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Life Kit Everyone needs a little help being a human. From sleep to saving money to parenting and more, host Marielle Segarra talks to experts to get the best advice out there. Life Kit is here to help you get it together.

Want another life hack? Try Life Kit+. Your subscription supports the show and unlocks an exclusive sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/lifekit
Life Kit

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Life Kit

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Everyone needs a little help being a human. From sleep to saving money to parenting and more, host Marielle Segarra talks to experts to get the best advice out there. Life Kit is here to help you get it together.

Want another life hack? Try Life Kit+. Your subscription supports the show and unlocks an exclusive sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/lifekit

Most Recent Episodes

How to practice 'deep reading'
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How to practice 'deep reading'

When was the last time you got lost in a book? These days, the act of 'deep reading,' or reading with intention, can be difficult to practice. Maryanne Wolf, an expert in the science of reading, explains what we lose when we skim — and how to create an environment conducive to deep reading.

How to practice 'deep reading'

Listen · 24:38
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Curbing needle phobia in adults starts with making shots less painful for kids
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Curbing needle phobia in adults starts with making shots less painful for kids

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.

Curbing needle phobia in adults starts with making shots less painful for kids

Listen · 13:34
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Colorectal cancer rates are on the rise. Here's what to know
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Colorectal cancer rates are on the rise. Here's what to know

In the 1990s, colorectal cancer was the fourth-leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. Now, it's the first in men and second in women — and rates are rising among people under age 50. This episode, we explore how you can lower your risk and make sure you catch colorectal cancer early.

Colorectal cancer rates are on the rise. Here's what to know

Listen · 13:56
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This cake-shaped zine may help you have your happiest birthday yet

No matter how old you are, having a happy birthday is one of life's great pleasures, says Tamar Hurwitz-Fleming, author of How to Have a Happy Birthday. Click here to download this cake-shaped zine to print and fold at home — the back has helpful birthday tips. Zine by Malaka Gharib/NPR; Photo illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR hide caption

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Zine by Malaka Gharib/NPR; Photo illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR

This cake-shaped zine may help you have your happiest birthday yet

No matter how old you are, having a happy birthday is one of life's great pleasures, says birthday enthusiast Tamar Hurwitz-Fleming. You just need to figure out what that means for you.

This cake-shaped zine may help you have your happiest birthday yet

Listen · 13:28
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How to plan your dream vacation
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How to plan your dream vacation

Sometimes you crave a vacation — but actually taking one feels out of reach. Maybe you're struggling to find the time or save up the money. Or maybe you just can't seem to launch those plans out of the group chat. Overcome that planning inertia and take the big trip of your dreams. Here's where to start your search, organize your logistics and enjoy yourself.

How to plan your dream vacation

Listen · 22:20
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Dear Life Kit: Should I spend $1,000 on a wedding gift?
Photo illustration by Becky Harlan/Getty Images/NPR

Dear Life Kit: Should I spend $1,000 on a wedding gift?

Etiquette coach Myka Meier revisits traditional wedding customs, including the cost of wedding gifts — and how much a mother-in-law should contribute to the matrimonial budget.

Dear Life Kit: Should I spend $1,000 on a wedding gift?

Listen · 14:55
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What is 'communal living' and is it right for me?
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What is 'communal living' and is it right for me?

There are options beyond living solo or with roommates — and one of them is called 'communal living.' In this arrangement, people don't just simply live together, but share resources and create community. In this episode, co-living enthusiasts explain how it works and how to decide whether it's right for you.

What is 'communal living' and is it right for me?

Listen · 22:44
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Protect your ears from hearing loss
Kaz Fantone/NPR

Protect your ears from hearing loss

People of all ages are at risk of noise-induced hearing loss, but few know how to protect against it. This episode, build out your ear care routine with the help of hearing experts — and get surprising advice on phone volume, noise exposure and Q-tips.

Protect your ears from hearing loss

Listen · 23:49
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Negotiating isn't just for job offers. Here's how to use it in everyday life
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Negotiating isn't just for job offers. Here's how to use it in everyday life

Techniques to help you make decisions with more confidence and get the outcome you want.

Negotiating isn't just for job offers. Here's how to use it in everyday life

Listen · 20:18
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Parents, it's time to talk to your child about vaping
Marine Buffard for NPR

Parents, it's time to talk to your child about vaping

Age-appropriate prompts and questions that can help start a productive conversation about vaping nicotine and e-cigarettes with your child.

Parents, it's time to talk to your child about vaping

Listen · 21:50
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