Having kids makes you smarter!

A new study on adult brains may surprise some parents. Despite the exhaustion most feel from the many emotional ups and downs of raising kids — along with a lack of sleep and constant worrying — parents' brains were found to be stronger and smarter than non-parents. Studies tracking tens of thousands of adults found that parents tend to have "younger-looking" brains and stronger brain connections than non-parents. Scientists think it’s the experience of raising children — constant problem-solving, social interaction, and adapting to new challenges — that help build what’s called cognitive reserve. In fact, the effect appears in both mothers and fathers and can even grow stronger with more children. So, while parenting may feel like it’s draining your brain in the moment, over the long run, it might help keep it sharper.