Life Kit: Parenting · NPR

How to maintain your friendships after kids

May 6, 2025·20 min·1 clip
Mariah Maddox felt excluded as the first parent in her friend group—here's how she navigated that loneliness.
This episode explores how parents can maintain friendships with child-free friends through clear communication, inclusive invitations, and creative quality time. Experts share personal stories and practical tips to bridge life stage gaps and strengthen relationships.

As heard by us

A practical nudge toward inviting friends into family life while still reading the room.

Friendships can shift after children arrive, and this Life Kit: Parenting episode treats that change as a question of invitations, not just scarce time.

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Why you'd press play

Want to keep a friendship alive after kids? Start by asking instead of guessing what your friend wants.

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