUSIC? ROBIN: My eldest daughter has perfect pitch. She sits at a piano, and whatever song she hears, she plays it. I joke and say that my eldest is probably going to be the piano player, and my youngest—she’s probably going to be like that animal that plays drums from The Muppets . They love music, and they’re excited about understanding what I’m doing, which is a big deal to me. WHAT DOES FAMILY TIME LOOK LIKE? ROBIN: I perform at night, so it’s important to me that I’m the first thing that they see in the morning and also the last person they see at night. My husband and I make sure that we always read a book to them and sing with them as they fall asleep. I love that at the end of the day we are always together. I grew up dancing with my mom in the living room, and I realize I do that now—we have dance parties before bedtime, where we just get all that energy out. We’re also really into crafting and themes. I have so many little trinkets, decorations, and glitter. We love to have fun.

QUICK Q’S: My pre-show ritual is… drinking three cups of tea and watching Housewives to ease my nerves. My favorite date activites are… walks in City Park, snowballs from Pandora’s, or beignets from Café Du Monde. My musical influences are… Irma Thomas, Tina Turner, and Ella Fitzgerald.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE YOUR CAREER

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COLLEGE PREP SERIES:

The “Before You Arrive” Summer Guide

BY MADELINE PISTORIUS

A It’s a monumental day in every home when a college acceptance letter arrives. Squeals, happy tears, and phone calls to family and friends follow— because in just a few short months, your child will be off at their chosen university, starting a whole new journey.

ROOMMATE 101 Finding a roommate is one of the biggest parts of dorm living, and there’s no one “right” way to do it. • Social media connection: Many students meet roommates through Facebook or Instagram groups created for their class year. Posting a short introduction with a photo and messaging back and forth with others can help find someone with similar habits and interests. • Pre-existing relationship: Sometimes your child will room with a friend from home or a mutual connection. It’s important to still discuss routines and expectations, even with a familiar face. • Matching services: Most colleges offer housing portals to match students based on lifestyle preferences. After answering questionnaires about habits and routines, students can message potential roommates and get to know them before move-in. Approach a roommate search with an open mind and curiosity! Dorm life may mean little privacy, but it’s an invaluable experience full of late-night conversations, small compromises, and often a friendship that lasts well beyond move-out day. The summer before college comes with its own set of milestones—valuable time with family, final moments with friends, and the excitement of what’s ahead. Encourage your child to have fun with the process. Preparation matters, but so does cherishing this in-between season before the next chapter begins!

rail, and extra-long phone charger • Kitchen and bathroom basics: Mini fridge, microwave, electric kettle, mesh shower caddy, shower shoes • Daily comfort items: Slippers, robe, towel wrap • Cleaning made simple: Broom or Swiffer, handheld vacuum, disinfecting wipes, covered trash can Skip What They Won’t Need • Bulky items like TVs, printers, vacuums, or clothing irons • Large furniture such as futons, couches, or non-foldable chairs • Too many clothes, pillows, and linens • Excess dishes, school supplies, or heavy decor • Candles, fragrance plug-ins, or other fire hazards • Hot plates, toasters, and coffee machines PLAN AHEAD • Start simple: Less is more when decorating a dorm room. A few intentional pieces— artwork, bedding, and photos—can personalize a space without overwhelming it. • Use space wisely: Bed-lofting creates space for under-bed storage like drawers, shelving, or even a small seating area. • Measure before buying: Look up dorm dimensions and plan the layout before purchasing larger items. • Check guidelines: Review school rules for restricted items like extension cords or certain appliances. • Coordinate with roommate: Decide ahead of time who will bring shared items like a fridge, rug, or storage pieces.

But that acceptance letter? It’s just the beginning.

The summer before college is when the preparation happens—figuring out what your child will pack, how they’ll organize a small living space, and who they’ll be sharing it with. It’s a transitional season, and a little planning now can make move-in day (and everything after) feel a lot smoother.

DORM ESSENTIALS TO BRING (AND WHAT TO SKIP)

Packing for a dorm is all about balance— bringing what your child will actually use while avoiding clutter in a small space. Dorm rooms fill up quickly, so skip anything that won’t be used regularly. Think practical, compact, and multi-use!

Bring What They’ll Actually Use • Make sleep and downtime comfy: Mattress topper, backrest pillow or headboard, mini fan, sound machine

• Keep things organized: Under-bed storage drawers, hanging shoe racks, rolling utility cart, desk hutch, compact organizers • Everyday must-haves: Air purifier, desk lamp, portable laundry bag, water filter pitcher, full-length mirror, mini safe • Lofted bed add-ons: Bedside shelf, safety

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Emotional Suppression in Boys

Importance of Teaching Language

BY AMELIA ROESSLER

W e might see boys mask sadness with anger, internalize shame, and have more moments of acting out. They’re told to shake things off, don’t cry, be tough. And when the anger comes, people might say, “Oh, boys will be boys.” Dr. Alyssa Lucker, the medical director at Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center, says over time, boys are taught that it’s not appropriate to express emotion. While she says at baseline, boys and girls both have the ability to express and show emotions, she thinks boys aren’t taught emotional vocabulary when girls are. “If boys aren’t taught that emotional vocabulary, it’s hard for them to distinguish their feelings. They don’t know what’s going on,” says Dr. Lucker. “Maybe they’re feeling

frustration, or they can’t separate them out.” With no words to accurately express what they’re feeling, boys might turn to anger. Along with encompassing other emotions, anger gives a sense of protection for boys afraid to show vulnerability, Dr. Lucker explains.

“There’s always a reason for why someone is acting, the way they’re acting,” she explains. Without the proper language, boys might present irritable, shut down, act out, or aggressive. Dr. Lucker believes emotional suppression also involves how the parents were raised. If parents don’t feel comfortable talking about emotions because they never talked about them growing up, it’s unlikely they’ll be comfortable talking about it with their kids. While Dr. Lucker says emotional suppression is seen more in boys than girls, she turns to language to see signs of emotional suppression. Through observation, parents can label what they see— say a boy getting mad and throwing toys— and acknowledge to the boy that they

UNDERSTANDING WHAT’S DRIVING IT

Trying to understand what is driving a tantrum, or an outburst, or aggression is the first step. Look at what came before the behavior, and then what was the consequence or outcome of that behavior. Maybe a child was trying to express they were hungry and didn’t have the words, but they knew that throwing a tantrum gets a parent’s attention and gets their needs met.

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looked upset and ask if they were feeling angry or embarrassed or hurt.

aggressive, he gets the ball. Every day I notice Timmy gets the ball, so I’m going to act this way because if Timmy gets the ball, I want the ball.” A way to use social media for learning good emotional and social communication is FaceTime. She says a lot of research around FaceTime shows it being an effective tool for social emotional learning when kids interact with a loved one. They can see their actions, their reactions, and they can hear words. While they can get that from mom and dad, they can also get through the app. WAYS TO HELP Teaching language, modeling behavior, and understanding why a child is acting the way they are is a great way to start helping boys learn to express their emotions. Responding to a feeling without endorsing the behavior is also a way to help grow language. “I can see you’re really upset. I’m not going to let you hit me, and I want to understand what happened.” To help a child learn language, especially emotional language, Dr. Lucker says it’s important to have parents mirror things such as talking about feelings or working through feelings. “It’s okay for a parent to cry in front of their child,” Dr. Lucker emphasizes. “If their

child sees that their parent is crying, this creates an opportunity to talk about it.”

“Giving them words, and maybe it’s a ‘I don’t know what embarrass means,’ and then it’s explaining to them that it means this,” explains Dr. Lucker. Dr. Lucker says trying to vocalize what you see may look different with a two-year-old than a five-year-old, but starting to have conversations with two-year-olds who are developing the language and giving them the dialogue to help them with words is very beneficial with emotional growth. SCHOOL AND SOCIAL MEDIA Learning how to express emotions doesn’t just come from the home. School and social media can also play a role in teaching children, and boys, what’s right and wrong when it comes to expressing emotions. While not every child is exposed to the extremes of, say, toxic masculinity or heroic masculinity, social media and school can make it difficult for boys to navigate how they should be acting. Dr. Lucker gives the example of being at recess—if a peer throws a tantrum, gets angry and aggressive, but then gets the ball, it’s easy for a boy to identify, “When Timmy is

Boys need to see adults handling sadness and disappointment without shame, says Dr. Lucker. It is okay to model feelings and emotions. She explains that you can model strength and vulnerability at the same time, and they can coexist together. If a boy is older, say elementary, middle, and high school, and a parent is still noticing patterns of irritability, disrupted relationships at home, at school, they can’t hold a friend, they’re withdrawn—that’s when Dr. Lucker says it might be time to consider going to see a therapist. A lot of times, irritability, lashing out, and anxiety can be driven by underlying mental health diagnoses. “Especially ADHD oftentimes really comes out in middle school because in elementary school, they’re the class clown, they’re hyper, but they can kind of get through it. In middle school, when the academics are more demanding, that’s when really specific learning disorders are becoming more apparent. That’s when we’re figuring out maybe this is the underlying factor of what’s driving that avoidance, that anxiety, or that irritability,” says Dr. Lucker.

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Perfection or Pressure? Recognizing Anxiety in High-Achieving Kids I was the child that never made a B from Kindergarten through grad school. I can still recall moments of pure panic skyrocket—and it’s not a coincidence. WHY PERFECTIONISM IS HARMFUL The issue is, society condones, even competing for the same leadership positions, for the same teams, for the same acceptances BY JULIANNA STEEN

to increasingly exclusive colleges, you grow up in an environment of outsized expectations,” she writes. The pressure to stand out, the pressure to fit in, the pressure to be the best in everything you do… it’s exhausting. Don’t hear what I’m not saying: You don’t need to make your kid quit the sport they love and let them drop out of school to play video games all day—there are many benefits to recreational activities and moving your body. You should consider, however, evaluating your expectations and adjusting them where needed. REDEFINING SUCCESS Whether you’re conscious of it or not, the American dream is deeply saturated in all of us. After all, what parent doesn’t want their child to be “successful”? What parent wants their child to grow up and experience financial instability or a lack of happiness? So instinctively, you push your child to do more and be better. But here’s the kicker: Happiness and success are not one and the same. In a national study of parents in 2020, Wallace shares that 73 percent agreed that it’s a common conception that getting into a selective college is one of the most important ingredients to later-life happiness. After all, it feels good to see your child do well. In the same survey, 83 percent of parents also agreed that their child’s academic success reflected their parenting. No wonder you push for just a little more!

after receiving a less-than-stellar grade, the deep-seated fear that I wouldn’t be perfect. Which is, in fact, a hilarious notion—because as Hannah Montana once so aptly put it, “Nobody’s perfect… Everybody makes mistakes.” Nonetheless, this desire for perfection drove my every action, both academically and personally, motivating me to achieve “success.” It wasn’t until my “perfect little plan” for my life went slightly awry that it truly began to sink in that I’m not in control and that this idea of reaching “perfection” is unattainable. Turns out, I’m not alone in this—today’s students are facing more pressure than ever. THE PRESSURE’S ON The thing about perfectionism is that the pressure stems not just from sources like parents and teachers, but from inside yourself. Sure, my parents encouraged me to study and do my best, but they weren’t harsh taskmasters, waiting to punish me when I messed up. I was the one to put the pressure on myself and berate myself endlessly for not doing enough, not being talented or smart enough, etc. Unfortunately, this internal pressure is only rising as factors like technology and social media come into play. In a study that analyzed long-term changes in perfectionism in college students between 1989 and 2017, researchers found a 33 percent increase in the drive for perfection. This was “more than double the 10 percent increase seen in self-oriented perfectionism and the 16 percent rise in other-oriented perfectionism.” Across a similar timeline, we have watched the percentage of adolescents experiencing mental health issues

encourages, perfectionism. Social media perpetuates a “perfect image” with no room for error—only the best of the best “make it” in life (and into elite colleges), so kids must scramble for resumé-builders. I mean, have you seen these kids’ schedules these days? Between club sports, tutoring, school clubs, AP classes, and resumé-padding activities, they hardly have time to inhale food before jumping into the next thing. That in and of itself is an issue. Additionally, “Maladaptive perfectionism can lead to sleep problems, attention issues, procrastination, exhaustion, and poor mental health,” according to an article on Psychology Today . Chronic psychological stress puts physical strain on the body, and there’s no questioning the anxiety that comes with all that pressure to perform to the highest standard. For many, the weight becomes unbearable, leading to depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and more. Perfectionism can also lead to avoidance and isolation. EXPECTATIONS CRUSH It’s okay—important, even—to have high expectations for your child, but it’s tough to determine when you’ve gone too far. In Jennifer Wallace’s book Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic-and What We Can Do About It, she shares results of countless interviews with parents, as well as her own struggles regarding how to maintain healthy expectations of excellence without crushing your kids. “When you live in a community of high achievers with strict definitions of success, when friends are

DISCOVERING SELF-WORTH OUTSIDE OF ACHIEVEMENTS

There’s this exhilarating high I’m always chasing, the feeling of being “the best.” But

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you know what? It doesn’t last, and it rarely feels as satisfying as I thought it would. I had an eight month gap in between undergrad and grad school, and let me tell you: It was one of the hardest seasons of my life. For the first time ever, I couldn’t claim the label “student” that I’d proudly worn my whole life, and it rocked my world. My little achiever self didn’t know how to assess my personal worth: At best, I was a once-a-week babysitter. In the early stages of that season, I had a mentor share this profoundly simple statement that blew my mind: “God defines success differently than you do.”Whether you’re a follower of Jesus or not, basing your identity and personal value on the measure of your accomplishments will only lead to discouragement and frustration, if not burnout and depression. Moreover, if us adults are prone to it, how much more likely are our kids to base their identity on the emotional roller coaster of a good grade or final score? Manhattan Psychotherapy suggests “Instead of aiming for 100 percent perfection, strive for 70 percent excellence and let the other 30 percent go.”

don’t turn tools into your own perfect little checklist to accomplish!) Therapy can also be extremely helpful for your child to have a safe place to work through their emotions. TIPS TO OVERCOMING • Define success as your child doing their best, no matter the outcome. • Teach them to view failures as stepping stones and opportunities to grow. • Give grace to yourself and your kids. Kids don’t do what you say—they do what they see you do. • Have open, honest conversations about your mistakes (and theirs). • Affirm your love verbally and remind them their worth isn’t based on what they achieve. • Teach your kids “You matter” by spending time with them. • Explain your expectations and set reasonable goals. (Clarity is kindness.) • Step awayyy from the resumé-builders. • Limit your kids to a handful of activities so they don’t run themselves (and you!) into the ground. • Practice self-compassion. • Celebrate the little things and be quick to praise. • Comparison is the thief of joy—and social media only shows the highlight reels. Your kid may need to step away from social media in some capacity.

Brown’s book poses three challenging, convicting questions about expectations you place on yourself (and your kids, I will add) that I dare you to answer: 1. Is this realistic? 2. What happens if people don’t perceive me (or my kid) this way? 3. Where did this expectation/perception come from? 4. Who benefits from this expectation? You’ll be surprised to discover so much of the pressure you put on yourself and your kids is rooted in shame that is perpetrated by billion-dollar industries. HOW TO HEAL In The Gifts of Imperfect Parenting, Brown states, “It’s actually our ability to embrace imperfection that will help us teach our children to have the courage to be authentic, the compassion to love themselves and others, and the sense of connection that gives true purpose and meaning to life.” Every kid is different, which also means that their emotional processing and perfectionist tendencies will likely be different as well. Nevertheless, there are many awesome tools out there that can help you better understand your child, from personality tests like the Enneagram (hello, type 1 Perfectionists and type 3 Achievers) and Myers-Briggs to parenting books. (But

EXPOSE THE ROOTS OF YOUR EXPECTATIONS

“Shame is the voice of perfection,” Brené Brown declares in I Thought It Was Just Me .

NOLAFAMILY.COM | MAY 2026 15

The “Perfect” Mom

BY AMANDA CIANI | PHOTO BY UNSPLASH

S crolling through social media, it doesn’t take long to find an influencer in an L&D unit with styled hair and a full face of makeup, simply sneezing out her baby. Later footage reveals the new mama being rolled out of the hospital with her new bundle of joy and what… a magically, perfectly flat stomach?! In everyday life, you may find a version of this mom wearing cute athleisure sets, jetting from this practice to the next with her kids (always managing to be on time, too!), and packing healthy snacks. She also somehow manages to show up to every class party, field trip, and volunteer for

juggling it all than her! Author o f RESTLESS: How to Stop Living An If-Only Life , Kristen Mosier, LMFT, explains, “Through social media, we’re exposed to a constant stream of prompts urging us toward self-betterment, whether it’s aimed at our appearance, our health, or our parenting.” She adds,, “We make comparisons based on finances, social engagements, relationship status, travel, personal qualities, physical attributes, and more.” She concludes, “There’s always a better, more correct, or more effective way to parent… we can never quite keep up.” Even those we deem “the best” are comparing

all of the school events. How does she do it?! In all honesty, it is really easy to get swept up in the hype of the perfect mom persona and feel “less than.” Despite the facade that some people really do have it all, it is so important for moms to know that perfect does not exist and that if you’re doing your best, you are the best. TOXIC COMPARISONS But do we believe we are the best? Even the most “with-it,”“perfect” mom is most likely comparing herself to someone who she feels is somehow doing an even better job of

16 MAY 2026 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

themselves to someone they believe is doing it better. And those moms who appear to be high-functioning may be low on well-being! It is toxic, relentless, and tiring. THE MIRAGE Moms who project perfection do exist. We’ve all seen them. But the truth is that we are mere observers of anyone’s life that is not our own. Mosier elaborates, “Social media puts our lives on display for the world and offers us increasingly unrealistic standards of comparison as influencers edit, filter, and curate their way to a ‘perfect’ life.”To clarify: The perfect mom you see on social media doesn’t really exist all of the time, and you are only seeing a very small percentage of that perfect neighborhood mom’s life. Just because a mom appears to have it all, doesn’t mean she really does, and furthermore, it doesn’t mean she feels like she has it all, either. That mom may be smiling during the car line and burst into tears on the drive home. She is probably down right exhausted because… aren’t we all? THE REALITY Yes, being a mom is hard (and rewarding!) work. While there are some obvious physical factors like lugging diaper bags around, getting the stroller into the back of the van, and having a child on your hip, the invisible

lets us laugh and cry about it together. And when we share our struggles, it gives other moms permission to do the same.” Realizing we are all conductors of our own little hot mess express trains is truly a thing of beauty. But sometimes the pressure to keep up can be overwhelming. With mental health awareness being commonplace, it is reassuring to know that it is okay to ask for help, too. Whether you are a mom trying to be perfect, or a mom who thinks she’s not doing enough, at the end of the day, parenting is messy for all of us, even for the moms who avoid the topic and share only the good stuff. Motherhood is full of unglamorous, unavoidable experiences that cross every divide we may possess. Consider this: If you ever feel a shred of jealousy looking at a snap of that picture-perfect family, every baby is a ticking time bomb—it only takes one little half-smile and a tiny grunt for a blown-out diaper up the back to retire a super cute outfit for good. And every toddler is one “this ketchup is too spicy” away from a tantrum. And our teenagers all find their snark during puberty. So, log off of social media for a bit, spend some time with fellow messy-moms, live your life honestly, and just know that children don’t need perfection—they just need a mom who is present, loving, and you .

mental load of being everyone’s go-to person for everything—and the keeper of all dates and appointments—can be even more exhausting! So while the “with-it” mom may appear energized, glamorous, and “Best Mom” award-worthy, try not to compare the camera-ready, tiny snippets of a 24-hour day you see with your everyday mundane. “If she appears to have it together, no one will see her as weak, needy, or ungrateful for the life she worked hard to build,” notes Mosier, “Yet, two things can be true. We can be grateful for what we have and still feel restless, overwhelmed, or even despairing at times.”The reality is that at the end of the night, being the chef, chauffeur, nurse, therapist, secretary, etc. is tiring; and when our heads hit the pillow, we still manage to make time to worry if we are doing enough to be the best mom, wife, worker, friend, etc. BREAKING THE CYCLE It takes a village, as they say, and friends become the family we choose. A support network that is also in the thick of parenthood can help forge a community in which to gain support and maybe do a little venting, too. Mosier echoes, “Having other moms to commiserate with isn’t just fun, it’s integral. It helps us normalize the extreme range of emotions so common to parenting,

NOLAFAMILY.COM | MAY 2026 17

MAY 2026

things to do

KID smART BEST FEST

The Book of Mormon

A family-friendly celebration of arts and education showcasing student creativity, interactive activities, and live performances. May 5. kidsmart.org

The award-winning Broadway musical The Book of Mormon brings its sharp humor and unforgettable songs to the Saenger Theatre. May 12-17. us.atgtickets.com

Bayou Boogaloo

A vibrant festival on Bayou St. John with live local music, food vendors, arts and crafts, and a unique on-the-water scene, turning the bayou into a floating party. May 15-17. thebayouboogaloo.com

Cinderella NOBT presents an magical ballet production of the classic fairy tale Cinderella , featuring enchanting music, costumes, and family-friendly storytelling. May 9-10. orpheumnola.com

Endangered Species Day at Audubon Zoo An educational and engaging day at the zoo highlighting endangered animals, conservation efforts, and interactive experiences for visitors. May 16. audubonnatureinstitute.org

PHOTO BY LORI GORDILLO PHOTOGRAPHY

HEADS UP! Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information.

18 MAY 2026 | NOLAFAMILY.COM

Greek Fest New Orleans A lively cultural festival featuring authentic Greek food, music, dancing, and traditions hosted by the local Greek community. May 22-24. gfno.com

Sail 250 New Orleans A maritime waterfront

celebration marking America’s 250th anniversary with a fleet of historic ships, cultural events, and riverfront festivities along the Mississippi. May 28-June 1. sail250neworleans.com

Arts Market New Orleans Held at the Popp Bandstand in New Orleans City Park, the monthly outdoor market features local and Gulf South artists showcasing handmade works like jewelry, ceramics, paintings, and more. May 30. artsneworleans.org

Symphony Book Fair A festive literary event combining a book fair with

Washington Parish Balloon Festival

live music, food, and activities, supporting local authors and the New Orleans Symphony’s educational programs. May 30-31. lpovolunteers.org

A colorful outdoor event featuring hot air balloons, live entertainment, food, and fun activities for all ages all weekend long. May 29-31. wpballoonfest.com

NOLAFAMILY.COM | MAY 2026 19

Libraries. 5-6 p.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info

Kids Book and Craft Club Weekly at Programming Space, Nix Library. Free. neworleans.libnet.info Let’s Make Music! Weekly at The Parenting Center, Manning Children’s Hospital. 9:30-10 a.m. Free. manningchil- drens.org/theparentingcenter Think It! Create It! Build It! Weekly in Programming Space, Mid-City Library. 5-6 p.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info

Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival . See May 1.

5 Tuesday ¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo!

Crescent City Farmers Market — Uptown The Batture (25 Walnut St.). 8 a.m. to Noon. Free. crescentcityfarmersmarket.org Evening Storytime at the Library Weekly at Programming Space, Dr. Martin Luther King,

Manning Family Children’s. 9:30- 10 a.m. Free. manningchildrens. org/theparentingcenter Music in the Park Weekly at Kenner’s Heritage Park. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Free. kenner. la.us/505/Music-in-the-Park New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival Presented by Shell Through May 3 at Fair Grounds Race Course and Slots. 11 a.m. $90+. nojazzfest.com Playtime at the Library Weekly at New Orleans Public Libraries. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info 2 Saturday Big Easy Allstars vs. River City Roller Derby Big Easy Warehouse (3632 Desire Pkwy.). 5 p.m. $10 suggested entry donation. bigeasyrollerderby.com First Saturday Family Story Hour Meeting Room, Robert E. Smith Library. 10:30-11 a.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info Little Laboratory Playtime Weekly in Programming Space, Alvar Library. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info

Libraries. 10 a.m. to Noon. Free. neworleans.libnet.info Storytime at the Museum Weekly at The National WWII Museum. 10-10:20 a.m. Free with admission. nationalww2museum.org The Marcus King Band: Waltz Across Texas Orpheum Theater. 9 p.m. $53.65+. orpheumnola.com YALA ArtsPlay!™ Weekly through May 16 at Newcomb Art Museum of Tulane. 10:30-11 a.m. Free with registration. ya4la.org Market — City Park City Putt Parking Lot. 8 a.m. to Noon. Free. crescentcityfarmersmarket.org Lox + Tots Temple Sinai. 10-11 a.m. Free. templesinainola.com 4 Monday Baby Storytime at Library Weekly at New Orleans Public Libraries. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info Evening Playtime at the Library Weekly at New Orleans Public 3 Sunday Crescent City Farmers

1 Friday Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival Through May 3 at Parc Hardy, Breaux Bridge. $5-25. bbcrawfest.com Festin’ on Frenchmen: Robin Barnes Album Release Party DBA (618 Frenchmen St.). 10 p.m. $25.50. eventbrite.com

Jr. Library. 5-6 p.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info

KID smART BEST FEST 2533 Columbus St. 4:30-6:30 p.m. Free. kidsmart.org Music Under the Oaks Weekly at Audubon Clubhouse. 4:30-6:30 p.m. Free. magazinestreet.com Snuggles & Struggles New Parent Group (birth-6 months) Weekly at The Parenting Center and Zoom, Manning Family Children’s. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. manningchildrens.org/ theparentingcenter Storytime at the Museum Weekly at The National WWII Museum. 10-10:20 a.m. Free with admission. nationalww2museum.org Storytime at the Library Weekly at New Orleans Public Libraries. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info

God of Carnage Through May 17 at Le Petit

Theatre. Thurs., Fri., and Sat.: 7:30 p.m.; Sun.: 3 p.m.; Sat., May 16: 2 p.m. $27+. lepetittheatre.com Hancock Whitney Zoo-To-Do Audubon Zoo. 7-11 p.m. $175. audubonnatureinstitute.org/ zoo-to-do Last Night at the Rue Bayou Through May 3 at 1104 Decatur St. Multiple showtimes. $64+. ruebayoumusical.com Let’s Make Music! Weekly at The Parenting Center,

20 MAY 2026 | NOLAFAMILY.COM VISIT OUR DIGITAL CALENDAR FOR MORE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

6 Wednesday 2026 Hurricane

Playtime at the Library Weekly at New Orleans Public

Hole Invitational Through May 9 at 1851 Highway 1, Grand Isle. Daily. Registration required. hurricanehole.net Baby Storytime at the Library Weekly in the Small Meeting Room, Algiers Regional L ibrary. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info Craft Happy Hour: Mother’s Day Flowers Weekly through May 13 at Ogden Museum. 6-8 p.m. $60-65. ogdenmuseum.org Let’s Have Fun! Art and Messy Play (1-3 years) Weekly at The Parenting Center, Manning Family Children’s. 10:30-11 a.m. Free for members. manningchildrens.org/ theparentingcenter Storytime at the Library Weekly at New Orleans Public Libraries. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info Victory Belles Matinee Luncheon Weekly through May 20 at BB’s Stage Door Canteen, The National WWII Museum. 11:45

2-3:30 p.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info

neworleans.libnet.info

10 Sunday MOTHER’S DAY!

The Firebird Orpheum Theater. 7:30-9:30 p.m. $35+. orpheumnola.com Thursdays at Twilight Weekly at the Pavilion of Two Sisters, City Park. 6-8 p.m. $15. neworleanscitypark.org

Huey P. Long Bridge Run Huey P Long Bridge. 5:45-11 a.m. Registration required. runsignup. com/Race/LA/BridgeCity/ HueyPRun LPO’s Musical Story Hour Pink Parlor, Milton H. Latter Me- morial Library. 10:30-11 a.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info

Mother’s Day Brunch at The Roosevelt

The Roosevelt, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Ages 13 & Older: $99+. Ages 3-12: $39+. Ages 2 and Under: Free. therooseveltneworleans.com Mother’s Day Jazz Brunch Bourbon Orleans Hotel. 12:30- 2:30 p.m. Adults: $95. Ages 4-12: $40. bourbonorleans.com Mother’s Day Sip & Sail River Cruise Paddwheeler Creole Queen. 6-9 p.m. $55+. eventbrite.com

The Queens! 4 Legends, 1 Stage. Smoothie King Center. 8 p.m. $96.30+. smoothiekingcenter.com

Mother’s Day Pilates in the Park

The Chloe. 9-10 a.m. & 10:30- 11:30 a.m. $28. eventbrite.com NOBT Presents: Cinderella Through May 10 at Orpheum Theater. 2 & 8 p.m. $51.55+. orpheumnola.com Northshore Heart Walk Covington Trailhead. 8 a.m. Registration required. www2.heart.org Out of This World Story Hour Programming Space, Mid-City Library. 11 a.m to Noon. Free. neworleans.libnet.info Plant Sale at the City Park Pelican Greenhouse, City Park. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. neworleanscitypark.org Rock for 10 Family Music & Arts Festival Cafe Istanbul. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. $13+. eventbrite.com Thriftcon Morial Convention Center. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $19-25. thriftcon.co

Weekly Bird Watch Weekly at Bucktown Marsh. 4-5 p.m. Free with registration. scienceforourcoast.org WYES Juleps & Generosity 916 Navarre Ave., New Orleans. 7-11 p.m. $130+. wyes.org

12 Tuesday The Book of Mormon

Through May 17 at Saenger Theatre. Multiple showtimes. $39+. us.atgtickets.com

8 Friday Carmen Miranda: Samba in Technicolor

14 Thursday BINGO: Preschool Edition

Weekends through May 17 at The National WWII Museum. 7-8:30 p.m. $47-50. nationalww2museum.org Killers of Kill Tony — Stand Up Comedy Show Saenger Theatre. 7 p.m. $44+. us.atgtickets.com Music and Movement at the Library Meeting room, Nora Navra Library. 4-4:30 p.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info Teen Book Club 2026 Weekly at the Art Studio and Zoom, New Orleans Museum of Art. 1-2 p.m. Free. noma.org

Weekly in Meeting Room, Robert E. Smith LIbrary. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info Mac DeMarco Civic Theatre. 8 p.m. $200+. ticketmaster.com 15 Friday Bayou Boogaloo Through May 17 at Pitot House

a.m. to 1:45 p.m. $22-55. nationalww2museum.org

Wednesday at the Square Concert Series Lafayette Square. 5-8 p.m. Free. ylcwats.com 7 Thursday Crescent City Farmers Market — Mid-City Lafitte Greenway Plaza. 3-6 p.m. Free. crescentcityfarmersmarket.org

& The Broadside. $50+. thebayouboogaloo.com

Create & Play: Journey to Outer Space

Evening Storytime at the Library

Tulane vs. South Florida Baseball Game

Weekly in Kids’ Area, Nora Navra Library. 5-6 p.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info

Through May 10 at Greer Field, Turchin Stadium. 6:30 p.m. $9+. tulanegreenwave.com West Jefferson Family Fest 920 Avenue B, Marrero. 5-11 p.m. Free. lcmchealth.org

Growing Up Part 2: The Talk (12-15 years)

Worley Hall, Manning Family Children’s. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $20 per teen. manningchildrens.org/ theparentingcenter Storytime at the Library Weekly at New Orleans Public Libraries. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free.

9 Saturday Caturday: Cat Meet & Greet

Music in the Park. See May 1.

Meeting Room, Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center.

NOLAFAMILY.COM | MAY 2026 21

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