Katie McPherson

Katie McPherson is the associate editor of lifestyle for Scary Mommy, where she edits and reports on all things lifestyle, pregnancy, parenting, and products. She edits and oversees Scary Mommy’s Had to Share series, which highlights the holy grail products that editors and contributors swear by. She pens the occasional essay, and loves diving deep into reported features about all things related to health and children’s safety.

Katie’s career began as an intern at a local health magazine, where she later served as associate editor, until taking a copywriting role within a major hospital’s marketing department. There she worked closely with OB-GYNs, midwives, and other birth providers to promote their labor and delivery services, sparking her interest in covering women’s health. She then worked at a children’s hospital, where she learned firsthand about the intricacies of health care access and how policy affects children’s safety and well-being. She joined Romper as a part-time writer in 2019 while freelancing. Her bylines have also appeared in HuffPost, VeryWell, The Daily Beast, and other regional publications in the Southeast. She earned her bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Florida.

When she’s AFK, Katie is listening to Metallica with her son (his favorite is “Fuel”) or playing Pokopia with her husband. She enjoys boxing and horseback riding, and is currently reading whatever is trending on #booktok. You can find her on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Remember Lounging?

Moms On Reddit Say They Miss The “Real Vacations” They Took Before Kids

By Katie McPherson

If you’ve ever thought, “I need a vacation from this vacation,” you’re not alone.

More Tools In The Toolbox

Apple Announces New iOS Child Safety Features, Which Will Roll Out This Fall

By Katie McPherson

Here’s how parents can use these new settings to their full potential.

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10 Canned Tuna Recipes For Those Nights You Forget To Thaw Something

By Katie McPherson

They’re so quick and so easy.

the little things

Parents On Reddit Are Sharing The Small Daily Rituals That Mean The Most To Their Kids

By Katie McPherson

Family trips and big surprises are awesome, but it’s the daily routines that build lasting connection.

just let me live

Is Anyone Else Secretly Tired Of Self-Improvement?

By Katie McPherson

Sure, I could get out of bed at 5 a.m. to run a 5K. Or, hear me out, you could f*ck off.

🚨Free Grocery Alert🚨

Aldi Is Giving Away Blind Boxes Of Groceries For All Of Us Kidults

By Katie McPherson

Surprise snacks? For free? Immediately yes.

So Simple

10 Sheet Pan Dinners So Easy They Basically Cook Themselves

By Katie McPherson

Until personal chefs start falling from the sky, this is the next best thing.

A Big Day In SPF

The FDA Approved A New Kind Of SPF For The First Time In Decades

By Katie McPherson

Here’s what that means for your family.

Parenting & AI

1 In 5 Teens Use AI Chatbots For Mental Health Advice. Here’s What Experts Want Parents To Know.

By Katie McPherson

“The goal is to make sure teens are not alone with a machine when what they really need is care, connection, and someone who can help them stay safe.”

not good!

The House Passed A Bill Cutting Fruit & Vegetable Benefits For WIC Recipients

By Katie McPherson

It is headed to the Senate next before hitting President Trump’s desk.

You Push, I Pull

What Therapists Want Couples To Know About The “Pursuer-Distancer” Pattern

By Katie McPherson

It’s one of the most common relationship dynamics, and often completely unintentional.

Counting Down To August

I Hate The Mom I Become Over The Summer

By Katie McPherson

Stomp. Stomp. Here comes the overstimulation monster (it’s me).

Shopping

11 Things You Didn’t Know Your HSA/FSA Would Cover & They’re Actually Good

By Katie McPherson

Your kid needs a new bike, you say?

The More You Know

How Do Family Swap Rooms Work At Universal Orlando?

By Katie McPherson

This little line hack will help the whole family get to enjoy every ride they came for.

Lenore?! Stop It

37 Vintage Middle Names That Will Honestly Outshine Your Baby’s First Name

By Katie McPherson

They pair well with everything.

Milk Wars

RFK Jr. Said Not Giving Kids Whole Milk In Public School Is “Almost Child Abuse”

By Katie McPherson

His comment suggests the federal government is still heavily focused on promoting dairy.

"Old Souls," Click Here

“Emotional Parentification” Could Be The Reason You’re An Exhausted People-Pleaser

By Katie McPherson

Were you often told you were mature for your age? Red flag.

Eat Mor Beenz

11 Canned Black Bean Recipes That Are Cheap, Easy, & Delicious

By Katie McPherson

An inexpensive food that’s high in protein and fiber? Well, say no more.

'90s Country Fans, Rejoice

Jo Dee Messina Is Back & She’s Not Afraid To Burn Some Bridges

By Katie McPherson

The country icon shares what she’s been up to since she last released new music 10 years ago (being a badass mom).

👂👅

What Is “Ear Pleasure”? The Summer House Reunion Has Everyone Wondering

By Katie McPherson

Who knew ears were erogenous zones?