Every five seconds, mothers take to the What to Expect Community forum to engage in discussions about topics related to parenting. This facilitates a dynamic exchange of ideas, fostering a learning environment for both experienced and prospective parents. The forum’s team of skilled moderators ensure these discussions remain useful and appropriate.
The moderators, owing to their commitment to managing forums, often have a pulse on the recent trends that emerge in parenting. In this way, the moderators set a model of sagacious parenting through their study of daily discourse with evolving questions and experiences of mothers as well as the collective knowledge that the forum offers.
Amy Phelps, the assistant director of the Community team, notes that the trends are a reflection of the prevailing parenting approaches. This is further corroborated when certain topics recurrently surface across multiple groups. Phelps explains that such commonalities are genuine signals that provide a window into the current patterns of thinking and concerns collectively shared among parents.
Through detailed analysis of over 6 million posts and comments this year, the team has identified what are set to become the top parenting trends of the coming year. These insights suggest a shift in perspectives and attitudes, potentially charting the course for the future of parenting in 2026.
The Rise of the 'Push Presents' for Dads
It’s not uncommon for new mothers to receive a 'push present', a special gift given after childbirth. However, in 2026, the tradition looks set to extend to include new fathers. Discussions around 'push presents' for dads are gaining traction, indicating a potential shift in recognition of paternal involvement during childbirth.
Gifts for dads are expected to range from the practical, such as coffee machines for tackling infant care, to the extravagant, like pricy cowboy boots. Dad hats and sports jerseys also feature in the list of potential gifts, encapsulating the sentiment of celebration and the acknowledgment of the paternal role in the journey of parenthood.
Color Pop: Neutral Tones Make Way for Vibrant Nurseries
The muted hues of cream, taupe, and silver that have dominated nursery design are expected to be replaced with bolder, earthier colors in 2026. Discussions indicate a preference for a more vibrant nursery welcome for their babies, with sage green, terracotta and mocha leading the trend.
Parents are also working towards creating nursery themes that revolve around nature and wildlife. While some are planning sage green walls with hints of a forest or garden theme, others are considering brighter shades that create a fun and lively space.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Parenting
It seems that the influence of technology cannot be ignored even within the realm of parenting. Results from a 2025 What to Expect survey reveal that the use of AI in parenting has increased, with 75% of mothers stating they use AI compared to 61% in 2024.
From enhancing ultrasound photos and guessing the baby’s gender to comparing pregnancy products and even picking baby names, the varied applications of AI signify an emerging trend where AI serves as a 'co-parent'.
Wearable Tech: The New Trendsetter in Fertility and Pregnancy Tracking
Wearable tech is rapidly gaining momentum in fertility and pregnancy tracking. With advancements in technology, these devices can now measure different fertility and pregnancy markers such as body temperature, heart rate variability (HRV), and contractions.
While these parent testimonies need to be verified by medical professionals, they provide an interesting perspective into how wearable tech is being integrated into parenting. Moms are sharing their experiences with fertility trackers, providing valuable insights into how to best leverage these devices for fertility and pregnancy tracking.
Social Acceptance for Sharing Baby Registry on Social Media
Traditionally, sharing a baby registry on social media has been viewed with skepticism. However, that mindset is poised to change in 2026. A What to Expect poll found that although only 30% of mothers have shared their registry on social media, 65% believes it’s a great idea to do so. This number is expected to increase as societal norms evolve, making it more acceptable to ask for baby gifts from your virtual community.
Celebrating 'Micro-Milestones': Savoring Small Happy Moments
Moving forward, parents are expected to celebrate not just the major milestones but also the 'micro-milestones'. The importance of acknowledging and rejoicing in these seemingly minor achievements is growing within the community. Parents are finding innovative ways to mark these moments, including throwing a 'baby dust' party for embryo transfer or creating ‘half-birthday’ cakes to celebrate six months.
Low-Stim Play and Old-Fashioned Entertainment
The year 2026 will also witness a rise in the trend for 'low-stim' play. Increasingly, parents are turning to low-stimulation TV shows, Montessori-inspired wooden toys, and even traditional landline phones to entertain their young kids. They are stepping away from the typical noisy and colorful child entertainment, opting for options that are more calming and educative.