Life Kit

The dos and don'ts of baby talk

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 [https://www.instagram.com/nprlifekit/?hl=en] Sign up for our newsletter here. [https://www.npr.org/newsletter/life-kit] Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org [lifekit@npr.org] Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit [http://plus.npr.org/lifekit] See pcm.adswizz.com [https://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 [https://www.npr.org/about-npr/179878450/privacy-policy]

The dos and don'ts of taking over-the-counter pain medications

Ibuprofen, acetaminophen and aspirin — there are many over-the-counter pain medications available, but are they all the same? And how much should you really take? In this episode, pharmacists and a doctor cover your drug options, including side effects, dosage and what to reach for the next time you have a headache or fever. This episode was originally published on March 31, 2025. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit [https://www.instagram.com/nprlifekit/?hl=en] Sign up for our newsletter here. [https://www.npr.org/newsletter/life-kit] Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org [lifekit@npr.org] Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit [http://plus.npr.org/lifekit] See pcm.adswizz.com [https://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 [https://www.npr.org/about-npr/179878450/privacy-policy]

Are there 'forever chemicals' in your drinking water?

According to the CDC, virtually all Americans have PFAS, or "forever chemicals," in our bodies. These manmade substances have been linked to cancer, high cholesterol, thyroid disease and more. This episode, take steps to reduce the buildup of these chemicals in your body with tips from reporter and host of the podcast Safe to Drink Mara Hoplamazian -- like getting special water filters and checking other items in your home that may contain PFAS, like nonstick pans. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit [https://www.instagram.com/nprlifekit/?hl=en] Sign up for our newsletter here. [https://www.npr.org/newsletter/life-kit] Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org [lifekit@npr.org] Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit [http://plus.npr.org/lifekit] A previous version of this episode description incorrectly said that virtually all drinking water contained PFAS. The U.S. Geological Survey has estimated that at least 45% of the nation's tap water contains one or more of 30-plus types of PFAS chemicals. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://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 [https://www.npr.org/about-npr/179878450/privacy-policy]

Secrets to a successful couple's trip

Going on vacation this summer with your significant other? Listen to this episode beforehand so you understand each other's expectations, dreams and goals for your getaway. And find out why alone time is an important part of every romantic trip. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit [https://www.instagram.com/nprlifekit/?hl=en] Sign up for our newsletter here. [https://www.npr.org/newsletter/life-kit] Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org [lifekit@npr.org] Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit [http://plus.npr.org/lifekit] See pcm.adswizz.com [https://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 [https://www.npr.org/about-npr/179878450/privacy-policy]

5 tips to help you poop better

Think you know how to go No. 2? Think again. Dr. Trisha Pasricha, author of the new book You’ve Been Pooping All Wrong: How to Make Your Bowel Movements a Joy, shares common bathroom practices she wishes would go away — like holding your poop — and tips on how to reduce strain on the toilet. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit [https://www.instagram.com/nprlifekit/?hl=en] Sign up for our newsletter here. [https://www.npr.org/newsletter/life-kit] Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org [lifekit@npr.org] Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit [http://plus.npr.org/lifekit] See pcm.adswizz.com [https://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 [https://www.npr.org/about-npr/179878450/privacy-policy]