BERGEN COUNTY MOMS

Selective universities receive tens of thousands of applications from students with perfect GPAs and test scores every year. Bergen County students have a lot going for them: strong schools with plenty of AP offerings, committed teachers, and involved families. But that’s also the problem. What separates your student with straight A’s and ten AP courses from the next? What differentiates your child when everyone in their graduating class has a 1500 or better on the SAT? Have

What Are Attachment Styles? Attachment styles describe patterns in how people experience and respond to emotional connection in relationships. These patterns can influence how comfortable someone feels with closeness, trust, vulnerability, reassurance, and independence, as well as how they respond when a relationship feels uncertain or conflict arises. Relationship experiences throughout life can contribute to these patterns and shape expectations about whether closeness feel

We wanted to help spread the word that many of our neighbors are struggling to put food on the table. Your donation, no matter how small, can make a meaningful difference for families right here in Bergen County. Together, we can help fill the shelves and support our neighbors when they need it most. Serving Over 500 Individuals SSA provides food security and other critical assistance to over 500 individuals in our local community. SSA serves Ridgewood, Glen Rock, Ho-Ho-Kus,

Your son or daughter is playing a college sport and suddenly comes home with news: “Someone wants to pay me $5,000 to post something on Instagram.” Amazing. But now what? Is the money taxable? Can they spend it? Does it affect financial aid? Who reads the contract? And what exactly is NIL anyway? If you’re confused, you’re not alone. Parents are already investing heavily in their children’s athletic careers. According to New York Life’s Wealth Watch survey, families spend an

Who doesn’t love a great-tasting carrot cake? Lately, bakery bought carrot cakes have been super sweet with specks of carrots, which is why we took on this challenge. You can make a traditional cake or easy grab-and-go cake bites which capture the classic flavor in a perfect serving size that’s delicious without the guilt. It’s made with fiber-packed whole-wheat flour; flaxseeds that are high in omega-3 fatty acids; and carrots loaded with beta carotene to boost the immune

Most of us were taught that good parenting means responding quickly. Correct it now. Address it immediately. Say something before it gets worse. But with teens, that urgency often works against us and them. The most underused parenting skill isn’t the perfect phrase or consequence. It's the pause. A pause gives your nervous system time to settle and reset. It gives your brain time to catch up with your values. It keeps you from saying the thing you’ll later wish you could tak

Weekend Events Sept 18 - Sept 20, 2026 *Please always check event websites or social media for the most up-to-date times and details. Town Celebrations & Festivals Ridgewood's Art in the Park 📍 Memorial Park at Van Neste Square Explore Ridgewood's Fine Arts Fair in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. Stroll through the park and enjoy a beautiful display of original works by talented artists. Sat, Sept 19 | 11:00 - 4:00 pm Ridgewood's Fall Craft & Art Street Fair 📍 Downtown R

Saddle River Day School celebrated a transformative moment in its history on August 27th with the ribbon cutting of the new Dr. Kristen Walsh Hall of Science and Entrepreneurship—a state-of-the-art facility designed to inspire students to think boldly, pursue their passions, and turn ideas into action. More than 150 esteemed guests—including Saddle River Mayor Albert J. Kurpis and other state and town officials, members of the SRDS Board of Trustees, parents, administrators,

If the thought of morning routine battles and back-to-school meltdowns is keeping you up at night, you’re not alone. Navigating the neurodivergent back-to-school transition can feel especially overwhelming. As summer comes to an end, preparing for the neurodivergent back-to-school transition can bring a mix of excitement, anticipation, and stress for both children and parents. Neurodivergent is a term used to describe individuals whose brains process, learn, communicate, or e

I need to! I have to! It doesn't inspire enthusiasm, does it? A goal is connected to an emotion. It’s great when the emotion is excitement; your brain will naturally want to get it done. But... if it feels like pressure — something you need to do or should do — instead of something you want to do, your brain will see it as a burden. You’ll likely procrastinate and maybe give up. Your brain gives you what you think most about: the good, the bad, and the ugly. 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐟 𝐲�

Believe it or not, we are eating cookies at HealthBarn USA! These energy packed treats are (of course) made with all-natural ingredients and taste really good! Not only does this cookie have a lot of protein to help our bodies grow, but they are also fun to make in a group…and you don’t have to bake them at all! Refrigerate the extras, so they are handy as an after-school snack. Many parents are looking for healthy grab-n-go treats — this is a great solution! Ingredients:

This four-week course is designed for those who have begun to open their intuitive and channeling capacities and feel called to deepen into a more embodied form of connection. Where earlier experiences of channeling often involve receiving impressions, words, or images, trance channeling invites a different kind of relationship—one that engages the body, the nervous system, and the subtle thresholds of awareness in a more direct and sustained way. Throughout this series, part

If your child is struggling with back-to-school stress, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Lukin Center for Psychotherapy is here to help. Our compassionate clinicians provide support for children, teens, and families. Call us at (201) 409-0393 or visit lukincenter.com to learn more or get started. Until then, let’s dive in. Here are 10 simple ways parents can help. 1. Prioritize Sleep Children ages 6–12 generally need 9–12 hours of sleep,

It matters. If you didn’t raise your voice today… If you paused before you spoke… If you softened your tone after starting sharp… Consider it a win. It counts. These are invisible wins. The ones only you are consciously aware of. They are also the ones that change the course of your relationship. Notice them. They matter. P.S. That sounded a lot more encouraging than "watch your tone," didn't it? There's more gentle guidance and entertaining stories in "Leashes, Lessons, and

This simple recipe always receives rave reviews from kids and parents alike! The challenge was finding a delicious alternative to the beloved—but artificial—marshmallow. The answer? Naturally delicious Greek vanilla yogurt. It’s creamy, satisfying, and adds a wholesome twist everyone can enjoy. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, it’s the perfect treat for family gatherings, parties, and get-togethers. Enjoy! Ingredients: 4 Graham crackers 4 Tablespoons semi-sweet mini c

Fall mental health can be influenced by much more than changing weather. As summer shifts into fall and autumn routines take shape, many families also face a return to school schedules, earlier mornings, homework, extracurricular activities, sports, social demands, work routines, and tighter household schedules. That shift back into structure can take time to adjust to, especially after the flexibility of summer. Children and teens may suddenly be managing more expectations,

Need Everyone Back to School? The Madison Dog Resort & Spa are northern New Jersey’s premier 7200 sq ft cage-free boutique dog resort and spa. They are changing the pet care industry and believe in the quality of care over the quantity of dogs to provide exceptional care with lots of love for your four-legged family members. Their state of the art facility lets your dog get loose, play with new friends and most importantly expend excess energy! All guests are separated int

I’ve been known to take on more than I should in all kinds of relationships, but none more intensely than motherhood. Let’s look at all this ‘taking on” as what’s in our backpack. The first backpack is the diaper bag. It carries the necessities to anticipate all your baby’s needs. As they grow, your child’s needs change from the absolutely necessary to the things they can increasingly do for themselves. Your role and titles change — and therefore your responsibilities. Your

Weekend Events Aug 28 - Aug 30, 2026 *Please always check event websites or social media for the most up-to-date times and details. Free Summer Concert Series in Bergen County These free concerts run weekly throughout the summer: Ridgewood – Kasschau Memorial Shell (Veterans Memorial Field) – Tuesdays & Thursdays Kasschau Memorial Shell Hackensack – Hackensack Green (Downtown) – Summer Concert Series Bergenfield – Veterans Memorial Park – Weekly Summer Concerts Veterans Memo

Try this Asian dish with a twist! Zucchini noodles provide a nutritious and easy, way to make this dish a healthy family meal. Bring the markets of Eastern Asia into your kitchen with this delicious recipe that will receive a thumbs-up all around. To satisfy all diets, it’s gluten-free, nut-free, and vegan! Ingredients: 3 zucchini squash, medium ¼ cup vegetable broth, low sodium 1 ½ tablespoon rice wine vinegar 2 tablespoons Braggs Liquid Aminos (or low sodium soy sauce) 2 ta

By Dr. Anne Marie Valinoti Multitasking. Reasoning. Planning. Busy moms rely on these features of executive functioning to keep things humming in their homes and workplaces. Most moms we know place cognitive sharpness at the top of the list when it comes to what they value about their health. However, many women, at midlife, note changes in their mental acuity. They may have trouble with concentration, keeping track of tasks or conversations, or recalling names or words. Many

As college admissions become increasingly competitive, students need more than impressive grades and standardized test scores to stand out. Colleges are looking for applicants who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, leadership, and a genuine commitment to pursuing their passions. At Saddle River Day School in Saddle River, New Jersey, students have an opportunity to do just that through the school's innovative Gateway Honors Diplomas Program—a distinctive academic pathway tha

There are many traditional Latin American recipes for chicken and rice, but this is a healthy take on a classic! This recipe is packed with flavor while being low in fat and lower in sodium. It is also a great source of vitamins A and C, and provides some iron and calcium too. This chicken and rice dish is sure to be a hearty family favorite. Ingredients: 2 bone-in skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound) 4 garlic cloves, chopped, divided 1 yellow onion, chopped, divided 1 ta

Cleaner Water for Your Family Starts Here What’s really in your home’s water? From PFAS and chlorine to hard water, iron, and sulfur, water quality can affect everything from what your family drinks to your skin, hair, laundry, and appliances. Serving North Jersey since 1960, Passaic Bergen Water Softening offers professional water testing and customized treatment solutions to help give families cleaner, better-quality water—and peace of mind. 👉 Schedule a FREE water test!

An Evening with Michael Drob and Friends September 19 📍 Venue: Forte Piano Music Company: 159 W State Rt 4, Paramus Enjoy an intimate evening of exceptional music featuring acclaimed violinist Michael Drob and special guest artists. The program will showcase the expressive beauty of the violin together with the rich sound of the fortepiano and other musical collaborations, creating an evening filled with elegance, virtuosity, and unforgettable performances. Wine and light bi

Key Takeaways for New Jersey Homeowners Most New Jersey kitchen renovations require more than just a cabinet-and-countertop budget. Layout changes, plumbing, electrical work, permits, and lead times can significantly impact the final cost. Bathrooms are small but require extensive coordination among trades. Proper sequencing of waterproofing, tile, plumbing, glass, electrical work, and inspections is essential. Full-home renovations in New Jersey typically range from $150 to

Understanding mental compulsions, uncertainty, and how OCD differs from standard anxiety requires looking beyond surface-level worry. While both conditions involve fear and uncertainty, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) are maintained by entirely different psychological cycles. To break free from these cycles, it isn’t enough to look at the thought itself, we have to look at what happens next. It’s Not the Thought—It’s What Happens Nex

Most difficult conversations follow a predictable pattern: Someone says something that feels (is interpreted as) critical. The other person reacts. (This is emotional, not thoughtful). Both voices rise. And suddenly both people are defending themselves instead of listening. When conversations reach that point, most parents try harder to defend their position. But explaining rarely helps. In fact, it escalates the conflict. What helps is slowing the pace of the conversation:

We know what you’re thinking – cookies made with chickpeas? But these cookies are a delicious, healthy alternative to traditional chocolate chip cookies without sacrificing any flavor! Including these beans is a great way to add extra protein and dietary fiber to the family diet. Try using raisins in place of chocolate chips for an added twist and boost of iron. Ingredients: 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats 1 cup whole wheat flour 2 tablespoons ground flaxseeds ½ teaspoon bak

ReFocus Eye Health at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center As backpacks are packed, schedules fill up, and families prepare for a new school year, there is one important health check that is often overlooked: a comprehensive eye exam. Many vision problems develop gradually, making them easy to miss. Children may not realize they aren’t seeing clearly because they assume everyone sees the world the same way they do. Instead of complaining about their vision, they may struggle to c

Life can feel overwhelming, and you don't have to navigate it alone. Whether you're a parent balancing the demands of family life, a mom experiencing burnout, a couple working through relationship challenges, a family facing a difficult transition, or an individual struggling with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, or self-criticism, support is available. Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) is an evidence-based therapy that helps people develop greater self-compassion, reduce e

Soon enough, little red raspberries will be popping up on our beloved raspberry bushes at HealthBarn USA, and we can’t wait! Not only are raspberries delicious, but they’re also an excellent source of dietary fiber, the antioxidant vitamin C, and the mineral manganese, as well as a good source of vitamin K, which helps keep blood oxygenated. A lot of nutrition for a little berry! While fresh-picked raspberries are sweet-tart, juicy, and irresistible just as they are, there

Summer has a funny way of slowing us down. Maybe you're sitting on the porch, relaxing at the beach, or sharing a glass of wine with friends. Maybe your adult kids are home for the weekend. Whatever your summer looks like, you suddenly have something that's hard to find the rest of the year: Time. As a financial advisor, I've learned something after decades of working with women through marriages, divorces, retirements, and the loss of parents. The most important financial d

What is a Spotted Lanternfly? The spotted lanternfly, also known as lycorma delicatula, is a bothersome planthopper originally found in China, India, and Vietnam. In 2014, they were discovered for the first time in the United States. When not in flight, they are gray with black spots, but when they open their wings, their red and black hind wings and black and yellow abdomen become visible. Spotted Lanternfly Life Cycle: The spotted lanternfly takes less than a year to go fro

By Dr. Karen Hart & Dr. Anne Marie Valinoti We all look forward to the summer, but as most moms know, it’s not all fun and games. Sunburns, poison ivy, tick-borne illness are seasonal hazards, and now we can add a cyclospora outbreak. Just what we all needed! Foodborne illnesses frequently occur this time of year, and this summer, cyclospora is the parasite of the moment. Cyclospora can cause watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, loss of appetite and low grade-temperatu

Do you ever see yourself as a failure? If we must use this word, let's give it new meaning. What about a "learning experience" or an "opportunity to grow?" You're not a failure. Things just didn't turn out the way you planned. Whether it's outside events or inner turmoil and attitudes, making mistakes is part of growing and growing up. Our kids could really benefit from a change in language and attitude from us. The word 'failure' has such negative, critical energy attached t

FREE Webinar for New & Expecting Parents on July 30 Welcoming a baby brings immense joy, but it also brings a wave of challenges that catch many moms completely off guard. If you’re quietly navigating postpartum anxiety, feeling overwhelmed by mental health struggles, or dealing with the frustrating reality of pelvic floor issues that no one really warned you about, we see you, and you are not alone. To give you the real, compassionate support you deserve, the Lukin Center fo

This truly perfect recipe is one of the all-time favorites at HealthBarn. “It’s so good” says one of our taste-testers, “that you want to eat it again and again!” The tofu reduces the unhealthy saturated fat you’ll find in most frozen dessert bars and makes this a must-have chocolate-y after-school or summer snack. Ingredients: 3 ounces of semisweet chocolate bar ½ cup silken light tofu, drained ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract 5 ripe but firm medium bananas 15 wooden ice cre

Weekend Events July 24 - July 26, 2026 *Please always check event websites or social media for the most up-to-date times and details. Free Summer Concert Series in Bergen County These free concerts run weekly throughout the summer: Ridgewood – Kasschau Memorial Shell (Veterans Memorial Field) – Tuesdays & Thursdays Kasschau Memorial Shell Hackensack – Hackensack Green (Downtown) – Summer Concert Series Bergenfield – Veterans Memorial Park – Weekly Summer Concerts Veterans Me

Congratulations to Jennifer Monahan 🎉 Jennifer will experience an unforgettable evening at The Brick House—the historic and elegant steakhouse known for its incredible food and timeless atmosphere. Jennifer will enjoy the perfect summer evening with amazing food, great company, and a cozy, elegant vibe! ​THANK YOU to everyone who entered our giveaway! Visit The Brick House The Brick House 179 Godwin Ave | Wyckoff, NJ 07481 201.848.1211 The Brick House, a Wyckoff NJ res

Summer is an exciting time to play outside and be active all day long. The high heat of the day and lots of play time can lead to dehydration, especially for children and older adults. Remember that if you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated! Before you reach for a Gatorade loaded with food dyes, here are our top hydration tips: Water! Make sure you have that reusable water bottle at your side at all times and remember to sip and refill at least 3-4 times a day. Acces

I know I'm not perfect, but... If I had a dollar for every time a parent said that to me, well, I'd have some real spending money. When you push yourself to be perfect (whatever that means), or even imply that you're not, you set yourself up to feel worse. Perfection is impossible to define and impossible to achieve. Could we please ban the word? Too many people are creating a negative mindset with that word. "I know I'm not perfect" says you're the opposite, and that it's a

Why Ridgewood Vacuum? Ridgewood Vacuum is known for exceptional service and long-standing customer relationships built over more than 25 years in the industry. The team is dedicated to helping customers make informed decisions that fit their homes, needs, and budgets. Ridgewood Vacuum works exclusively with top-tier manufacturers such as Miele and SEBO, brands recognized for their superior filtration, durability, and performance. With so much misinformation surrounding suctio

Kitchen Renovation, Edgewater, New Jersey A kitchen renovation is one of the most valuable upgrades you can make to your New Jersey home. The kitchen is the heart of the home, and whether you live in Bergen County, Essex, Union, Hudson, or Morris, an updated kitchen can transform the way you live and significantly boost your property’s value. This guide breaks down costs by trade, appliance, and finish level, explains soft costs and municipal permitting, and provides a sample

The perfect family vacation. Is there such a thing? You plan and plan, and then you plan some more. All the details are worked out. What could go wrong? Lots, actually, especially when you are tied to an ideal vision of what this vacation will look like. Parents have shared how disappointed they’ve been with their long-awaited vacation. A great deal of it revolved around the children: - The kids fought every day. - Why couldn’t they behave bette

It’s peach season and these abundant and juicy peaches are perfect for thumbs up Peach Donuts! Our scratch donuts are made with mashed peaches (making them an excellent source of vitamin C), and baked to perfection. If you don’t have a donut baking tray, make donut holes in muffins tins! Serve with fresh berries for an added immune booster! Ingredients: ¾ cup whole wheat flour ¾ cup unbleached all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons ground flaxseeds 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 tea

By Dr. Karen Hart One of the more common conversations I have with new patients begins with something like this: “My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer last year, and it made me want to be more on top of my own health.” Sometimes it's a parent, sometimes a sibling or a close friend. The impulse is understandable: A health event affecting someone close to us has a way of making us want clarity on our own health picture. In my experience, this is a genuinely useful startin

My youngest daughter graduated from college this spring. Like every parent sitting in those graduation seats, I couldn't have been prouder. But as I watched thousands of graduates toss their caps into the air, I had another thought: They're about to enter the real world, and many of them have never been taught the basics of managing money. They can solve calculus problems. They can write research papers. They can discuss world history. But many don't know: how to read a payc

It's time to celebrate our country's independence—and this year, the celebration is even more special as we begin honoring America's 250th anniversary! What better way to gather friends and family than with a festive Red, White & Blue party featuring delicious food, refreshing beverages, and patriotic desserts? What can you do for the Red, White + Blue Party? Here are some ideas... Of course, color coordinate! Invitations, decor and dress the part! Wear red, white and b

☀️ Smoothing Summer Special Beat the heat and humidity with Bali Salon's exclusive summer offer. Get perfectly smooth, frizz-free hair that lasts all season long. Keratin or Brazilian Blowout $250 (Originally $350-$375) Promotion ends July 31, 2026 *MUST mention "Bergen County Moms Promotion" upon booking in order to redeem the promotional price. Bali Salon 109 E. Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ | 201.862.8886 Visit Bali Salon