Life Kit: Parenting

Could you see your life just as easily with children as without? What if you're not cut out for parenthood? What if you grow lonely in your old age? Or what if you have a loving partner, but you disagree on this choice? Deciding between parenthood and a child-free life requires clarity about your fears and deepest desires -- no easy task. This episode, psychotherapist and author of the book, The Baby Decision, Merle Bombardieri, helps us get clear. She discusses minimizing regret, figuring out your ideal timeline and navigating differing opinions with a partner. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit Sign up for our newsletter here. Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2026

If you have a baby in your life, you may not find them the most intellectually stimulating conversation partner. But your baby is soaking up everything you say. On this episode, advice from early childhood experts on the importance of talking to babies from day 1 to 12 months old, and tips on what to say. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit Sign up for our newsletter here. Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2026

Did you remember to pick up milk? Or reschedule that dentist appointment? Oh, and pick up cupcakes for the meeting? The never-ending tending to the never-ending to-do list is known as the mental load. Sociologist Leah Ruppanner explains how to tame the mental load in her new book, Drained: Reduce Your Mental Load to Do Less and Be More. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit Sign up for our newsletter here. Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2026

From brain fog to identity crises to complicated feelings of guilt (or relief), returning to work as a new parent can be daunting. Luckily, you don't need to navigate this transition alone. Life Kit reporter Andee Tagle talks to working parents and experts about how to balance a job, parenting and being a person all at once. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit Sign up for our newsletter here. Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2026

Using chatbots for emotional support can pose risks to teens' mental health. How should parents talk to their teens about using chatbots safely? And what's the best way to have those conversations without causing conflict? On this episode, NPR's Rhitu Chatterjee speaks to experts about how to support your teen's mental health and talk to them about AI. Life Kit's episode on helping a child at risk of suicide. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit Sign up for our newsletter here. Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 2 April 2026

Having kids comes with a lot of clutter - some of it even shows up before your baby does. From toys that overflow from the toy chest, to unwanted hand-me-downs and the piles of art your kids make, you can't keep it all. Psychotherapist Denaye Barahona offers advice for parents on the whys and hows of decluttering.   Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit Sign up for our newsletter here. Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 26 March 2026

If you're a new parent, picking out a car seat can be stressful. Do you need to spend extra on special features to keep your kid safe? How long should your child be rear-facing? How do you know if the car seat is secure enough? In this episode of Life Kit, we cover common mistakes parents make when installing car seats. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit Sign up for our newsletter here. Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 2 March 2026

There can be a lot of stress when it comes to the holidays: figuring out travel plans, preparing the perfect meal, spending time with the whole family for days on end. There can also be a lot pressure to do everything perfectly, but psychotherapist and author of All Is Calmish: How to Feel Less Frantic and More Festive During the Holidays, Niro Feliciano, says that letting go of the need for perfection can actually make your holiday less stressful. This episode, Feliciano shares tips for keeping your holiday season merry and bright. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit Sign up for our newsletter here. Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 1 December 2025

Toddlerhood is a big and beautiful period of self-discovery. Kids are picking up new cognitive and motor skills and learning language a mile a minute. But there are some behaviors in this age range that can be confusing, frustrating or spirit-breaking for parents, like tantrums, hitting, stealing toys and more. This episode, Life Kit reporter Andee Tagle helps you decode your toddler's behavior and address it more strategically. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit Sign up for our newsletter here. Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 2 October 2025

When deciding between colleges, it can be tempting to let prestige guide your choice. But so many factors go into finding the right fit: research opportunities, campus extracurriculars, social life, specific classes or programs, and of course, very real financial considerations. This episode, higher education journalist Jeffrey Selingo, author of Dream School: Finding the College That’s Right for You, outlines what students and parents should consider when choosing a school. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit Sign up for our newsletter here. Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 25 September 2025

High school and college students graduating in 2026 will have had access to artificial intelligence models like ChatGPT since their freshman year. Teens are using it in creative ways to help them study, but many have also received little to no guidance on responsible use. In this episode, we discuss how to talk to teens about AI, including its risks and potential benefits for young people. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit Sign up for our newsletter here. Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 2 September 2025

Today's teens struggle with perfectionism and mood swings, and their parents struggle to have hard conversations with them, according to a 2024 Walton Family Foundation and Gallup poll. Teen psychologist Lisa Damour explains how parents can better support their kids as a new school year begins. This episode originally published Aug. 27, 2024. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 19 August 2025

From pregnancy tracking apps to smart baby monitors, technology is ingrained in parenthood at every turn. But at what cost? In this episode, Amanda Hess, author of Second Life: Having a Child in the Digital Age, shares how data, metrics and our relationship to technology can shape child-rearing — and create barriers between parents and their kids. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 29 July 2025

If you have kids, cooking with them might sound like a daunting prospect. But David Nayfeld, the chef behind the new book, Dad, What's for Dinner?, says cooking with your kids can create positive memories and help your kids build useful skills. In this episode, Nayfeld shares easy weeknight recipes to try with your kids and cooking tasks children can help with at any age. Yes, it might get messy, but that's OK if you're connecting and spending time together. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 24 July 2025

It can be tough to navigate adult friendships when kids come into the picture. Parents assume their child-free buds don't want to hang out with them, and vice versa. To overcome this divide, reporter Emily Siner speaks with three experts about what makes friendships work across parenting stages. So whether you have kids, want kids, have friends with kids, or know anyone who could have kids someday, we've got you covered. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025

There are a lot of benefits to raising a child speaking two or more languages: a better understanding of their culture and their relatives, cognitive benefits and expanded job opportunities. But raising a kid is hard enough in one language. How can a parent be expected to do it in two or more? Reporter Julia Furlan explains that raising a kid in a multilingual household isn't a burden — it's a gift. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 27 March 2025

Today's parents are more involved in their children's lives — and more stressed out — than they were two decades ago, according to an advisory from the 2024 U.S. Surgeon General. So how can they catch a break? Life Kit reporter Andee Tagle explains why parental burnout is a public health crisis and offers realistic ways to ease the pressure. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2025

You signed your kid up for the soccer team (or swimming lessons, or piano or art), paid the fee and now they're begging to quit! In these moments, it's difficult to know what decision will help your kid grow in the long run. Do you ask them to tough it out and develop perseverance? Or trust their emotions? In this episode, Life Kit visuals editor Beck Harlan talks to two family psychologists about what to do when your kid tells you they're never going back to that extracurricular. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 24 October 2024

Meltdowns, refusing to share, hitting other kids. Every child has bad behavior sometimes. At home, it's easier to deal with. But what about in public? Psychologist Celina Benavides explains what to do in the moment — and how to get ahead of bad behavior. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 26 September 2024

Sulhee Jessica Woo's love language is packing lunch. When she sends her three kids off to school, she includes themed lunches, snacks cut into cute shapes, and sweet notes to give them some support while they're away. If you want to level up your kid's school lunches, she has some suggestions. This episode, Sulhee Jessica Woo shares advice from her new cookbook, Let's Make Some Lunch: Recipes Made with Love for Everyone. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 17 September 2024

Today's teens struggle with perfectionism and mood swings, and their parents struggle to have hard conversations with them, according to a recent survey. Teen psychologist Lisa Damour explains how parents can better support their kids as a new school year begins. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 27 August 2024

With a baby on the way, you'll need to babyproof your home — and your relationship. In this episode, how to strengthen your connection with your partner and survive the newborn phase. Learn how to navigate fairness in domestic responsibilities, keep a cool head on little sleep, and your new roles. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 18 July 2024

Psychologist Becky Kennedy, author of the book "Good Inside: A Guide to Becoming the Parent You Want to Be," urges parents to spend more time raising thoughtful humans instead of fixing their behavior. This episode originally published September 26, 2022. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2024

It's hard to find time for anything with a newborn at home. And in the months after having a baby, intimacy with your partner may fall to the wayside. But sex and relationship experts say that maintaining your intimate relationship with your partner is a worthwhile challenge. In this episode we'll talk strategies for reconnecting with your partner, exploring your desires, and expanding your ideas of sex and intimacy. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 27 June 2024

Drowning is the No. 1 cause of death for children ages 1-4 in the United States. To prevent drownings, make sure there's always a designated adult watching the water whenever kids are swimming. We'll cover other water safety tips to protect young swimmers safe this summer. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2024

Many parents share photos and videos of their babies and children on social media. But there are potential dangers to constantly posting about your kid online, says Leah Plunkett, a faculty member of Harvard Law School who specializes in children, family law and technology. This episode, Plunkett explains what adults should consider about a kid's privacy and personal data before hitting the upload button. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2024

Becoming a blended stepfamily can be fraught for everyone involved. How can your family build trust, function more smoothly and ultimately grow closer? In this episode, NPR health correspondent Maria Godoy shares research on stepsiblings and blended families that can make this process easier. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 9 May 2024

Pregnancy complications — like miscarriage, preterm birth or postpartum depression — are incredibly common. But expecting parents can often feel alone if they are experiencing these conditions, or like a second pregnancy is out of reach. This episode, Emily Oster, co-author of 'The Unexpected', on how to deal with complications when they arise, and make your next pregnancy a little smoother. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2024

Approximately one in four adults has a fear of needles, according to the CDC. Many of those people say the phobia started when they were kids. Researchers developed a five step plan to prevent what they call "needless pain" for kids getting injections or their blood drawn. NPR's Short Wave talks with Dr. Stefan Friedrichsdorf of UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals, who works with a team to implement the plan at his own hospital, about how to eliminate pain during shots. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2024

About 1 in 5 high school seniors say they have vaped nicotine in the past year. Even though smoking cigarettes is less popular than it used to be among teens, e-cigarettes are common, highly addictive and harmful to lung health. Here's how to talk to teens about vaping and how to help them quit. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 9 April 2024

Chewing, choking hazards, high chairs – oh my! Starting solid foods with your little one can be as stressful as it is special. A pediatric dietitian and a pediatrician discuss menu choices, allergens, safety and schedules to help you and your little one succeed with solids. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 4 April 2024

Looking to travel this spring with your little one? These tips and tricks can make the journey not just manageable, but enjoyable. Travel experts explain how to navigate packing, air travel and tourism with a kid under age 2. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2024

It's tricky to talk to younger kids about sex. This episode helps parents get past the confusion and embarrassment around sex education so they can raise healthy, responsible kids. This episode originally aired December 17, 2019. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 5 February 2024

Becoming a mother is a complicated life transition. That postpartum feeling of being on an emotional rollercoaster, not recognizing your body in the mirror and thinking that you've lost yourself is all part of the process. This episode offers guidance for mothers on how to get their footing, manage expectations, get support and prioritize time for themselves. These insights are also great for people who are in their support network. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 23 January 2024

Overdose deaths among teenagers have skyrocketed in the last few years due to opioids like fentanyl. Experts say drug education that focuses on harm reduction, an approach that focuses on safety rather than abstinence, could help save lives. Here's how to start the conversation with young people and how to respond in an emergency. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 19 December 2023

Firearms are the number one cause of death for children and teens in the U.S. Parents can take life-saving precautions to protect children — whether or not you own a gun. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 30 November 2023

Last weekend, militants from the terrorist group Hamas killed more than a thousand people, including children, in an attack on Israel while also taking hostages. Israel has ordered a full siege of Gaza, where nearly half of residents are under 18 years of age. The news is alarming for anyone — especially for children, who may be left grappling with questions about why other children are among those affected, and whether they are safe. In this episode of Life Kit, NPR's Becky Sullivan gives us advice on how to talk to children about the violence in Israel and Gaza. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 12 October 2023

Overindulging kids when they're young can lead to negative effects in their adulthoods. But it's hard for parents to put their foot down when they want to avoid a conflict at all costs. Child psychologist Lauren Silvers has tips for families trying to curb overindulging a child. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 18 September 2023

Children's health professionals widely recommend a strategy known as 'special time' to help reduce behavioral issues in young children. This episode explains how to do it and why this simple and free tool is so powerful. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 14 August 2023

While there's endless advice for parents, there's little guidance on supporting kids for non-parents. Whether you're an aunt, uncle, godparent, or a family friend, here's how to have healthy, fulfilling relationships with kids that are not yours. We'll cover how to build those relationships, start routines, and create a safe space for the kids in your life. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 18 July 2023

Video games get a bad reputation that's often unwarranted. But kids do need guidance in using them wisely. Here's how to help them, starting with spending some time with the games your kids can't put down. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 5 June 2023

Pregnancy is hard work – for the body, mind and soul. There are seemingly endless resources for all the physical and logistical aspects of pregnancy but far fewer for renegotiating your sense of self in every part of your life. We'll discuss the effect of pregnancy on the brain, the importance of embracing negative feelings and strategies for maintaining changing relationships. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 11 May 2023

It may sound counterintuitive, but if you want to take charge as a parent, stop trying to control your child, says psychologist and author Shefali Tsabary. Her new book, "The Parenting Map," lays out a step-by-step guide for creating conscious parent-child relationships. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 1 May 2023

Being a teenager is hard. There are emotional highs and lows every day. Clinical psychologist Lisa Damour says instead of jumping into problem-solving mode, parents can learn to ride the wave of emotional management with their teens. NPR's Rachel Martin speaks with Damour about her book "The Emotional Lives of Teenagers." See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 30 March 2023

Veggies help kids grow and develop, but it can be hard to convince them to eat their broccoli. These research-backed tips can help you encourage your kids to eat more veggies — or at least try them. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 7 February 2023

This is the story of one particularly devious octopus who lost a limb, was captured by humans — then managed to make an escape from its aquarium tank back into the ocean. This episode comes from our friends at 'Terrestrials,' a podcast presented by Radiolab for Kids. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 21 January 2023

Called 'special time,' the strategy is widely recommended by children's health professionals to help reduce behavioral issues in young children. Here's a guide on how to do it with your kids at home. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 17 October 2022

Psychologist Becky Kennedy, author of the new book "Good Inside: A Guide to Becoming the Parent You Want to Be," urges parents to spend more time raising thoughtful humans instead of fixing their behavior. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 26 September 2022

Having a baby is one of the biggest - and most expensive - life changes a person can experience. Here's what you need to know about financially planning for a baby, according to Farnoosh Torabi, Editor at Large CNET Money. Find out if there is a magic number that tells you you're ready, what to think about ahead of time and learn what can probably wait. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 26 July 2022

Talking about abortion can be complicated, even with adults. How do you talk about the medical procedure and the politics around it with kids? NPR's Ailsa Chang gets tips from Dr. Elise Berlan and parenting expert Reena Patel. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Transcribed - Published: 21 July 2022