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Laura Richards

Journalist

Laura Richards Headshot

About Laura

Laura is a writer, journalist, communications, brand, and PR specialist with 20+ years of experience. She’s also a mother of four so understands the joys and struggles of parenting. Laura has written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, U.S. News & World Report, The Boston Globe Magazine, Reader's Digest, Martha Stewart Living, Woman's Day, Redbook, Good Housekeeping, House Beautiful.

Background Experience

  • B.A., Psychology, Philosophy, and Sociology, Framingham State University 

FamilyEducation Area of Expertise 

Laura is a frequent FamilyEducation contributor, writing articles relating to all aspects of parenting. 

  • Family Life, COVID Resources

    Before the pandemic, I had never cut a non-family member’s hair nor shared every single detail of my whereabouts and physical health with anyone outside of my immediate family until we entered into a pandemic pod. This “pod marriage” is now facing extended remote school and an uncertain winter. Here are tips and first-hand advice for a safe pandemic pod experience.

  • Entertainment and Activities, Gift Ideas

    As your son grows, his interests and priorities may change and his Christmas list likely will too. These gifts will help you fill the gap as you search for what to buy your almost-adult teen son. Editor’s Note: We know raising kids can be hard. That’s why we’re dedicated to making your life easier with the latest and greatest parenting advice and products. We wanted to let you know that if you chose to purchase one of the items featured in this post, we may receive a small commission for it.

  • Entertainment and Activities, Gift Ideas

    When the holidays roll around, we often think about all of our family members we have to buy for. But if you have an extra special someone you want to treat this year, here are our top Christmas gift ideas for neighbors that are sure to put a smile on their face.

  • Teens, Teen Health

    It's the first time your teen has been away from home, and while you want to make sure they eat right and do their laundry, you want to make sure they are able to manage their health challenges.

  • Family Life, Family Relationships, Grandparents

    If your child is lucky enough to have grandparents and great-grandparents in their life, they can serve as a great source of information for your child to learn about their family tree and history.

  • Entertainment and Activities, Celebrities

    In an old, but recently dug up US Weekly article the Queen once said the word "pregnant" is one of her pet peeves. Here's why she thinks the word is vulgar and refuses to use it.

  • Family Life, Mom's Corner

    They say a picture is worth a thousand words and many times a text with just emojis is all you need. Parents share what their top three emojis say about them!

  • Family Life, Mom's Corner

    Every generation has ideas of what’s right and best when it comes to parenting, but that doesn’t mean subsequent generations will follow suit. This can cause friction sometimes but with a healthy dose of humor. Parents weigh in on the top nine things that scratch the needle on the record between the generations.

  • School and Learning, By Grade, Kindergarten

    Dropping off your child for the first day of daycare, preschool or kindergarten runs the gamut of emotions, and it's okay to feel them all! One mom shares her experience with the first drop-off and tips to get you through it.

  • Kids, Childhood Development, Emotional Development

    Mother's Day is usually a happy day to celebrate Mom. But for many, the day stirs up loss and sadness, whether it’s from the loss of a child, mother or a strained relationship. Know that you’re not alone and that there are ways to cope with loss on Mother's Day.

  • School and Learning, By Subject, Geography

    How many U.S. states or countries can your kids identify on a map? Help them learn with these cool geography-based toys!

  • Family Life, Families and Food, Cooking

    The next time you're whipping up a romantic dessert for two, or you're just in the mood for something chocolatey and decadent, try one of these indulgent chocolate dessert recipes.

  • Entertainment and Activities, Toys

    The holiday season is just around the corner and so are fake toy companies ready to steal your money. Beware of knockoffs and counterfeits and learn how to protect you and your family.

  • Entertainment and Activities, Family Vacations

    Planning a family getaway? Well, you don't always have to travel to a tropical resort. Sometimes, the best vacation is right near your home. Here are some staycation ideas for family vacation!

  • Family Life, Mom's Corner

    Whether you're a new mom or parent or are looking for advice to give someone experiencing parenthood for the first time, we're here to help. We've asked experienced moms and grandmothers to share their number one piece of advice for new moms and parents.

  • Kids, Childhood Safety

    We all lead busy lives and our homes are full of cleaners and detergents. But how often do we pause to think which common household cleaners may look like candy to our kids? Here's a roundup of what to look for and how to stay safe.

  • Entertainment and Activities, Arts and Crafts

    The new Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales movie is opening soon. Why not do a few pirate themed activities with your kids?

  • Babies, Feeding Your Baby

    Weaning from the bottle or breast can be a confusing topic for many moms. Everyone has their input but what's the best way? We'll share insight and tips from an experienced professional about how to wean your baby.

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