Celebrate Kids Podcast with Dr. Kathy: Recent Episodes
Dr. Kathy Koch
Daily encouragement from a multitude of speakers, led by Dr. Kathy Koch. All topics covered are helpful not only to kids and their parents, but also to single adults, married couples, teachers, social workers, pastors, and many more. We hope you can be encouraged through these messages, send it to a friend so they can join you in joy and growth!
In this episode of Dr. Kathy Says, Dr. Kathy aims to provide us with the core needs to address the tech lies that are in the world. She explores how we build identity and how we reinforce a Biblical identity to attack lies by addressing the lies that are attacking us form technology. Listeners are encouraged to join Celebrate Kids as we prepare to launch big initiatives in the new year as we launch this new program that will turn into a Q&A segment next Saturday. To support Dr. Kathy and Celebrate Kids give at celebratekids.com/give
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the complexities surrounding the topic of gender, particularly for children and teenagers. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and connecting with young people to help them navigate confusing messages about gender identity. Dr. Kathy discusses a recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics, which reveals that transgender teenagers who have undergone medical interventions, such as puberty blockers and hormone therapies, report high satisfaction with their care and experience low levels of regret. This conversation aims to equip parents with insights and conversation points to engage with their children thoughtfully, fostering understanding and reducing confusion about gender issues. Tune in as Dr. Kathy unpacks the findings of the Trans Youth Project and offers guidance on how to support kids in their journey of understanding gender.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, host Dr. Kathy Cook discusses the significant impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on adolescents, emphasizing that around 80% of children experience at least one ACE, with emotional abuse, household mental health issues, and physical abuse being the most prevalent. Dr. Kathy encourages parents to recognize drastic changes in their children's behavior, including sleep, eating, and overall joy, as potential signs of underlying struggles. She offers insights on how to approach these issues with compassion and understanding, highlighting the importance of real conversations with kids. The episode aims to provide hope and guidance for navigating the challenges children may face, underscoring that they can overcome adversity through the grace of Christ. Tune in for valuable strategies to support your child's emotional well-being.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we explore the surprising benefits of dad jokes for children's development during challenging cultural moments. Dr. Kathy discusses the pressures parents face to equip their kids with the right tools for navigating today's world, often leading to overwhelming feelings of inadequacy. However, recent research by humor expert Mark High Knutson suggests that dad jokes, despite their potential to embarrass, can actually foster positive growth in children. The episode highlights the importance of humor and laughter in family dynamics, emphasizing that sometimes, a little light-heartedness is exactly what kids need. Join us as we delve into this fascinating topic with Dr. Kathy Cooke in our daily segment, Facing the Dark.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the pressing issue of teenage anxiety and its implications for parenting in today's world. Citing statistics that reveal anxiety is a common experience for teenagers, Dr. Kathy explores whether managing this anxiety is the most critical responsibility for parents. She references a conversation between Jonathan Haidt and Russell Moore, which delves into the factors contributing to childhood mental health crises, including the impact of social media, smartphones, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussion highlights a shift in parenting approaches over the decades, likening child-rearing to a school project, and examines how this has redefined childhood itself. Dr. Kathy encourages listeners to consider the unique challenges facing today's youth and how parents can navigate these complexities. Join us for an insightful look into the realities of modern parenting and the importance of understanding the changing landscape of childhood.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we delve into the evolving relationship between teens and technology, particularly focusing on location tracking. Recent studies reveal that a significant number of teens and young adults actually desire their parents to monitor their whereabouts using apps like Apple's Find My and Life 360. This marks a shift in mindset for Gen Z, who, according to the New York Times and Wall Street Journal, are the most anxious generation to date, influenced by the pervasive presence of social media and real-time news coverage of global events. With 87% of Gen Z respondents utilizing tracking technology, we explore the reasons behind this trend and discuss how the increased anxiety levels and closer bonds with parents are reshaping the dynamics of parental engagement in the digital age. Tune in for an insightful conversation about the implications of these findings for families navigating technology together.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the crucial role of reading aloud to children and its numerous benefits. She discusses research findings indicating that a significant portion of four-year-olds are not being read to regularly, highlighting the importance of early reading habits. Dr. Kathy emphasizes that reading to children as young as one to two and a half years old can greatly enhance their vocabulary, reading comprehension, and motivation to read. She also shares insights from a study showing that children exposed to at least five books daily enter kindergarten with an impressive 1.4 million words worth of exposure. Tune in for practical tips on how parents can cultivate reading habits that fit into their busy lives and promote a love for reading in their kids.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of preparing children for an unpredictable and often dangerous world by fostering resilience rather than simply ensuring their safety. Drawing on insights from Susie Welch's article in the Wall Street Journal, Dr. Kathy highlights the challenges faced by today's youth, including the lingering effects of the COVID pandemic and other societal anxieties. She emphasizes the significance of teaching kids to overcome obstacles and the value of effort and teachability in their growth. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on how they can support their children in developing resilience through everyday challenges, whether in sports, academics, or daily tasks. Tune in for practical advice on nurturing a mindset that embraces learning from difficulties and trusting in the process of growth.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the challenges young people, especially young women, face in today's culture regarding identity and the perception of heroes. In the segment "Face in the Dark," she discusses a thought-provoking quote from Carrie Gress of Newsweek, highlighting how feminism has altered traditional narratives around womanhood, suggesting that envy has shifted from being seen as a downfall to a badge of honor. Gress argues that the push for women to emulate men—both mentally and biologically—has led to a loss of what it truly means to be a woman. Dr. Kathy addresses these issues head-on, offering insights and guidance for parents on how to support and encourage their children in navigating these complex cultural dynamics. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that touches on the nuances of modern femininity and the importance of embracing authentic identities.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the concerning rise in mental health issues among young adults and teens, despite the availability of resources. She emphasizes recognizing and celebrating children's strengths, even during challenging times. Dr. Kathy discusses the recent CDC report indicating an increase in the percentage of children receiving therapy, highlighting a shift in how mental health is approached today. Listeners will gain valuable insights on how to guide their kids through difficult moments and understand the complexities behind the mental health crisis. Tune in for thought-provoking discussions and practical advice.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the complexities of anxiety and depression among young people. She highlights the distinction between normal anxiety related to specific events and the broader issue of anxiety disorders. With alarming statistics indicating that one in five teens face mental health struggles, Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of creating environments for open discussions about feelings and mental health challenges. She encourages parents to adopt a proactive mindset, fostering courage to engage with their children on these sensitive topics. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating the mental health landscape for today's youth.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the growing trend of parental surveillance through location-tracking apps. With around half of U.S. parents reportedly monitoring their adolescents, Dr. Kathy explores the implications of this behavior on the development of children. She discusses a recent study published in the Journal of Family Psychology, which reveals a discrepancy between parents' use of tracking apps and their children's awareness of being monitored. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of understanding our root fears around surveillance and how it can affect our children's resilience and independence. Tune in for insightful strategies on fostering healthy boundaries and building trust with our kids as they navigate their own paths.
In this episode, we dive into a controversial educational policy proposed by Minnesota's Governor Tim Walz and his wife, Gwen Walz. During a discussion on Katie Couric's podcast, Gwen Walz expressed her belief that providing tampons in boys' bathrooms is a necessary step to help students focus on learning, particularly in the context of addressing hunger and other barriers that hinder educational success. She argues that removing these obstacles is essential for closing the learning gap, especially when it comes to foundational skills like reading. Dr. Kathy reframes the purpose of learning and school for us from the Walz's perspective, and helps us think in a helpful manner as we guide and encourage kids. Join us as we explore this topic and unpack the implications for education and parenting in today's society, featuring insights from Dr. Kathy.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the rising trend of young people self-diagnosing mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions influenced by social media. Drawing from a recent article in Education Psychology's journal, she highlights the complex reasons behind this phenomenon and the systemic barriers that hinder access to proper support for children and adolescents. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of compassion and understanding, reminding parents, grandparents, and teachers that they do not need to be experts to offer a safe space for children to express their concerns. Join us for valuable insights as we navigate these challenging times together.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the complexities of identity in the current political climate, particularly for Americans and Christians. She reflects on the rich tapestry of our identities formed through family, community, and personal interests, and how these may be challenged in uncertain times. The discussion delves into the struggles faced by children as they navigate their own identities amidst peer and societal pressures. Dr. Kathy also highlights the importance of civics education, referencing New Hampshire's requirement for high school students to pass a U.S. citizenship exam, and addresses the uneven results of this initiative. Tune in for valuable insights on understanding and parenting through these identity challenges.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we explore the surprising findings of a new report that suggests overprotective parenting may actually decrease life expectancy for children. Dr. Kathy discusses the challenges faced by caregivers who want to protect their children's hearts, minds, and bodies while navigating the fine line between overprotection and fostering resilience. She shares insights on how children with resilient qualities engage with life differently and offers practical strategies for parents. The episode emphasizes the importance of balancing protection with opportunities for growth, and highlights the encouraging power of the gospel of Jesus during challenging parenting moments. Tune in for valuable perspectives on raising healthy, resilient children.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we delve into the complexities of relationships in today's hyper-sexualized culture and the role of the church in providing guidance. Dr. Kathy discusses the challenges parents face in teaching their children about meaningful friendships amidst societal pressures that often misinterpret the nature of those relationships. The conversation emphasizes the importance of turning to scripture for a healthier understanding of relationships. The episode also highlights a survey by Communo, revealing the complacency of churches in supporting couples and families. Tune in for valuable perspectives on fostering healthy connections in a confusing world.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, host Dr. Kathy addresses the crucial topic of building resiliency in children. She emphasizes the importance of modeling resilience for kids, rather than focusing solely on their happiness. Dr. Kathy reflects on the societal tendency to shield children from negative experiences, arguing that facing challenges is essential for personal growth and strengthens their character. She shares her insights on how overcoming adversity can deepen a child's faith and prepare them for future obstacles. Join Dr. Kathy as she explores practical strategies for fostering resilience in children, enabling them to confidently navigate life's challenges.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the evolving standards by which we gauge adolescent well-being. While statistics show that high school graduation rates are up, smoking rates are down, and youth drug use is declining, many teens report increasing struggles with mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Dr. Kathy discusses the disconnect between traditional measures of success and the contemporary realities of adolescent life, questioning whether the goalposts for teen success have shifted. She emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health alongside tangible achievements, urging listeners to consider how societal perceptions of youth may impact their well-being. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating the complexities of growing up in today's world.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we explore the pressures parents face from societal expectations regarding parenting. The discussion centers around 21 qualities that the late Dr. Adrian Rogers suggested every parent should instill in their children. While these traits are well-intentioned, Dr. Kathy offers a fresh perspective, highlighting insights that aim to illuminate a more constructive approach to parenting. Join us as we navigate parenting challenges in a way that fosters a positive environment for our kids, providing a hopeful outlook in the often overwhelming journey of raising children.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we explore the daunting challenge parents face in helping their children believe in Jesus amidst a culture that often fosters doubt. The discussion highlights the emotional turmoil for parents when kids express uncertainty about their beliefs, whether it’s something small like trusting a sibling’s apology or larger questions about faith. We delve into the process of building trust and confidence in beliefs, drawing insights from the Bible and how Jesus addressed doubt with figures like Thomas and Peter. The episode also references a recent Barna Group study, revealing that more than half of teens and adults experience doubts about their religious beliefs at varying frequencies. Join us as we navigate this critical topic and offer guidance for parents seeking to nurture their children's faith.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the concerning decline in mental health among children and adolescents, highlighted by new research from Peter Gray at Boston College. The discussion focuses on the impact of reduced unsupervised activity on children's independence, anxiety, and depression. Dr. Kathy cites alarming statistics, including the rise of suicide as the leading cause of death for individuals aged 10 to 24 in 2019. The episode also references psychologist Jean Twenge's findings on the increase in anxiety and depression from the 1960s to the 90s, alongside a significant drop in internal locus of control. Tune in to gain insights into the psychological needs essential for healthy development and learn how to better support our kids in navigating these challenges.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we explore the recent warning issued by the Surgeon General regarding loneliness and its alarming health effects, comparable to smoking tobacco. We discuss the challenges parents face in today's interconnected society, where knowledge about kids is abundant yet the risk of loneliness remains significant. Dr. Kathy shares valuable insights on how parents and caregivers can navigate moments of loneliness with confidence, emphasizing the importance of connection and the understanding that we are never truly alone. Join us as we tackle the topic of loneliness and discover ways to support our children in building meaningful relationships.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the impact of smartphone notifications on teens' growth and development. Drawing from recent research by Common Sense Media, she reveals that teens receive an overwhelming number of notifications—around 237 daily, with some even approaching 5,000 in just 24 hours. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of non-judgmental conversations between parents and children regarding their online activity and suggests that threats to take away phones should be reserved for extreme circumstances. She encourages adults to support teens through their unique experiences with technology, highlighting the role of distractions in their lives. Join us for insights on navigating this digital landscape with confidence, courage, and conviction.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the pressing issue of adolescent substance use, particularly focusing on cannabis and its impact on academic performance. Drawing from a comprehensive report that analyzed 63 studies with over 438,000 participants, she highlights the correlation between cannabis use among individuals aged 24 and younger and decreased school grades, lower high school completion rates, and reduced chances of obtaining post-secondary degrees. Dr. Kathy offers valuable insights for parents on navigating these challenging cultural times and emphasizes the importance of fostering resilience in children, encouraging them to confront difficulties rather than seek immediate gratification through substances. Tune in for practical advice on cultivating a positive perspective on aging and guiding our kids toward healthier choices.
In this bonus episode of "Celebrate Kids with Dr. Kathy," host Dr. Kathy Koch dives into the crucial topics of race, justice, and unity. Joined by friends Krista Bontrager and Monique Duson, the conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the biblical foundation surrounding these issues. Dr. Kathy, known for her commitment to deep discussions, encourages listeners—moms, dads, grandparents, educators, and pastors—to engage with these subjects and equip their children with knowledge rooted in scripture. Tune in for an enlightening dialogue that aims to foster a celebration of kids in a way that reflects Jesus' love and teachings.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the pressing concerns surrounding children's mental health and the role of social media and technology. She opens with a heartfelt acknowledgment that many parents may owe their children an apology for introducing them to smartphones and social media without fully understanding the consequences. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the need for parents to reconsider their decisions and take proactive steps to protect their children's well-being.
The episode highlights recent legal actions against TikTok by multiple states, where a bipartisan group of attorneys general accuses the platform of contributing to the mental health crisis among teenagers through its addictive features. Dr. Kathy provides valuable insights on how parents can navigate these challenges, encouraging them to walk alongside their children and foster healthy relationships in a digital age. Tune in for practical advice and a hopeful perspective on addressing the complexities of technology and mental health.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the emotional challenges surrounding children’s reluctance to grow up and embrace independence, particularly in the context of getting their driver's license. She discusses how parents may fear losing their connection with their children as they transition into adulthood and highlights the increasing trend of young people delaying this rite of passage. With statistics indicating a significant decline in the number of 16-year-olds obtaining their licenses since the 1980s, Dr. Kathy offers insights and encouragement for parents navigating these complex feelings and situations. Join us for this enlightening conversation that addresses the fears and doubts children may experience as they approach independence.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the dynamics between younger generations, particularly late millennials and Gen Z, and their desire for guidance from older leaders. Through a discussion sparked by insights from a group of late millennial professionals, Dr. Kathy highlights the importance of understanding generational differences and how current leaders can effectively mentor aspiring young adults. The conversation focuses on the traits these younger professionals wish to see in their leaders, emphasizing the need for engagement that shapes positive habits, values, and emotional well-being in today's cultural landscape. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how to bridge the generational gap and foster meaningful connections with the leaders of tomorrow.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the complexities of social media's impact on children. Addressing the growing concerns among parents, she emphasizes that simply removing kids from social media may not be enough to foster positive development. Instead, Dr. Kathy advocates for a proactive approach that involves teaching children about the challenges they face in the digital landscape. The episode highlights recent legal actions against major social media platforms, including lawsuits from public school districts and state attorneys general, citing the harmful effects of social media addiction on youth. With new legislation emerging in the UK and EU, Dr. Kathy provides valuable insights to help parents navigate the difficult conversation around social media use, encouraging a deeper understanding of the issues rather than a reactive stance. Tune in for thoughtful discussions and practical advice that aim to empower both parents and children in the digital age.
On the Celebrate Kids Podcast today Dr. Kathy unpacks how bullying can and does impact kids. She gives good reason to know that it's happening and how to engage it when it happens. She shares that we need to continue to tell kids who they are, and build their identity in Christ in special ways.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the critical importance of reading in a world where technology often makes it feel obsolete. She emphasizes that reading helps us understand the larger narrative of life, particularly for children who may become lost in the fast-paced cultural moment. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly capable of generating fluent prose, Dr. Kathy warns that this could reduce the urgency for kids to develop their own writing skills. Instead, she encourages parents and educators to foster a love for reading and help children build their own ideas and understandings. Tune in for valuable insights on how to navigate these challenges and support children's development in an evolving digital landscape.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, host Dr. Kathy explores the challenging topic of death and how to discuss it with children. Drawing from personal experience, she emphasizes the importance of preparing kids for the realities of life, including its inevitable end. The conversation is inspired by the documentary "Obit," where reporter Margalit Fox highlights that obituaries focus more on life than death. Dr. Kathy encourages listeners to consider writing their own obituaries while still alive as a way to reflect on their lives and values. Join us as we face the dark and find ways to talk about death in a constructive manner.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the impact of natural disasters on children's mental health, particularly in light of recent tragedies. She discusses new research from Florida International University that reveals how watching news coverage of disasters can increase anxiety in children and trigger brain responses linked to post-traumatic stress symptoms. Dr. Kathy provides valuable insights for parents on how to navigate conversations about these events, emphasizing the importance of fostering security and confidence in Christ for their kids. She encourages parents to engage in prayer with their children as a means of demonstrating identity and security amidst challenging times. Tune in for practical guidance on helping children process their feelings and maintain a positive outlook.
Dr. Kathy delves into how teens are gauged today compared to previous generations. Despite positive trends in high school graduation rates and declining teen behaviors like smoking and drug use, there is a concerning rise in mental health issues among adolescents. The traditional measures of teen well-being may no longer align with the reality of modern teenage life. The episode questions whether emphasizing mental health over other markers of success is the right approach.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy Cooke delves into the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's academic performance. She discusses new research highlighting that the core difficulties facing students today—particularly in their ability to think, remember, and problem-solve—are closely linked to the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of looking beyond surface-level explanations, urging educators and families to explore deeper issues affecting children's learning and development. With insights that encourage a proactive approach to education, this episode serves as a valuable resource for understanding and addressing the current academic slump in our schools.
In this episode, we explore the transformative power of gratitude, particularly in the context of parenting and character development in children. The discussion highlights how a single act of gratitude can significantly improve mental wellness, increasing happiness by 10% and reducing depressive symptoms by 35%. We delve into the importance of fostering gratitude in our kids, suggesting that this primary character quality enhances their personal growth and positively influences the broader culture. Dr. Kathy Cook joins us to share insights and research on the correlation between gratitude and mental health, shedding light on its vital role in shaping both individuals and communities. Please tune in for an enlightening conversation about cultivating gratitude in our lives and our children's lives.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we delve into the challenges of guiding children in a world saturated with digital distractions. The conversation highlights the importance of providing alternatives to screen time, such as family walks, reading together, and engaging with educational content. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the need for perspective in navigating the vast information available online, noting how schools are responding by limiting cell phone usage to foster focus. The episode encourages parents to consider effectively engaging their children without allowing distractions to derail their learning and growth. Tune in for valuable insights on helping kids thrive in a digital age while maintaining balance and awareness.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy addresses the growing concerns of parents about their children's mental health, specifically anxiety and depression. A new report reveals that 40% of U.S. parents are extremely or very worried about their children experiencing these issues. These concerns outweigh worries about physical dangers such as bullying, kidnapping, and drug/alcohol use. Dr. Kathy explores the role of fear in parenting and how it should guide our interactions with kids. Tune in to gain insights on navigating these fears and finding the brightness of God's glory in dark places.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the complex issue of youth addiction, particularly focusing on vaping. She emphasizes the importance of approaching conversations about negative behaviors with care and a willingness to help, rather than simply criticizing. Dr. Kathy highlights that many young people will face addiction in their lives due to societal influences designed to create dependency on various substances and technologies. However, there is a glimmer of hope as recent studies indicate a significant drop in e-cigarette use among U.S. youth, aided by the implementation of high-tech vape detectors in schools. Tune in as Dr. Kathy offers valuable insights to help parents navigate these challenges and foster resilience in their children.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the pressing issues surrounding children's safety in schools amidst rising violence and crime. She discusses a recent poll by the National Parents Union, revealing that a significant majority of parents allow their children to take phones to school primarily for emergency communication, coordination of transportation, and mental health support. Dr. Kathy addresses the importance of understanding these concerns while encouraging a perspective that honors faith and seeks the full story behind the cultural challenges we face. Join her in this crucial conversation as she navigates how parents can effectively respond to these issues.
In this episode, we explore the unrealistic expectations placed on children to be happy all the time in today's challenging culture. The discussion delves into how various aspects of modern life, from technology to school and diet, contribute to a constant push for happiness at the expense of acknowledging and processing negative emotions. We highlight the dangers of teaching children that only happiness is acceptable, which may prevent them from expressing their true feelings. Join us as we examine whether happiness has become a societal "drug" that kids are becoming addicted to, and the implications this has on their mental health and well-being. Tune in for valuable insights and strategies for fostering a healthier emotional landscape for our children. Get Dr. Kathy's Book Start With the Heart for more on this topic>>
In this episode, we delve into new "Teen Accounts" launched by Instagram yesterday, and explore the complexities of parenting in the digital age, particularly concerning the influence of social media on young girls. The discussion highlights the pressures from platforms like Instagram, where unrealistic standards can lead to dissatisfaction and anxiety. Dr. Kathy shares insights on Instagram's recent initiative to launch accounts specifically for teenage users, which include built-in privacy protections. She explore how parents can equip their children with the mental strength to navigate the digital world responsibly and confidently. Tune in for valuable tips on fostering resilience in today's youth! Buy Dr. Kathy's Book "Screens and Teens" for more on this topic>>
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy and her guest discuss the idea of preparing children for the dangers of the world by putting them in potentially risky situations. They explore the concept of building resiliency and teaching children to overcome challenges. The episode also touches on the importance of effort, teachability, and trust in a child's growth and development. Tune in to learn more about preparing kids for life's uncertainties.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the benefits of handwriting and its impact on brain activity. She discusses a study conducted by researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, which suggests that handwriting can improve brain function. Dr. Kathy encourages parents to embrace the "inconvenient" aspects of parenting and engage in activities that promote active communication and brain stimulation. Tune in to learn more about the connection between handwriting and brain activity.
New research from the Barna Group reports that moms with friends are happier, satisfied, and find fulfillment in marriage and raising kids. If we know that moms do better with friends, what does that mean for kids? Are kids better off when their parents have friends they go deep with? Dr. Kathy responds and gives insight on the importance of building friendship.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores a new approach to helping children deal with anxiety through Childhood Independence Therapy. Traditionally, cognitive behavioral therapy has been used to guide children through anxiety, but this innovative method focuses on promoting independence in children. By encouraging kids to try new activities on their own with parental permission, this therapy aims to help them combat fears, reduce anxiety, gain confidence, and become more independent. Tune in to learn more about this preventative medicine for anxiety in children and hear some of Dr. Kathy's helpful insights to guide you to care for those with anxiety.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of helping children understand the value of their identities and beliefs in a world that often challenges them. She emphasizes the need for kids to know the "why" behind their choices, whether it's being a Christian, participating in band, engaging in drama, or being part of a sports team. Dr. Kathy also addresses a concerning trend revealed by a recent survey showing that a third of Jewish teens have stopped wearing symbols of their faith due to rising anti-Semitism. Through this segment of"Facing in the Dark," she provides insights on how to empower children to confidently express their faith and beliefs in various situations, encouraging them to navigate challenges with courage. Tune in for valuable strategies on fostering resilience and understanding in our kids.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the challenges parents face when their children show little motivation to learn. She discusses the emotional impact on families when kids fail to recognize the value of education beyond monetary benefits. The conversation highlights a recent initiative in the Detroit Public Schools Community District, where high school students struggling with reading will receive cash gift cards as incentives for attending after-school tutoring sessions. Dr. Kathy explores the implications of incentivizing learning with tax dollars and offers insights on encouraging a genuine love for learning in children. Tune in for practical advice and thoughtful reflections on fostering motivation and appreciation for education in young learners.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch discusses the importance of mental health in teenagers and young children. You're introduced a new screening test that can help detect early signs of mental health disorders and provide early intervention. Dr. Kathy then highlights the significance of early intervention and shares that around 50 percent of lifetime mental health conditions start at the age of 14. She acknowledges that mental health is a concern for most parents and encourages creating a rhythm for mental health screenings. In closing, Dr. Kathy gives important tips for parents as they care for their kids' mental health
Grandparents are the joy of many kids. But new reports are showing it's harder for grandparents to have relationship with kids because of disagreements between parents and grandparents. Dr. Kathy considers the role of grandparents and provides helpful steps to bridge gaps for parents and grandparents to help us celebrate kids.
Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of allowing teens to face obstacles and challenges to build resilience and grit, despite the desire to remove all barriers. The episode also touches on a new Texas law aimed at protecting teens online from problematic speech. The discussion raises questions about balancing support for teens while allowing them to develop problem-solving skills and how a parent can model and support teens.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of focusing on truth and not getting distracted by the brokenness in the world, especially when it comes to pop culture influences on children. She encourages parents to help their kids discern between what is true and what is false, finding inspiration in the beauty of God's creation rather than being consumed by negativity. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating cultural challenges and staying rooted in faith and hope.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of showing our children not just love, but also genuine like and interest in them. She encourages parents to engage with their kids beyond academic performance and to find activities like riding bikes together or cooking dinner as ways to bond and have meaningful conversations. Dr. Kathy also provides insights on navigating post-school discussions with teens and preteens to avoid feeling like every day is Groundhog Day. Tune in to learn how to make daily interactions with your children more engaging and rewarding.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the importance of friendships for young people. She discusses the challenges parents and caregivers face in guiding children in developing relationships and shares insights from a neuroscientist professor on the power of friendship. The episode offers practical tips for parents to help their kids make good friends.
Today on the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the challenges of raising children in a technology-driven world. She compares technology to being the fabric of our lives, sometimes causing friction within families and communities. Dr. Kathy offers insightful strategies on how to navigate this digital landscape and foster a strong relationship with the Lord amidst technology's pervasive influence. The episode also touches on the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations on screen time for children, sparking a discussion on the practical dilemmas parents face in balancing technology use. Tune in for valuable insights and useful tips on addressing the impact of technology on family dynamics and faith.
Today's episode dives into the concept of embracing "doing nothing." Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of giving space for rest and the magical benefits of just allowing kids to do what's becoming a popular phrase, "rotting." Dr. Kathy would rather use the phrase "dormant," approach a time without any productive activities. The episode challenges societal expectations around constant productivity and highlights the value of allowing both children and parents to simply be in the moment without any specific goals.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the challenges kids face in today's society and how parents can support them effectively. She discusses the pressures and expectations kids encounter in various settings like school and church. Dr. Kathy shares insights on navigating these challenges to help parents understand and guide their children better. The episode also touches on the changes teachers have observed in kids over the years, highlighting issues like reading stamina. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on parenting in the modern world.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the topic of illness and how to navigate fear in a post-COVID world, especially as children return to school and interact with more friends. She addresses the anxiety surrounding sickness and shares insights on handling fears related to illness. Dr. Kathy encourages listeners to approach sickness with kindness and understanding, particularly when it comes to children's perspectives on being sick.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the implications of government bills aimed at regulating the digital landscape to protect families and children. She questions whether government intervention is the best solution and offers insights on navigating the online world with or without restrictions. Tune in to learn more about the balance between safety measures and technological freedom.
This episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast delves into the debate surrounding school uniforms and their impact on students. From concerns about inhibiting self-expression to potential benefits like curbing gang activity and cost savings for parents, the conversation explores various perspectives. Dr. Kathy shares insights on the topic, emphasizing the importance of considering students' comfort and changing bodies. Tune in to better understand how school uniforms can influence school culture and student well-being.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of maintaining a relationship with our children, especially when they have experienced trauma. She highlights new data showing that nurturing relationships are crucial for healing, particularly for children who have faced difficult experiences. Dr. Kathy also mentions a study from UC San Francisco emphasizing the benefits of psychotherapy sessions for caregivers in preventing serious health issues later in life for children who have undergone significant trauma. The episode underscores the significance of early interventions in shaping a child's future mental and physical health.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the challenges and disappointments that can come with parenting. She addresses the difficult emotions parents may face, such as doubt, loss of freedom, and shattered dreams. Dr. Kathy explores how to find hope, courage, and resolve in facing these challenges while honoring the Lord. The episode also touches on a viral video exposing a subreddit called Regretful Parents, prompting discussions about parental regrets and struggles. Tune in for an insightful discussion on navigating the darker aspects of parenting with faith and perseverance.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the topic of holding students back a grade in school. She addresses whether students who repeat a grade perform better academically than their peers who advance to the next grade. Dr. Kathy references a study that highlights the potential benefits of early-grade retention policies that prioritize mastery of foundational skills. The episode challenges the traditional view of school as solely focused on achievement and encourages a shift towards prioritizing skill mastery.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the prevalent worries of parents in today's digitally connected world. With studies highlighting the risks to young people's health, parents find themselves in dark places of concern. However, Dr. Kathy sheds light on finding purpose in these worries and focusing on the glory of God. She addresses a new report showing that mental health concerns, particularly anxiety and depression, are top worries for parents, surpassing fears of physical dangers. Join the conversation on how to navigate parental concerns and find hope in the midst of worry.
This episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast delves into the impact of societal influences on children's happiness and well-being. Dr. Kathy Cook discusses how various external factors, from social media to politics, can masquerade as sources of happiness but may actually lead to sadness and depression in children. She emphasizes the importance of helping children navigate these challenges and find genuine joy. The discussion also touches on the differences in emotional well-being between religious and secular teens, shedding light on the potential benefits of religious affiliation in combating feelings of loneliness and worthlessness.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses how to support children dealing with anxiety and worry, especially during times of change like going back to school. She emphasizes the importance of providing specific positive feedback to children and offers insights on navigating anxious or worrisome times. Dr. Kathy encourages parents to be understanding and supportive as children face new situations that may cause anxiety.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the challenges of raising children in environments that may not be conducive to their natural curiosity and exploration. She discusses the importance of creating space for children to grow, mature, be creative, and build resiliency, even in a world that may not be designed for them. Dr. Kathy offers insights on how parents can think well and lead their kids effectively in this cultural moment.
Dr. Kathy discusses the challenge of addressing addictions like vaping with kids in the public eye, offering insights on using new techniques such as an interactive text message program to help teens quit. The episode highlights the effectiveness of programs like This Is Quitting, which have shown a 35% increase in quitting vaping among participants. Join Dr. Kathy as she delves into the importance of embracing change and providing support for those struggling with addictions.
Today on the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the challenging topic of gender identity in children. She delves into the recent bans on gender-affirming care for minors in 22 states, highlighting the clash between conservative politicians and medical consensus. The episode explores the role of parents and doctors in decision-making regarding puberty blockers and hormone therapy, raising questions about government intervention in medical transitions for minors. Join the conversation on navigating gender identity issues within families.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch discusses the challenges parents face as their children grow up and their interests change. They explore how parents can navigate these changes, especially during the teenage years, in a way that glorifies and honors their role as parents. The episode references a viral TikTok video by a mother reflecting on her children's transition into preteen and teenage years. Join the conversation on embracing and supporting children through their growth and development.
Today on the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the topic of rising antidepressant prescriptions for young teenage girls, particularly during the pandemic. She discusses the impact of isolation on mental health and the increased need for socialization among adolescents and young adults. Highlighting insights from experts and studies, Dr. Kathy explores alternative approaches to supporting youth through challenging times. Join us for valuable perspectives on navigating mental health concerns in young people.
This episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast delves into the important topic of discipleship and faith formation in children. Dr. Kathy discusses the roles of parents and the church in guiding children toward saving faith in Jesus. She sheds light on the challenges and responsibilities faced by parents and the church in nurturing children's spiritual growth, particularly in a post-pandemic culture. The episode emphasizes the significance of effective disciple-making and the need for a supportive community to help children navigate their faith journey.
Dr. Kathy discusses the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) and whether it's healthy to rely on government protection for children online. She explores the role of parents in guiding kids through the dangers of the internet and offers important insights on the topic. She delves into the need for children to understand right from wrong and make mature decisions online, regardless of government regulations.
New data suggests many have moved from Googling questions about God to asking Chat GPT to explain who God is. While a helpful tool for computer programming and trivia questions, Chat GPT and Google can't disciple kids. But with the loss of time investment in parenting, and the ease and habit kids have to ask AI to solve their questions and problems, it is natural for this to be an issue. Dr. Kathy gives parents helpful tips on how to think well, build strong faith, and guide kids in these technologically advanced moments.
Dr. Kathy considers how belonging does more than make us feel good. She outlines in the podcast the value of belonging for building identity, highlighting aspects from her book Five to Thrive, where she shares the core needs found in science that are essential for building a solid identity. Dr. Kathy highlights in her book how these needs are true because God made them true and has them manifest in special ways in reality. In her book, she outlines a Christian view of how these needs are met most wholly in Christ and how building an identity on Jesus is one that will never fall or falter. Pick up her book Five to Thrive here>>
Many parents struggle with keeping their kids entertained during the summer, leading to peak boredom by August 1st. Research shows parents feel overwhelmed and find it challenging to think of educational yet entertaining activities. The desire for screen time poses a barrier, with many parents giving in more than they'd like. Dr. Kathy reassures parents that they're not alone in this struggle and offers advice on handling the monotony of summer and managing kids' demands for entertainment.
Dr. Kathy dives into the concerning data showing the impact of the pandemic on students' learning progress, specifically in math and reading. She discusses the widening gap in achievement levels and the need for additional schooling to catch up to pre-pandemic levels, exploring the shared responsibility between parents and schools in helping students recover from the learning setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Exploring the controversy surrounding the Paris Olympics opening ceremonies, Dr. Kathy delves into the unique torchbearers, including Snoop Dogg and drag queen Nikki Doll, and the presentation of the feast of Dionysius that resembled the Last Supper. It is important to have conversations at home to guide children through such events, and Dr. Kathy gives perspective on how to do it in a way that celebrates Jesus, highlights the value of the Olympics, and clearly outlines why the Paris opening ceremony missed the mark in uniting people around the world.
In this episode Dr. Kathy discusses a study involving tweens and their screen time habits before bedtime and its impact on their sleep. Dr. Kathy shares the importance of sleep, why parents should prioritize a good sleep for kids, and how to change summer sleep habits for the school year. Dr. Kathy explores a study that found having screens in the bedroom and phone usage before sleep were associated with shorter sleep duration and disturbances in adolescents. The importance of focusing on sleep for teens and tweens due to their rapid growth in emotional, intellectual, and physical aspects is highlighted.
Today's episode delves into the concerning trend of tweens using social media platforms like TikTok to engage in vent talk, sharing their frustrations and disappointments. With the rise of smartphones in young hands, the impact of such content on mental health is significant. Dr. Kathy highlights the importance of guiding children to understand their values and beliefs to navigate these digital spaces wisely.
Exploring the theme of creation and the importance of belief in a loving creator, this episode delves into the delicate topic of gender identity and parental concerns. Discussing Elon Musk's recent statements on gender affirming care procedures, the episode raises questions about trust in the medical community when it comes to children's well-being. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on parenting, gender, and societal influences.
Dr. Kathy discusses the concerning trend of British teenagers believing their generation will have a worse life than their parents based on new research. She delves into the primary concerns identified by teenagers, such as money, jobs, and the climate crisis. Dr. Kathy challenges the assumption that the upcoming generation will be worse off and encourages understanding the perspectives of previous generations. Listen to this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast for insights on guiding children through pessimistic outlooks on the future.
Exploring the challenges young people face in having children, the episode delves into the decline in fertility rates, citing a Netflix documentary and various cultural influences. Dr. Kathy discusses a thought-provoking article on reasons for having kids, from tax benefits to avoiding robotic nursing homes. The conversation delves into the importance of valuing children beyond mere novelty in a thought-provoking and insightful manner.
Exploring the delicate balance of sharing challenging family stories with children, this episode delves into the importance of addressing difficult past experiences with honesty and vulnerability. Drawing from a Time Magazine piece by Jessica Goudeau, the hosts discuss the impact of sharing both the good and the bad with children, highlighting the need for confession and absolution in personal narratives. Delving into the complexities of discussing dark moments, the episode encourages listeners to navigate these conversations with care and authenticity.
Exploring the concept of digital self-harm, this episode delves into the trend of individuals anonymously posting hurtful content about themselves online. Dr. Kathy discusses the implications of this behavior and highlights research conducted by groups at Florida Atlantic University and the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Findings from surveys conducted with teens aged 13 to 17 shed light on the prevalence of digital self-harm, revealing concerning insights about this emerging form of self-directed abuse.
Navigating the dating years with your teenage kids can be a mix of joy, excitement, and fear for parents. In this episode, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of building a relationship where kids feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences. By fostering open communication, parents can support their children through this stage of life and strengthen their bond for the future.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the challenge of helping children believe in Jesus in a culture that fosters doubt. She explores the process of belief and how parents can build trust with their children to help them have confidence in what they believe. She also addresses the topic of doubt and its prevalence, as highlighted by a recent study by the Barna Group.
In this episode, we discuss how character plays a crucial role in influencing others and showcasing our beliefs. The conversation delves into a recent exchange between Harrison Butker and Serena Williams at the ESPYs, where Williams made a dig at Butker for his views on celebrating motherhood. We explore the different perspectives presented during the exchange and Butker's response to the situation. Tune in to gain insights into the intersection of sports, personal beliefs, and public platforms.
Dr. Kathy discusses a recent assassination attempt on former President Trump. The episode gives insight and perspective for parents on how to talk about challenging things, especially historic events that are scary, challenging, and unsettling. The discussion touches on the nation's reaction to the incident, offering insights into the challenging reality faced by both the country and individuals.
On this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the impact of overprotective parenting on children's life expectancy. A new report reveals that children with overprotective parents in the baby boom generation actually died earlier than their peers. Dr. Kathy offers insights on building resiliency in children to help them engage with life differently. The episode explores the delicate balance between protecting and empowering children for a well-lived life.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, the importance of fathers in children's lives is explored, especially in light of the mental health crisis and shifting cultural norms. The episode discusses the impact of missing fathers on children's sense of identity and the challenges they face when fathers are not actively involved. Dr. Kathy shares insights from a survey showing that teenagers are more comfortable opening up to their mothers than their fathers about mental health issues. The episode highlights the need for fathers to play an active role in their children's lives and the importance of addressing this issue with Christ's light.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch discusses the importance of developing a love for reading in children during the summer. Research shows that reading is strongly linked to summer learning and that a lack of access to books can lead to a decline in reading achievement, especially for children from low-income families. Dr. Kathy provides insights on how parents can take small steps to encourage reading in their kids, highlighting the long-term benefits of fostering a love for reading at a young age.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores whether parents should encourage their children to face challenges and difficult situations early in life. She discusses the importance of children experiencing hard things and how it can help them build resiliency and avoid insecurities later on. Dr. Kathy also touches on the balance between guiding and protecting children while preparing them for future challenges. Tune in to learn more about fostering growth and resiliency in children.
This episode explores the importance of allowing children to make mistakes to learn resilience. Dr. Kathy discusses a scenario where a child wants to buy expensive shoes but may regret not being able to buy a birthday gift for his brother. The episode also delves into the decline of teens seeking employment since 1978, with a recent increase post-pandemic. Studies show that teens benefit from working early, learning valuable budgeting skills.
On this episode of the Celebrate Kids daily podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch discusses the topic of identity and the challenges parents face in guiding their children to discover who they truly are. The episode delves into the concept of choosing one's identity and the impact of societal trends on personal beliefs. Dr. Cooke explores the idea of individualism in Western culture and its connection to the current crisis of identity. The discussion also touches on the power of influencing children's decisions and recognizing and nurturing each child's unique identity. Tune in to gain insights on navigating the complexities of self-identity and parenting in today's society.
The episode discusses the importance of parents monitoring and regulating their children's tech use to protect them from online dangers like sextortion. It highlights Snapchat's new safety features aimed at preventing teenagers from being contacted by strangers. Dr. Kathy explores the balance between internet safety and allowing teens to navigate the online world responsibly.
In this episode, we explore Google's AI technology Gemini, and how it's being designed for teenage students using school Gmail accounts. Google aims to equip teens with skills for a future with artificial intelligence by providing real-time feedback through Gemini. The company emphasizes responsible use, ensuring data privacy and implementing guardrails to prevent inappropriate responses. Educators are also granted access to new tools to support students' development in information literacy and critical thinking. Dr. Kathy has some concerns and shares them, while giving us an opportunity to think how to approach truth with education.
The episode explores the rise in prescriptions for weight loss medications among young people, particularly females. It delves into the impact of medications like Wegovy, Zepound, Ozempec, and Murano on obesity medicine and public perception. The host and guest discuss the significant increase in prescriptions from 8,000 in 2020 to over 60,000 in 2023, highlighting the importance of addressing weight gain and promoting weight loss, especially among youth.
Exploring the intersection of faith and gender identity, this episode delves into the debate surrounding the use of puberty blockers for teens with gender dysphoria. With a focus on compassion and understanding, the episode discusses the implications of a major case on this issue heading to the Supreme Court. Delving into the real impact on individuals grappling with gender identity, the conversation aims to shed light on the complexities involved in this sensitive topic.
A recent article outlines how many dads, and parents in general, feel like they're missing the mark. The article shares how some dads, especially on the gender issue, don't feel equipped nor prepared to handle the weight of these moments and struggle with moving forward.
Dr. Kathy gives important insight, and we close today looking at a passage that guides us to casting all our cares on Christ.
In this episode of Facing the Dark, we delve into the challenges and pressures parents face in creating a successful summer for their children. Dr. Kathy dives into the "Eight Great Smarts," a powerful tool for understanding and remembering different intelligences, as she frames out how we can approach the latter part of summer with great intentionality.
Your role in shaping the mental, social, and spiritual well-being of children is well documented. In this episode, we delve into the challenges confronted by those faced with gender confusion or have friends who identify as LGBTQ, shedding light on the perceived and felt impact of laws on mental health, alarming rates of suicide, and the scarcity of research on parental experiences.
Dr. Kathy passionately highlights the emotional odyssey parents embark on when their child grapples with questions surrounding their gender identity. She underscores the critical necessity for support and comprehension in navigating these intricate issues.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the issue of kids defining themselves negatively and explores how to combat this trend. She delves into the importance of speaking words of truth and life into the younger generation. Tune in to learn how to empower kids to overcome self-doubt and embrace their true potential.
On this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the topic of how parents interact with their children in a healthy and supportive way, without being overly concerned about how they are perceived by others. The discussion delves into the importance of focusing on building resilience and strength in children.
Exploring the complexities of kids and technology, Dr. Kathy delves into the topic of cell phones and whether banning them is the solution. Highlighting the struggle between understanding the negative impact of technology while still clinging to it, she poses the question of filling the void with something positive instead.
Today on the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the issue of how to handle kids who fake sadness for attention. Is pushing our kids always towards happiness the right approach?
Sleep has always been a challenge for teens. Staying up later and being more "grown-up" with managing their own bed time has been a hallmark of American teens. However, Dr. Kathy encourages parents of teens to hold tightly to bed times and longer sleep for the benefit of their kids.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the plateau of the demographic known as the "nones," those who do not affiliate with any religious denomination. She explores the challenges parents face in preparing their children to navigate a world that may not align with their Christian beliefs.
Exploring the delicate balance between building resilience in children and seeking professional help when needed, this episode delves into the importance of instilling efficacy in young people. Drawing on insights from journalist Abigail Schreier, the discussion challenges the prevailing narrative around trauma and emphasizes the power of overcoming challenges. Dr. Kathy's expertise in parenting offers valuable perspectives on navigating these complex issues
Dr. Kathy shares valuable insights on parenting challenges and the pressure of standardized testing in this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast. She discusses how to balance encouraging fun and growth while navigating societal expectations.
Today on the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the importance of engaging kids with nature, even if they prefer indoor activities. She discusses the benefits of outdoor play, citing a study from Finland that showed increased T-cells in kids playing in natural environments.
On this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we explore parents' influence on their children's use of technology. Do children mimic their parents' tech habits, or is there a need for intentional teaching about technology use?
Dr. Kathy looks at a recent Surgeon General's warning that boasts tech today is driving kids to their greatest mental health crisis. With so much of the world screen dependent, how do we give support for our kids, knowing much of society drives them into places that will compromise their mental health?
On this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, the host explores the idea of connecting with teens through various support systems like pastors, friends, schools, and churches to promote mental health. The episode delves into a new telehealth program in New York City aiming to provide support through screens.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses a recent study that reveals how young people, especially teens and young adults, actually want their parents to track their technology usage and location. The survey highlights the anxiety experienced by Gen Z, the most anxious generation, and how social media and real-time news contribute to their heightened anxieties. The episode explores the reasons behind this desire for parental tracking and the implications for parent-child relationships in the digital age. Tune in to learn more about this fascinating trend among young adults and the role of technology in fostering connection and safety.
The Fourth Circuit of Appeals ruled against Maryland parents who objected to the inclusion of LGBTQ plus texts in their school's curriculum without an opt-out option. The books Montgomery County Public School parents opposed were reportedly Pride Puppy, an illustrated children's book about a dog who gets lost while attending a pride parade with a family, and Born Ready, the true story of a boy named Penelope Chronicling the so-called transition of the author's son. Dr. Kathy has some hope-filled encouragement for us as we consider how alternative lifestyles are being foisted on others to accept that they're normal.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the challenges parents face as their children transition into adulthood. She offers valuable insights on guiding kids towards the right path for their future, whether it involves school or other options.
This podcast episode delves into the fundamental questions of identity, purpose, and trust in relation to gender issues, especially for parents. Dr. Kathy Koch provides insights on navigating these complex topics, addressing the challenges and uncertainties faced by youth exploring gender identity. The discussion touches on studies showing that gender confusion in youth often resolves as they transition into adulthood, prompting reflection on the implications of such findings for individuals who have detransitioned.
This episode explores the concept of "sharenting," where parents share private information about their children online. The discussion delves into how this practice may impact children's sense of vulnerability and ability to tell their own stories as they grow older. Dr. Kathy Koch opens Leah Plunkett's insights shed light on the potential consequences of oversharing on social media and offer valuable perspectives for parents and caregivers to consider.
Discover how technology is shaping our kids' lives in today's episode. Dr. Kathy delves into the impact of algorithms on teenagers and provides insight to help parents navigate this digital landscape. Sponsored by Summit Ministries, offering worldview-based camps to guide kids through life's challenges and deep questions. Tune in to gain valuable perspective on parenting in the age of technology.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the powerful impact of intergenerational relationships, specifically focusing on the role of grandparents in helping children navigate anxiety and fear. Research highlights the benefits of older adults engaging in communities, preserving stories, and contributing to healthy aging.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the impact of technology on children, exploring how much data technology knows about them and whether kids prefer living a life based on algorithms. The episode delves into the challenges this presents for parents in today's digital age. This episode is sponsored by Summit Ministries, known for their worldview-based camp that helps guide kids through challenging life questions.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the idea of creating spaces for teens where adults are not present, raising questions about the wisdom of such environments. The episode is sponsored by Summit Ministries, a camp dedicated to addressing big questions that kids face during their development. Dr. Kathy speaks at Summit, where mentors help kids navigate challenging times. Summit Ministries offers camps in Manitou Springs, Colorado, and Lookout Mountain, Georgia, providing opportunities for kids to gain additional support and understanding as they start the school year. Listeners are encouraged to visit summitministries.org/celebratekids for more information.
On this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the importance of creating families as a place of belonging. Referencing a recent Christianity Today article, the discussion explores the role of belonging in discipleship and personal development. Dr. Kathy emphasizes that belonging is a core need for all individuals, highlighting its significance in understanding one's identity and embracing their humanity. Tune in for insights on the value of connection and the impact of belonging in shaping who we are.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy addresses the growing concerns of parents about their children's mental health, specifically anxiety and depression. A new report reveals that 40% of U.S. parents are extremely or very worried about their children experiencing these issues. These concerns outweigh worries about physical dangers such as bullying, kidnapping, and drug/alcohol use. Dr. Kathy explores the role of fear in parenting and how it should guide our interactions with kids. Tune in to gain insights on navigating these fears and finding the brightness of God's glory in dark places.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses how to determine when children are ready for more responsibilities and how to adjust our conversations and interactions with them as they mature. She addresses the various societal benchmarks like getting a driver's license, voting, and registering for the military, and offers guidance on approaching these discussions.
Exploring the concept of summer activities and mental health for kids, this episode delves into the idea of combating boredom and engaging children's minds during the summer months. Dr. Kathy provides insights on the importance of allowing space for deep thinking and processing in children's lives.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the challenges of managing screen time as a parent. She explores the idea of using screen time as a tool for motivating children to complete tasks and responsibilities. Dr. Kathy addresses a parenting philosophy on screen time from a Newsweek article and offers insights on balancing screen time with educational benefits.
Dr. Kathy discusses a new law in Oklahoma aimed at protecting kids from pornography by using different terminology. She dives into the importance of guiding and defending children while empowering them to navigate difficult situations.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of getting kids outside and how it benefits their well-being. She emphasizes the power of children looking into the distance and seeing the horizon. The episode is sponsored by Summit Ministries, a camp that helps teens explore a Christian worldview.
This episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast delves into the topic of teen mental health during Mental Health Awareness Month. The host questions whether raising awareness truly helps teens and introduces Summit Ministries as the sponsor. They discuss the perspective of Lucy Fulkes from Oxford University, who suggests that there may be an overabundance of mental health awareness. Stay tuned to hear Dr. Kathy Cooke's insights on this thought-provoking topic.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the decline of music education among young people. She discusses the impact of music on personal expression and opportunities for advancement. Dr. Kathy shares alarming statistics from studies conducted in Texas and California, highlighting the significant attrition rates and decreased enrollment in music classes. She emphasizes the importance of encouraging young people to embrace music and advocates for equal access to music education in low-income and diverse school districts. Tune in to learn more about the dark place our culture may be heading and how we can support our kids in diving into music.
Dr. Kathy considers a new report that highlights where some developmental delays may come from. With many turning to technology and the pandemic era policies, Dr. Kathy considers parental involvement and gives parents some helpful tips on engaging their child.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the rising trend of feeling lonely, sad, and isolated, discussing how parents can support their children through similar emotions. The episode is sponsored by Summit Ministries, known for training young people in Christian worldview with a two-week summer camp featuring top experts like Dr. Kathy. For more information on Summit Ministries, visit summitministries.org/celebratekids.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the impact of alcohol, marijuana, and nicotine on the mental health of high school students. She addresses the findings of researchers in Massachusetts who surveyed over 15,000 students and discovered a higher risk of mental health disorders among those using these substances. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of having meaningful conversations with teens about these issues in a culture that often overlooks their struggles with mental health.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the debate between quality and quantity time spent with children. She addresses the importance of parental engagement at specific moments throughout the day, as highlighted by neuroscientist Jacques Penkeeps.
The episode discusses a study showing that positive childhood experiences reduce mental health issues, while adverse experiences can lead to depression and anxiety. The importance of fostering environments that promote positive childhood experiences is highlighted. The host shares a personal anecdote about parenting and seeking to build confidence in his children.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the impact of technology on children, exploring how much data technology knows about them and whether kids prefer living a life based on algorithms. The episode delves into the challenges this presents for parents in today's digital age. This episode is sponsored by Summit Ministries, known for their worldview-based camp that helps guide kids through challenging life questions.
On this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the reframing of substances like vapes and marijuana as less harmful, exploring the impact on teens and adults. The episode highlights research showing potential toxic metal exposure in teenagers who vape regularly, emphasizing the importance of understanding the health implications. This episode is sponsored by Verse Chocolate, offering pure dark chocolate without additives or sugars. Tune in for insightful perspectives on current cultural shifts and their effects on youth and society.
Dr. Kathy unpacks the incredible influence grandparents have in the lives of kids. She gives insights into how grandparents can build influence and relationship.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the concerning link between substance use and mental health in teenagers. She discusses a study that found high school students who reported using alcohol, marijuana, or nicotine had an increased prevalence of depression, anxiety, ADHD symptoms, and thoughts of suicide. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of having meaningful conversations with teens about these issues and provides insight on how parents can navigate the challenges. This episode aims to shed light on the reality of teens' mental health struggles and offers guidance for parents in supporting their children.
Discover how the act of handwriting can activate the entire brain and why it's important for parents to embrace the sometimes inconvenient aspects of parenting. Join Dr. Kathy Cooke as she discusses the benefits of handwriting over typing and how it can enhance communication and brain activity. Explore the idea of stepping into engagements in parenting that may not always be efficient but can be incredibly valuable.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the theme of facing challenges and growth in parenting. She discusses the importance of focusing not just on the outcomes of parenting but also on the inner growth and development of children. Drawing insights from a new movie called Unsung Hero, Dr. Kathy encourages parents to create space for their children to navigate tough times and for themselves to address any character flaws. The episode also touches on an article by Jim Daly from the New York Times about the rapid pace of growing up. Tune in for valuable reflections on parenting and personal growth.
Dr. Kathy explores the challenging reality of teens whose understanding of identity doesn't align with societal norms. She delves into the struggles faced by transgender teens living in states with restrictive laws on gender-affirming care. The episode sheds light on the need for support and affirmation for teens navigating their identities amidst societal pressures.
Today on the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the topic of climate change and its impact on children's mental health. With the increasing concerns about extreme weather events and environmental changes, kids are facing a new kind of worry - climate change anxiety. Dr. Kathy sheds light on how this constant exposure to negative climate news can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety in children.
Dr. Kathy delves into the complex questions of identity, purpose, and trust, particularly in the context of gender issues in today's culture today. She addresses the importance of security and identity as foundational to understanding ourselves and guiding our children. She highlights recent studies on gender-confused youth and de-transitioners, shedding light on evolving perspectives in this area.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the issue of youth addiction in today's culture, focusing on the concerning rise of nicotine pouches among high schoolers. These pouches, popularized through social media influencers like Tucker Carlson and the Nelk Boys, are seen as a trendy and "safer" alternative to traditional tobacco products. Medical professionals warn about the addictive nature of these pouches, emphasizing the importance of addressing addiction habits early on to prevent long-term consequences.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into new research highlighting the importance of bedtime and sleep rhythms for teenage kids. With over 7,500 teens surveyed by the CDC during the COVID-19 pandemic, it was found that insufficient sleep negatively impacted mental health and academic performance. The episode challenges the idea that children need to constantly engage in numerous activities and emphasizes the critical role of quality sleep in overall well-being.
Dr. Kathy addresses the rising suicide rates among teens and the far-reaching impact of suicidal behaviors beyond just death. Highlighting statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, she emphasizes the collateral damage associated with suicide attempts, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. The episode sheds light on the importance of understanding and addressing the challenges adolescents face to combat these issues effectively.
In a recent Dave Ramsey podcast, Rachel Cruze told of a situation where a child could be frustrated at an adult restaurant without a kid's menu. She said that the frustration would drive the child to make decisions. While the intention is good, Dr. Kathy gives some better support and help to parents working to guide their children into good postures today. She encourages parents not to frustrate their children but to guide them through life and allow being a kid to be a developmental period.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into helping children believe in Jesus amidst a culture that fosters doubt. The discussion explores the process of belief and how to build trust with children to instill confidence in their faith. The episode also references a study by the Barna Group on doubt, revealing that many teens and adults experience doubts about their religious beliefs. Dr. Kathy provides insights on this topic, emphasizing the importance of addressing doubt head-on in church and family settings.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores building resiliency in children amidst growing concerns about mental health and technology's impact. She discusses whether challenges like cell phones can be opportunities for kids to develop resilience rather than simply things to avoid. Dr. Kathy also addresses efforts by states to restrict the influence of technology on kids and the ongoing discussions around this issue.
Today on the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the impact of screen time on young children's sensory development based on a recent study from Drexel University. The study highlights the importance of monitoring screen exposure in the early years to prevent atypical sensory processing later in childhood. Tune in to learn more about creating healthier rhythms for kids and the role parents play in shaping their development.
On this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of preparing kids for the challenges of the world by focusing on building resiliency rather than just keeping them safe. The conversation explores teaching children to overcome obstacles, trust in their abilities, and persist through difficulties to develop resilience. Tune in to learn more about how to help kids navigate and thrive in an uncertain world.
On this episode, Dr. Kathy delves into the growing trend of Generation Z and Generation Alpha being scared to age due to influences from social media. Teens are turning to anti-aging treatments and cosmetic surgeries at a young age, driven by social media influencers. This obsession with preventing aging is impacting children and teens, leading to increased spending on skincare and cosmetics. Dr. Cook's insights from her book "Start With the Heart" guide how to engage kids in culture and navigate conversations about aging and body image.
Today on the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the challenging topic of gender identity in children. She delves into the recent bans on gender-affirming care for minors in 22 states, highlighting the clash between conservative politicians and medical consensus. The episode explores the role of parents and doctors in decision-making regarding puberty blockers and hormone therapy, raising questions about government intervention in medical transitions for minors. Join the conversation on navigating gender identity issues within families.
Dr. Kathy discusses the upcoming solar eclipse and how families can approach it with their kids. She highlights the transformative experience of witnessing a solar eclipse and the spiritual significance some attach to it. The episode explores the idea of turning the event into a celebration and the impact it can have on children. Tune in for insights on making the solar eclipse a memorable and educational experience for the whole family.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch delves into raising sensitive children. She discusses parents' challenges in understanding the best way for their kids amidst societal pressures. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of relying on the guiding light of Jesus Christ to navigate the complexities of parenting. The discussion touches on the traits of highly sensitive children, such as noticing subtle details and absorbing emotions from others. Parents are encouraged to embrace these sensitivities and find a pathway that aligns with their children's unique personalities.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the concerning statistics around teen mental health and suicide rates. She discusses the rise in suicide rates among adolescents in the past two decades, highlighting the sharp increase since 1999, especially among girls and minority adolescents. Dr. Kathy provides insights on how we can support and walk alongside our kids during these challenging times.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses preparing kids by putting them in potentially dangerous situations to build resiliency. The discussion is inspired by an article suggesting that focusing on making life meaningful, rather than just safe, can help combat anxieties in the rising generation. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of teaching kids to overcome challenges and the value of effort, trust, and perseverance in various activities, from sports to household chores.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores how to talk to children about heavy and difficult subjects like cancer, death, and accidents. She discusses the importance of preparing for tough conversations in the future and offers insights on approaching these sensitive topics with children. The episode also touches on Princess Catherine's cancer diagnosis and how she navigated sharing this news with her family, emphasizing the importance of reassuring children during difficult times.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy discusses how Gen Z is the first generation to experience puberty with smartphones, referred to as "portals in their pockets," which draw them into an addictive and unsuitable digital world. The discussion is inspired by Jonathan Haidt's new book, "The Anxious Generation," which delves into the impact of a phone-based childhood on mental health. Haidt highlights concerning trends, such as girls visiting emergency rooms due to feelings of inadequacy from social media, while boys are getting injured less due to decreased outdoor play. The episode explores the implications of these findings on the well-being of today's youth.
Exploring the significance of Easter and how to prioritize its celebration in our homes, this episode delves into the active nature of being followers of Christ. Reflecting on the events of Holy Week, the hosts discuss the importance of Easter as a primary holiday and share insights on creating meaningful memories for children who have made a commitment to Christ. Join the conversation on making Easter a central focus amidst the busyness of other holidays.
The world is very different today than yesterday. That statement may be an obvious proclamation for each generation. However, there likely hasn't been such a significant shift in recent generations to foundational aspects of society, those related to identity and sexuality. Dr. Kathy has some insights for us as new data is showing how challenging it is for our kids to relate to what life was like when we were kids.
On this episode, we explore the concept of transcendent thinking and its impact on brain development in teenagers and adolescents. USC's Center for Effective Neuroscience researchers found that transcendent thinking goes beyond reacting to social situations and involves considering broader ethical and personal implications. This type of thinking can lead to brain growth over time and involves analyzing situations for deeper meanings and historical contexts. The study showed that engaging in transcendent thinking activates brain networks related to psychological functioning.
Your role in shaping the mental, social, and spiritual well-being of children is well documented. In this episode, we delve into the challenges confronted by those faced with gender confusion or have friends who identify as LGBTQ, shedding light on the perceived and felt impact of laws on mental health, alarming rates of suicide, and the scarcity of research on parental experiences.
Dr. Kathy passionately highlights the emotional odyssey parents embark on when their child grapples with questions surrounding their gender identity. She underscores the critical necessity for support and comprehension in navigating these intricate issues.
By tuning in, you'll not only gain valuable insights into the struggles faced by those identifying and supporting LGBTQ youth, but also equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to serve as a guide and mentor for these adults and children.
There is a shift in parenting styles, particularly among Gen Z individuals planning to parent differently from their predecessors. This episode of the Celebrate Kids Podcast focuses on the trend of moving away from raising "iPad kids" and the concerns raised by research regarding children's exposure to technology at a young age. Dr. Kathy highlights a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics on children's technology usage and the potential risks associated with early and excessive screen time. She gives important insights and recommends the Wise Phone from Techless Wireless. Get the Wisephone here: www.techless.com/celebratekids
In this episode of Dr. Kathy Says, Dr. Kathy shares her thoughts on Easter and the importance of perspective. She encourages busy parents, educators, and grandparents to prioritize their actions and celebrate Easter with kids. She highlights the significance of her book, "Parent Differently Raised Kids with Biblical Character that Changes Culture," in providing a game plan for navigating the Easter season. Ultimately, Dr. Kathy emphasizes the power of leaning into God and community to achieve abundance, kindness, and generosity in life.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the impact of screen time on young children's development. Referencing a study from Drexel University, she highlights the connection between excessive screen time in the first two years of life and potential sensory challenges later on. Parents are urged to consider alternative activities to promote healthy development in their young children.
Exploring the controversial topic of banning books, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of understanding truth and wielding it wisely. Referencing an article by Alabama Political reporter Josh Moon, the episode questions the practice of parents pulling books from libraries and schools due to unsuitable content. Moon argues that the focus should be on guiding children with challenging subjects rather than banning the content outright. The episode delves into the responsibility of parents in directing children's reading choices, emphasizing the need for a thoughtful approach to controversial literature.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores a new approach to helping children deal with anxiety through Childhood Independence Therapy. Traditionally, cognitive behavioral therapy has been used to guide children through anxiety, but this innovative method focuses on promoting independence in children. By encouraging kids to try new activities on their own with parental permission, this therapy aims to help them combat fears, reduce anxiety, gain confidence, and become more independent. Tune in to learn more about this preventative medicine for anxiety in children and hear some of Dr. Kathy's helpful insights to guide you to care for those with anxiety.
Dr. Kathy discusses the pressure on parents to conform to societal expectations regarding parenting. She explores a list of 21 qualities for parents to instill in their children. Dr. Kathy offers insights on a new book approaching parenting traits differently, providing a positive perspective on navigating the challenges of raising kids in today's culture.
Dr. Kathy discusses the challenges parents face in guiding their kids' leisure time and the rise of using artificial intelligence to create kids' content on platforms like YouTube. The episode explores the implications of AI-generated videos for children's entertainment and the potential impact on parenting decisions. Join Dr. Kathy as she delves into the intersection of technology, parenting, and children's leisure activities.
On this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the importance of creating families as a place of belonging. Referencing a recent Christianity Today article, the discussion explores the role of belonging in discipleship and personal development. Dr. Kathy emphasizes that belonging is a core need for all individuals, highlighting its significance in understanding one's identity and embracing their humanity. Tune in for insights on the value of connection and the impact of belonging in shaping who we are.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the topic of so-called transition surgery for young kids. She explores a recent article advocating for allowing trans kids to change their bodies, challenging societal norms and beliefs. Dr. Kathy provides insights on navigating this issue with children, encouraging listeners to reevaluate their perspectives and align them with biblical principles.
Exploring the challenges faced by young women in today's culture, the Celebrate Kids podcast delves into the impact of modern ideas on identity and heroism. Dr. Kathy Koch addresses the societal pressure on women to adopt masculine traits and the devaluation of motherhood. Through insightful commentary, she offers guidance to parents on supporting and guiding their children in the face of these cultural influences.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the rising rates of nearsightedness in children, discussing how environmental factors may play a role in this trend. With statistics showing a significant increase in myopia cases, the debate shifts from genetics to the impact of screen time and indoor activities on eyesight. The episode delves into the implications of nearsightedness on children's future perspectives and spiritual development, raising questions about the use of technology like glasses versus training eyes to see beyond the immediate.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the challenges parents face as their kids grow up in a world influenced by artificial intelligence and marketing tactics. She explores how technology can sometimes seem to know our kids better than we do and how this can lead parents to feel like they are losing their connection with their children. Highlighting the impact of social media on teens, Dr. Kathy offers insights on navigating these complexities and staying connected with our kids in meaningful ways.
Today on the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the topic of rising antidepressant prescriptions for young teenage girls, particularly during the pandemic. She discusses the impact of isolation on mental health and the increased need for socialization among adolescents and young adults. Highlighting insights from experts and studies, Dr. Kathy explores alternative approaches to supporting youth through challenging times. Join us for valuable perspectives on navigating mental health concerns in young people.
Dr. Kathy discusses the concerning trend of British teenagers believing their generation will have a worse life than their parents based on new research. She delves into the primary concerns identified by teenagers, such as money, jobs, and the climate crisis. Dr. Kathy challenges the assumption that the upcoming generation will be worse off and encourages understanding the perspectives of previous generations. Listen to this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast for insights on guiding children through pessimistic outlooks on the future.
Dr. Kathy explores the concept of normalcy in today's culture on the Celebrate Kids podcast. She delves into the idea of what is considered normal, the influence of popular culture on defining normal, and the historical origins of the concept. The episode challenges listeners to reflect on societal norms and how they impact children's perceptions of what is considered normal.
Dr. Kathy Cooke delves into the challenging topic of discussing faith and obedience with kids in the face of darkness. She explores the recent tragic death of anti-Putin dissident Alexei Navalny, highlighting his Christian faith amidst political turmoil. The episode encourages parents to engage in meaningful conversations with their children about faith, obedience, and standing firm in their beliefs.
Exploring the delicate balance between building resilience in children and seeking professional help when needed, this episode delves into the importance of instilling efficacy in young people. Drawing on insights from journalist Abigail Schreier, the discussion challenges the prevailing narrative around trauma and emphasizes the power of overcoming challenges. Dr. Kathy's expertise in parenting offers valuable perspectives on navigating these complex issues.
In this episode of Dr. Kathy Says, Laura Petheridge, the smart step-mom, shares her personal journey and passion for blended families. Reflecting on her own experiences growing up in step families, Laura emphasizes the importance of understanding the complexities of stepfamily dynamics. Dr. Kathy and Laura delve into the significance of vocabulary in stepfamily relationships and highlight the message that while God may hate divorce, he loves stepfamilies. Join them as they continue their discussion on the blended family experience in this engaging podcast episode.
In this episode, the importance of guiding young people in building friendships is discussed, highlighting the role of parents and mentors in helping teens and tweens navigate relationships. The conversation is inspired by a research paper on the power of friendship, emphasizing that friendship is a learned skill. Practical tips for parents are shared, such as defining friendship, helping kids observe others around them, and encouraging positive social interactions. Join the discussion on the significance of friendships in youth development.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the Surgeon General's warning about the health effects of loneliness, comparing it to smoking tobacco. Dr. Kathy shares insights on how parents and caregivers can navigate dark and lonely moments with children, emphasizing the importance of social connections for teens today. The episode delves into the challenges of parenting in an interconnected society and offers guidance on supporting children through loneliness.
Exploring the value of summer camps for kids and families, this episode delves into the significance of summer activities and the impact of sending kids to camp. Join the discussion on the benefits of summer camps beyond just a break for parents, and how they contribute to family connection and special experiences. Discover why summer camps are more than just a seasonal tradition.
Dr. Kathy delves into how teens are gauged today compared to previous generations. Despite positive trends in high school graduation rates and declining teen behaviors like smoking and drug use, there is a concerning rise in mental health issues among adolescents. The traditional measures of teen well-being may no longer align with the reality of modern teenage life. The episode questions whether emphasizing mental health over other markers of success is the right approach.
Dr. Kathy considers a new report that highlights where some developmental delays may come from. With many turning to technology and the pandemic era policies, Dr. Kathy considers parental involvement and gives parents some helpful tips on engaging their child.
In this episode of Dr. Kathy Says, Dr. Kathy discusses the challenges faced by blended families with guest Laura Petherbridge. They delve into the vocabulary, grieving process, and the high divorce rates among recoupled families with children. With over 50% of US families in blended situations, the episode aims to help listeners understand and support those in stepfamilies.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the dynamics of intergenerational parenting. Reflecting on past experiences with parents and the evolving parenting styles of the millennial generation, the discussion delves into the challenges of reconciling different approaches to raising children. Dr. Kathy sheds light on the importance of understanding and appreciating the context in which parents from different generations operate while striving to create a nurturing environment for the next generation. Tune in to gain insights on navigating the complexities of parenting across different eras and societal norms.
Dr. Kathy delves into the challenges parents face as children experience puberty at younger ages than previous generations. Discussing the average onset age for girls and boys, Dr. Kathy highlights the need for understanding and support during these changes. She emphasizes the importance of treating children based on their development rather than solely their physical appearance, offering insights on navigating this new parenting landscape.
Dr. Kathy invites author and speaker Laura Petherbridge to Dr. Kathy Says to dive into the topic of blended families. With a focus on understanding the vocabulary and dynamics of blended families, Dr. Kathy aims to provide insights for both individuals from intact families and those from blended families. Join her as she explores blended families' unique challenges and blessings in a series that promises to offer valuable information and perspective.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the topic of gender dysphoria and challenges the findings of a 2021 survey from Tavistock's Gender Identity Development Service in England. The survey followed 44 children aged 12 to 15 to study the impact of puberty blockers on their mental well-being. Dr. Kathy explores how parents can navigate conflicting expert advice and raise their children with confidence and courage to build a strong identity. Tune in for valuable insights on parenting in the face of challenging studies and surveys.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the topic of grief and loss in children. She discusses the challenges that kids face in a world where tragic events like shootings occur, and the impact it has on their mental health. The episode also highlights a new law in New Jersey that requires public schools to incorporate instruction on grief into health and physical education classes for students in grades 8 to 12. It is emphasized to address grief properly and provide students with the tools and resources they need to cope with life's challenges. The episode concludes with a discussion on the increasing prevalence of death among teenagers, mainly due to suicide and drug overdoses.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the concerning impact of social media on teen mental health. She explores the responsibility of various stakeholders, including social media companies, the government, parents, and teens themselves. Dr. Koch references the U.S. Surgeon General's advisory statement, which warns of the harmful effects of excessive social media use on young people's mental health. She also highlights a study that links increased social media use to higher risks of depression and anxiety in adolescents. Tune in to gain important insights on how to navigate this critical issue and guide our kids effectively in the digital age.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses a cultural moment that occurred during the Super Bowl. She discusses the incident where Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce got in the face of his head coach, Andy Reid, and how it was shown on the broadcast. Dr. Kathy provides important insights on how parents can navigate these situations and have meaningful conversations with their children. Tune in to gain valuable insights into reasoning and encourage our kids to live into their potential.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the benefits of handwriting and its impact on brain activity. She discusses a study conducted by researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, which suggests that handwriting can improve brain function. Dr. Kathy encourages parents to embrace the "inconvenient" aspects of parenting and engage in activities that promote active communication and brain stimulation. Tune in to learn more about the connection between handwriting and brain activity.
In this episode of Dr. Kathy Says, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of children feeling liked, in addition to being loved. She explores how being liked can provide a sense of safety and belonging, and how it can impact our relationships as adults. Dr. Kathy also addresses the conditional nature of being liked and offers guidance on how parents can navigate conversations about liking their children while still expressing unconditional love. Tune in to gain insights on celebrating and affirming children in these challenging times.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the rise of gambling in our culture, particularly in relation to the Super Bowl. She discusses how children may be exposed to gambling through halftime shows, commercials, and the overall acceptance of gambling in society. Dr. Kathy highlights the need for parents to carefully consider the impact of gambling on their children and offers insights into why it may not be a good idea to train kids in this area. The episode also highlights the increase in online gambling and sports betting among teenagers and young adults. Overall, Dr. Kathy encourages listeners to think critically about the cultural push for gambling and its potential consequences.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the concerning link between substance use and mental health in teenagers. She discusses a study that found high school students who reported using alcohol, marijuana, or nicotine had an increased prevalence of depression, anxiety, ADHD symptoms, and thoughts of suicide. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of having meaningful conversations with teens about these issues and provides insight on how parents can navigate the challenges. This episode aims to shed light on the reality of teens' mental health struggles and offers guidance for parents in supporting their children.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the issue of gender identity for kids, which has become highly political. She discusses the challenges faced by parents who feel that others may restrict or guide their children's gender identity. Dr. Kathy offers guidance on how to navigate this topic and think critically about it. The episode also highlights the recent passing of House Bill 68 in Ohio, which bans gender-affirming care for youth battling gender dysphoria. After Gov. Mike DeWine previously vetoed the bill, the legislature overrode the veto and the bill will become law. This development has left some families feeling isolated and without necessary medical treatments.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the important topic of discussing the right to life with our children. She acknowledges that it can be daunting to navigate this conversation, especially in light of recent abortion bans and their impact on society. However, Dr. Kathy shares some promising news from a University of Houston study that shows an overall increase in fertility rates in Texas following the abortion ban. Specifically, there was a 2% rise in the state's fertility rate. Additionally, the study found a reversal in the decline of teen births in Texas, with slight increases observed among minority populations. This report challenges the media narrative that portrays the abortion ban as negatively impacting teens, but Dr. Kathy thinks there is more happening in this that we need to talk to our kids about. Tune in to this episode to learn how to have meaningful conversations with your kids about the right to life.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the topic of anxiety in teenagers. She explores the current trends and challenges that young people face, as well as the impact of politics and the future on their anxiety levels. Dr. Kathy also differentiates between regular anxiety and a generalized state of anxiety that affects individuals on a constant basis. This episode aims to provide insight and understanding for parents navigating their teenagers' anxiety.
In this episode of Dr. Kathy Says, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of celebrating and appreciating children. She reflects on the joy of teaching second graders and how celebrating moments like the first snowfall created lasting memories for both her and her students. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the significance of children knowing they are loved, appreciated, and liked. Tune in next week to continue this discussion on how children perceive being liked.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses a recent study that reveals how young people, especially teens and young adults, actually want their parents to track their technology usage and location. The survey highlights the anxiety experienced by Gen Z, the most anxious generation, and how social media and real-time news contribute to their heightened anxieties. The episode explores the reasons behind this desire for parental tracking and the implications for parent-child relationships in the digital age. Tune in to learn more about this fascinating trend among young adults and the role of technology in fostering connection and safety.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the topic of young adults today and their desire for older people to speak into their lives. She shares insights from a recent discussion with a group of late millennial professionals who expressed the importance of current leaders guiding and teaching the next generation. These millennials, who are stepping into leadership roles, hope that their leaders can emulate critical characteristics such as learning and appreciation. Tune in to learn more about how we can engage and shape our future leaders' habits, loves, and moods.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the challenge of social media addiction and its impact on children. She discusses a proposed California law that would require social media companies to disable algorithms for users under 18, aiming to reduce negative mental health effects. Dr. Kathy also highlights important character traits to fight the allure of endless scrolling in social media. She also gives tips on how parents can build important character traits for this cultural moment. Tune in for insights on navigating conversations with kids about social media and its influence.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the topic of technology and its impact on young people's mental health. She discusses the United States Surgeon General's advisory council on social media and youth mental health, which highlights the harmful effects of social media on young people. The American Psychological Association also issued a health advisory acknowledging the pros and cons of social media for young people, similar to the introduction of television. Dr. Kathy shares tips on how to help young people filter out the negative aspects of social media while still benefiting from the positive aspects. She references a survey that shows how social media can help teenagers feel accepted and supported during tough times. Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the dark side of technology and supporting young people in their digital lives.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the current state of young men in America and the societal pressures they face. She explores the conflicting messages young men receive about masculinity and what it means to be a man. Dr. Kathy to provides insight on how to guide young men in this challenging moment. She address concerns such as the decline in college degrees for men, their higher rates of unemployment, and the struggles with addiction. She sheds light on the importance of teaching young men to be humble, servant-hearted, and to seek a deeper understanding of God.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy discusses how to talk to kids about the March for Life and the pro-life movement. Co-host Wayne Stender reflects on the origins of the March for Life and its significance in marking the anniversary of the Supreme Court ruling on abortion. He also highlights the involvement of high-profile individuals, including professional football players and Coach Jim Harbaugh, in supporting the pro-life cause. He explores the renewed framing of the pro-life discussion and the ongoing work needed to promote the sanctity of life. Despite the recent overturning of Roe v. Wade, Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of addressing the cultural challenges in caring for life. This episode provides insights and guidance on engaging children in conversations about the March for Life and encouraging a pro-life perspective.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy and her guest discuss the idea of preparing children for the dangers of the world by putting them in potentially risky situations. They explore the concept of building resiliency and teaching children to overcome challenges. The episode also touches on the importance of effort, teachability, and trust in a child's growth and development. Tune in to learn more about preparing kids for life's uncertainties.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy discusses the modern and complex relationship between parents and grandparents. She explores a recent study that found that 44% of parents intend to raise their children differently from how their parents raised them. The episode raises the question of whether the phrase "it takes a village" is still relevant in today's parenting landscape. Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of maintaining a strong parent-child relationship and the potential drawbacks of outsourcing parenting to grandparents or other caregivers.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy addresses the growing concerns of parents about their children's mental health, specifically anxiety and depression. A new report reveals that 40% of U.S. parents are extremely or very worried about their children experiencing these issues. These concerns outweigh worries about physical dangers such as bullying, kidnapping, and drug/alcohol use. Dr. Kathy explores the role of fear in parenting and how it should guide our interactions with kids. Tune in to gain insights on navigating these fears and finding the brightness of God's glory in dark places.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch discusses the importance of mental health in teenagers and young children. You're introduced a new screening test that can help detect early signs of mental health disorders and provide early intervention. Dr. Kathy then highlights the significance of early intervention and shares that around 50 percent of lifetime mental health conditions start at the age of 14. She acknowledges that mental health is a concern for most parents and encourages creating a rhythm for mental health screenings. In closing, Dr. Kathy gives important tips for parents as they care for their kids' mental health
In this episode, Dr. Kathy reminds us of the power of using real experiences to teach children important lessons. She shares her own memories and traditions surrounding snow, highlighting how she turned snowy days into valuable learning opportunities for her second-grade students. Dr. Kathy encourages us to embrace the teachable moments that arise in our children's lives and to approach them with a mindset and heart that seeks to impart real knowledge and understanding.
By incorporating real experiences, we can help children develop a deeper connection to their learning subjects. Whether it's experiencing snow firsthand, researching the science behind snowstorms, or exploring snowmen's history and cultural significance, these real-life encounters can ignite curiosity and enthusiasm in children. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of allowing children to explore and discover, whether it's through hands-on activities, research, or conversations with others.
Dr. Kathy also highlights the character qualities that can be nurtured through these experiences. Flexibility, gratitude, helpfulness, hopefulness, resourcefulness, cooperation, and carefulness are all qualities that can be developed as children engage with the world around them. Encouraging children to be mindful of these qualities can help them grow into well-rounded individuals prepared to navigate life's challenges.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the impact of moms taking time for themselves. The Barna group's findings reveal that moms with at least one trusted friend or confidant are more satisfied with motherhood and their marriage. They also have someone who cares for them regularly and are more likely to practice self-care. Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of church-based groups in supporting moms and how their well-being ultimately influences their children. Tune in to learn more about the positive effects of moms prioritizing self-care.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the decline of music education among young people. She discusses the impact of music on personal expression and opportunities for advancement. Dr. Kathy shares alarming statistics from studies conducted in Texas and California, highlighting the significant attrition rates and decreased enrollment in music classes. She emphasizes the importance of encouraging young people to embrace music and advocates for equal access to music education in low-income and diverse school districts. Tune in to learn more about the dark place our culture may be heading and how we can support our kids in diving into music.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses a new form of therapy for childhood anxiety called Childhood Independence Therapy. Based on the initiative of Let Grow, this therapy encourages children to engage in new activities independently with their parent's permission but without their direct supervision. The pilot study shows promising results, including reduced anxiety, increased confidence, and improved independence. Dr. Kathy explores how this therapy can be a preventative measure for anxiety and offers insights on how parents can support their children in facing anxiety.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the benefits of reading aloud to children. Drawing from various research studies, she highlights the positive impact of reading on children's vocabulary, reading comprehension, and reading motivation. One study even found that parents reading to their kids as young as one to two and a half years old can predict their future language skills. Additionally, children who are regularly read to from a young age enter kindergarten with exposure to significantly more words than those who are not read to. Tune in to learn more about the importance of reading to kids and how it can shape their development.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy talks about the importance of establishing a family code of conduct when it comes to technology, specifically artificial intelligence (AI). She discusses a new bill proposed by lawmakers to make AI literacy accessible through public schools, colleges, universities, and libraries. Dr. Kathy highlights the need for families to think through digital decorum and ethics surrounding AI, shedding light on how it can impact our lives and the world our children are growing up in. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating the digital landscape with AI.
In this episode of Dr. Kathy Says, Dr. Kathy discusses the significance of the new year and shares her perspective on the importance of January 1st. She emphasizes the value of impact, influence, and glorifying God in our choices. Dr. Kathy hopes to provide beneficial insights and encourage listeners to share golden nuggets with their loved ones. Visit www.celebratekids.com/podcasts for resources.
Dr. Kathy considers some new data from JAMA Pediatrics on the way screen time stunts toddler development. However, screen time before four induces debilitating behaviors more than stunting the development. But what are we supposed to do as tired parents who can't enter into a two-year-old's world? Dr. Kathy has some important insights and encouragements as we engage a world that envelops our family with technology that promises education but falls short in delivery.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the topic of recalibration in light of some new policies in Flint, Michigan. The school has recently implemented a ban on cell phones and hoodies, citing safety concerns and a need for students to focus in class. Dr. Kathy delves into the reasons behind this ban and discusses the larger issue of banning certain items or behaviors. She also highlights similar policies in other countries and explores the challenges of navigating the digital world while balancing online and offline engagement. Tune in to gain insights into the importance of recalibrating and finding a balance in today's digital age.
There is a lot of pressure on parents to build resiliency in kids. Some Christian and secular writers wrestle with stats on how to approach best preparing kids for the challenges of the modern world. Dr. Kathy considers some of the parenting approaches that are perceived as lawnmowing or helicopter parenting. She explains how we can better equip and walk with kids in current culture moments while considering their mental health and emotional resiliency.
It's often a parent's desire that kids are prepared to face tough things, but never have to. The way to drive kids to resiliency is a long and purposed road, but some are saying we're doing that wrong if we want to build toughness through direction. Dr. Kathy has good insight for parents to build resiliency.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch discusses the pressure parents face to conform to societal expectations when it comes to raising children. She examines a list of 21 qualities someone created for parents, specifically fathers, to instill in their kids. Dr. Kathy offers a different perspective on parenting traits, highlighting Parent Differently. She believes this approach can provide a guiding light in the darkness of parenting. Tune in to gain insight and wisdom on navigating the challenges of raising children.
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There is a rise in boomerang children. That's when a child launches at 18 to return a few years later to their parents' home. When that happens, the family can feel like a failure. But is it? Dr. Kathy discusses how parents prepare kids for resiliency, but also the responsibility parents have to always be parents, and what it looks like for the church to support those who come upon hard times.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch addresses the challenges young people face in today's culture, particularly in regards to identity and the concept of heroes. She focuses on the impact this has on young women and how they are being influenced to desire and imagine what it would be like to be men. Dr. Kathy explores the cultural push that gauges women's worth based on how much they resemble men or their ability to achieve the same status. She offers guidance to parents on how to navigate and counteract these influences.
A new report shows that young adult leaders want more mentors and more time with their leaders. It's an interesting report noting that other recent findings in some circles highlight how adult kids want relationships with their parents to a greater degree, showing integrity, patience, and other Christian characteristics. Today, Dr. Kathy walks us through why this might be and how we can encourage young adult leaders as they mature and grow into their different giftings. She also considers who we can parent kids today knowing that their generation may require something from them that our generation didn't require from us.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the millennial success sequence, a term coined by researchers to describe the path to success for millennials. They highlight the importance of graduating from high school, working full time, and marrying before having children, as following this sequence significantly reduces the likelihood of ending up in poverty. However, they also address the current challenges faced by millennials, such as dropping graduation rates, high unemployment, and declining marriage and birth rates.
Links:
CelebrateKids.com
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the topic of kids and digital media. She emphasizes the importance for parents to understand where their children are standing in the digital world, even if they themselves are not active on social media. Dr. Kathy discusses the potential risks and trappings of the digital world and highlights the need for parents to regulate their children's exposure to artificial environments. She encourages parents not to be afraid of the dark, but to be cautious with the influences that guide their children.
Links: www.techless.com/celebratekids
Time Stamps:
[00:02:55] Teens' use of YouTube.
[00:03:53] Social media as the modern backyard.
[00:07:24] Balancing technology and outdoor play.
[00:09:41] Facing dark times with wisdom.
Dr. Kathy considers how belonging does more than make us feel good. She outlines in the podcast the value of belonging for building identity, highlighting aspects from her book Five to Thrive, where she shares the core needs found in science that are essential for building a solid identity. Dr. Kathy highlights in her book how these needs are true because God made them true and has them manifest in special ways in reality. In her book, she outlines a Christian view of how these needs are met most wholly in Christ and how building an identity on Jesus is one that will never fall or falter. Pick up her book Five to Thrive here>>
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the question of why we choose to bring children into our lives. The discussion is prompted by a report that suggests adults should consider the happiness and fulfillment that children can bring. Dr. Kathy delves into the challenges and rewards of parenting and having kids in our lives.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, the topic of helping children believe in Jesus in a culture that fosters doubt is discussed. Dr. Kathy explores the process of belief and building trust, from simple things like believing an apology to larger questions of faith like whether Jesus loves them. The importance of addressing doubt in parenting is emphasized, as Jesus himself dealt with doubt with his disciples. The episode also highlights a new study by the Barna Group, which reveals that doubt is a common experience for both teenagers and adults inside and outside the church.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the topic of gender dysphoria and how parents can navigate expert advice that may not align with their beliefs. She delves into a recent study from the Tavistock Gender Identity Development Service in England, which examined the effects of puberty blockers on 44 children between the ages of 12 and 15. Dr. Kathy sheds light on the responses from other researchers who challenge the study's findings and offers insights on how parents can approach this topic with a scientific perspective while helping their children build a strong and confident identity.
In this episode of Facing the Dark, we delve into loneliness and how to navigate it healthily. Dr. Kathy expounds on the belief that it is not realistic to avoid loneliness all the time, but rather, accepting and embracing being alone at times is appropriate. She emphasizes that not addressing loneliness may lead to insecurity and a lack of confidence. She points out that learning to handle loneliness is essential, encouraging us to see it as a positive experience. Dr. Kathy shares how resiliency is the ability to bounce back from despair, disappointment, grief, and fear, and that it is a choice that can become a part of one's character. We guide parents in fostering resiliency in children, preventing loneliness from leading to despair or isolation.
A new report shows that young adult leaders want more mentors and more time with their leaders. It's an interesting report noting that other recent findings in some circles highlight how adult kids want relationships with their parents to a greater degree, showing integrity, patience, and other Christian characteristics. Today, Dr. Kathy walks us through why this might be and how we can encourage young adult leaders as they mature and grow into their different giftings. She also considers who we can parent kids today knowing that their generation may require something from them that our generation didn't require from us.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids Podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the issue of assessing children's progress in school and how it may not always be helpful. She explores the potential drawbacks of using report cards, assessments, and studies to gauge children's performance. Dr. Kathy also delves into the influence of societal expectations and the need to control outcomes. The episode highlights a recent study that examined the benefits of math apps for early learners and its impact on closing the cognitive development gap between high and low-income families. Overall, Dr. Kathy encourages listeners to consider alternative ways of assessing children and to prioritize meaningful parent-child interactions in the learning process.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy explores the topic of using technology with artificial intelligence to inspire and educate children. She questions whether these devices truly help children develop social skills. Tune in to gain insights on the potential impact of AI on social development in kids.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the topic of youth growing up in today's culture. She reflects on her own experiences and wonders if children have the space and opportunities to learn and make mistakes. She discusses the importance of providing a supportive environment for teenagers to practice being adults. Dr. Kathy also highlights the insights of Professor Victor Rios from the MacArthur Foundation, who discusses the negative perceptions of youth in society, particularly at shopping malls. Tune in to gain valuable insights on supporting youth in their journey to adulthood.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of music education for young people. She addresses the concerning trend of students dropping out of music programs and the decrease in enrollment in music classes. She explores ways to encourage young people to embrace music and highlight the disparities in access to music education among low-income and ethnically diverse school districts.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the Surgeon General's warning about the health effects of loneliness, comparing it to smoking tobacco. She discusses the challenges of parenting in a highly interconnected society and highlights the importance of understanding and addressing loneliness in children. Dr. Kathy offers insights on how to navigate dark and lonely moments with confidence and not lose heart. Tune in to gain valuable insights on caring for kids and promoting their well-being.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores being single and how to support children who may be called and choose a life of singleness. She discusses a viral video by Julia Mazur, a TikTok influencer, which highlights the benefits of being single, such as not having kids and having the freedom to enjoy personal time. Dr. Kathy encourages listeners to develop an understanding of their identity in Christ and to support their children in exploring their paths, whether that includes marriage or not. Tune in to gain insights on speaking well of singleness and guiding children in their call and commitment to either marriage or being single.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch discusses how parents can support their children experiencing anxiety or fear. She shares insights on the importance of gauging the right time to have conversations with our children and offers guidance on how to face dark times. Dr. Cook also addresses the topic of children with mild to moderate anxiety attending school and encourages parents to push their children to school, as long periods of absence can worsen symptoms. Overall, this episode provides valuable advice for parents navigating their children's anxiety and offers reassurance that they can help their children overcome their fears.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the topic of preparing our kids for the current cultural moment. She emphasizes the importance of being attentive and gaining knowledge, wisdom, and insight from those who teach us, whether it's in church, the classroom, or in conversations with mentors. Dr. Kathy shares valuable insights and strategies for guiding our children in this ever-changing world. Tune in for practical advice on encouraging and equipping our kids for such a time as this.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the concerning state of civics education in schools and the lack of focus on teaching virtues. She discusses the recent decline in civics scores, particularly amongst lower-performing students, and the alarming statistics highlighting the lack of knowledge about fundamental American principles. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the need for a renewed emphasis on civics education and teaching students to love and understand the importance of freedom. Tune in to discover how to build these essential skills in our students.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the idea of whether parents should encourage their children to face hard things in life. She discusses new research that suggests that exposing children to challenging situations early on can help them develop resilience and avoid future insecurities. Dr. Kathy delves into how parents can guide and protect their children while preparing them for the challenges they may encounter later in life. Tune in to gain insights on parenting strategies for building resiliency in children.
In this episode of the Celebrate Kids Podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the issue of assessing children's progress in school and how it may not always be helpful. She explores the potential drawbacks of using report cards, assessments, and studies to gauge children's performance. Dr. Kathy also delves into the influence of societal expectations and the need to control outcomes. The episode highlights a recent study that examined the benefits of math apps for early learners and its impact on closing the cognitive development gap between high and low-income families. Overall, Dr. Kathy encourages listeners to consider alternative ways of assessing children and to prioritize meaningful parent-child interactions in the learning process.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy considers the crucial role mentorship plays in the lives of kids. She highlights how various individuals, specifically high school seniors, can serve as mentors and inspire children to pursue their passions and conquer obstacles. This is through the lens of a mentorship program at Cumberland Regional High School in New Jersey, where senior students mentor incoming freshmen, resulting in mutual benefits for both groups.
Dr. Kathy emphasizes the need for parents and those working with kids, to comprehend the concerns of teenagers and recognize the significance of instilling solid values in their lives. As parents, we may wonder about our involvement in the selection of mentors for our children. Rest assured, we will address this question and provide you with guidance on how to navigate this process effectively.
As we conclude this episode, we leave you with a thought-provoking reflection on a passage from the Book of Titus. It encourages mentors to exhibit integrity and seriousness in their role. By embracing these qualities, mentors can truly make a lasting impact on your children's lives.
Today, Dr. Kathy explores the topic of college and career decisions for kids. She discusses the economic advantage of obtaining a college degree and how it can significantly increase earning potential compared to those with only a high school diploma. She gives practical helps to encourage parents to have open conversations with their children about their future and consider the opportunities a college education can provide. She emphasizes the importance of guiding children towards a bigger vision for their future and encourages parents to support their children's academic interests and aspirations. Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the college and career conversation with your kids.
Dr. Kathy dives deep into the 8 Great Smarts today, helping us consider how kids are processing the world naturally and what ways we can encourage them. This episode gives us helpful tips, and for those familiar with the Smarts, Dr. Kathy does a little extra exploration, encouraging us to remember some finer points as we celebrate kids.
Grandparents are the joy of many kids. But new reports are showing it's harder for grandparents to have relationship with kids because of disagreements between parents and grandparents. Dr. Kathy considers the role of grandparents and provides helpful steps to bridge gaps for parents and grandparents to help us celebrate kids.
Some schools aren't shrugging off artificial intelligence (AI). Instead, they're going full-boar by teaching it to instructors and students alike. Should we hit pause on AI, and if we should what are some key components we need to teach our kids so they aren't lost in a fake world? Dr. Kathy has some answers on how parents and adults can celebrate kids in teaching wisdom that can handle AI presented truths.
Dr. Kathy considers a new initiative that puts African-American men in preschool classrooms with African-american students. The push is noble, but do students learn better from people who look or see the world like they do? Dr. Kathy expands this idea to the personality and Smarts field, asking a big question if our kids should be mentored by people who have the same Smarts and see the world as they do.
The fires in Lahaina, Hawaii on Maui created incredible destruction. One area few understand the devastation is in the area of education. Kids are displaced with their families, and many are unable to see the future of education or even to hope for a future for themselves and their friends.
Disasters not only steal opportunity, but they can rob children of the joy to dream and hope. Today, Dr. Kathy considers how kids develop and how parents and people working with kids can inspire hope and a sense of resolve in the face of disasters, whether they be natural or familial through broken marriages, challenged relationships, or the loss of a job or moving.
Dr. Kathy considers the way vice is celebrated as virtue in politics. She provides some helpful tips to guide parents and adults working with kids to build strong virtues for young people to stem the tide of vice as virtue in society.
Dr. Kathy explores the many way kids learn, and gives parents tips on how to foster kids who have different learning styles.
An Ohio school recently reorganized their entire academic program around teen mental health support. The move has garnered praise from many, but are schools the best place for us to look to for mental health support? Dr. Kathy considers and gives insights for parents as we care for mental health with the support of schools
Some in society are highlighting how young women are being pushed to exemplify the vices of young men to achieve fulfillment. Dr. Kathy unpacks this, helping parents to guide kids from vice and embarrassment to confidence in Christ
Dr. Kathy hasn't seen Barbie, but a lot of the storylines and perspectives coming from it are challenging, however, in thinking about where kids are today, Dr. Kathy is leaning to one aspect of the Barbie narrative that seems to resonate. Are young people feeling pressured not to dream?
Dr. Kathy has some insight, and some important encouragement for us as we consider how to hear narratives in the culture, discern what is right or accurate, and ground our kids in the Word of God amidst all of the resolution stories they're hearing.
Natural disasters are often referred to as "Acts of God," and when kids hear this they can imagine something that's not necessarily theologically accurate nor physically true. Many need some encouragement and confidence in times like these to have a whole view of God's goodness and the depravity and brokenness in the world.
Dr. Kathy gives some good pointers for parents today on how to practically build a footing for kids to stand on that reminds them of the consistency of God's love as they face challenges in the world.
There is a lot unknown about the details surrounding the Oher-Tuohy adoption story and the alleged conservatorship that casts a negative light on the Blindside movie and adoption in general. It can be a dark place for those of us who have seen kids in adoption do incredible things.
Today on the CelebrateKids podcast, in the daily segment Facing the Dark, Dr. Kathy talks about adoption and how parents can foster a strong sense of identity and a stronger reality of the power of adoption in the grand narrative of all of creation.
Relationships are a huge deal. We are relational beings, and one of the first attributes of God we're introduced to in Scripture is the unity and diversity of the Trinity. How we relate to each other, and to God, really matters. As our kids prepare to go back to school Dr. Kathy has some important insights on friendships, what they're for, and how we can foster a healthy view of them.
Additionally, Dr. Kathy tackles one listener's question about how to guide her daughter who seemingly has too many friends.
If you have questions you'd like Dr. Kathy to address on the podcast, please email them to wayne@ignitethefamily.com
Some of the most stressful times in the school year begin in a student's closet as they pick out clothes. So, stocking those closets with clothes they like and that express their joy and vibrance is an important part of looking forward to school.
Dr. Kathy considers how parents can walk well in these moments, noting that some schools employ uniforms and that may restrict self-expression. Dr. Kathy also gives some helpful insights to how we can guide our kids to express themselves in parameters of dress codes or school uniforms.
Dr. Kathy reflects on a new Chinese law-proposal that would restrict the amount of time minors can spend on technology. Wayne and Dr. Kathy consider why China is so concerned with what citizens do and then Wayne asks Dr. Kathy how we can inspire kids to great habits with technology that celebrate humanity and avoid addiction.
Recent surveys boast the benefit of early childhood programs for kids as young as 18 months. While the data is impressive, it speaks to a challenge in our nation for low-income families and how programs focused on care and and identity benefit kids for the long haul.
Dr. Kathy has words of encouragement for families considering any education path this year for their young kids. She also gives a great perspective of how caring for those in our communities not only benefits the individual but also the whole community.
Dr. Kathy considers the importance of note taking for students, and she digs into some helpful things we can do at home that are easy to build muscles for our kids in knowledge retention. She also explores the value of a planner for students and asks parents to consider their reasoning to best setup their child for success down the road.
Parenting is hard, but with new technologies it seems like teaching is vying for the most significant challenge with students. The introduction of artificial intelligence, specifically Chat GPT, is causing many to worry that students are losing something special that many adults built in school.
Dr. Kathy considers AI technologies and gives parents practical tips on how to build fortitude for their kids so they don't miss out on lessons they should earn in school.
Dr. Kathy continues the weekly series of Dr. Kathy Says by looking at how we can walk with our kids through the school year. She understands that some students share more than others, but it's important for students to share so we know how to encourage, guide, or redirect as parents.
Dr. Kathy gives tips on how to approach students throughout the year, and shares some important conversation starters that will give you an understanding of how we can walk with our kids throughout the school year.
A bill proposed in April lends insight into dangers parents should consider as summer winds down and school begins to ramp up. Dr. Kathy considers a bill that would greatly restrict social media companies from targeting youth, which is essential considering most school-based apps and technology are funded by big technology, which is known to capture data on young people through school-based apps.
A lot is made of dads in the world. With calling dads to the front, they often lead with humor, and it's not always received well by kids and moms alike. So, should dads tone it down, or does dad humor actually have a healing effect? Dr. Kathy considers this and more.
There's a lot made of allowing kids to have the space to question their faith. In this there is a push for many to hold kids tightly in these moments. Dr. Kathy has a long view to give parents confidence in Christ while also giving parents helps to walk kids through times where they build and make faith in Jesus their own.
Dr. Kathy gives some helps for a susceptible and challenging subject. Where many conservative Christians question if divorce is prevalent because it was made more possible, Dr. Kathy encourages us to pause and consider helpful conversations to guide our children to understand the nature of abuse and the commitment of marriage.
Anxiety often goes under-noticed. We might realize our kids are nervous but fail to walk well with them through fears and anxious thoughts. Today, Dr. Kathy gives some insight on how parents can guide their kids through concerning times for their kids and direct them to replace anxiety with confidence and courage.
School is around the corner, and as many of us prepare our kids and interact with parents and the kids around us for the school year it's essential to process a few things. That's what Dr. Kathy is leading us in for the next few weeks in our weekly segment Dr. Kathy Says.
Today, Dr. Kathy explores the importance of grounding what school is for in a Biblical framework. She helps us think through important questions to chart our course for the school year.
Last weekend the LA Dodgers held their faith and family night. This was a night brought back by request from LA Dodgers players after the team created tensions with their Pride Night celebrations. The Faith and Family night occurred without incident, with little to no protests as the celebration appeared to bring unity rather than dissension. Dr. Kathy considers the way it played out and how it could be an example for families to lead kids to think and live well in a culture that is going to continue to push gender confusion and pride in gender dysphoria.
A recent Christianity Today article highlighted how many feel the problem with hypersexualization in society stems from under-developed men. Dr. Kathy considers this line of thinking and how parents can come alongside men to have greater character and women to have a better sense of what their body and attractiveness are for.
A new LifeWay study highlighted why many believers skip church on Sunday mornings. Whether it's the weather or friends are in town, Dr. Kathy has some insight on what kids glean from being a part of church and why parents need to make it a weekly priority
Receiving correction and doing something with it is a challenging part of adulthood. Dr. Kathy considers if our attitudes with correction guide kids, especially in light of a new survey and opinion piece that leads us to think that our correction might not be individualistic but could guide a community.
Dr. Kathy also gives us helpful insight to be leaders in correction. Her practical helps are sure to guide parenting in moments of critique
Dr. Richard Reeves has some ideas on the importance and source of commitment in marriage. His perspective is something he's sharing because he sees the value of marriage. What he's missing is why humans get married.
Dr. Kathy considers the challenge these kinds of presentations have for humanity in general but for parents more specifically as we teach kids about the character and identity of God that's revealed inside marriage.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALZQu9x96Jg&t=8s
In this episode of Dr. Kathy Says, we hear many practical ways to be attentive to the mental health of the kids around us. Dr. Kathy gives ticks to look for in kids and helps provide conversation and action tips for adults to employ to build strong mental health in children and teens.
A new report from Common Sense Media is showing that kids are having their user habits mined for sale by big tech companies. Companies like Google and Meta have long worked to create school-friendly contracts with education apps. What parents don't know is these companies are mining how kids interact with the apps and then selling that data to the highest bidder for marketing. Dr. Kathy weighs in on this practice's issues and offers parents insights on how to walk through this cultural moment of constant marketing with their kids.
In this re-air, Dr. Kathy considers if parents should purposely plan tough things for their kids to build resiliency. In a past episode of the Dave Ramsey Podcast, Co-host Rachel Cruze encourages parents to purposely create frustrating times so their kids grow up with more excellent resiliency. Dr. Kathy considers this advice and offers parents ways to join their children in maturity rather than simply call them to it.
There seems to be a bathroom battle afoot in some parts of the country. While the battles wage elsewhere it's easy to say "it's not here". But Dr. Kathy has some important words of caution for parents who might think that way, and she has helpful insights on how to have valuable conversations to prepare kids for restrooms with gender confused classmates and adults.
In this episode of Facing the Dark, we delve into the complex and sensitive topic of pregnancy and contraception. Dr. Kathy considers a new birth control pill that is cleared for over-the-counter distribution.
We talk about the pill, while also highlighting how something like this happens in society and what is cheapened when it is. Dr. Kathy gives parents insight on how to celebrate family, marriage, children, and marital relations with kids and how to teach them to value them as well.
In this episode of Facing the Dark, Dr. Kathy starts by venting her frustration at the focus solely on the causes of the mental health crisis without discussing potential solutions. She challenges the popular narrative of blaming COVID for issues like loneliness and isolation, urging listeners to move forward and not give it too much authority. Drawing from previous episodes where she tackled technology's impact and the link between loneliness, isolation, and mental health, Dr. Kathy introduces the concept of the five core needs related to mental health: security, identity, belonging, purpose, and competence.
Dr. Kathy emphasizes security as the most crucial need and stresses the importance of trusting people rather than external factors. The current culture of lying and the prevalence of falsehoods in society greatly impact young people's sense of security, Dr. Kathy explains. Encouraging listeners, specifically parents and individuals, to focus on what they can control, she advises becoming a source of security for their loved ones.
Touching briefly on the importance of identity, Dr. Kathy mentions that without security, one's sense of identity can become uncertain and easily influenced by outside factors. She further shares that the Celebrate Kids podcast has had an intriguing week, delving into dark topics, and Dr. Kathy has been exploring similar themes in Saturday morning sessions.
Dr. Kathy responds to new CDC guidance for so-called transgender women, that's men who identify as women, and their plight to so-called chest-feed children. Dr. Kathy considers the concept, gives insight to parents on how to prepare kids for a world denying reality, and then she unpacks how we can love our neighbors who follow this line of thinking well.
In this episode of Facing the Dark, we delve into the topic of loneliness and how to navigate it healthily. Dr. Kathy expounds on the belief that it is not realistic to avoid loneliness all the time, but rather, it is appropriate to accept and embrace being alone at times. She emphasizes that not addressing loneliness may lead to insecurity and lack of confidence. She points out that learning to handle loneliness is important, encouraging us to see it as a positive experience.
Dr. Kathy shares how resiliency is the ability to bounce back from despair, disappointment, grief, and fear, and that it is a choice that can become a part of one's character. We guide parents in fostering resiliency in children, preventing loneliness from leading to despair or isolation.
In this episode of Facing the Dark, we delve into the important topic of gender identity and guiding young people in challenging times. Dr. Kathy expresses anger and sadness about the treatment of women like Riley Gaines, who lost opportunities due to someone else's gender identity. Riley Gaines, a University of Kentucky swimmer, testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee, claiming that the NCAA forced her and her female swimmers to share a locker room with a male swimmer who identified as female, without their consent. This raises questions about creating inclusive and safe spaces for children to thrive in, which is a concern for many parents.
Dr. Kathy provides some helps to guide children with greater confidence in the reality God has created. The episode explores the need for clear definitions and protection for the dynamics of being a boy or a girl, as well as the challenges posed by ongoing cultural discussions.
In this episode of Facing the Dark, we delve into the challenges and pressures parents face in creating a successful summer for their children. Dr. Kathy dives into the "Eight Great Smarts," a powerful tool for understanding and remembering different intelligences, as she frames out how we can approach the latter part of summer with great intentionality.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is something many of us are growing to understand. However, in the wake of a recent Supreme Court Decision, DEI is being called into question. This adds to recent reports and studies that show hiring practices around a person's race or identity is growing tired, with many human resource professional reporting their companies are no longer motivated to fill positions based on DEI.
Dr. Kathy considers how parents and adult leaders can guide kids in this cultural moment, thinking about the value of diversity of culture and opinion while also not losing a sense of identity in trying to fulfill DEI requirements.
There is so much going on in the world that we can grow weary and lose sight of good practices. Sometimes the practices we've adopted exacerbate our sense of identity. Dr. Kathy takes this episode of Dr. Kathy Says and dives into how mental health is often a practice of identity, and how we can have stronger habits in our life to solidify our identity and engage better with our mental health.
Recently New York's Governor took to the podium to discuss a renewed vision for mental health support for teens and young people in her state. Dr. Kathy thinks the governor may be on to something with this renewed approach, and Dr. Kathy offers further insight to how parents can engage mental health support for their communities and their home with some simple measures.
It's often a parent's desire that kids are prepared to face tough things, but never have to. The way to drive kids to resiliency is a long and purposed road, but some are saying we're doing that wrong if we want to build toughness through direction. Dr. Kathy has good insight for parents to build resiliency.
Grandparents are the joy of many kids. But new reports are showing it's harder for grandparents to have relationship with kids because of disagreements between parents and grandparents. Dr. Kathy considers the role of grandparents and provides helpful steps to bridge gaps for parents and grandparents to help us celebrate kids.
Reading changes lives. It not only opens students' minds to worlds, but it can give kids a more whole and united perspective of reality and steady their spirit. At the same time, to grow in society one needs to read and comprehend. Which is why the current state of reading in America is concerning.
Today on the Celebrate Kids Podcast in the daily segment Facing the Dark, Dr. Kathy unpacks why and how parents need to make reading a priority in the home this summer.
There are more studies coming out that reveal much of the cultural mood is depressed. Adults and young people alike are struggling with mental health. Dr. Kathy considers if teens are depressed and stressed because adults are modeling that. She shares help for parents to guide their kids through and out of the valley of depression.
On the daily segment of the Celebrate Kids Podcast, Facing the Dark, we talked this week about a few instances where mental health is under fire. One of the stories we explored was from a New York Time piece that in some ways pinned a lot of the mental health challenges in our nation on the Covid pandemic and how we responded to it.
In Facing the Dark, Dr. Kathy shared some insight how how mental health was under fire before the pandemic, and urged parents to be mindful of the challenges kids are facing rather than chalking it up to covid concerns. Today, Dr. Kathy gives more insight and helps us actually take important steps to process some of the realities that come with strained mental health.
Sleep is a hard thing to learn we need when we're younger. But following a recent study, there is stronger and greater evidence that what teens need to learn when their kids is how to get good sleep. Dr. Kathy reflects on the study and gives encouragement for parents to help their kids get more sleep sooner.
Dr. Kathy considers a recent ruling in a Utah school to re-authorize the Bible to be in the school library after they previously banned it. The battle for young minds in libraries is on full display for much of the world, but Dr. Kathy has some important insights and encouragement for parents as these battles become more political and grow less and less about shaping kids' hearts and minds.
Dr. Kathy considers two articles we've come across recently related to identity. One talks about how identity formation is imperative for young people as they develop. The second explores the idea of decision hierarchy and how adults can guide kids unwittingly to respond to what the adult wants.
For some parents we speak heavily into our kids lives and encourage them down paths. When we do this it's natural to ask the question if our path is God's path for our kids. Dr. Kathy gives good insight and helps parents wrestle through this idea and have confidence in where God is guiding their kids.
Resources:
Summit Ministries Article:
https://www.summit.org/resources/articles/tribalism-forming-identity-in-relationships/?utm_term=Tribalism%3A%20Forming%20Identity%20in%20Relationships&utm_campaign=june-update&utm_content=tribalism&utm_source=act-on&utm_medium=email&cm_mmc=Act-On%20Software-_-email-_-Worldview%20Resources%20to%20Transform%20Your%20Faith-_-Tribalism%3A%20Forming%20Identity%20in%20Relationships Education Weekly Article: https://www.edweek.org/leadership/opinion-the-surprising-ways-you-can-influence-students-decisions/2023/06
In this episode of Facing the Dark, we delve into the complexities of history and its impact on our understanding of power and authority. Dr. Kathy explores how parents and adults can discuss these things with kids as they are presented the idea of power structures.
Episode time stamps:
[00:02:40] Appreciating and celebrating America while acknowledging history.
[00:07:34] Power struggle and authority in society today.
[00:09:41] Identity formation: Power of ideas, community influence.
[00:13:15] Find purpose in our country, seek welfare.
A recent New York Times article highlighted how covid set-off a host of problems for young people. Dr. Kathy responds, outlining a pause on blaming covid and the covid response on today's problems for young people. She also discusses habits we may have adopted that are exacerbating mental health and identity formation challenges in kids.
Being whelmed is to be overcome or engulfed. So being overwhelmed is an extreme emotion, but we all experience it. Dr. Kathy has. noticed that many caring for kids can often have the crippling feeling of being overwhelmed.
In this week's Dr. Kathy Says segment in the Celebrate Kids Podcast, Dr. Kathy provides a plethora of support to help those caring for kids overcome being overwhelmed so we can approach the kids around us with clarity, confidence, and courage.
A Dallas-based Walgreens is reportedly offering gender consultation with prescription to hormones and hormone-blockers. The move is shocking, especially as more and more young adults are detransitioning and calling out for greater care and warnings with so-called gender transition treatments.
Dr. Kathy gives good insight to parents who are considering how to guide their young people through the maze of education and normalization of gender dysphoria. She also gives some hope for Christians that the gender-dysphoria movement isn't as strong in society as some are led to believe.
Many businesses are being celebrated and reviled for their stance on many social issues. Pride month is replete with this. However, when a company celebrates families by incentivizing them to celebrate kids, do we respond with the same fervor?
Dr. Kathy gives insight today on how we should recognize and encourage businesses that step in to live-out their Christian values.
One writer recently boasted that parenting brings her peace. It's something that is dynamic in a world filled with turmoil and loneliness. Still, there are many adults turning to kids to bring them a sense of meaning and purpose. Dr. Kathy unpacks these thoughts and highlights God's design for kids and how adults can foster kids well.
There are a plethora of parenting tips, resources, and advisers who want parents to adopt strategies to instill character qualities in kids. All of these resources have the best of intentions, but many times the perspective creates undue weight on parents and kids, who are often found trying to match up to someone's perspective of what their kids should look like.
Dr. Kathy turns the tables on these lists, encouraging parents to ask their kids what character qualities they think are important, and guide students to Biblical traits.
A recent article outlines how many dads, and parents in general, feel like they're missing the mark. The article shares how some dads, especially on the gender issue, don't feel equipped nor prepared to handle the weight of these moments and struggle with moving forward.
Dr. Kathy gives important insight, and we close today looking at a passage that guides us to casting all our cares on Christ.
Gender dysphoria is presented to nearly every child through various platforms at some point. It's usually presented creatively and something that is done to inspire an imagination for something that isn't good for kids.
Dr. Kathy gives insight on how to approach this topic while giving parents practical helps to give encouragement.
Former Governor Chris Christie recently announced his bid for the presidency, and quickly threw his support behind so-called gender-affirming care for minors if parents support it. Christie's support came shortly before a federal judge placed a hold on an Arkansas bill signed into law in the state that prohibits gender transition treatments and hormones for minors.
Dr. Kathy gives parents insight into how we can parent in these trying times, what the role of government is in this situation, and how we should lead our communities during this time.
New research on mice suggests that some mental health ailments, things like Schizophrenia and Multiple Personalities Disorders could be treated with dopamine injections at the right time in development. Knowing that dopamine has been a byproduct of social media usage we ask Dr. Kathy if some challenges are the result of overloading the brain with dopamine through technology. Dr. Kathy also explains how parents can guide their students well knowing that mental health is a primary concern in this cultural moment.
Many are concerned with the influence of artificial intelligence and social media on teens and young people. One of the new players in the protection game for kids is the federal government, who is considering new bills to limit when and how social media companies can contact and involve children in their communities.
Dr. Kathy considers the logic of having governmental influence here, and gives insights to parents as they consider what is best for young people.
Today the LA Dodgers will commemorate Pride Month with a special presentation by the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. The group utilizes pro-LGBTQ+ satire of the church to promote alternative lifestyles. Their presentations are offensive and obscene to most Christians and are mostly inappropriate for young people to watch. This said, Dr. Kathy gives some insight on how parents can think well, following the lead of one LA Dodgers future hall of fame Clayton Kershaw by celebrating and lifting up the ideal and good rather than focusing on the bad.
As schools close their doors for the summer, new reports on violence and stress lend perspective to excitement for summer vacation. Dr. Kathy considers these new findings, and gives parents some insight on how we can move through the summer with our kids and how we can build muscles for encouragement in our communities knowing the world is broken but God is and has redeemed it and invites us into his redemption story for the world.
New research is showing that doubt is a cultural mood. There are many who have trust issues ranging from having faith in the medical community and politicians to building belief that Jesus is who He said He is and that he really loves us.
Dealing with doubts is one of the hardest things parents can encounter in guiding young people on their road of development. But Dr. Kathy explores how parents can step with strength into hard times.
References: https://barnagroup.activehosted.com/index.php?action=social&chash=3d863b367aa379f71c7afc0c9cdca41d.3642&s=270f57466ef0882baa7fc8805ec40528
A recent Forbes article highlighted a survey that examined 36 surveys where researchers suggest growing up with sexual minority parents “may confer some advantages to children,” possibly because they are more “tolerant of diversity and more nurturing towards younger children” than heterosexual parents, adding that exploring gender and sexual identity “may actually enhance children’s ability to succeed and thrive in a range of contexts.” Essentially the report tries to highlight that there are no noticable differences in kids in what they call sexual majority vs. sexual minority parent relationships.
Dr. Kathy considers the point of surveys, how they guide our thinking, and what we should do with them. Then she gives insight on how we can live well in community with sexual minority parents.
References: https://www.forbes.com/sites/roberthart/2023/03/06/kids-raised-by-same-sex-parents-fare-same-as-or-better-than-kids-of-straight-couples-research-finds/?sh=583cdb9a7738
Richard Reeves has an idea of what marriage is, and to back-up his idea he has a lot of data. The data aligns with the base ideas in a Biblical view of marriage, even though Reeves isn't a Christian. Reeves says marriage is desperately important for what is troubling society today, and with pride month working to infiltrate everything, old-school marriage may just come back en vogue.
Richard Reeves Video on Marriage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALZQu9x96Jg&t=8s
Sleep has always been a challenge for teens. Staying up later and being more "grown-up" with managing their own bed time has been a hallmark of American teens. However, Dr. Kathy encourages parents of teens to hold tightly to bed times and longer sleep for the benefit of their kids.
New research is pointing to the importance of dopamine at the right times during development to curb mental illness. The main body of the research studies extreme mental health challenges but the concept remains, how do people working with kids guide them to naturally experience good emotions and how does that propel them to strong development?
Dr. Kathy considers the research and then offers parents some helpful tips to catch when their child needs some feel good intervention.
In a recent Dave Ramsey podcast, Rachel Cruze told of a situation where a child could be frustrated at an adult restaurant without a kid's menu. She said that the frustration would drive the child to make decisions. While the intention is good, Dr. Kathy gives some better support and help to parents working to guide their children into good postures today. She encourages parents not to frustrate their children but to guide them through life and allow being a kid to be a developmental period.
Society plays to the loves of teens and is working overtime to get young people addicted to pleasure-filled experiences. With this, teens understand the traps and when they're in a snare they often cover over it and hide the path that led them to where they are. Dr. Kathy has important insight on how to guide teens well in these moments and how to remind them of their true identity.
New data suggests many have moved from Googling questions about God to asking Chat GPT to explain who God is. While a helpful tool for computer programming and trivia questions, Chat GPT and Google can't disciple kids. But with the loss of time investment in parenting, and the ease and habit kids have to ask AI to solve their questions and problems, it is natural for this to be an issue. Dr. Kathy gives parents helpful tips on how to think well, build strong faith, and guide kids in these technologically advanced moments.
The Nation's Report Card has given the United States a near-failing grade in civics education. That's scary when so many forces are demanding and clarifying rights because when rights are taken away, those in more challenging or weaker positions are often the ones who suffer most.
Dr. Kathy gives parents some encouragement in this episode, helping them think well on how to combat a society that seems to be missing their civic muscles.
For many June is a celebration of the LGBTQ+ lifestyle. Over the next month stores, sporting events, and public libraries will commemorate an alternative view on sexuality and encourage those who are confused with their gender to be bold and proud and advocate their confusion. For many parents, this will be a challenging month. But Dr. Kathy has helpful tip to guide us to meaningful conversations to raise gender confident kids in the midst of the confusion and chaos.
Some states have taken funds earmarked for mental health and improved security in public spaces. Many have called this a mistreatment of funds for those battling mental health. It begs the question, what does actual mental healthcare look like? Dr. Kathy explores this topic, giving us insight on how to provide support and care for those battling mental health challenges.
Many look to social media to unlock the potential of teens, but a recent study challenges how kids receive encouragement and punishments with technology. Dr. Kathy gives good tips to build muscles to unlock the potential inside social media.
Dr. Kathy considers if making learning too tied to a game is a good idea. This is important, considering many addictive gaming platforms where predatory behavior is known to exist are growing more popular for use with education. Dr. Kathy explains what is more important to focus on for kids to help them learn and have inspiration, rather than simply turning to a shiny device and fun games.
The Andy Griffith Show was an artifact of a culture long passed. Is it inappropriate to look to the past to guide our parenting in the present? Dr. Kathy considers this and how we should frame our parenting to guide today's culture.
Resources: https://dailycitizen.focusonthefamily.com/the-andy-griffith-show-remains-a-masterclass-in-leadership-and-life/?sfcid=&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=855206&refcd=855206&utm_source=RelevantResources
School districts are being encouraged to consider the gender identity of their teachers. In considering how a teacher identifies, some are calling for special accommodations and support for teachers who sense they're in the minority, as they supposedly teach students important life lessons surrounding courage in gender identity.
Dr. Kathy considers this topic and gives parents encouragement as they prepare for more moves from places like Target and Starbucks to normalize gender confusion for kids.
Reference: https://www.ascd.org/el/articles/be-ready-for-us-gender-diverse-teachers-share-advice-for-school-leaders
A recent report from NPR highlights that teens who didn't spend time on social media felt better about themselves. While the report isn't anything new, the way NPR encouraged adults to handle teen dispair in tech is unsettling. NPR encouraged adults to help teens engage in social media for their happiness.
While happiness is a gift from God, Dr. Kathy notes that it isn't a core need, and should be engaged carefully as we work to guide young people on to adulthood.
Many are taking note of the rise in loneliness and it's correlation to mental health issues in teens. Dr. Kathy considers what some are calling a medical pandemic of loneliness, and how parents and caretakers to notice concerns in teens and how we can equip them to face loneliness and other concerns.
China has a series of new laws set to roll out that push technology away from young people. The draconian measures are being done because citizens are addicted and non-productive. Dr. Kathy considers these measures and then explains how the opposite of technology addiction, what may be boredom, is actually a benefit to our lives.
Dell Children's Hospital is in hot water after reportedly misdirecting teens struggling with gender. A Project Veritas video reveals the extent of some of the misdirection a group of doctors gave patients. Those directions caused the hospital to let go of that entire department, leaving many without care.
Dr. Kathy considers how parents can support kids, as adults face fears about what doctors are saying and how they're leading with gender dysphora.
Reference: https://www.texastribune.org/2023/05/13/austin-dell-childrens-gender-affirming/
The Biden Administration is working to redefine the term "unborn" and what rights are afforded those who haven't yet been born. The battle is important for children, and Dr. Kathy explains why defending the rights of the preborn actually gives confidence in identity for children. She also explains how parents and people working with kids can teach students how to talk about abortion, the right to life, and preborn children.
Confidence and security are important dynamics to support for mental health in teens. Research shows that a father's influence can guide and change a teen's outlook on life. Dr. Kathy explains the finer points of fathering, how kids respond to active dads, and what we can do to inspire dads moving forward.
Some have said the things we love will ruin us. With a new survey of teens and their love for TikTok and other social media adults need to consider how we can step in and guide kids from destruction. Dr. Kathy has important insights that can help us. through this.
An Ohio school recently reorganized their entire academic program around teen mental health support. The move has garnered praise from many, but are schools the best place for us to look to for mental health support? Dr. Kathy considers.
Chess is growing in popularity for young people. The trend creates a curious joy for many adults, who are wondering why and what that says about teen culture. But more than that, Dr. Kathy considers how we guide students in maturity through play, and today she offers parents encouragement and insight on choosing leisure activities for their family and why new activities are important for child/parent relational development.
A new Pew report says most Americans don't believe God is necessary for morality. With this, there is a growing unmooring of morality to any kind of standard apart from popular opinion and public perception. This is a dark place for teens, who are finding the world more and more unstable. Dr. Kathy gives important insight on how we can combat this finding and encourage our kids in Godly morality.
The Surgeon General released new warnings on loneliness, saying that loneliness can cause many health impacts. However, is loneliness something we should fear, or something we should lean into to build resiliency? Dr. Kathy considers a concept that we can be lonely but never alone when we have an understanding of who we are in Christ.
There are a number of states working to guide students from high school to college with a seamless transition. Advanced Placement courses used to be how high schools guided students to earn college credit and achieve a college-like discipline. But recent trends have high school students enrolling in college early, actually dual enrolling in both high school and college at the same time. Doing this forces the issue that for many students they might not feel like graduation is actually a new beginning but instead a continuation. With this, some might struggle with how to answer the question, "what's next?" Dr. Kathy gives good insight in today's podcast.
According to psychologist Elaine Aron, who popularized the term “highly sensitive person,” roughly one in five children are highly sensitive. She notes that Highly sensitive kids have an entirely different approach to their environment, which is a strength. Some may feel pushed to change parenting habits to guide their kids to more sensitivity and ultimately to develop the super-power that Aron highlights. However, Dr. Kathy has a different take from the findings, and shares that on the Celebrate Kids podcast today.
Resources: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/03/04/parenting-experts-signs-your-kid-has-a-highly-sensitive-brain-why-neuroscientists-says-its-an-advantage.html
Gender dysphoria is presented to nearly every child through various platforms at some point. It's usually presented creatively and something that is done to inspire an imagination for something that isn't good for kids. Dr. Kathy gives insight on how to approach this topic while giving parents practical helps to give encouragement.
Recent political moves have brought a grass-roots issue to have further national attention. That issue is the concept of gendered sports and how to treat those identifying as transgender with regards to athletics.
The hardest aspect of this conversation many times is to avoid the political ditches and labeling that can come with communicating a position. Dr. Kathy gives strong insight on how parents can rise above the political discourse and encourage our kids with love to have conversations that matter.
Reading is a logical engagement. It builds muscles to guide kids and adults to address real problems with great insight. However, several alarms are going off due to kids not scoring well in reading assessments.
Dr. Kathy supports and encourages parents as we prepare kids for their futures.
Could the best skill our kids get from school is to remember? Dr. Kathy considers a new requirement in Connecticut to have students look back on high school and consider the lessons they've learned.
The concept of remembrance is packed throughout all of Scripture. Dr. Kathy highlights this in calling parents to guide students to consider what God has done and to remember it.
It's hard for moms to take time for their friends, let alone for themselves. But a new report from the Barna Group shows that when moms do that they feel better about their calling and place in life. Caring for those feelings propels moms and those who care for kids into dynamism in caring for the children in their lives.
Dr. Kathy considers the value of friendship, and why fostering friendship might be one of the most important things you do today.
Mr. Beast is a Youtube sensation. Chris Tyson has been with the channel since the beginning. Recently, Tyson announced an appreciation for a fringe form of pornography and has since declared himself trans and has broken his marriage. While many are calling on Mr. Beast to part ways with Tyson, others are calling for acceptance of the new identity Tyson carries. Dr. Kathy gives insight into how we can parent at this moment, knowing this situation is one of many we'll see moving forward.
A college student took to Reddit recently for insight on how she should respond to a loving dad. Kids drop hints for us to understand what they need at different times. Dr. Kathy unpacks how we can understand something is wrong with our kids and how we can step in to support them. Buy 8 Great Smarts by Dr. Kathy Koch
There are many trends in mental health treatment for teens and young adults. One specific trend is to place a lot of the mental health crisis on the church and look to pastors and ministers for solutions for mental anguish. Is this a good move? What should we teach our kids about the church's role in this situation? Dr. Kathy discusses.
Is fear good for parents? Does fear help parents guide our kids? Dr. Kathy considers a new study on fear and parenting and answers a few questions on the part fear plays in guiding our kids to Jesus.
Is technology helpful when we know it's bad? A new study shows how much we distrust technology, but turn to it for "good" things. Are we trying to the best of a bad situation, or are there really redeeming aspects of technology we should explore? Dr. Kathy discusses.
It's Autism Awareness Month, and many nationwide are taking steps to walk in the shows of those who think differently. Where many rest on different abilities as disabilities, much of the world is changing the narrative and highlighting the uniqueness and specialness of those who process and live life differently. These times are great for celebrating the image of God, and Dr. Kathy has important insight on how parents can teach a Biblical-defined dignity to our kids during this time where the world raises up those with different abilities.
Dr. Kathy considers a study highlighting how over-involved parents who seek to protect their kids shorten the child's life expectancy. She considers other steps parents can take to build health and wellbeing while driving resiliency.
Almost everyone has a SmartHome, different technologies that help us be more efficient or comfortable. The technologies are great, but are they subtly changing our moods, expectations, and habits of looking at reality and hard times? Are they teaching our kids that these technologies can be sentient and should be treated with respect? What does that do to how we view humans?
Dr. Kathy explores these topics and the overarching approach parents can take to build a sense of reality and resiliency in a world that picks at our comfort.
Jordan Peterson and Miriam Grossman recently explored how parents cope with their kids and gender dysphoria. It was an important conversation that centered primarily on how parents are doing in this cultural moment. While the conversation was helpful, it side-stepped how hurting parents can help hurting kids, and that's what Dr. Kathy wanted to address today on the Celebrate Kids podcast in the daily segment facing the dark.
There's a lot of ideas people hold tightly to on topics. Most of the time we believe something because someone else convinces us about certain values on topics and we're guided to hold those values in esteem. However, on topics like vaping the harm is often shrouded for teens behind a series of values we might not know how to address. Dr. Kathy gives helpful insight to parents whose kids are encountering ideas that might not present themselves as pernicious but can be harmful if they're used to setup walls between parents and kids.
Chat GPT is an artificial intelligence movement confusing some people by making them think computers are sentient. Many in technology circles are calling for a ban or a pause on developing artificial intelligence until we can wrap some ethics into it.
Dr. Kathy considers these sentiments and encourages parents as they lead the way with their kids in this technological moment.
Rosaria Butterfield is a hospitality expert. She came to Christ because of the love and care of Christians and a church to make meeting God something full of compassion and concern. She has been an advocate for calling those with gender dysphoria by the pronouns they prefer. But last week she said she confessed the sin of pronoun hospitality.
For some, this was a jarring moment. Rosaria has led a hospitality movement to guide Christians to represent Christ well in their communities. For some of us, gender dysphoria is the community we are in. It can feel like the leader abandoned the post and is approaching this all in a new way.
But Dr. Kathy Koch explains how Rosaria's response to the Spirit's leading is an example for us to follow in working with Kids. References: https://www.reformation21.org/blog/why-i-no-longer-use-transgender-pronouns-and-why-you-shouldnt-either
There is a lot of pressure on parents to build resiliency in kids. Some Christian and secular writers wrestle with stats on how to approach best preparing kids for the challenges of the modern world. Dr. Kathy considers some of the parenting approaches that are perceived as lawnmowing or helicopter parenting. She explains how we can better equip and walk with kids in current culture moments while considering their mental health and emotional resiliency.
Dr. Richard Reeves has some ideas on the importance and source of commitment in marriage. His perspective is something he's sharing because he sees the value of marriage. What he's missing is why humans get married. Dr. Kathy considers the challenge these kinds of presentations have for humanity in general but for parents more specifically as we teach kids about the character and identity of God that's revealed inside marriage. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALZQu9x96Jg&t=8s
New reports highlight that students aren't signing up for the trades in schools. This comes as America is experiencing a labor crisis in carpentry, electricians, and plumbers. Dr. Kathy discusses how these trends may come as parents highlight academia over simple interests and natural talents. She gives insight into how parents can better guide students in this arena.
There's a lot made about building a personal relationship with Jesus. Recently some have said that in order for a faith to be one's own it must be separated from the parents' faith. Some are even calling for kids to deconstruct their parents' faith to make it their own. Dr. Kathy responds.
There are so many movements that push popularity on kids to encourage them to learn. One recent push calls parents to guide their teenage daughters to take on the messages of Taylor Swift by analyzing what she sings about and how it inspires young girls.
For many parents pop-icons don't live the kinds of lives we think are normal or aspire our kids to emulate. So what should parents do when culture is packaging education in sensational packaging? Dr. Kathy responds.
April is sexual assault awareness month. What is often said during this month is we need to equip teens with better sex education. For many, the issue isn't sexual misunderstanding but a lack of sexual consent. Dr. Kathy considers the push to give more tools around consent without teaching kids the place for intimate relationships and role of friendship and other relationship spheres in conjunction with the sexual relationship sphere. Dr. Kathy also gives parents and adult leaders some fundamental practices to employ as we encounter young people who have been victims of sexual assault.
TikTok recently graveled to legislators with new promises on how they're going to handle user data. While the social media giant's practices raise concern, Dr. Kathy considers if there are larger disciplines parents need to put in place to teach students proper etiquette with technology
Dr. Kathy responds to new research that highlights how the brain changes with social media driven peer pressure. She considers how to train kids for the challenges social media brings and how to instill convictions in students so they don't follow the whims of the world.
Culture critic Dr. Mary Eberstadt has a lot to say about the value and role of the family. She discussed this week how much pressure is on the family to fight back the effects of the sexual revolution. She is quoted to say, "A virtue like modesty is not merely laughed at, but resented as a weed in the garden of sexual ecstasy. Celibacy is either incomprehensible or seen as emotionally crippling. Normative heterosexuality has the unpleasant smell of a stable human nature; a nature that establishes one form of sexual behavior as normal, and others as wrong, unhealthy, and destructive." Dr. Kathy considers Dr. Eberstadt's critique and how parents can guide students to understand the role of intimacy and how to also celebrate prudence and celibacy in a culture that not only fights them but abhors the ideas. References: https://www.firstthings.com/web-exclusives/2023/03/the-new-intolerance
Many are confused about the role of relationships. Some feel that appreciation or even affection has a natural course to romantic or sexual expression. The world doesn't have definitions inside relationships. Dr. Kathy reflects on a recent article that calls the church to be a place of community, and she outlines the structures and roles inside relationship development that we should teach children and teens as they build friendships.
References: https://ifstudies.org/blog/churches-should-lead-a-relationship-revolution?sfcid=&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=855206&refcd=855206&utm_source=RelevantResources
Tragedy struck a church community as Audrey Hale entered Covenant School in Nashville Monday, killing three children and three adults. Metropolitan Nashville Police quickly responded to the incident, fatally shooting Hale on the second floor of the school building.
Three nine-year-olds, Evelyn Dieckhaus, William Kinney, and Hallie Scruggs died of wounds inflicted by Hale. Three adults, Mike Hill, 61, Cynthia Peak, 61, and Katherine Koonce, 60 also passed away in the incident.
Many will reflect on the scenarios that led Hale to perform this heinous act. Others will unpack what occurred and carve pathways for society to move forward in a world that tries to make sense of the confusion so many feel.
In all this, parents and adults working with kids will take brave steps to continue raising children. Dr. Kathy provides some pathways forward in this segment of the Celebrate Kids podcast.
The world is trying to solve a mental health crisis in teens. However, new studies beg the question if we're just in a depressing time in history, which is causing depression across age groups. Dr. Kathy considers this study and how we can guide students through this cultural mood.
Resources: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/13/health/teen-girls-sadness-suicide-violence.html
https://www.statista.com/statistics/1221102/anxiety-depression-symptoms-before-since-covid-pandemic-us/
What if the best thing we can do for our kids today is to teach them to go to bed? That's something Dr. Kathy considers after a new study links teen mental health with bedtime rhythms and habits. References: https://www.k12dive.com/news/cdc-poor-sleep-during-covid-linked-difficulty-schoolwork/645323/
New research is showing that doubt is a cultural mood. There are many who have trust issues ranging from having faith in the medical community and politicians to building belief that Jesus is who He said He is and that he really loves us. Dealing with doubts is one of the hardest things parents can encounter in guiding young people on their road of development. But Dr. Kathy explores how parents can step with strength into hard times.
References: https://barnagroup.activehosted.com/index.php?action=social&chash=3d863b367aa379f71c7afc0c9cdca41d.3642&s=270f57466ef0882baa7fc8805ec40528
New research highlights dads' cringe-inducing humor can actually make kids stronger. Dr. Kathy considers the research, and the corny jokes, and explains what it is about bad humor that can lift a family to new heights.
References: https://www.bps.org.uk/psychologist/dad-jokes-thats-way-eye-roll
A new study highlights how risk in childhood seems to prepare kids better to fight mental health concerns later in life. While the study is important, there are many kids who are simply risk averse. Is it good for parents to push kids into risky situations? Is there good in building our parenting practices on studies that speak to our deepest fears? Dr. Kathy discusses it all.
References: https://www.inc.com/bill-murphy-jr/want-to-raise-successful-kids-science-says-treat-them-like-this-but-most-parents-dont.html
Actor Seth Rogan explained the success he and his wife are having due to not raising children. While Rogan's perspective is just that, a perspective, his words sum up a cultural mood about having children. Namely, that having children inhibits some aspects of success and that children are here to make us feel good, bring about happiness, and provide a sense of accomplishment.
Dr. Kathy explores some assumptions inside Rogan's perspective, and then explains how we can talk about having children in a healthy way with our own kids and the kids we work with.
References: https://vermilioncountyfirst.com/2023/03/12/seth-rogen-says-not-having-kids-helped-him-succeed/
Addiction is a big deal. It is one of the chief issues kids and parents are fighting today because technology and drug companies are understanding the science and using it to manipulate us. It can be a dark place, but Dr. Kathy gives good insight on building muscles to handle addiction and approach the addiction recovery we all need from things like technology and social media to live a life with others that celebrates kids.
Last fall, a teacher in Minnesota applied for and won a grant for an accessible swing and merry-go-round. The grant fell $35,000 short of the amount the school needed, so she asked her combined fifth- and sixth-grade class to help raise the rest.
What the students did was nothing short of remarkable. They raised over $300,000 in weeks and are nearly at $1 million today. While it's natural to celebrate that these kids fought for their unique abilities and friends to join them on the playground, society can highlight the push to get kids to overachieve. When that happens, there can be a natural challenge to kids whose physical abilities are inhibited from being seen or valued. Dr. Kathy speaks to how we can build value in our kids and how to truly celebrate kids, whether they support friends with special abilities or are the special abilities friends being supported.
In this Celebrate Kids Podcast re-air Dr. Kathy shares how mundane things like haircuts can turn to extraordinary encounters that help young people build a stronger sense of identity and purpose.
According to psychologist Elaine Aron, who popularized the term “highly sensitive person,” roughly one in five children are highly sensitive. She notes that Highly sensitive kids have an entirely different approach to their environment, which is a strength. Some may feel pushed to change parenting habits to guide their kids to more sensitivity and ultimately to develop the super-power that Aron highlights. However, Dr. Kathy has a different take from the findings, and shares that on the Celebrate Kids podcast today.
Resources: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/03/04/parenting-experts-signs-your-kid-has-a-highly-sensitive-brain-why-neuroscientists-says-its-an-advantage.html
A recent Forbes article highlighted a survey that examined 36 surveys where researchers suggest growing up with sexual minority parents “may confer some advantages to children,” possibly because they are more “tolerant of diversity and more nurturing towards younger children” than heterosexual parents, adding that exploring gender and sexual identity “may actually enhance children’s ability to succeed and thrive in a range of contexts.” Essentially the report tries to highlight that there are no noticable differences in kids in what they call sexual majority vs. sexual minority parent relationships. Dr. Kathy considers the point of surveys, how they guide our thinking, and what we should do with them. Then she gives insight on how we can live well in community with sexual minority parents.
References: https://www.forbes.com/sites/roberthart/2023/03/06/kids-raised-by-same-sex-parents-fare-same-as-or-better-than-kids-of-straight-couples-research-finds/?sh=583cdb9a7738
Social Media:
https://www.facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc
A recent article highlighted the value of looking back at the Andy Griffith show for wisdom in leadership. While the show is strong, Dr.Kathy considers if it is always wise to look back and long or society in the past.
Resources:
https://dailycitizen.focusonthefamily.com/the-andy-griffith-show-remains-a-masterclass-in-leadership-and-life/?sfcid=&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=855206&refcd=855206&utm_source=RelevantResources
Dads are important for kids. That's something many have pointed out recently as society has pushed fathers further away from the family. But a new study shows that dads are necessary for building security for kids, and Dr. Kathy explains the finer points of the findings in today's Celebrate Kids podcast in our daily segment Facing the Dark. Resources:
https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-children-need-nurturing-fathers-e7d84db8
Recently Walgreens announced they won't carry abortion pills even in states where abortion is legal. The move is a challenge to recent encouragement from the Biden administration to offer abortion pills by mail. These decisions are causing many to cry out for action on the company, as the company seeks clarification on the Biden administration's policy and its legal bearing in some states. With this debate, mothers and fathers can bear an identity cast on them from culture with little understanding of who to turn to and who will reinforce a healthy identity for them. Dr. Kathy responds to the Walgreens decision and gives insight to how the church can step up in this moment. She also gives insight in how identity is built and ways that we can support a Biblical view of identity.
Resources:
https://www.nationalreview.com/news/walgreens-refuses-to-distribute-abortion-pills/?utm_source=email&utm_medium=breaking&utm_campaign=newstrack&utm_term=30720365&sfcid=&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=855206&refcd=855206&utm_source=RelevantResources
https://wng.org/podcasts/tuesday-morning-news-march-7-2023-1678149512
Covid was a real thing that impacted everyone. In the wake of Covid, states are now mobilizing an incredible amount of resources to help kids make up for the time they lost in schools. In this, we ask the question if this is fair for students. Are students bearing too much of the responsibility to improve? And are schools for more than simply benchmarking learning? Dr. Kathy considers all of that on the podcast today.
A recent article highlighted something we've been looking at with Celebrate Kids. We've been considering "the genius qualities," traits found in all great innovators in our culture. One of the primary traits is imagination.
Specifically, we looked at a recent article highlighting five key aspects of imagination we should build in kids. We don't agree with these themes, and thus give a perspective of imagination and how we can and should build it for kids.
A recent report from NPR highlights that teens who didn't spend time on social media felt better about themselves. While the report isn't anything new, the way NPR encouraged adults to handle teen dispair in tech is unsettling. NPR encouraged adults to help teens engage in social media for their happiness.
While happiness is a gift from God, Dr. Kathy notes that it isn't a core need, and should be engaged carefully as we work to guide young people on to adulthood.
Do preborn babies have rights? A new UK law is chipping away at reproductive standards for Invitro-fertilization for parents. It lays the groundwork for IVF kids to find their parents before they turn 18.
Some across the pond are nervous that this move will shake the rights of those babies not yet born, and could logically unsettle some of the ideas traditionally held about the rights of embryos frozen in test tubes nationwide.
Dr. Kathy unpacks some conventional wisdom on these topics, and then closes by giving parents some insight on how to talk about the birds, the bees, and IVF treatments.
China has a series of new laws set to roll out that push technology away from young people. The draconian measures are being done because citizens are addicted and non-productive. Dr. Kathy considers these measures and then explains how the opposite of technology addiction, what may be boredom, is actually a benefit to our lives.
Since the American withdraw in Afghanistan life for young women has been incredibly different. Many are finding education challenging if not non-existent. In response, many western universities are offering online training for young women in Afghanistan at no cost to the women. Dr. Kathy considers how a right view of education can embolden young people world-wide to pursue free and liberating education that can transform their families and cultures.
A UK Man bought a house for the first time at 86 years old. The move is shocking, as he becomes the most senior first-time home buyer. With this, Dr. Kathy considers the good life, as many in culture define home ownership as the good life. She also gives perspective on how families should view the home and what to value to guide students to reach maturity and feel connected to their families.
Churches, schools, and social clubs all use social media to build community with kids. Is that wise, especially noting that most parents don't trust technology for kids?
The University of Connecticut’s School of Law will host a symposium on March 24 around the question: Are parental rights always in the best interest of children?
Dr. Kathy explores the push against parents' rights, how they attack the bond of the family, and the responsibility of the church.
Link to story: https://www.themainewire.com/2023/02/uconn-law-event-asks-are-parental-rights-good-for-kids/
A new CDC report outlines that Teen Girls aren't doing well. The first official report of it's kind outlines the incredible violence, trauma, and depression most teen girls are facing. Dr. Kathy offers encouragement and hope amid the challenge.
CDC Report: https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2023/p0213-yrbs.html
News Report on Finding: https://dailycitizen.focusonthefamily.com/our-climate-concerns-should-center-on-the-climate-of-the-teen-mind/?sfcid=&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=855206&refcd=855206&utm_source=RelevantResources
There is a rise in boomerang children. That's when a child launches at 18 to return a few years later to their parents' home. When that happens, the family can feel like a failure. But is it? Dr. Kathy discusses how parents prepare kids for resiliency, but also the responsibility parents have to always be parents, and what it looks like for the church to support those who come upon hard times.
Vaping is on the rise. While many don't even consider the impact of vaping, those experiencing physical challenges are speaking out on the dangers. That said, there are surprising realities in states that have normalized marijuana use, especially marijuana use in vapes.
Dr. Kathy shares some concerns about the physical realities of vaping, but more importantly shares how caregivers can have meaningful and supportive conversations with young people who might disagree with conventional wisdom.
A new study has a lot to say about protective parents. It's something Dr. Kathy has explored this year for her new book on resiliency.
https://neurosciencenews.com/overprotective-parents-child-longevity-22453/
Dr. Kathy unpacks recent statistics on reading, while also explaining how students learn to read and why it matters.
South Dakota recently passed a bill restricting care for minors with gender dysphoria. This bill redirects doctors away from so-called gender-affirming care. While it is notable to celebrate and encourage decision-makers to limit the harms and evil inside of current transgender treatment, there's also a place for the church to guide, comfort, and encourage families who are now left questioning what path they should take in treating gender dysphoria. Dr. Kathy gives guidance.
Dr. Kathy responds to a viral video of a young girl shouting at the TV to affirm her father. After Kendrick Lemar won a handful of trophies his daughter noted that he spoke about their love and encouragement. It was a sweet moment that has since gone viral.
Many are now touting Lemar as an exemplary parent, but we know that was simply a moment in time. Dr. Kathy gives us insight into the moment and some encouragement for parents they battle with expectations and public opinion.
A recent student walkout over a school's restrictions on commemorating Black History Month had us questioning how Christians should guide students to understand challenging aspects of our history. Where some call for reparations, others want to avoid challenging aspects of history altogether. This leaves children in awkward places, trying to honor their parents while wrestling with the hard realities of our nation's past.
Dr. Kathy gives insight to how we should consider challenges in our past, what the role and importance of teaching history is for our students' identity development, and how and why we should commemorate things like Black History Month and face dark realities.
Tia Mowry announced her divorce months ago. The announcement was made by stating that she is finding happiness in putting herself first. The world is encouraging adults to have kids to make them happy and to hold tightly to unions that support kids if they feel fulfilled. In all this, kids are the ones who suffer. Dr. Kathy has good insight and encouragement for adults who hear this message regularly.
Parents worry. It's just kind of a thing that comes with having kids. But is fear a good thing? Does it propel parents forward, or cause them to freeze when their kids need them most?
Dr. Kathy considers a new report on parents' fears and how many caretakers can approach fear with purpose.
Reports continue rolling in that Covid carried a significant cost to students in school. That said, new technology, specifically ChatGPT, an AI program that essentially can write term papers and summarize challenging books, is being used by some students to close the Covid gap in what they're missing.
Dr. Kathy gives perspective on what technology can do, and if parents should push students to technology in school, or help them build muscles through overcoming obstacles to obtain resiliency and wisdom from their education experience.
The issue of identity is fundamental to the human condition. It's the linchpin that Satan pulled with Eve, asking her and Adam if God really did say that they are who they are.
This battle continues to wage and a new landscape is being cleared in public libraries where adults are providing books that encourage kids to question their gender and sexual norms. These challenges are providing more questions for young people than answers, and Dr. Kathy has some great insight on what parents and caretakers can do to curb the impact on our youth.
https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/65957f22-45da-431f-8090-83fae75e505a/episodes/8619abb4-de1b-4241-881e-76a9e2527b0a/the-daily-when-book-bans-came-to-small-town-new-jersey
Trends in social media have men presenting as women sharing excitement about being pregnant. This isn't a reality, but is something that stretches imaginations. Captivating ideas that gender is fluid drives young people to imagine new realities that aren't possible and actually troublesome.
Dr. Kathy responds, giving us some footing as we consider how to give courage and perspective to young people in a world fighting for their imaginations.
No matter who the parent is they've been faced with guiding their kids in public. Sometimes that's a simple conversation, but other times a child may act out or embarrass a caretaker in public. How should parents respond? Dr. Kathy is faced with this question after a public critique by a college football coach of a college football player went viral. The sports commentator said the interaction went too far on national television, but did it? Dr. Kathy gives some great insight on how parents should engage in discipline when in public.
New reports guide caretakers to realize that they are the chief reason kids avoid addiction to things like alcohol. That said, it makes sense that the same is true of other addictions, like pornography. But are we engaging those lesser-seen addictions with the same resolve as the public ones, knowing they can be more harmful often. Dr. Kathy discusses and gives tips on how to broach hard conversations on the Celebrate Kids Podcast today.
The battle for truth is real, and something that many parents whose children are questioning their gender are clinging on to. Governor Ron DeSantis has new laws set to take effect in Florida that support parents, and while some question the support of those laws others are looking to come alongside a community that is hurting as these battles continue. Dr. Kathy provides great encouragement for families, and gives us a picture of how these battles are ones our larger communities should engage and support those who are wounded in them.
The world is trying to overcome poor reading comprehension. Following the pandemic, reading test scores have plummeted, and some nations are taking to new tactics to guide students in comprehension. Dr. Kathy talks about parent pressure and offers tips on how to guide young people to read well and find enjoyment in reading.
The world is filled with tragedy, and many families they can't shield kids from the heartbreak of violence and death. In this, we can struggle to teach kids to mourn well. Dr. Kathy walks through a series of helpful tips to encourage parents and caretakers.
Share your comments, questions, or topics you want to hear Dr. Kathy address by emailing us at ask@ignitethefamily.com.
A young girl saved her family's business with a simple social media post wishing for more customers for her mother. The young girl shouldered the weight of the family business, and today Dr. Kathy discusses how much parents should bring kids into the family stress.
A millennial recently turned to Reddit for guidance in responding to her father's love. The commenter said her parents noticed she was struggling recently and her father changed how he expresses his love to her so the commenter felt it.
It led us to ask how we recognize the ways our kids feel loved. Dr. Kathy explores this story and explains the 8 great smarts to us as we seek understanding to love our children and the children in our lives well.
New reports highlight that students aren't signing up for the trades in schools. This comes as America is experiencing a labor crisis in carpentry, electricians, and plumbers. Dr. Kathy discusses how these trends may come as parents highlight academia over simple interests and natural talents. She gives insight into how parents can better guide students in this arena.
A babershop recently teamed up with a non-profit to guide teens away from violence in the community. Dr. Kathy explains some reasons this could be impacting the local community and how parents and adults can guide teens in meaningful and important conversations.
The American Academy of Pediatrics issued new guidance in evaluating and treating kids who are overweight or obese. It's the first update in 15 years and comes under scrutiny because they are now calling some to provide weight loss drugs and surgery to help teenagers manage their weight.
Dr. Kathy is concerned about the new guidance and offers important insights for parents and those who care deeply for children.
The Supreme Court recently struck down a New York law that was the heart of several nationwide bills that limited firearms in public. With the rise in crime in some of those states related to firearms, legislators are turning to a new national move to provide more excellent guidance on firearms in public.
This is happening in response to an increase in firearm-related incidents nationwide. While it's natural to want to limit firearms to decrease conflicts, there's another reality in play here many don't know how to manage stress. Dr. Kathy explores that topic as the nation walks through dark times.
Federal Judge Joseph Goodwin couldn't find constitutional grounds to rule against West Virginia's Save Women's Sports Act. The bill defines male and female as a biological reality and organizes the state's athletic teams accordingly.
The decision is significant in the ongoing public debate on what transgender rights are and how they are carried out in sports. Dr. Kathy Koch highlights that while this is the topic for the conversation, the grounding of this is in identity, and society at large is struggling to find footing.
As we commemorate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this week we were faced with a challenging question: Did Dr. King succeed? Society loves a good success story, but where do our kids learn the virtues to establish courageous faithfulness in challenging times? Is faithfulness more desirable than success? Dr. Kathy Koch talks this, and what virtues are essential for us to instill in the children we interact with, on today's Facing the Dark.
The Biden administration is paving the way for abortion pills to be mailed into states that don't want them. This move is the latest in the pro-life battle after the Dobbs decision that unraveled Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey.
While this move is dark, there is light in finding courage for faithfulness in Scripture and through the wisdom of God's people. Dr. Kathy gives us insight, and are reminded of good words in tough times from Peter to the 1st century church as they lived out God's design in tough times.
A recent study from JAMA Pediatrics shows that social media checking behaviors in kids lead to heightened sensitivity to social rewards and punishments. The danger in this is students may be conditioned to respond greater to social pressures than ethical convictions. Dr. Kathy Koch responds to this dark finding by giving parents insight on how to mitigate these risks and to guide us to a greater sense of Scripture as the guiding light in cultural dark times.
Public school student enrollment is dropping, but according to a new Axios study that drop is a pre-pandemic reality. Much of the response from leadership points to trends in birthrates and immigration policies, but Dr. Kathy thinks there's something deeper happening.
American Girl Doll published a new book on body image for young girls. The book offers more questions than answers, guiding girls to reconsider their gender design and providing pathways for them to go deep into confusion.
Dr. Kathy sheds light on this issue and helps parents think well about the challenges that are created in our society's push to gender dysphoria.
Birth Announcements are a big thing on social media. Many follow a similar script and go viral: pretend you're taking a family or friend picture, turn the video on, and then say "everyone say, 'we're pregnant!'"
There is so much joy in birth announcements, but what many don't see is the dark road many couples walk of infertility that stands behind these videos. That's what Dr. Kathy Koch and Ignite the Family expert Melissa Hannigan talk about today on Facing the Dark. Melissa shares her own personal story of infant loss, and Dr. Kathy encourages couples to share their journey with their family and community in healthy ways.
Indonesia passed a new law in December that makes it illegal to have sexual relations outside marriage. The way the law is enforced is when a family member turns in someone who's broken the law.
For Christians, we know that marriage is a cornerstone for society, but we're often told that marriage is a place for self-expression. Dr. Kathy teaches us how to hold tightly to Scripture in these moments and how to train our families to love God's design for marriage before we need laws to guide our behavior.
Kirk Cameron's new book As You Grow has been met with hostility in some public libraries. However, Kirk Cameron and the movement of Christians in some communities has reopened public readings of Kirk's book that celebrates God's design in finding identity. Kirk and his friends are brave, but how to parents instill a sense of courage and compassion to face dark times? That's what Dr. Kathy and Melissa Hannigan discuss today on Facing the Dark. They explore how parents can not only model but can instill a sense of purpose, duty, and strength to face tough things.
Jay Withey is now known as Merry Christmas Jay after busting into a school and saving 40 people during a winter blizzard in Buffalo, New York. There are countless stories of heroism emerging from the storm, where people stepped into a dark time and brought light. Today, Dr. Kathy reflects on how we build those muscles of heroism, and if we should despair when heroism isn't present in times of crisis. Ignite the Family expert Melissa Hannigan joins Dr. Kathy to highlight that in times of crisis we need to look for what Mr. Rogers called "the helpers." Melissa highlights the importance of bringing light to dark times and being listed in the line of helpers in our culture.
Peter Hitchens is a British journalist, culture commentator, and author whose newest book critiques British education. A recent Tweet was caught by John Stonestreet and inspired a Break Point commentary from the Colson Center President on Education vs. Schooling. Dr. Kathy Koch unpacks some common thoughts on education and inspires us to have a renewed perspective of what the role and purpose of education is for Christians and society as a whole.
Listen to John Stonestreet's commentary on education: https://breakpoint.org/educating-vs-schooling/
Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin is in critical condition after suffering cardiac arrest during Monday Night Football. The injury stopped the game as Hamlin received CPR on the field. Eventually, coaches, game officials, and the National Football League called for the game to be postponed. Hamlin was taken to a nearby hospital where he currently is in critical condition as fans hold prayer vigils outside.
The nationally televised game was a jarring experience for many fans, and has gripped the heart of many athletes around the world. Immediate calls for prayer and well-wishes for Demar and his family have been followed by continual encouragement for the nation to pray and hope for Demar's health to improve. Naturally, we hope and pray for the same, but why do many call for prayers who don't believe or follow the teachings of the God of the Bible? And how should adults lead in times of tragedy when we may be emotional as well? Dr. Kathy and family expert Melissa Hannigan explore this and other topics on today's podcast.
Tia Mowry is a social influencer who has a strong following from her time on the Disney Channel and as a Hollywood producer. She is a self-described lover of family, but recently she and her husband announced that they are happily divorced. She notes that divorce has brought her joy, enabling her to be who she truly is. She views marriage as a course of study and is part of a movement in society that is encouraging young people to seek divorce for happiness.
Dr. Kathy unpacks the root of this movement and offers us a number of steps to help build resiliency in our identity. She guides us to consider the reality of where our happiness and worth are grounded and how to remind ourselves of that. Then, she encourages us to consider how doing this hard work in our hearts and minds guides our communities and builds strong relationships that bond us beyond fleeting happiness and good feelings.
The Daily Wire commentator Jordan Peterson recently discussed the importance of having children for adults to find actualization. The term actualization goes back to Maslow's hierarchy of needs, a social concept of self-identity that is rooted in humanism and is becoming popular in everyday life as young adults navigate a world ignoring God. Dr. Kathy Koch fields a pair of questions from producer Wayne Stender as he seeks to make sense of the role and design of children in the life of adults and the family. Dr. Kathy celebrates kids by pausing to reflect on their value and worth being found in Jesus Christ, not their perceived role to inspire adulthood to greatness or self-identity.
--Resources--
Jordan Peterson Podcast | Gay Parenting: Promise and Pitfalls | June 2022
Mark 10:13-16
Dr. Kathy will return in 2023 with all new episodes of the Celebrate Kids Podcast. Until then, we wanted to introduce a whole new podcast. Childlike Faith with Ella will feature 10-year-old Ella as she interviews well known people about spiritual issues and how as adults they are able to keep their childlike faith. In this episode, you will hear a sample of Ella's interview with Dr. Kathy Koch. For the full episode, listen on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. We hope you'll subscribe and listen to the first four episodes she has broadcast so far, and continue to follow Ella as she explores the faith we hold.
In today's episode, Dr. Kathy talks about how she is grateful for prayer and shares prayers that she thinks will bless the listeners. What are you grateful for? What are your values and priorities, and do these things show up in your prayers? She goes over the prayer acronym PART, which starts with us praising God for who he is and ends with us thanking him for what he does. Dr. Kathy also explains that the other letters of the acronym involve admitting your sin and making your requests known to God.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy shares two things in her family that she is grateful for. She mentions some of the family memories she is ever grateful for and advises families to create memories they would look back to. Who are you grateful for today? What would you do as an adult to cause children around you to be even more grateful to you? Are you doing anything strategic to help your kids be grateful for the family?
In this second part of a special two-part series, listen in to hear about valuable resources for your children. And, Dr. Kathy is excited to tell you about their programs you and your older teens may want to attend. Dr. Hamby attributes his success to the Word of God. He started memorizing verses and then God started to bring literature into his life that had the Word embedded in them. But modern companies were not interested in publishing outdated books. What naturally followed? Publishing the literature, of course! Dr. Hamby says that if Jesus was a great storyteller, why shouldn’t we be? Dr. Hamby and Dr. Kathy discuss the importance of wisdom. What role does wisdom play in your life? Once described as navigating through life skillfully, wisdom will, “make your life better than anything you can dream possible,” says Dr. Hamby.
Dr. Kathy welcomes Dr. Mark Hamby, the founder of Lamplighter Ministries, to the podcast. Its mission is to make ready a people prepared for the Lord by developing Christ-like character one story at a time.
You’ll learn a lot about surrendering to God in this first episode of a two-part series. Dr. Hamby has led an interesting life. God took a 22-year-old non-reader with low character and transformed him into a book publisher, keynote speaker, and Bible teacher with a love for character and good literature. Imagine what He can do with you!
“You need to be surrendered to whatever God is trying to teach you,” Dr. Hamby says as he thinks back on his life. Dr. Kathy and Dr. Hamby continue to discuss what it takes to be fully surrendered to God and how submitting to correction is crucial. Ephesians 5:21 says to, “submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” How do you accept correction?
In this episode, Dr. Kathy is joined by John Hannigan. He is the Executive Director of Celebrate Kids, and they talk about the major developments and progress in Celebrate Kids and some of the recent engagements of Dr. Kathy. John speaks about a new ministry called - Ignite The Family. Ignite The Family equips multi-generational families to adopt a biblical worldview. It is important to note that God ordained the family before he ordained the church, so we must pay attention to it, learning from the older people who have lived life well and supporting the younger ones. In addition, John also mentions Five for the Future, which are five things that the ministry is working on for the future. Although there is a lot to do and a lot is going on at Celebrate Kids, it is essential to be part of it by your praying and giving.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy mentions how generosity and gratitude are related. Gratitude is the distinguishing mark of mature Christians as they tend to be grateful. Mature Christians live a Christlike life and are grateful for God’s effect in their lives, and they understand that God is the source. To train your kids to be mature Christians, you need to emphasize gratitude as a character quality.
Generosity is a beautiful quality, and it changes you. Children become more generous as you expose them to role models and examples, and Jesus is our model of generosity. Generosity is about giving more than might be expected of what we have, and it’s not restricted to wealthy or well-to-do people. We can give our money, resources, time, talent, ideas, inputs, and even ourselves. The question is, are you modeling generosity for your kids or those around you?
Generous people more than might be expected of what they have, since they know the importance of changing a life and they are present and really see people. Generous people trust people, and they dream big dreams. Dr. Kathy emphasizes that we can all do something with what we have and mentions that everyone can be generous. She importantly mentioned that if you want your kids to be generous with who they are and what they have, you need to train them to be present with the people around them.
This week, Dr. Kathy helps listeners understand that generosity is not about giving because you have a lot but thinking about blessing others with what you have. It is essential to understand that generous people are not focused on themselves but think more about blessing others with their skills, resources, and experiences. Dr. Kathy also points out the ripple effect of generosity, how others who were generous to her in the past taught her and inspired her to be more generous to others.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy talks about generosity as a character quality. We have been called to be like Christ, and Christ is the perfect example of generosity, and God is pleased if we are generous. A generous person gives more of something that is usual or expected, and generous people share their time, talent, experiences, and lessons learned.
Dr. Kathy wraps this series on resilience with the tenth episode on resilience and touches on some of the vital points of the series. Resilience is a choice and can become part of our character. Resilience is about being able to come back readily from disappointment. It is important to know that kids watch and learn from your consistency in character and replicate them. Allowing our kids to struggle helps them learn from little mistakes and the consequences of their choice. Allowing them to struggle and ultimately succeed will enable them to learn the “I can do it” optimistic attitude. It’s important to let your kids know they become strong when they overcome and learn to deal with struggles and challenges.
When kids don’t give up and are willing to ask for help, they can become who God intended for them to be. Dr. Kathy touches on spiritual resiliency, which is the most important type of resiliency. It is essential for kids to learn that even if God does not answer immediately, they should not give up on him, thinking God does not love them. To help you or your kids become spiritually resilient, you and your kids need to help know how magnificent God is and that his love is boundless.
Security, identity, belonging and purpose, and competence are essential. Dr. Kathy notes that purpose is discovered as you live life. When kids believe that God created them for a purpose, they will be willing to live life more fully and help them put their weaknesses into scope. If children are secure, know their identity, have a sense of belonging, and know their purpose, they will want to be competent and resilient and quickly bounce back from the challenges.
Parents need to be available to their kids to have meaningful conversations. As parents, we must characterize resilience and be role models for our kids when it comes to resilience. As a parent, you must feel your kids' pain and acknowledge their real frustration before you try to help. It is vital for parents to know that as they try to help, they must try not to hijack the conversation and make it about them. To get kids to feel safe and keep the conversation going, we must encourage them to keep talking and to tell us more.
The words we use matters. Saying something like "you just made a mistake" affects us and those around us. Children can make mistakes because we could not provide information or didn't show up with a particular character quality. There are so many reasons children make mistakes, and how they define them is critically important.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy talks about how we may be imperfect people, but responding to your kids in ways that allow them to learn from their imperfections is essential. Optimism is a crucial attribute of resilient people, so raising your kids to be hopeful, optimistic, and sure is vital. If you want your kids to have a resilient spirit about who they are and what they can do, you need to help them to be optimistic.
Dr. Kathy says parents are the key as they need to be resilient for their kids to see and imitate. If your kids don’t see you handle defeat well, they will be afraid to try in your presence. Your kids must know that you are not scared to make mistakes or learn new things and see how you handle situations when you seem overwhelmed. You have to show them that you are resilient - you do not panic, you recognize that you do know everything immediately, and see how you are willing to learn. It is not appropriate to bubble-wrap ourselves so we can teach this to our children. Dr. Kathy emphasized that your children must learn to struggle, and you have to let them struggle to learn to go through the process. As a parent, you model victory, hard work, asking for help, and calmness in difficult situations that feel the grief of disappointment and don’t dwell on it.
Resiliency allows for growth and for dreams to be met. It will enable us to dream and successfully fulfill our dreams. The idea of helping our kids recover is so that they will grow. We must understand that growth and progress happen when we can take risks. Dr.Kathy emphasizes that we want to be seen in the moment of pain, so before you say to anyone, “just get over it,” or “you can do it,” it is essential to feel and acknowledge their pain. It is important to do this because if you don’t feel the pain of others before you try to solve the problem, they will feel like the problem.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy talks about resiliency's core or main advantage. There is a God-given responsibility to be resilient and raise resilient kids. Resiliency is a choice that becomes a learned ability and part of our character. Some of the advantages of resiliency are that it leads to growth. If you recognize that you have not grown much lately, it could be because you are not resilient. It also leads to hope and prevents a victim mentality. When we are resilient, we are also teachable. Resilient people want to try again until they succeed. They are also willing to listen to ideas and see different perspectives. Putting all of these together leads to confidence.
In the first of a new series on the topic of "Resiliency," Dr. Kathy discusses what resiliency is and why it is valuable. Bubble-wrapping our children doesn't allow for resiliency. It is essential to consider what happens to our children if we don't allow them to take risks. It is vital to strike a balance between helping and getting in the way, and also, knowing the difference between your kids allows you to understand how best to help them. It is important that we benefit from the struggles in life and our character matures as our faith develops.
In this final episode on "Character Qualities," Dr. Kathy talks about how we need to change our beliefs to make progress with good character qualities. Knowing what is behind the bahavior and what is foundational is important. As a parent, invite your kids to explain things to you so that you can better understand them. The teaching of character requires the teaching of the belief that must be in place for the character qualities to shine out. This may also require an understanding of the immature character that is in the way of establishing good character qualities.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy talks about how it is crucial to speak to your kids about their character choices and not just whether something is good or bad. One of the ways to teach character is imitation. Jesus encouraged His disciples to imitate Him just like He imitated His father. Be intentional. If you teach something, you have to expect it; if you expect it, you have to inspect it. Change requires taking off and putting on. As we teach kids character, we teach them who to be and what could stand in the way of who they could be.
Dr. Kathy mentions that we must make the word the foundation of all our choices, decisions, actions, attitudes, and characters. Though there are many models of character, the word is still the best option for character modeling. Dr. Kathy also mentions the Picture Smart Bible by Dan Peters as a bible that is picture smart. It’s an excellent bible for devotional, homeschool families, and any family and helps you engage scriptures in a new way. It contains every book of the bible summarized in a one-page picture description of the book's central theme, an overview of the bible, and why each book is in the bible.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy talks about Jesus as a character model. You should be looking more and more like the God of the Bible and His son Jesus as you see to develop your character. The longer you have worked with Him, the more you know Him. You need to put off your old self and put on the likeness of God in righteousness and true holiness. If parents become and behave like Jesus consistently, it makes it easy for kids who look up to them to become like Jesus.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy talks about why it's vital to prioritize character over obedience. It's essential to pay attention to the heart and character of a child. If we stress obedience and rule-following, it could lead kids to be obedient only when someone is watching or if there is no penalty. Obedience follows or is acheived when character is the goal as it starts with the heart.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy talks about the benefits of mature character. Isaiah 66:2 mentions the three qualities God desires in whom he looks for. The qualities are humility, being contrite in spirit, and one who trembles at God’s word—character matters, and having something to achieve matters. Character is always our choice, and prioritizing it is our responsibility. When we have a healthy character and a righteous character age, we are trusted and can discern who is trusting, resulting in peace. Most parents are looking forward to the day when their kids will be appropriately independent, but this can only be possible if you teach, train, and coach character qualities.
In this episode, Dr. Kathy gives specific examples of character age to help you determine what you should be looking at now and whether your kids are ready for certain privileges. For example, a person in your home could get a ten for patience. In contrast, you get a five because they seem to respond more patiently than you do in different situations automatically. We should not just think about grading each character quality but how complete and how much of other character qualities kids use. In Dr. Kathy’s book Five to Thrive, she writes about discernment for security and belonging. A child who knows how to behave in new situations has a more mature character age, and discernment. How good is a child at determining who is having a bad day and who is outrightly “bad”? Becoming more mature in our character age is a process that takes time, instruction, modeling, correction, affirmation, and learning. Kids with immature character age always need guidance in new situations and can’t determine what is appropriate based on past experiences.
It is essential to know that children may be of certain chronological age but may have lower character age with respect to some qualities. If kids have a high character age, they will be able to function better with others. If you want to work on your character qualities, it will take some time and intentionality to learn to use the particular qualities you are after. We can age up and mature up if we are intentional about learning the character qualities we are after. Character development is a process, and it’s not automatic. In
some instances, technology can impact character qualities, making us believe that we are the center of our own universe and believing other tech lies. Technology can cause us to be dissatisfied because of the ease of use such that when we come across difficulties, we become quickly discouraged. To help kids, we must prioritize the character qualities we want them to have before using technology. Technology can also make children entitled since they feel they always have access to it. So families need to think about the qualities they value and work on them. The greater the character's age, the greater the likelihood you can give your children freedom and responsibilities.
This episode talks about how parents raise children based on chronological age, which may not be the right thing to do since children grow differently. For example, some children have passed certain chronological ages, but their character may seem like kids below that age. So using chronological age may not be wise as it is essential to consider each child's unique circumstances. Dr. Kathy mentions that children may be of the right chronological age for specific opportunities or privileges, but their character may demonstrate otherwise. Dr. Kathy also mentions the idea of not just considering chronological age but also considering character age when making decisions involving raising our kids.
Submit your questions and share your feedback: debbie@celebratekids.com
In this episode, Dr. Kathy Koch talks about how technology has robbed our children of character. There are many character qualities but it’s important to decide what matters to you and your family based on your mission, purposes and values, and the uniqueness of your kids. Dr. Kathy also goes on to mention that you could also choose character qualities based on how technology has changed your kids. Technology makes our kids believe in certain lies like they are the center of their own universe and this makes them develop other negative character qualities. You are not a bad parent if your kids have developed bad character qualities. What is important is that you prioritize what you want to see by making a list of what negative characteristics they exhibit and teaching them the opposite of that.
Dr. Kathy starts out by mentioning what she spoke about two weeks ago about ministry, what was been done, and what is going to be done. She also mentioned starting out a series on character development last week. Last week Dr. Kathy talked about what character is all about, how it is developed and why it is important. Dr. Kathy also mentioned the importance of focusing on the things that matter and for her, those things are the things of the Lord. Character counts and it’s in our mind and soul and character marks us. Character comes from a Greek and Latin origin that refers to a stamping and engraving tool that sharpens and engraves. Character is your distinctive mark. Dr. Kathy talks about heading off to Alaska, how that would be the fiftieth state she is visiting and how character matters and it’s our reputation everywhere we go. Character shows up as we interact with people, and ideas and they are brick to brick foundations for a quality of life.
This episode answers the question of how we develop character. In one of her books (Five to Thrive) she characterizes character qualities according to the five core needs, we must meet and these include the need for security, identity, belonging, purpose, and competence. Each of these core needs could be associated with different character qualities. It is important for an adult, parent, or teacher to choose the qualities to emphasize. Character is practical so it’s important to decide your expectations for your life and kids and how important character qualities are. It’s important to know what you intentionally want to pass on to your kids using role-modeling and communication. Dr. Kathy reads a list of some character qualities most of which are from her books, like attention, compassion, caring, courage, generosity, sensitivity, thankful, thoughtful, wise, etc.
To prioritize character the first thing you have to do is to choose the qualities you want to model. What are your values and purposes? What is your mission in life? What do you want to mark or characterize your character? It’s important to answer these questions to decide which qualities to embrace and the goal should be to get you and your kids to a place where you could use those qualities without thought and effort.
Character qualities are intertwined and character qualities drive other character qualities. For example respect for others motivate compassion and loyalty drives service. Dr. Kathy also mentions that if you are punctual it means you are respectful, dependable, and responsible so character qualities are intertwined. To help kids imbibe character qualities we talk about it, we model it and we teach with direct language the character qualities we want to our kids to develop. It’s is your instruction that adds to your motivation and that allows your kids to consistently display the character qualities you want your kids to imbibe.
Being a Christ-follower is also another motivation to get your character right. So the steps involve choosing the character qualities, getting motivated, watching for modeling, getting some direct instruction, and developing success by the consistency of choosing the character we are prioritizing over and over again. As we choose and prioritize character qualities we come better at it and it’s comfortable for us and marks us as part of who we are. Reteaching may happen from time to time with kids to help me enforce consistency as learning character is not all that different from learning other things. Kids learn by doing so it’s best to start with choosing the quality, to keep making the same choice and it soon becomes a part of who they are and how they are known. We learn character by expecting it, talking about it, modeling it, teaching it, and giving kids practice with it.
Technology has robbed most kids of their character as with the use of technology kids can isolate, become self-centered, and become prideful. Dr. Cathy mentions that this episode is not to make you feel bad that your kids do not have righteous character as it’s a general problem because of the media we are watching, the songs we listen to, the games we play, the sites we visit and the people we follow are not always a perfect example of good character qualities. Dr. Cathy ends by saying teaching character matters because children matter, today causes tomorrow and childhood causes adulthood. It’s important to get the character right by modeling, teaching proper character, helping kids choose the right character attributes, and helping them do it over and over again so as to be who God wants them to be.
Come back next week to know more about how technology influences the character qualities we should focus on.
Dr Kathy talks about taking a break from podcasting to attend to a few things and says she is fully back. She talks about character as a topic that she would be going over for a few weeks and what makes it important. She mentioned some of her books and how they contain an appendix of character qualities in them. She mentioned how her parents and grandparents stood out as examples of good character for her to follow. It is important to make your kids understand that who they are matters as much as what they do.
Kids should also understand that others are watching what they do. She mentions that it is important to also look out for how the character of our children can be improved. It’s also important to know that character can be improved and to know how we can teach the qualities. Sin and negative qualities easily come to kids but the character must be taught as it doesn’t come easily. Issues about character are easy to discuss with your kids if they are brought up by others.
Character is of Greek and Latin origin and it refers to stamping and engraving tools that sharpen, cut or engrave to create a distinctive mark. Character is a distinctive mark that is engraved into us and what we are known for. Dr Kathy mentioned that kids don’t have to fake it to make it as we want a mark that characterizes them. Everything we are causes everything we do and this is a unique belief at Celebrate kids. Everything we are (our character) shows forth in our doing. We don’t want our kids to get into character but to have character and use character. Character forms the foundation of all of our decisions, choices, attitudes and actions and it is not just about having virtues or good qualities. Our goal must be to use our good character to affect and influence others positively and cultures. When we think about character we always think about individual qualities but it is more important to think about character as a brick by the brick foundation for a quality fulfilling life. Dr Kathy closes the podcast by saying your character needs to be wide, tall, deep and well-built that way negative influences will not affect it.
In the last two episodes, Dr. Kathy shared reasons children make mistakes. In today's, she shares how to help them. After some basic, important ideas, she talks about the importance of their environment and how to make adjustments. Then she details the three ways we've been designed to remember things because sometimes children understand things, but can't remember them long enough to do well on quizzes, tests, and more. She closes the podcast with two very specific examples of how using the 8 smarts can enhance children's understanding.
Mistakes are a part of life and, yet, it can be frustrating when kids make them. In this first podcast in a two-part series about why children make mistakes, Dr. Kathy shares how the 8 smarts are relevant and that we must choose activities for them that are appropriate. Then, she’ll detail four of ten reasons kids make mistakes. You’ll be encouraged.
Resources mentioned in this episode: “8 Great Smarts” by Dr. Kathy, “No More Perfect Kids” by Dr. Kathy, www.CelebrateKids.com Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
As Dr. Kathy shared in the last episode, being addicted to technology’s effects on our hearts and minds is very real. There’s great news – there are practical things we can do to positively affect us and our children. In this jam-packed episode, learn 14 ideas you can successfully implement!
Resources mentioned in this episode: “Screens and Teens” by Dr. Kathy, “Five to Thrive” by Dr. Kathy, www.CelebrateKids.com Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
It’s difficult to use less technology because addiction is real. But, we’re not addicted to the tech itself, but to what happens in our mind and heart because of the tech we’re using. Dr. Kathy will explain the lies that change us and how it’s hard to change our character and habits because of the power of our technology. This one-episode summary is easy to digest and will get you ready for the next episode about solutions.
Resources mentioned in this episode: “Screens and Teens” by Dr. Kathy, www.CelebrateKids.com Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Jesus Christ was a brilliant teacher. Obviously, He didn’t come to earth to demonstrate effective teaching methods, but while He was here fulfilling His purpose, He did. We’d be foolish to not learn from Him. He was the best! Parents and teachers can communicate and teach better when we use His methods. In this third episode of a short series, Dr. Kathy shares more about Jesus’ teaching effectiveness. These truths will help you relate to Him in new ways.
Resources mentioned in this episode: John 17:4, Matthew 11:20-24, Matthew 16:5-12, Feeding the 5,000 in Mark 6:30-44, Feeding the 4,000 in Mark 8:1-10, Mark 3:14, John 17, Luke 6;12-13, Mark 1:35, John 17, www.CelebrateKids.com Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Jesus Christ was a brilliant teacher. Obviously, He didn’t come to earth to demonstrate effective teaching methods, but while He was here fulfilling His purpose, He did. We’d be foolish to not learn from Him. He was the best! Parents and teachers can communicate and teach better when we use His methods. In this second episode of a short series, Dr. Kathy shares four things that contributed to Jesus’ teaching effectiveness. Will we be able to do them, too?
Resources mentioned in this episode: John 2:25, John 10:14, Luke 4:1-13, Gunn, A. M. (1998). Jesus the teacher: Examining His expertise in education (Updated and revised version of Herman Horne’s 1920 book). Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Jesus Christ was a brilliant teacher. Obviously, He didn’t come to earth to demonstrate effective teaching methods, but while He was here fulfilling His purpose, He did. We’d be foolish to not learn from Him. He was the best! Parents and teachers can communicate and teach better when we use His methods. In this first episode in the series, Dr. Kathy explains that Jesus’ positive interactions with children, as recorded in the Gospels, were based on His beliefs about children. Our beliefs matter, too!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Matthew 18:1-6, 10; Matthew 21:15-16; Mark 10:13-16, www.CelebrateKids.com Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
In Luke 2:52 we learn that Jesus grew in four areas during his childhood. Dr. Kathy suggests that we can help our children grow in the same four areas – and we can grow in the same ways, too! You’ll be encouraged as you consider setting goals for your children that line up with the goals Jesus had for Himself!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Luke 2:41-52, “Screens and Teens” by Dr. Kathy, www.CelebrateKids.com Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Laura Petherbridge returns to the podcast so we can understand more about smartmoms and how we can perhaps help them. She encourages stepmoms to understand they’re not alone in their struggles.
Resources mentioned in this episode: thesmartstepmom.com, iwc21.com, Laura’s books are When “I Do” Becomes “I Don’t”—Practical Steps for Healing During Separation and Divorce, The Smart Stepmom, co-authored with stepfamily expert Ron Deal, 101Tips for The Smart Stepmom—Expert Advice from One Stepmom to Another, and Quiet Moments for the Stepmom Soul – a devotional. www.CelebrateKids.com Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy invites the Smart Stepmom, Laura Petherbridge, to join her to help us understand stepmoms. She shares three important things we must understand if we’re going to support them well. There are things that make their lives very challenging. If we know these things, we can help our friends and be a safe sounding board.
Resources mentioned in this episode: thesmartstepmom.com, Laura’s books are When “I Do” Becomes “I Don’t”—Practical Steps for Healing During Separation and Divorce, The Smart Stepmom, co-authored with stepfamily expert Ron Deal, 101Tips for The Smart Stepmom—Expert Advice from One Stepmom to Another, and Quiet Moments for the Stepmom Soul – a devotional. Summit Ministries: summit.org, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy is excited to invite Tina Hollenbeck to the podcast to discuss the new book she wrote for Celebrate Kids, 8 Great Smarts for Homeschoolers. They talk about how the smarts can help homeschool parents meet the needs of their children. The hundreds of practical ideas in the book will be very helpful!
Resources mentioned in this episode: 8 Great Smarts for Homeschooling by Tina Hollenbeck, 8 Great Smarts by Dr. Kathy, www.CelebrateKids.com Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy is excited to invite Tina Hollenbeck to the podcast to discuss the new book she wrote for Celebrate Kids, 8 Great Smarts for Homeschoolers. They talk about how the smarts can help homeschool parents meet the needs of their children. The hundreds of practical ideas in the book will be very helpful!
Resources mentioned in this episode: 8 Great Smarts for Homeschooling by Tina Hollenbeck, 8 Great Smarts by Dr. Kathy, www.CelebrateKids.com Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
As many parents and teachers are beginning another school year or thinking about it beginning soon, it’s a perfect time for Dr. Kathy to quickly review the 8 different ways all children are smart. You’ll learn how to encourage them with this information and how to help them learn with their strengths.
Resources mentioned in this episode: 8 Great Smarts for Homeschooling by Tina Hollenbeck, 8 Great Smarts by Dr. Kathy, www.CelebrateKids.com Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
In this third episode about prayer, Dr. Kathy recommends how we can pray for teachers, parents, and students of all ages. You’ll be inspired! The Scripture she shares at the end may become one of your favorites.
Resources mentioned in this episode: James 1:5, Daniel 11:32, www.CelebrateKids.com Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
In this second episode about prayer, Dr. Kathy talks about the importance of making sure our prayers and our children’s prayers are realistic. If children ask God to change things that can’t change, they could give up on God when nothing happens. We must prevent that. She also shares examples of how to use Scripture for prompting prayers.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Five to Thrive, 1 Corinthians 13, Psalm 90:17, Proverbs 14:23, www.CelebrateKids.com Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Prayer matters. Dr. Kathy begins by sharing what we need to believe about God in order to pray. She then shares about how and why we can view prayer as a conversation with God.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Five to Thrive, Esther 4:16, https://celebratekids.com/newsletter/, https://celebratekids.networkforgood.com/projects/100393-main-giving-page, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
In this episode, Dr. Kathy talks again with Durenda Wilson. They begin by talking about the benefits of being unhurried. Then Durenda shares wonderful, practical ideas about raising children who accomplish chores well. There are so many advantages to involving them at a young age! Dr. Kathy and Durenda also talk about the advantages of playing outside and homeschooling.
Resources mentioned in this episode: The Four-Hour School Day: How You and Your Kids Can Thrive in the Homeschool Life by Durenda Wilson, The Unhurried Homeschooler: A Simple, Mercifully Short Book on Homeschooling by Durenda Wilson, Unhurried Grace for a Mom's Heart: 31 Days in God's Word by Durenda Wilson, DurendaWilson.com, The Durenda Wilson Podcast, Start with the Heart, CelebrateKids.com Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy talks with Durenda Wilson about why and how to raise children who are lifelong learners. They talk about the role of curiosity. Her answer about what happens to children who aren’t lifelong learners is profound! Also, learn about how and why to talk with your children. We also talk about structure, boundaries, and stability that allows for flexibility and obedience. We also talk about chores and teaching children a work ethic. Wow! This is a packed-full episode!
Resources mentioned in this episode: 8 Great Smarts, The Four-Hour School Day: How You and Your Kids Can Thrive in the Homeschool Life by Durenda Wilson, DurendaWilson.com, The Durenda Wilson Podcast, Awakening Genius in the Classroom by Tom Armstrong, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy wraps up the four-part series about play with this episode about how the mind can be affected. Last week she explained how play can awaken and strengthen all 8 smarts. This time she uses the 12 genius qualities to explain that the mind is enhanced when we keep these qualities in mind when playing. Let’s play with our children because it’s fun and because there are many benefits.
Resources mentioned in this episode: 8 Great Smarts, https://celebratekids.com/?s=genius, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy shared how play benefits the heart in the past two episodes. Today she begins talking about how play positively affects the mind. She makes suggestions for how to play well with all 8 smarts that she teaches about in her book, 8 Great Smarts. All the smarts can be awakened and strengthened simply by playing. These ideas will help you be so creative! Resources mentioned in this episode: 8 Great Smarts, www.CelebrateKids.com Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy continues talking about the benefits of play, especially when parents and children play together. Hearts are strengthened. Children can learn how and why to be resilient. Many character qualities can be strengthened when we enjoy each other and have fun through play.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Summit Ministries, No More Perfect Kids, Start with the Heart, Five to Thrive, Screens and Teens, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Our children have had an unusual childhood the past year so let’s prioritize play this summer. It will be so good for them! There are numerous benefits especially when we play with our children. Dr. Kathy’s insights will encourage you to play, play, and play!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Screens and Teens,www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy shares five more ways we can encourage children this summer. In last week’s episode, she shared the first five ways. You’ll want to listen to that one if you haven’t. In this episode, she shares important ideas about children’s strengths and challenges. She talks about celebrating real victories, introducing children to overcomers, and the value of play. These easy-to-use ideas will encourage your children and you!
Resources mentioned in this episode: No More Perfect Kids, Start with the Heart, 8 Great Smarts, Screens and Teens, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy shares five ways we can encourage children this summer. The ideas are practical and can change the culture of your home from one of negative discouragement to one of positive encouragement. You’ll appreciate the specific reason to not look for perfection, why to ask your children if they’re satisfied with how they did before you share your opinion, and more. These easy-to-use ideas will encourage your children and you!
Resources mentioned in this episode: No More Perfect Kids, Start with the Heart, 8 Great Smarts, Screens and Teens, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Think about your successes. Most likely, they’re due to your ability, talents, and skills along with your choice to use character qualities like teachability, effort, and perseverance. Therefore, make sure to affirm both in children. When they do well, let them know it’s because of how they’re smart, other abilities, and their choices to use their character. You will empower them to be successful even when things are hard.
Resources mentioned in this episode: 8 Great Smarts, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
In the last episode, Dr. Kathy spoke about how important the words are that we use to describe ourselves and others. The same thing is true when we think of God. When we describe Him as He is described in the Bible, we expect Him to behave in those ways. This changes our approach, expectations, and optimism. Dr. Kathy shares about “Our God is an Awesome God” and a meaningful illustration from her niece.
Resources mentioned in this episode: www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
This nursery rhyme isn’t true: “Sticks and stones may break our bones, but words will never hurt me.” Words do hurt and maybe the ones we think or say about ourselves hurt us the most. We don’t always have to say negative things that are true. And we can sometimes describe action or feelings without using “I identity” statements. Learn why and how!
Resources mentioned in this episode: www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
In this last episode in our technology series, Dr. Kathy reviews one practical idea for each of the technology lies and then shares several ideas that are helpful for parents who want to help their children use technology less and use it well.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Screens and Teens, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
In this podcast, you’ll learn about technology lie #5 – information is all I need so I don’t need teachers. Dr. Kathy explains how this lie influences young people’s behavior, why they may believe the lie, and how we can help them in light of this. If you know teens not digging deep for truth and quickly satisfied with superficial answers, this lie may be why. We can do something about it!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Screens and Teens, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Some uses of technology are great and some technology is great. Others can mess with children’s minds and hearts which is so sad. They believe lies and are influenced by them. Dr. Kathy teaches about lie #4 in this episode – I am my own authority. You won’t be surprised by what causes young people to believe this. You’ll also learn which of their concerning behaviors are connected to this lie and what to do about it. As always, her practical ideas will encourage you.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Screens and Teens, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
After Dr. Kathy reviews the first two technology lies, she teaches about lie #3 – I must have choices. Because of the way technology is designed and used, using it a lot changes our beliefs, actions, and attitudes. She explains how this lie influences young people’s behavior, why they may believe the lie, and how we can help them in light of this.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Screens and Teens, Five to Thrive, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy and her guest, Leslie Nunnery, discuss discipling children and shepherding their hearts so relationships between parents and their children are strengthened. Leslie’s definition of discipleship is so important. You must hear it! Also, her view of moms will inspire you! We want parents to encourage, equip, protect, and teach children. If we’re not careful, technology gets in the way. Prayer matters!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Leslie Nunnery, Teach Them Diligently Homeschool Conventions, www.TeachThemDiligently.net, Teach Them Diligently: Raising Children of Promise by Leslie Nunnery, Heart School (a video-based class for homeschoolers by Leslie Nunnery), Screens and Teens, Start with the Heart, www.axis.org, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Parents who believe technology lie #2 that they deserve to be happy all the time may try to buy things to keep themselves happy and to keep their kids happy. This is unhealthy for several reasons including that it’s important that children learn the value of money and savings at a young age because patterns and habits start when we’re young. Jim DeGaetano shares great advice about helping children learn to save, share, and spend wisely by teaching them how to handle delayed gratification. He also talks about how we can play with kids using money and what to say about money. You’ll appreciate the practical ideas!
Resources mentioned in this episode: The Fruitful Retirement, Larry the Bunny Saves His Money, Jim DeGaetano of Diamond Wealth Advisors, Screens and Teens, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Parents who believe technology lie #2 that they deserve to be happy all the time may try to buy things to keep themselves happy and to keep their kids happy. This is unhealthy for several reasons including that it’s important that children learn the value of money and savings at a young age because patterns and habits start when we’re young. Jim DeGaetano shares great advice about helping children learn to save, share, and spend wisely by teaching them how to handle delayed gratification. He also talks about how we can play with kids using money and what to say about money. You’ll appreciate the practical ideas!
Resources mentioned in this episode: The Fruitful Retirement, Larry the Bunny Saves His Money, Jim DeGaetano of Diamond Wealth Advisors, Screens and Teens, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Technology is a blessing is many ways and yet it can cause us and especially young people to believe lies that negatively influence our beliefs and behavior. In this podcast, Dr. Kathy explains the second lie she addresses in her book, “Screens and Teens” – I deserve to be happy all the time. You’ll benefit from learning what causes it, what it causes, and what we can do that helps.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Screens and Teens, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy thoroughly explains the first technology lie she addresses in her book, “Screens and Teens.” Do you know people who believe “I am the center of my own universe”? She explains why young people might believe this, what it causes, and what we can do to help children and all people see it as a lie. You’ll love her truths and ideas!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Screens and Teens, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy and her guest, Suzanne Phillips, discuss potential challenges that occur because children and teens have access to so much technology. They discuss its effects on relationships in particular – vulnerability, confrontation, interested in what everyone else is doing, and more. They also promote two upcoming Celebrate Kids conferences in St. Louis March 4-6, the Ignite Women’s Conference and the Celebrate Kids Homeschool conference. We’d love to have you join us!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Suzanne Phillips, Screens and Teens, www.IgniteWomen.org, www.CKHomeschool.com, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy begins a series of episodes about technology by explaining how technology use influences brain development and how it can also change our character, which is rooted in our hearts. She explains that younger people have relationship-based beliefs and this is why we must especially pay attention to who they are listening to and following. She also includes a brief look at why children (and all of us!) may be addicted to technology.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Screens and Teens, Start with the Heart, Five to Thrive, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Summary: Having meaningful conversations with children keeps us connected. They’ll feel known, we get to share valuable insights with them, and they get answers to important questions. But, only if we listen and they talk enough to share what’s going on. Learn 10 easy-to-apply ideas to make this more likely.
Resources mentioned in this episode: No More Perfect Kids, https://www.biblegateway.com/, https://biblehub.com/, https://www.rightnowmedia.org/, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy and Jason Jimenez, the founder of Stand Strong Ministries, talk about why we must be willing to have challenging conversations with our children. We can make changes to our beliefs and behaviors to do this better with our children. We must!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Jason Jimenez, Stand Strong Ministries, www.standstrongministries.org, www.challengingconversations.org, Challenging Conversations: A Practical Guide to Discuss Controversial Topics in the Church, 8 Great Smarts, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy and Jason Jimenez, the founder of Stand Strong Ministries, talk about why we must be willing to have challenging conversations and how to do this well. Find out how advocators are different from people who are aggressive in conversations and those who avoid them altogether. And, you’ll love the three questions to use when conversations come to a close.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Jason Jimenez, Stand Strong Ministries, www.standstrongministries.org, www.challengingconversations.org, Challenging Conversations: A Practical Guide to Discuss Controversial Topics in the Church, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy suggests that if we’re not careful, the greener-grass-syndrome will ruin Christmas for us. She recommends keeping comparisons to previous years to a minimum so we’re not robbed of contentment, joy, and peace. She shares the dangers of “if-then thinking” and encourages us to be fully present to this year’s celebration.
Resources mentioned in this episode: No More Perfect Kids, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
When Mary found out she was chosen to be the mother of the long-awaited Savior, Jesus Christ, she was, of course, shocked. At the same time, her cousin Elizabeth was shocked to conceive a child with her husband, Zechariah, even though they were both “advanced in age.” The timing allowed Elizabeth and Mary to support and encourage each other. Let’s do this, too! Let’s reach out when we need someone and let’s be the someone who someone else needs.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Luke 1:28-45, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy continues talking about teaching children how to think by sharing the third and fourth parts of her model. In last week’s episode, she suggested we teach children what to think about and why to think about those things. Today, she explains that we can teach children what to think with and what sources to use. Her use of Psalm 23 as an example will help and inspire you. As always, her ideas are practical and can result in greater attention, confidence, participation, comprehension, and memory.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Psalm 23, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
We can help children focus their thinking so they can increase learning and decrease frustration. They’ll think well and be successful! This is relevant for adults, too, because learning should be our goal when we listen to sermons and more. Dr. Kathy shares the first two parts of her four-part thinking model that you can use yourself and teach to children. You might especially love her framing idea. All her ideas are practical and can result in greater attention, confidence, participation, comprehension, and memory.
Resources mentioned in this episode: www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
In the past two episodes, Dr. Kathy shared 8 categories of study strategies and encourages parents and teachers to teach strategies from each. We can’t just tell children to study! In this episode, she shares 10 things to do that help children learn the strategies well. Be encouraged! There’s much we can teach children!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Start with the Heart, 8 Great Smarts, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
We can’t just tell children to study. Dr. Kathy believes we must teach them how. She’s organized study strategies into 8 categories and she explains five of the categories in this episode. For example, children can learn to record information, comprehend it, remember it, use it, and regulate their learning. She explains how to use index cards to help in many ways. She also explains how writing out a “fact sheet” helps in many ways. There’s much we can teach children!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Start with the Heart, www.CelebrateKids.com.
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy believes we need to teach children how to study and not just tell them to study. She’s organized study strategies into 8 categories and she explains three of the categories in this episode. For example, children can learn to motivate themselves with positive self-talk and setting goals. Second, they can learn to manage their materials, time, and environment. The third category she discusses is about locating information. You will like her post-it-note ideas. There’s much we can teach children!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Start with the Heart, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy and Michelle Nietert talk about differences between love and cherish and how important the two are as God relates to our children. Scripture, stories, and experiences that allow children to practice God’s presence make a difference. So does talking with children about how we see God work in them.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Michelle Nietert, www.MichelleNietert.com, Loved and Cherished: 100 Devotions for Girls, Not Consumed, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy and Michelle Nietert talk about the power of God’s love to protect all of us, but especially middle school girls, from depression and anxiety. God-confidence and connecting with healthy adults are essential! Michelle’s expertise about mental health will encourage you.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Michelle Nietert, www.MichelleNietert.com, Loved and Cherished: 100 Devotions for Girls, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy and Connie Albers talk about homeschooling today. We cannot let frustrations and confusion overwhelm us. The purpose of homeschooling is important enough that parents must keep going! Listen for their discussion about why homeschooling is a wise choice. Rely on God. He will help you!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Connie Albers, www.ConnieAlbers.com, Parenting Beyond the Rules, Connie’s podcast Equipped to Be, 8 Great Smarts, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy and Connie Albers have a dynamic conversation about keeping the heart of our teenagers by lifting our rules when they demonstrate they’re capable to live well without them. This is a key to maturity!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Connie Albers, www.ConnieAlbers.com, Parenting Beyond the Rules, Connie’s podcast Equipped to Be, Start with the Heart, Five Core Needs, Proverbs 4:13, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy announces that the “Celebrate Kids Podcast with Dr. Kathy” is being renamed to “Encouraged with Celebrate Kids.” When we encourage people, we give them courage to do what’s right. It’s one of our goals at Celebrate Kids so the name fits us well. Kathy shares ways we can encourage each other.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Start with the Heart, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy enjoys reviewing some of the important content from the first year in this anniversary episode. She talks about the four roles parents must play out, healthy communication and how to communicate so children believe you, how to talk with our children about their school day, the five core needs, and more.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Start with the Heart, Five to Thrive, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
All children (and adults) can remember with three different modalities. When children know which are strengths, they’re empowered to be successful. Auditory children remember best what they hear, especially the things they hear themselves say. Visual children remember best what they see. Kinesthetic children remember best what they do.
Resources mentioned in this episode: SWtH, 8GS, Deuteronomy 6:5-9, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
There are many things that affect children’s ability to concentrate. (These are true for adults, too.) Identifying these environmental preferences and helping your children use them improve their motivation. Learn about preferences for time of day, temperature, lighting, sound, being with people, movement, food and drink, informal/formal, and messy/neat. When children know how they best concentrate, they can be empowered to be successful!
Resources mentioned in this episode: SWtH, 8GS, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy reviews some ideas related to logical and natural consequences (rewards and punishments) and then shares many new ideas. For instance, there are times when offering natural positive consequences (rewards) backfires. This is important to understand! She also teaches about the value of using both positive and negative consequences, making them personal, and how to withdraw the use of consequences well so children’s excellence continues.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Start with the Heart, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
When we use natural and logical positive and negative consequences rather than rewards and punishments children more quickly learn to be responsible for their choices and behavior. Dr. Kathy’s examples will help you understand the differences and how to use consequences well. She also explains when using a bribe may help and how to use bribes effectively. And she covers the role of surprises as she contrasts them with bribes. There’s lots of content in this episode!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Start with the Heart, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
During this strange school season, there are five things we can do to help our children’s attitudes. We must do these! We can make plans to talk about and teach these things directly and we can use teachable moments. Can you predict what Dr. Kathy wants us to talk with our kids about?
Resources mentioned in this episode: 2 Chronicles 20:6, Job 36:22, 1 Chronicles 29:11-12, Daniel 2:20-22, Romans 8:28, character appendix from Start with the Heart or Five to Thrive, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
James Werner, the founder of Generation Equipped Ministries, joins Dr. Kathy for a second episode to share five ways parents can train children for truth. Children need to know truth so parents must teach it. We can! These ideas will work for you.
Resources mentioned in this episode: www.GenerationEquipped.com, James Werner, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Children need to know truth so parents must teach it. Parents must fight the apathy that can set into any busy family and prioritize raising their children to want and know truth. James Werner, the founder of Generation Equipped Ministries, joins Dr. Kathy to share five principles that combat apathy.
Resources mentioned in this episode: www.GenerationEquipped.com, James Werner, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Children need to know truth so parents must teach it. Parents must fight the apathy that can set into any busy family and prioritize raising their children to want and know truth. James Werner, the founder of Generation Equipped Ministries, joins Dr. Kathy to share five principles that combat apathy.
Resources mentioned in this episode: www.GenerationEquipped.com, James Werner, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy’s friend, Sarah Brooks, returns to the podcast to share about her special-needs daughter. You’ll be inspired by her faith in God, positive approach, and her suggestions for how we can support parents with challenging children. She also shares how we can help our children relate well to children with special needs.
Resources mentioned in this episode: www.SarahEBrooks.com, www.TheWonderfulWayYouAre.com, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy continues her series of episodes about our core needs by interviewing her friend, Sarah Brooks, about her desire to develop her competence even though she’s a busy wife and mom. You’ll be encouraged to do what you can in the season of life you’re in. Sarah wisely cautions us about several things that can make it less likely that we’ll develop our talents for God’s glory. We need to be careful! Have you recognized the gifts God has given you?
Resources mentioned in this episode: www.SarahEBrooks.com, "Parable of the Talents" in Matthew 25:14–30, Five to Thrive, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
We all have a need to be competent – to be able to do what we were created to do. It is based on our character and ability to make wise decisions. Dr. Kathy explains elements children can think about when making decisions. Adults can use them, too! And, of course, connecting well with God and relying on Him enhances our competence. He wants us to do things well!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Philippians 4:13, Five to Thrive, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy shares about our fifth core need, competence, in this episode. She reviews that our ability to do things well is based on the quality of our security, identity, belonging, and purpose. She explains how important it is that we not expect to be perfect, the best, or judge our competence based on how others do. You’ll benefit from her explanations of how these connections affect academics and school.
Resources mentioned in this episode: James 1:12, Five to Thrive, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy talks with Arlene Pellicane about helping children discover and enjoy their purpose. Volunteering helps; use of technology can hurt. We answer the question every parents needs to know how to answer: How long should children take piano lessons or play soccer?
Resources mentioned in this episode: Arlene Pellicane; ArlenePellicane.com; Parents Rising; Calm, Cool, and Connected; www.arlenepellicane.com/videos/happy-mom-videos/; Five to Thrive, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
How do you want your children to answer the purpose question: Why am I alive? Their answers matter because their purpose influences so much, including whether they’ll strive for competence. Learn how character, obedience, love, and service can help children meet their need for purpose. Dr. Kathy’s comments about encouraging your children to serve with their smarts are sure to inspire you!
Resources mentioned in this episode: Five to Thrive,1 Corinthians 13:4-7, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Knowing why we’re alive can keep us alive! Dr. Kathy explains that how we meet our need for security, identity, and belonging influences what we think our purpose is. And that influences our decisions, commitments, and priorities. Perhaps the most important purpose is to glorify God. What does that mean? To help you understand, Kathy shares a personal story from her days as a professor.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Five to Thrive, 1 Corinthians 10:31, John 3:30, John 14:6, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy talks with Arlene Pellicane about positive uses of technology. Connecting to good and trustworthy people is positive! Let’s learn how to purposefully parent so there are more positive effects than negative, even when it comes to connecting with family and friends.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Arlene Pellicane; ArlenePellicane.com; Parents Rising; Calm, Cool, and Connected; The Happy Home Podcast; www.accessmore.com, Five to Thrive, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Welcome to the Celebrate Kids Podcast with Dr. Kathy Fresh ideas and solutions to help adults understand children and their needs so they can relate well and connect more deeply are what Dr. Kathy will share on the Celebrate Kids Podcast. Our concern for this generation and our belief that the family, education, and faith matter greatly compels us to offer solutions to strengthen adult-child relationships and connections. Adults will have more hope and be able to persevere during challenging situations. Children’s identity and positive beliefs about their lives and their futures will be strengthened. We are looking forward to helping adults meet children’s needs!
Episode 40: Hope, Optimism, and Character How do you want your children to answer the purpose question: Why am I alive? Their answers matter because their purpose influences so much, including whether they’ll strive for competence. Learn how character, obedience, love, and service can help children meet their need for purpose. Dr. Kathy’s comments about encouraging your children to serve with their smarts are sure to inspire you!
Episode 39: Created On Purpose, With Purpose Knowing why we’re alive can keep us alive! Dr. Kathy explains that how we meet our need for security, identity, and belonging influences what we think our purpose is. And that influences our decisions, commitments, and priorities. Perhaps the most important purpose is to glorify God. What does that mean? To help you understand, Kathy shares a personal story from her days as a professor.
Episode 38: Connecting Through Technology - It’s Not Always Negative! Dr. Kathy talks with Arlene Pellicane about positive uses of technology. Connecting to good and trustworthy people is positive! Let’s learn how to purposefully parent so there are more positive effects than negative, even when it comes to connecting with family and friends.
Episode 37: Friendship Skills Can Be And Should Be Learned God created us for connection. He meets our belonging need and wants us to have healthy relationships with people, too. We can connect through our talents and by serving, sharing, teaching, helping, and loving each other well. Following the 42 one-another verses in the New Testament, such as love one-another, honor one-another, and pray for one-another, enhance our friendships. So does learning the four categories of friendship skills Dr. Kathy mentions.
Episode 36: Our Belonging is Set and Settled in Jesus Christ! We belong to God when we believe, by faith, in the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ, on our behalf. We join God’s family! Dr. Kathy uses Psalm 23 to demonstrate how we can connect with Jesus. You’ll be refreshed with new understandings of how He relates to us as you see the verbs that describe Jesus’ actions in this Psalm. She also explains how our use of the spiritual disciplines of prayer, worship, study, serving, rest, Sabbath, and more help us know we belong.
Episode 35: Using Humor in the Family Well - Free Medicine! Sally Baucke, a Christian comedian, joins Dr. Kathy on this episode of the podcast. She presents an ideal example of the value of knowing who we are – our identity. It increases our security, enriches our belonging, and increases our confidence in our purpose and our competence. Using humor appropriately enhances family life.
It’s like medicine to the soul – and it’s free!
Episode 34: Creative and Academic Strengths - Living with the Tension Dr. Kathy’s guest, Sally Baucke, is a Christian comedian and nurse who was equally gifted as a child in leadership and creativity. She did well in academic courses and in music and theater. Her dad valued the academics more and cautioned her to not laugh too much for fear that people wouldn’t think she was smart. It took Sally many years to figure out how to live in the balance of both strengths. She and Dr. Kathy share how important it is to know your children and to value all parts of themselves. Helping them believe that God is a good Creator is key.
Episode 33: Tell Me About Yourself – What Would You Say? Do you struggle to know what to say when someone says, “Tell me about yourself.”? This may be because you’re insecure or your identity is incomplete. Kathy’s identity categories will stimulate your thinking. You’ll also see how your answers reflect your security and can strengthen belonging.
Episode 32: God Changes Who We Are! Because our identity, who we think we are, controls our behavior, it’s essential that we know who we are. How we define ourselves shows up in all of our attitudes and actions. Knowing God and that He created us on purpose, changes us and our beliefs about ourselves. Dr. Kathy will share a personal example, Scripture that changed her, and an essay from a friend that puts God’s gifts in us in perspective with the rest of who we are.
Episode 31: We Can Stop the Screaming - Our Kids Should Be Secure Would you love to understand why you might scream at your children when you don’t intend to? Dr. Kathy interviews her friend, Sue Heimer, to talk about why moms scream at their children and what we can do to stop. When we know our triggers, it’s easier to make changes. Moms are now empowered to formulate a plan, make changes, and be victorious. Being exhausted, overwhelmed, and stressed are common triggers. We can manage our anger and model how to do it for our impressionable children.
Episode 30: Why are Trust and Security Hard for Me? In great times and challenging times, security is essential. Being trusted and being surrounded by trustworthy people allows us to discover our identity, connect with healthy people to meet our need for belonging, and fulfill our purpose based on our competence. We can learn to trust God, ourselves, and others!
Episode 29: What to Do When Security is Shaken Has insecurity been easy lately? That’s understandable. Especially during challenging times, our behavior can be obvious who and what we trust. What are we most upset about? What makes us angry? What do we talk about? What do we do? This all matters greatly because the first core need God designed us with is security. It’s defined by the question, “Who can I trust?” If we try to place our security in things, we can crash and burn when those things fail us. Rather, we need to learn to trust in God, trustworthy people, and ourselves.
Episode 28: Problems? Meeting Your Core Needs Helps! Is change challenging for you? Do you make progress and then take two steps back? Maybe this is relevant for your children. It may be because of how the core needs of security, identity, belonging, purpose, and competence influence each other. This can be especially damaging when we ask “What can I trust?” as the security question rather than “Who can I trust?” Dr. Kathy Koch will help you understand what to do so changes stick.
Episode 27: How God Meets Our Core Needs Are you struggling? Lonely? Confused? Without purpose? You’re not alone. We have five needs that must be met: security, identity, belonging, purpose, and competence. Family, friends, and experiences can help you meet your five needs. Most importantly, God meets our needs. He created them in us so we would be drawn to Him. When we find all of God and trust Christ for our salvation, our needs are forever met. Dr. Kathy Koch shares relevant Scripture and talks about things we can do to establish our relationship with God so our needs are met.
Episode 26: What Core Needs Do We Need Met? God creates us with five core needs that must be met: security (Who can I trust?), identity (Who am I?), belonging (Who wants me?), purpose (Why am I alive?), and competence (What do I do well?). Family and friends can meet these needs for us. Experiences can also be used to meet these needs. Dr. Kathy mentions unhealthy ways we can try to meet the needs and other issues that can cause problems for us, including asking the wrong questions. (God meets these needs authentically and permanently. Dr. Kathy will address this in the next episode.)
Episode 25: Love Ourselves Well Loving ourselves well matters because we matter. We need to know ourselves and live with integrity, develop Christlike character, and allow others to help us love ourselves. Kathy’s personal illustration may inspire you. She also gives a shout-out to busy moms and dads who love well by serving.
Episode 24: Love's Feelings, Thoughts, and Actions Love is a commitment that results in certain feelings, thoughts, and actions. This is why when we love God, it changes our actions and we may sin less. Therefore, perhaps we should talk with our children more about loving God and not just knowing about Him and knowing Him. Dr. Kathy mentions some feelings and thoughts associated with love before showing how to teach children about love using contrasts from 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. You’ll appreciate the practical ideas!
Episode 23: Spontaneity is a Secret Weapon If you like to plan, as Dr. Kathy does, it’s probably hard to be spontaneous. Yet, spontaneity may be one of the best ways to let children know we see them, understand them, and want to honor them. As she shares a story from her teaching days, you’ll also hear golden nuggets to remember as you interact with and teach children. Listen for her statement about children’s enthusiasm. Doing what she suggests can change everything!
Episode 22: What Shape Are You In? Dr. Kathy explains that her second ministry, Ignite the Family, is hosting a national mom’s conference March 6-7 in Peoria, IL. She is happy to have her co-founder, Suzanne Phillips, as her guest on the podcast. They discuss that we’re always being shaped so we need to pay attention. What shapes us and our kids?
Episode 21: How Do Children Best Remember? All children (and adults) can remember with three different modalities. When children know which are strengths, they’re empowered to be successful. Auditory children remember best what they hear, especially the things they hear themselves say. Visual children remember best what they see. Kinesthetic children remember best what they do.
Episode 20: Resiliency: What Discourages It and What Encourages It Learn what resiliency is and how creativity and problem solving skills are essential for children to develop an ability to independently figure out how to do things. Learn what discourages it, such as critical spirits, helicopter parents, and not letting children own the consequences for their mistakes. Dr. Kathy is joined by Nancy Matheis, the Celebrate Kids Project Manager, for this important discussion.
Episode 19: Resiliency: What It Is, What It Isn’t, and Why It’s Valuable Learn what resiliency is, what it isn’t, and why it’s valuable. Resilient children grow and aren’t defined by their struggles. They’ll have a positive character, optimistic thoughts, and healthy perspectives about themselves, others, and God. Their relationships will be more positive. Dr. Kathy is joined by Nancy Matheis, the Celebrate Kids Project Manager, for this important discussion.
Episode 18: What to Say Yes To Dr. Kathy explains how her second ministry, Ignite the Family, came to be and is happy to have her co-founder, Suzanne Phillips, as her guest on the podcast. They share how we can raise children who know what to say “yes” to. You’ll find Suzanne’s use of “life and death” as a decision-making strategy very valuable.
Episode 17: What Do You Want? Over the past several weeks, as people tried to figure out what to buy you for Christmas, you were probably asked “What do you want?” many times. What if Jesus asked you that question as he did to some of His followers? How would you answer? What if the question was, “What do you want to give Him?” Answering these questions may be more valuable than any New Year’s resolutions you will set.
Episode 15: Peace at Christmas Through Compassion Peace is on my mind because Jesus was called the “Prince of Peace” when His birth was predicted, as recorded in Isaiah 9:6. It would be wonderful if we could live at peace during this hectic season. Yet, kids will be excited, sleep-deprived, and on a sugar high. Let’s respond with compassion!
Episode 14: Holiday Grief and Traditions #2 Jill Savage, Dr. Kathy’s coauthor on No More Perfect Kids, joins her to discuss changing holiday traditions because families change. They also discuss the need to be flexible and intentional in the moment so we reduce regrets as we look back.
Episode 13: Holiday Expectations and Disappointments Jill Savage, Dr. Kathy’s coauthor of No More Perfect Kids, joins her to discuss how to handle disappointments that occur during family gatherings like Thanksgiving and how to set healthy expectations so future gatherings go better. They also discuss how perfectionism gets in the way of healthy relationships.
Episode 12: Cultivate Gratitude We and our children can be regularly grateful and not circumstantially thankful. Entitlement isn’t healthy, but it’s common so we have to work against it. If we plan for it, our children can learn to be grateful. They will want to be grateful. It will be who they are and not just what they do. And, there’s a bonus. Listen to learn what attribute accompanies gratitude.
Episode 11: Choosing Battles and Praying Dr. Kathy interviews longtime friends, Judy and Sandra. Speaking from many years of marriage, parenting, and grandparenting experience, they answer questions submitted by listeners about choosing your battles with your children and what to prioritize. They also talk about whether grandparents should talk with their grown children when they see things they’re concerned about and the role and the blessing of prayer.
Episode 10: Suicide Prevention #3 Dr. Kathy shares numerous understandings that can result in confidence, contentment, joy, and blessing and decreased stress, anxiety, isolation, and suicidal tendencies. We can do what we can do! Let this soak in.
Episode 9: Suicide Prevention #2 In this second episode about preventing suicide, Dr. Kathy shares things parents and others can be aware of and do to help children cope with any depression, stress, anxiety, and suicidal tendencies they have. This includes the role of play, school assessment, authority, antidepressants, planning for the future, and abortion. (The CDC recently published new research explaining that the suicide rate for children aged 10 through 14 nearly tripled from 2007 to 2017, while the suicide rate among older teenagers increased by 76 percent between 2007 and 2017.)
Episode 8: Suicide Prevention #1 The CDC recently published new research explaining that the suicide rate for children aged 10 through 14 nearly tripled from 2007 to 2017, while the suicide rate among older teenagers increased by 76 percent between 2007 and 2017. This is tragic!
In this episode, Dr. Kathy shares things parents and others can be aware of and do to help children cope with any depression, anxiety, and suicidal tendencies they have. This includes having real conversations, technology, resiliency, and loneliness.
Episode 7: Communication - Feel Kids' Feelings and Hear Their Lies Dr. Kathy shares the value of feeling children’s feelings and using strong emotional vocabulary when listening and talking. She also stresses that parents must listen for lies, unrealistic statements, and negative and hurtful language to offer correction.
Episode 6: Listen to Understand and Talk to Be Understood Dr. Kathy shares several things parents can do to improve communication with their children. Doing them consistently will encourage children and improve both listening and talking. Learn how to help children answer questions without feeling interrogated. Do more than imagine understanding your children and helping them understand you. You can do this!
Episode 5: Marriage and Siblings Love Dr. Kathy interviews longtime friends, Judy and Sandra. Speaking from many years of marriage, parenting, and grandparenting experience, they answer questions submitted by listeners about why marriage matters to children and how to have a healthy marriage, including the role of forgiveness and how to forgive. They also discuss what they did when their children were younger that established healthy relationships among them and their adult children today.
Episode 4: How do Children Best Concentrate? There are many things that affect children’s ability to concentrate. (These are true for adults, too.) Identifying these environmental preferences and helping your children use them to improve their motivation. Learn about preferences for time of day, temperature, lighting, sound, being with people, movement, food and drink, informal/formal, and messy/neat. When children know how they best concentrate, they can be empowered to be successful!
Episode 3: Questions/Answers: Smarts, Strengths, and Self-Worth Learn six ways of determining which of the 8 multiple intelligences are strengths for your children. Dr. Kathy also shares how we can help children believe they have strengths in general. And, learn how we can help children believe in their worth. This question-and-answer episode is hosted by Nancy Matheis, the Celebrate Kids Project Manager.
Episode 2: Four Parent Roles That Increase Children's Motivation Parents need to be teachers, coaches, cheerleaders, and referees to motivate kids well. Dr. Kathy explains what’s involved in each role, how they’re different, and how and why to take on each one successfully. Each role is essential!
Episode 1: How to Talk with Your Kids About School Children learn what parents value by the types of questions we ask them. Therefore, Dr. Kathy recommends 8 important categories to ask about and many creative ideas for how to ask. Her ideas work for all ages and for homeschool families, too, and will help children actually answer your questions with more than a grunt, “okay,” and “fine.” You’ll love her ideas for “go-fish piles” and dice.
Welcome to the Celebrate Kids Podcast with Dr. Kathy!
God created us for connection. He meets our belonging need and wants us to have healthy relationships with people, too. We can connect through our talents and by serving, sharing, teaching, helping, and loving each other well. Following the 42 one-another verses in the New Testament, such as love one-another, honor one-another, and pray for one-another, enhance our friendships. So does learning the four categories of friendship skills Dr. Kathy mentions.
Resources mentioned in this episode: one-another verses can be found here: https://celebratekids.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/FiveToThriveWebsiteContentForDownload.pdf, friendship skills are found in chapter 5 of Five to Thrive, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
We belong to God when we believe, by faith, in the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ, on our behalf. We join God’s family! Dr. Kathy uses Psalm 23 to demonstrate how we can connect with Jesus. You’ll be refreshed with new understandings of how He relates to us as you see the verbs that describe Jesus’ actions in this Psalm. She also explains how our use of the spiritual disciplines of prayer, worship, study, serving, rest, Sabbath, and more help us know we belong.
Keywords: children, parent, family, God, Jesus, Holy Spirit, belonging, needs, spiritual disciplines, Psalm 23, Bible
Resources mentioned in this episode: Five to Thrive, Psalm 27:10, Isaiah 43:1, John 1:12, John 14:18, John 15:15, 1 Corinthians 12:27, Psalm 23, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Debbie@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Sally Baucke, a Christian comedian, joins Dr. Kathy on this episode of the podcast. She presents an ideal example of the value of knowing who we are – our identity. It increases our security, enriches our belonging, and increases our confidence in our purpose and our competence. Using humor appropriately enhances family life.
It’s like medicine to the soul – and it’s free!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sally Baucke, www.FunnyGalSal.com, www.Facebook.com/FunnyGalSal, Have You Had Your Vitamin Glee (on Spotify and other services), Five to Thrive, www.CelebrateKids.com, www.IgniteTheFamily.org
Submit your questions and share your feedback:
Nancy@CelebrateKids.com,
www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy’s guest, Sally Baucke, is a Christian comedian and nurse who was equally gifted as a child in leadership and creativity. She did well in academic courses and in music and theater. Her dad valued the academics more and cautioned her to not laugh too much for fear that people wouldn’t think she was smart. It took Sally many years to figure out how to live in the balance of both strengths. She and Dr. Kathy share how important it is to know your children and to value all parts of themselves. Helping them believe that God is a good Creator is key.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sally Baucke, www.FunnyGalSal.com, www.Facebook.com/FunnyGalSal, What Didn't Kill Me Made Me Funny, Five to Thrive, Created to Be (Dr. Kathy’s MP3 of her message about being created on purpose), www.CelebrateKids.com, www.IgniteTheFamily.org
Submit your questions and share your feedback:
Nancy@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Do you struggle to know what to say when someone says, “Tell me about yourself.”? This may be because you’re insecure or your identity is incomplete. Kathy’s identity categories will stimulate your thinking. You’ll also see how your answers reflect your security and can strengthen belonging.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Start with the Heart, Five to Thrive, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback:
Nancy@CelebrateKids.com,
www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Because our identity, who we think we are, controls our behavior, it’s essential that we know who we are. How we define ourselves shows up in all of our attitudes and actions. Knowing God and that He created us on purpose, changes us and our beliefs about ourselves. Dr. Kathy will share a personal example, Scripture that changed her, and an essay from a friend that puts God’s gifts in us in perspective with the rest of who we are.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Ephesians 2:10, Genesis 1:27, Psalm 139, Ephesians 1:4, Romans 8:1-2, Colossians 2:13, Romans 8:37, Five to Thrive, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback:
Nancy@CelebrateKids.com,
www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Would you love to understand why you might scream at your children when you don’t intend to? Dr. Kathy interviews her friend, Sue Heimer, to talk about why moms scream at their children and what we can do to stop. When we know our triggers, it’s easier to make changes. Moms are now empowered to formulate a plan, make changes, and be victorious. Being exhausted, overwhelmed, and stressed are common triggers. We can manage our anger and model how to do it for our impressionable children.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sue Heimer, SueHeimer.com, When You Feel Like Screaming: Practical Help for Frustrated Moms, Five to Thrive, Screens and Teens, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com,
www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
In great times and challenging times, security is essential. Being trusted and being surrounded by trustworthy people allows us to discover our identity, connect with healthy people to meet our need for belonging, and fulfill our purpose based on our competence. We can learn to trust God, ourselves, and others!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
The Bible, 1 John 1:9, Five to Thrive, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com,
www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Has insecurity been easy lately? That’s understandable. Especially during challenging times, our behavior can be obvious who and what we trust. What are we most upset about? What makes us angry? What do we talk about? What do we do? This all matters greatly because the first core need God designed us with is security. It’s defined by the question, “Who can I trust?” If we try to place our security in things, we can crash and burn when those things fail us. Rather, we need to learn to trust in God, trustworthy people, and ourselves.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
The Bible, Five to Thrive, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Is change challenging for you? Do you make progress and then take two steps back? Maybe this is relevant for your children. It may be because of how the core needs of security, identity, belonging, purpose, and competence influence each other. This can be especially damaging when we ask “What can I trust?” as the security question rather than “Who can I trust?” Dr. Kathy Koch will help you understand what to do so changes stick.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Five to Thrive,
www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com,
www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Are you struggling? Lonely? Confused? Without purpose? You’re not alone. We have five needs that must be met: security, identity, belonging, purpose, and competence. Family, friends, and experiences can help you meet your five needs. Most importantly, God meets our needs. He created them in us so we would be drawn to Him. When we find all of God and trust Christ for our salvation, our needs are forever met. Dr. Kathy Koch shares relevant Scripture and talks about things we can do to establish our relationship with God so our needs are met.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Five to Thrive, the Bible, www.CelebrateKids.com/books/five-to-thrive/, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com,
www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
God creates us with five core needs that must be met: security (Who can I trust?), identity (Who am I?), belonging (Who wants me?), purpose (Why am I alive?), and competence (What do I do well?). Family and friends can meet these needs for us. Experiences can also be used to meet these needs. Dr. Kathy mentions unhealthy ways we can try to meet the needs and other issues that can cause problems for us, including asking the wrong questions. (God meets these needs authentically and permanently. Dr. Kathy will address this in the next episode.)
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Five to Thrive, Screens and Teens, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com,
www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Loving ourselves well matters because we matter. We need to know ourselves and live with integrity, develop Christlike character, and allow others to help us love ourselves. Kathy’s personal illustration may inspire you. She also gives a shout-out to busy moms and dads who love well by serving.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
www.IgniteTheFamily.org, www.GreatHomeschoolConventions.com, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com,
www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Love is a commitment that results in certain feelings, thoughts, and actions. This is why when we love God, it changes our actions and we may sin less. Therefore, perhaps we should talk with our children more about loving God and not just knowing about Him and knowing Him. Dr. Kathy mentions some feelings and thoughts associated with love before showing how to teach children about love using contrasts from 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. You’ll appreciate the practical ideas!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
1 Corinthians 13:4-8,
www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com,
www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
If you like to plan, as Dr. Kathy does, it’s probably hard to be spontaneous. Yet, spontaneity may be one of the best ways to let children know we see them, understand them, and want to honor them. As she shares a story from her teaching days, you’ll also hear golden nuggets to remember as you interact with and teach children. Listen for her statement about children’s enthusiasm. Doing what she suggests can change everything!
Resources mentioned in this episode: www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy explains that her second ministry, Ignite the Family, is hosting a national mom’s conference March 6-7 in Peoria, IL. She is happy to have her co-founder, Suzanne Phillips, as her guest on the podcast. They discuss that we’re always being shaped so we need to pay attention. What shapes us and our kids?
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Use CELEBRATEKIDS10 at IgniteTheFamily.org for a $10 discount on the registration fee for their Moms2 Conference, FUEL, www.IgniteTheFamily.org,
www.CelebrateKids.com
All children (and adults) can remember with three different modalities. When children know which are strengths, they’re empowered to be successful. Auditory children remember best what they hear, especially the things they hear themselves say. Visual children remember best what they see. Kinesthetic children remember best what they do.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Start With the Heart
8 Great Smarts
Deuteronomy 6:5-9
Freebie Fridge Meme:
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com
Facebook page
Instagram
Learn what resiliency is and how creativity and problem solving skills are essential for children to develop an ability to independently figure out how to do things. Learn what discourages it, such as critical spirits, helicopter parents, and not letting children own the consequences for their mistakes. Dr. Kathy is joined by Nancy Matheis, the Celebrate Kids Project Manager, for this important discussion.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Start With the Heart
Screens and Teens
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com,
Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc,
Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Learn what resiliency is, what it isn’t, and why it’s valuable. Resilient children grow and aren’t defined by their struggles. They’ll have positive character, optimistic thoughts, and healthy perspectives about themselves, others, and God. Their relationships will be more positive. Dr. Kathy is joined by Nancy Matheis, the Celebrate Kids Project Manager, for this important discussion.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Start with the Heart
No More Perfect Kids
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy explains how her second ministry, Ignite the Family, came to be and is happy to have her co-founder, Suzanne Phillips, as her guest on the podcast. They share how we can raise children who know what to say “yes” to. You’ll find Suzanne’s use of “life and death” as a decision making strategy very valuable.
Resources mentioned in this episode: Ignite the Family, www.IgniteTheFamily.org, www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Over the past several weeks, as people tried to figure out what to buy you for Christmas, you were probably asked “What do you want?” many times. What if Jesus asked you that question as he did to some of His followers? How would you answer? What if the question was, “What do you want to give Him?” Answering these questions may be more valuable than any New Year’s resolutions you will set.
Resources mentioned in this episode: John 1:35-38, CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com,
www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
You might think this is a crazy idea since this is a busy season, but it’s imperative that we build times of quiet into our day for at least three reasons. Self-smart adults and children need quiet so they can think and process ideas. Second, quiet allows wisdom to rise to the surface. Third, reflecting and pondering increases our confidence and allows us to make ideas personal.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Eight Great Smarts,
Screens and Teens
Psalm 46:10, Mark 6:31, Luke 2:19,
CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com,
www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Peace is on my mind because Jesus was called the “Prince of Peace” when His birth was predicted, as recorded in Isaiah 9:6. It would be wonderful if we could live at peace during this hectic season. Yet, kids will be excited, sleep deprived, and on a sugar high. Let’s respond with compassion!
Resources mentioned in this episode: CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com,
www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Jill Savage, Dr. Kathy’s coauthor on No More Perfect Kids, joins her to discuss changing holiday traditions because families change. They also discuss the need to be flexible and intentional in the moment so we reduce regrets as we look back.
Resources mentioned in this episode: No More Perfect Kids by Jill Savage and Kathy Koch, PhD., Empty Nest, Full Life: Discovering God’s Best for Your Next by Jill Savage, JillSavage.org, CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Jill Savage, Dr. Kathy’s coauthor of No More Perfect Kids, joins her to discuss how to handle disappointments that occur during family gatherings like Thanksgiving and how to set healthy expectations so future gatherings go better. They also discuss how perfectionism gets in the way of healthy relationships.
We and our children can be regularly grateful and not circumstantially thankful. Entitlement isn’t healthy, but it’s common so we have to work against it. If we plan for it, our children can learn to be grateful. They will want to be grateful. It will be who they are and not just what they do. And, there’s a bonus. Listen to learn what attribute accompanies gratitude.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Screens and Teens www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback:
Nancy@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc
Dr. Kathy interviews longtime friends, Judy and Sandra. Speaking from many years of marriage, parenting, and grandparenting experience, they answer questions submitted by listeners about choosing your battles with your children and what to prioritize. They also talk about whether grandparents should talk with their grown children when they see things they’re concerned about and the role and the blessing of prayer.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Proverbs 22:6: Ephesians 6; Romans 12:1 Finding Authentic Hope and Wholeness Start With the Heart Dr. Kathy’s message about Complimenting and Correcting
Freebie Fridge Meme: Paul’s prayers from the books of Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians
Dr. Kathy shares numerous understandings that can result in confidence, contentment, joy, and blessing and decreased stress, anxiety, isolation, and suicidal tendencies. We can do what we can do! Let this soak in.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Screens and Teens www.CelebrateKids.com
Submit your questions and share your feedback: Nancy@CelebrateKids.com, www.Facebook.com/CelebrateKidsInc, www.Instagram.com/CelebrateKidsInc