Stop asking my kids what their plans are for college. It's the question they hate the most.

Tech Insider
Laura Falin and her family on graduation day
The author, second from left, has a few college-age kids.

Courtesy of Laura Falin

I'm a high school teacher. Taking a bullet for my students isn't written in my contract.

Tech Insider
Teacher holding back to school sign
Michelle Donnay has been a school teacher for 27 years and says she tries not to thing about school shootings too much.

Courtesy of Michelle Donnay

Many grandmothers provide regular childcare for their grandkids. I refuse to do that, and I'm not a bad grandma.

Tech Insider
Grandmother playing with her newborn baby granddaughter after changing diaper
The author loves her grandchildren, but at 67 doesn't want to look after them regularly.

Milan_Jovic/Getty Images

I've always traveled with my 2 kids, but now that they are teens it's so much more fun

Tech Insider : Travel
Boys jumping into lake from dock
Now that the author's sons are teenagers, she can let them plan activities for them to do together while they travel

Ronnie Kaufman/Getty Images

My toddler sleeps in bed with us. Everyone gets more sleep this way.

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Toddler girl sleeping soundly on the bed with mom
The author co-sleeps with her toddler and says the whole family gets more rest this way.

Tang Ming Tung/Getty Images

I started my kids' 529 account at birth with the intention of not touching it until college. I changed my mind.

Tech Insider
A baby places money into a jar labeled
A baby helps with placing money in the "college fund" jar.

Jamie Grill/Getty Images

I was asked to leave an event for female founders because I had my baby with me. I don't think babies and business should remain separate.

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Mom posing with baby at Y Combinator
Elena Brandt was told to leave a talk at a Y Combinator because her baby was cooing.

Courtesy of Elena Brandt

My son and I deciding whether he'll go straight to college or take a gap year. I'm fine with whatever he chooses.

Tech Insider
Photo of young man wearing a backpack with skateboard looped through it from behind at sunset.
Stephanie Kaloi's son (not pictured) is deciding whether to go straight to college or take a gap year.

Alvaro Medina Jurado/Getty Images

I'm a mom and professional declutterer. Kids don't understand the concept of 'cleaning up' so here are 3 ways to help them do it.

Tech Insider
Two children play in a very messy room
A pair of kids play in a messy toy room.

Cultura RM Exclusive/Henglein and Steets/Getty Images

My mom never stopped smiling when things were hard. I learned it's a leadership superpower.

Tech Insider
A mother smiles as she is embraced by her daughter
A mother smiles at her daughter

Oliver Rossi/Getty Images

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