Thanksgiving weekend is the unofficial kickoff to a season of gatherings. You may be planning get-togethers for Diwali, Hanukkah, or the winter solstice in the coming weeks. And while there’s lots of merriment when you share space and food with friends and family, there’s also friction. Our guest experts offer tips on how to gather well despite our political, generational, and cultural differences.

Kate Mulligan is principal at the department of neighbouring and associate professor at the University of Toronto. Lambers Fisher is a licensed marriage and family therapist. And Yasmeen Rafiq is a registered social worker and therapist.

The World Health Organization has issued its first-ever guidance on addressing a sharp increase in childhood obesity globally. Experts say the problem is driven by multiple factors, including ubiquitous ultra-processed foods, rising screen time, and a lack of safe physical activity spaces.

We’re taking your questions about childhood obesity and how to address it without compounding weight stigma and negative self-image. Dr. Mélanie Henderson is a pediatric endocrinologist and researcher at CHU Sainte-Justine Hospital in Montreal. Amanda Raffoul is an assistant professor in the department of nutritional sciences at the University of Toronto.

Environmentalists say Prime Minister Mark Carney’s plan to quickly build infrastructure comes at the cost of species and environmental protection. We explore what fast-tracking major projects, including a pipeline, would mean for the natural world — and whether climate protection has to be at odds with growing the economy.

Amy Janzwood is an assistant professor in the department of political science and the Bieler School of the Environment at McGill University. Hadrian Mertins-Kirkwood is a senior researcher with the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives.