Jessica Hartshorn
Contributing Writer
Jessica (she/her) is a freelance writer with several decades of experience writing lifestyle content and evaluating home and parenting products. A mom of two teens and two cats, her previous work can be seen in American Baby and Parents.
Inside the Rigorous Process of Toy Testing at the Good Housekeeping Institute
Every year, our toy experts—with the help of hundreds of real kid testers—rigorously evaluate the hottest toys before they earn our recommendation.
3 Best Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes, Tested With Picky Cats
An automatic cat litter box can be pricey. These are the only ones we suggest you try.
This Bluey-Themed Candy Land Is as Cute as It Gets (and It's 30% Off)
A new twist on an old favorite.
7 Best Calming Treats and Chews for Anxious Dogs
Incoming storm? Sudden fireworks? Need to travel? These supplements might help your dog (and you).
10 Best Strollers for Travel
Travel easily with these lightweight, compact, and oftentimes overhead bin-compatible strollers.
11 Best Bath Toys for Kids of All Ages
Splashing around is more fun—and a learning opportunity—with these toys.
American Girl Launches AG Sisters, Less Expensive Dolls Made for Ages 4+
AG Sisters are a little smaller and have their own fashions and accessories.
6 Best Learning Towers for Kids in the Kitchen
Give a child a boost so they can assist. We've got favorite small, large, and foldable choices.
This Spectacular Gabby's Dollhouse Toy Seems to Come Alive
We love that this cat-shaped playset that ties in to the film is interactive. There are lots of fun, smaller Gabby-themed gifts, too.
The Surprising Connection Between the New American Girl GOTY and an Old Favorite Doll
Welcome to the club this present-day doll, 10-year-old Raquel Reyes of Kansas City.
21 Thoughtful Push Present Ideas for New Moms
The baby will get plenty of gifts. These ideas are for your partner or loved one who did the hard work!
22 Gifts 17-Year-Old Boys Will Actually Cherish
Get that busy young guy the perfect present, whether it's something to make him laugh or something to make his life easier.
9 Best Kitty Litters for Your Cat Box
Our favorite litter brands hide odors and prevent tracking, even in multi-cat households.
8 Best Dog Harnesses, Tested for All Types of Dogs
Small, medium, or large dogs can all have comfy daily walks in a harness that lets them sniff and explore.
American Girl Dolls Now Come in Plush Versions for the Youngest Fans
The originals are back—in cuddly form, for toddlers and preschoolers ages 18 months and up.
30 Most Popular Toys That Will Be on Every Kid's List This Year
Get a jump on shopping for holidays and birthdays with these hot, hot, hot toys.
4 Best 3D Pens, According to Our Testing
Kids, tweens, and adult crafters wanting to create original plastic artwork should check out these printing pens.
8 Best White Noise Machines
The secret to better sleep.
9 Best Dog Food Brands—and How to Pick the Right One for Your Pup
Big dog, small dog, puppy, or senior dog—the important thing is to find nutritious food for their size, age, and stage.
24 Toddler Products That Make Parenting Smoother
Toddlerhood is messy, memorable and full of milestones — and these Good Housekeeping 2025 Parenting Award winners will be there to support you every step of the way.
We Tested Hundreds of Baby Products — Here Are the Ones Worth Buying
Backed by lab analysis and parent feedback, these products are all winners of Good Housekeeping's 2025 Parenting Awards.
6 Best Kids' Lunchboxes
From durable stainless steel to insulated lunchboxes that keep food warm or cold, we've got something for every kid.
These Are the Gifts Every 17-Year-Old Girl Will Actually Want This Year
Gifts that boost your teenager's confidence and recognize her as a mini adult will be the most appreciated.
22 Meaningful Gifts for Preteen Boys
Your tween is ready for more sophisticated toys, fact-packed books and unusual games that take a little more skill.
23 Best Gifts for a 16-Year-Old Guy Who Seems to Have Everything
Your boy can drive, but he's still a teen who likes gadgets, tech and toys collectibles.
18 Best Cat Toys to Stimulate and Exercise Your Kitty
Lazy cat? Fat cat? Bored cat? This list has all types of toys to get them moving and make them happier.
The 15 Best Gifts for Smurfs Fans, From Crocs to T-Shirts and More
Whether they vibe with Papa Smurf or Smurfette, there's a present in here for them.
The Best Dog Strollers
Glide across town with your dog using one of these sets of wheels. They work for cats and bunnies too!
The Best Infant Bassinets
Keep your baby safe and close for the first months with a bedside bassinet.
6 Best Children's Water Play Tables
Toddlers and preschoolers all love playing with water (or sand) outdoors with the help of one of these.
7 Best Booster Car Seats
These top-rated car seats boost your big kid high enough to use the vehicle seat belt safely and correctly.
20 Best Infant Toys, According to Child Development Experts
Fun, educational learning toys for babies from the newborn months into the toddler years.