They've transformed motherhood into lucrative professions, but what happens to the kids who grow up online?

Published May 10, 2026 6:30AM (EDT)

Mother live streaming with son. (Westend61/Getty Images)

This story was originally published by The 19th .

This story was originally reported by Jasmine Mithani of The 19th . Meet Jasmine and read more of their reporting on gender, politics and policy .

There’s only one career where having a baby can boost a woman’s career: influencing. Other women in the workforce have to contend with the motherhood penalty , but moms-to-be making a living on social media can rake in cash with sponsorships that continue well past their due dates.

Individual brand deals can go for $25,000, while the most popular family vlogging YouTube channels earn an estimated $200,000 a month.…