4 Super Important Election Issues for New Moms and Moms-to-Be

Mar 28, 2016

Bringing new life into the world can be a joyous occasion and a cause for all kinds of celebration. Having a child also brings with it enormous responsibility for another person’s life (obviously — that’s kind of the point), and that means a huge investment of time and money. Depending on the country, the government shoulders differing degrees of that burden alongside parents. With presidential candidates running the gamut from the far right to the far left, there is a fairly wide swath of proposals on the table for how the federal government should be involved in helping new parents.

Child Care

This was a huge issue in the recent Canadian election, but it hasn’t gotten quite as much airtime here. Sweden offers universally accessible, income-adjusted daycare for children before they enter school, and many other countries have similar policies. As of 2014 the Child Care and Development Fund makes money available to states, but there have been notable hiccups like Mississippi refusing money for poor families altogether. (Photo via Thomas Lohnes/Getty Images)

What do the candidates think?

Hillary Clinton: Universal preschool for four-year-olds within the next 10 years.

Ted Cruz: Nothing.

John Kasich: Nothing.

Bernie Sanders: Make childcare and preschool available to all families. (Specifics not outlined.)

Donald Trump: Nothing.

Parental Leave

American parental leave policies lag far behind the developed world. The US is the only country in the industrialized world, and one of just four total, that doesn’t offer paid maternity leave from the federal government. Only 12 percent of private-sector workers have access to paid leave, and major cities like New York and D.C. are implementing paid leave for city workers this year. As so often happens, the lowest-paid, least job-secure workers are the least likely to benefit. (Photo via George Marks/Getty Images)

What do the candidates think?

Hillary Clinton: Guarantee at least 12 weeks of paid family leave (available to either parent).

Ted Cruz: “I think maternity leave and paternity leave are wonderful things. I support them personally, but I don’t think federal government should be in the business of mandating them.”

John Kasich: Paid leave is an impediment to gender wage equality. (Nothing in his platform.)

Bernie Sanders: At least 12 weeks of paid family leave.

Donald Trump: “It’s certainly something that’s being discussed.” Nothing in his platform.

Affordable Housing

If you spend more than 30 percent of your income on housing, you are considered “cost burdened.” Yet 12 million households in America use more than 50 percent of their annual income on having a place to live. Money being a finite resource for individuals, the more one spends on one item, the less one has for everything else. That means an astounding number of families and people in the US have less than half their income left for everything from food to health insurance to retirement or college savings. While it’s not always framed this way, affordable housing is absolutely an issue for families and new parents. (Photo via John Moore/Getty Images)

What do the candidates think?

Hillary Clinton: Put $25 billion toward building more affordable housing.

Ted Cruz: Abolish the Department of Housing and Urban Development, which oversees affordable housing.

John Kasich: Platform links to a story about freeing up funding for housing as Ohio governor; Cleveland.com reports that advocates aren’t completely happy with him characterizing that budget as a success. (Nothing about what he would actually do as president.)

Bernie Sanders: Mentions affordable housing for people with HIV/AIDS. (Nothing about larger plans for affordable housing.)

Donald Trump: Donald is not particularly pro-affordable housing. In fact, he gave up on the affordable-housing developments his father created.

Public Education

By grade eight, just under one third of public-school students are deemed “proficient” or better in math, and barely more than one third are “proficient” or above in reading. This despite the fact that as of 2010, the US spent more than any other G-20 nation on primary and secondary education. Underpaid, overworked teachers and crumbling schools make the news constantly. If your child is in public school, or will be, the next president’s plans to address education will be extremely important. (Photo via Chris Hondros/Getty Images)

What do the candidates think?

Hillary Clinton: Make quality education available across the country. (No specifics.)

Ted Cruz: Nothing.

John Kasich: Remove federal learning standards.

Bernie Sanders: Reform “No Child Left Behind” and ensure resource equity for schools. (Nothing in platform.)

Donald Trump: End common core, which is “a disaster.”

What do you think is most important for your family, and how should the next president address it? Tweet us your thoughts @BritandCo!

The Best Trader Joe's Champagne For Sparkling Celebrations

There are times when you’re celebrating big, so you're willing to spring for an expensive champagne. But what if you want a little bubbly to freeze, spike mimosas with, or to pour into a champagne tower? Trader Joe's to the rescue! Trader Joe's champagne has expanded waaaay beyond 'Two-Buck Chuck' to include French champagne and other sparkling white wines produced using the Champagne method, which are *way* less expensive.

Time to pop some tags – no – corks! Here are some of the best Trader Joe's champagnes you can snag on a bargain... ones that even your wine snob friends will love.

Simpler Wine Italian Wine Cocktail

We're kind of obsessed with these little guys, which hold a little over a glass of wine in each $1 can. We love the mango flavor, with hints of fruit and a fizzy finish. Bring these to any BYOB situation, and you're sure to be a hit.

French Fizz Le Blanc 2021

This French sparkling wine, made with a blend of grapes, has a light body with a dry, crisp, and citrusy taste. Plus, the bottle looks so fancy! It also comes in a tasty rosé version.

Brut Rosé French Sparkling Wine

We can’t get enough of this pink Italian sparkler. When summer rolls around, be sure to stock up on these reasonably priced ($7!) bottles.

Opaline Pinot Noir Brut Rosé

This bottle has the delicate flavors of red fruits like strawberry and raspberry, and it bubbles just like a much more expensive option would. You essentially get the taste you love without the price tag!

Trader Joe's Reserve Brut Rosé

Also fermented in the traditional méthode champenoise, this North Coast Californian bubbly has hints of strawberry and a clean, dry finish. It's a flawless upgrade to your basic brunch mimosas!

Villa Antica Asolo Prosecco DOCG Superiore

Prosecco is a dry Italian sparkling wine that starts with different grapes than champagne and undergoes an entirely different fermentation process. (Champagne goes through a second fermentation in the bottle to achieve all of those bubbles and rich texture, while prosecco's second fermentation happens in large vats, which is why it's so affordable.) This prosecco has a clean mouthfeel, bright, bubbles, and a melon-forward flavor. (Photo via Trader Joe's)

Platinum Reserve Brut Sparkling Wine Sonoma County

This medium-bodied brut hints of apple and pear, plus a light gingery spice. It's easy sipping, so you don't have to save it for a special occasion — today will do! Cheers!

La Burgondie Crémant de Bourgogne

Made up of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Gamay, and Aligotè grapes, this sparkling bev has notes of citrus and red apple with a dash of gingerbread spice.

If you’re enjoying this roundup of Trader Joe’s champagne, there’s more where that came from. Follow us on Pinterest and subscribe to our newsletter!

Photos via Trader Joe’s.

Additional reporting by Sally Jones and Meredith Holser.

18 Healthy Camping Recipes That Don’t Sacrifice Flavor

Camping season is upon us, meaning it's totally acceptable to consider s'mores an official food group. While fireside cuisine isn't complete without some form of toasted marshmallow or ketchup-covered hot dog, an outdoor getaway can be a little more virtuous if you try to cook healthier mains. Here are 18 easy and healthy camping meals to sneak some nutrition into your next camping trip!

Pineapple Chicken Skewer Lettuce Wraps

Bring this pre-marinated chicken and fixings to your campsite, then unload everything onto a tray for everyone to customize their own skewers and wraps before heating them up over the fire! (via Brit + Co)

Shakshuka

The inviting aromas of sizzling tomatoes, onions, red pepper, and spices will wake you right up of your sleeping bag, if you’re still feeling like a zombie when you wake up from the previous day’s adventures. This zesty skillet meal also gets a good boost from chickpeas! (via Brit + Co)

10-Minute Vegan Stir-Fry

If all you have time to do in the way of food prep is to stop at Trader Joe’s on the way to your campsite, you’re in luck. This 10-minute vegan stir-fry comes together with three main ingredients and requires zero advance work. This is one of the easiest healthy camping meals with a light medley of veggies and plant-based protein. (via Brit + Co)

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili

There’s nothing like eating a hearty bowl of chili while gathering around the campfire! This meat-free version is made with sweet potatoes and black beans, and it will reheat over the grill in a jiffy. (via Brit + Co)

Asparagus + Goat Cheese Frittata

Feed a crowd in style with this healthy, protein-packed frittata, bursting with the springy flavors of asparagus and goat cheese! Feel free to substitute the asparagus for whatever seasonal veggies you have on hand, too. (via Brit + Co)

Honey Sriracha Chicken Meal Prep Bowls

Traveling off the grid, but want to stay on top of your health goals? No prob! Prep these to-go containers according to this recipe, pack 'em in a cooler, and reheat at camp. This way, you'll have healthy camping meals to eat on for several days! (via The Girl on Bloor)

Caprese Chicken Foil Packs

Simply layer chicken, olive oil, pesto, tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese into some foil, cook for half an hour, and enjoy this refreshing fireside meal. It has a healthy kick with lighter ingredients and flavors to fully satisfy! (via Damn Delicious)

Tahini Chickpea Cucumber Salad

Try this easy-to-pack, versatile salad on its own, on a sandwich, or spooned over some grilled chicken and greens for an array of healthy camping meals to fuel your entire trip. (via Hello Veggie)

Campfire Baked Feta

3 ingredients, 5 minutes. That's how easy this healthy camping meal is, and you just can't beat that! Throw everything into a skillet over the fire and bake through, then dip some crusty bread into this feta dip with tomatoes and chickpeas. You could even serve this over top some pre-cooked pasta! (via Live Eat Learn)

Southwest Vegetable Quinoa Salad

Recharge after a day of hiking with this veggie-rich salad. It's especially easy to make ahead, pack in a cooler, and enjoy right away. This is one of the most substantial healthy camping meals because of the quinoa! (via The Creative Bite)

Thai Salmon in Foil

Cook fresh salmon over a fire, and you’ll feel like a true outdoorswoman — especially if you pretend you just caught it in the river! This succulent cut of salmon takes on Thai flavors from the fish and hoisin sauces. Lean protein FTW. (via Damn Delicious)

Stuffed Grilled Avocados with Shrimp + Mango Salsa

Those adept at grilling over a fire will love these tropical stuffed avocados, filled with garlicky shrimp and spicy mango salsa. The fresh ingredients amp this dish up to be one of the yummiest healthy camping recipes around. (via The Roasted Root)

DIY Instant Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a healthy camping breakfast that's so easy to make yourself! Instead of buying those pre-made packets at the store with tons of additives, opt for this homemade version that uses only 5 ingredients. Once it's prepped, you can bring it to the campsite in mason jars to go no-waste. (via The First Mess)

Summer Rolls with Almond Butter Satay

Light summer rolls are the ideal healthy camping dinner because they’re cheap, customizable, and fun to make as a group! The nutty satay dipping sauce from this camping recipe is the best part in terms of both its addictive flavor and easy preparation. (via Fresh Off the Grid)

5-Ingredient Mediterranean Salmon Foil Packs

Pesto and crumbly feta on top of silky salmon filets will always feel restorative, no matter how hot it is outside. This recipe packs in all that good Mediterranean flavor! (via The Seasoned Mom)

Italian Chicken + Veggie Foil Packs

If you’re concerned about getting all of your veggies in while sleeping in a tent, worry not! These packs, emanating the aroma of an Italian trattoria, have five different ones. (via Hello Glow)

Lemon-Dijon Asparagus + Pea Macaroni Salad

This recipe is just as good for summer BBQs and picnics as it is for camping, plus, it's packed with countless veggies for that healthy boost you're looking for! To prep for a trip, chop and store the veggies separately from the cooked pasta. Keep the dressing separated in a mason jar, too, so you can just mix everything together in one swift step once you've set up camp! (via Vanilla and Bean)

5-Ingredient Peanut Butter Granola Bars

This healthy camping food literally helps you live out your granola girl dreams! With 5 simple ingredients, this recipe yields a whopping 16 servings full of oats, PB, honey, and chocolate chips. Yummm. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Going camping this summer? Tag us in your food pics on Instagram!

Lead image via Vanilla and Bean.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Sarah Landrum and Meredith Holser.

breakfast recipes camping dessert recipes lunch recipes sweets healthy healthy camping food food

This Creamy Avocado Pasta Recipe Is The Easiest Weeknight Dinner

I'm not going to lie, I've eaten a lot of avocado pasta over the years. I discovered it during a time when I was trying out the Mediterranean Diet, and it quickly became a go-to weeknight dinner option for me. Because it's made with avocado, it's creamy, rich, and delicious — but also super nutritious. There's a reason it's become such a beloved recipe for anyone who wants to eat wholesome, delicious pasta recipes but also wants a good dose of nutrients.

Before we dive into the recipe, here are a few reminders about why avocados are so good for you: First, avocados are chock-full of healthy fats, mostly of the monounsaturated variety. These fats are great for your heart health and can help keep your cholesterol levels in check. Plus, they give your skin that fabulous glow we all crave! Avocados are also bursting with fiber, which is fantastic for your digestive system. It keeps things moving along smoothly and helps you feel fuller for longer, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

As for the vitamins and minerals, avocados are loaded with potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and keeping your muscles functioning properly. They're also packed with vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, as well as folate, all of which are vital for overall health and well-being.

In short, avocados are a nutritional powerhouse that can do wonders for your body. Cheers to good health and avocados aplenty, and try this easy avocado pasta recipe the next time you want a meal that's creamy, carby, nutritious, and comforting (so, pretty much any day).

Tangy Avocado Pasta Recipe

www.instagram.com

Ingredients:

2 avocados
2 tbsp lime juice
1/4 cup chicken stock
1/8 cup sunflower seeds
5 cloves garlic
1/2 tsp cumin
1/4 cup cream cheese
1/2 cup fresh cilantro
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
12 oz pappardelle pasta
optional: chili flakes & lime garnish

Directions:

Prepare your pasta of choice according to box directions. We used pappardelle pasta, but you can swap in gluten-free pasta for this recipe too!
While the pasta is boiling, prepare the sauce. Add all of the ingredients (except pasta) to a blender or food processor. Blend for 1 minute.
After the pasta is strained, return it to the pan or in a bowl and add the avocado sauce. Gently fold the pasta and sauce together until well combined.
Serve with a generous sprinkle of chili flakes and a lime garnish.

If you love avocado pasta recipes like this one, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more meal inspo!

pasta recipes diy recipes dinner recipes recipes