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.

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How to be a supportive adult in a kid's life

Raising awesome kids takes help. NPR has science and experts to get you through the toughest parenting moments. Subscribe to get episodes from Life Kit on parenting.

Kids & Family

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.

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

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.

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How to talk to teens about vaping

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.

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How to introduce solid food to your baby: A nervous parent's guide

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.

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Enjoying travel with a baby

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.

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How to be a supportive adult in a kid's life

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