Life Kit: Parenting

Amanda Hess, a Critic at Large for the New York Times and author of 'Second Life: Having a Child in the Digital Age,' dives into the complex relationship between technology and parenting. She discusses how pregnancy tracking apps and smart baby monitors shape our experiences but may also create barriers between parents and their children. Hess critiques data-driven advertising's influence on parenting choices and highlights the emotional struggles that arise when navigating realistic expectations versus online portrayals of parenthood.

David Nayfeld, a professional chef and author of 'Dad, What's for Dinner?', shares insights on the joys of cooking with kids. He emphasizes how cooking can enhance family connections and create cherished memories, despite the inevitable mess. Nayfeld provides practical tips for age-appropriate cooking tasks and encourages parents to embrace imperfections in the kitchen. With easy weeknight recipes and a focus on safety, he inspires families to bond while fostering a love for food through shared cooking adventures.

Join reporter Emily Siner as she navigates the complex world of friendships post-kids. With insights from three experts, she tackles the myth that child-free friends don’t want to hang out. Discover creative strategies for keeping connections alive, the necessity of communication, and how to include non-parents in family life. Emily also discusses the importance of scheduled ‘parent time off’ and embracing diverse friendships to maintain a balanced life. Get ready for some refreshing ideas on sustaining your social circle!

Discover the joys and benefits of raising multilingual kids! From cognitive enhancements to cultural connections, this discussion reveals how bilingualism can enrich your child's life. Insights from speech therapists tackle common myths and provide practical tips for fostering a bilingual home. Learn how music and play can boost language acquisition, turning learning into joyful interactions. This podcast shares real family stories, showcasing the gift of multilingual upbringing as a path to a brighter future.

Andee Tagle, an NPR Life Kit reporter, sheds light on why parental burnout is a looming public health crisis. Today's parents juggle overwhelming responsibilities, resulting in increased stress levels. Tagle shares practical strategies to identify and combat burnout, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and personal time. She discusses the need for equitable household duties and community support to alleviate isolation. Tune in for insights on nurturing connections with other parents and reclaiming your mental well-being.

Beck Harlan, a Life Kit visuals editor and parent, consults with experts Crystal Lewis, a child psychologist, and Vanessa Lapointe, a parenting coach. They dive into the tricky world of whether kids should quit activities they no longer enjoy. The conversation reveals how emotional resilience varies among children, using the dandelion and orchid metaphor. Insights on fostering enjoyment over pressure in kids’ activities emerge, emphasizing the importance of communication and flexibility in supporting children's emotional needs.

Celina Benavides, a developmental psychologist and professor at Oxnard College, shares her expertise on handling children's behavior in public settings. She offers practical strategies for managing tantrums, emphasizing the importance of emotional regulation for both parents and kids. Benavides discusses how to teach social skills and communication while navigating conflicts at playgrounds. She also highlights the value of community support, equipping parents to turn challenging moments into learning experiences.

Sulhee Jessica Woo, an author known for her creatively packed lunches, shares her passion for making lunchtime special for her kids. She reveals fun themes and snack ideas that transform ordinary meals into delightful experiences. Sulhee discusses the importance of lunchbox materials, emphasizing eco-friendly choices. Practical tips for nutritious and engaging lunches are highlighted, including fun shapes and personalized notes. Ultimately, she shows how thoughtful gestures can foster connection and make kids feel loved even when they’re away.

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.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Learn how to babyproof your relationship before welcoming a baby, including sharing responsibilities, fair conflict resolution, and open communication. Discover the importance of addressing relationship trigger points, seeking compromise, and maintaining gratitude in the postpartum period. Get valuable tips on enhancing your relationship before and after becoming parents, focusing on communication, teamwork, flexibility, and staying connected with your partner.