Who Should You Trust? Parenting in the Age of Information Overload

Are you up late, scrolling through parenting forums looking for help with a weird rash or stubborn sleep regression? Are you more confused then before you started? You're not alone.

We’re raising kids in an age of too much advice. Blogs, podcasts, TikToks, group chats—there’s a constant stream of opinions, and they don’t always agree. All this access to information has a cost: our confidence, our clarity, and sometimes even our trust in our doctors.

So what can parents do?

1. Start with reliable sources.

Not all parenting advice is created equal. Before you take action on what you read or watch, ask yourself: Where is this information coming from? Look for websites from an academic institution or non-profit (.org). Here are some evidence-based, trustworthy websites I recommend:

• HealthyChildren.org – from the American Academy of Pediatrics

• VaccineInformation.org – accurate, up-to-date vaccine guidance

• CDC Child Development – milestone checklists and health advice

• Zero to Three – research-based resources on infant and toddler development

• Pediatric Sleep Council - simple advice for every sleep problem

2. Watch for red flags.

Some signs that online advice may not be trustworthy:

• The advice sounds extreme: “Always do this” or “Never do that”

• There are no cited sources or medical credentials

• It’s designed to make you feel scared or guilty

• It’s trying to sell you something instead of explain something

Credible advice almost always acknowledges nuance and offers options—not ultimatums.

3. Limit the scroll.

Scrolling through dozens of sources often leads to more anxiety, not more clarity. Choose one or two trusted resources and let yourself tune out the rest. If you’ve read conflicting opinions for more than 10 minutes and feel more overwhelmed than informed, take a break.

4. Bring your questions to your pediatrician.

You don’t need to be an expert—that’s our job. But you do deserve to understand the reasoning behind any advice you receive. A good pediatrician will be happy to talk through what you found online and explain how it applies (or doesn’t) to your child.

5. Use social media wisely.

Social media can connect parents and help you feel less alone—but it can also create unrealistic expectations. Remember:

• It’s a highlight reel, not real life

• Unfollow accounts that make you feel inadequate or anxious

• Don’t take health advice from strangers (even if their lunchboxes are adorable)

The Bottom Line

You don’t need perfect answers. You need solid, science-backed information and a trusted pediatrician who respects your voice. If you're ever in doubt, go back to the basics: Does this advice make sense for my child? Is it backed by science? Can I ask my pediatrician about it?

And remember—your instincts matter. When you pair your intuition with credible sources and open conversations with your child’s doctor, you're doing exactly what your child needs.