In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we dive into the complexities of parenting as children grow and change, particularly during their teenage years. Wayne Stender opens, discussing the natural evolution of children's interests and behaviors, highlighting the emotional challenges parents face when their kids transition from childhood. Drawing insights from Dr. Kathy, the conversation explores how to navigate these changes with grace and understanding, encouraging parents to embrace their children's growth while glorifying their role in their lives. The episode emphasizes the importance of accepting that it's okay for children to change their preferences and for parents to adapt alongside them, fostering a supportive environment as families move through different seasons of life.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of fostering gratitude in both ourselves and our children. Drawing on insights from former First Lady Michelle Obama, who reflects on her own upbringing and the gratitude she felt for the hard work of her parents, the conversation explores the challenges parents face in guiding their kids towards a thankful mindset. Dr. Kathy emphasizes that gratitude is a vital quality for a fulfilling life and shares strategies for cultivating thankfulness in daily life. Tune in for practical advice on nurturing gratefulness in families and creating a positive atmosphere at home.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, hosts Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy delve into the impact of social media on adolescents, particularly those with mental health conditions. They discuss how teens with internalizing issues, such as anxiety and depression, often face more negative experiences online compared to their peers. The conversation highlights the challenges of social comparison, struggles with self-control, and the emotional fluctuations linked to social media interactions, such as likes and comments. Tune in to understand the unique hurdles these young individuals encounter and gain insights on how to support them in navigating the complexities of the digital world.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the challenges children face in building friendships and the growing trend of using artificial intelligence as a solution. With insights from Meta's Mark Zuckerberg's recent interview, the discussion highlights the alarming reality of declining real-life friendships and the potential impact of AI chatbots on social connections. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of providing children with opportunities to practice friendship skills in social settings, while also addressing the dark implications of relying on technology to combat loneliness. Tune in for valuable perspectives on fostering genuine connections in a digital age.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, host Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy discuss a significant report from the Department of Health and Human Services titled "The Treatment of Pediatric Gender Dysphoria, Review of Evidence and Best Practices." The report highlights the current practices endorsed by major medical associations in the U.S., which include affirming youth's gender identities and offering families options for medical interventions such as puberty blockers and hormone therapy. The episode also features a statement from Dr. Susan Cressley, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, expressing concern over the contents of the HHS document. Tune in to explore the complexities of this important topic and its implications for families and children.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the challenges parents face when helping their children believe in Jesus amidst a culture that often fosters doubt. The discussion emphasizes the process of belief and trust, ranging from everyday situations to profound spiritual questions. Dr. Kathy references a recent study by the Barna Group revealing that a significant number of teens and adults struggle with doubts about their religious beliefs. The findings show that over half of those surveyed have experienced doubt at varying frequencies, highlighting the importance of addressing this issue in both church and family settings. Join us as we explore practical ways to support our kids in their faith journey while navigating their uncertainties.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we delve into the significant benefits of outdoor play for children. Dr. Kathy discusses how spending time outside can alleviate anxiety and feelings of loneliness in kids, while also providing them with a broader perspective on life by encouraging them to look towards the horizon. She joins the conversation to offer insights and encouragement for parents struggling to get their kids off devices and engaged with nature. The episode emphasizes the importance of outdoor activity, highlighting a recent NPR report that suggests spending at least two hours outside each day can greatly protect children's eyesight. The episode also features a brief mention of Summit Ministries, a two-week camp designed to deepen teens' understanding of a Christian worldview. Tune in for valuable tips on fostering a love for the outdoors in your children!

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the vital role of reading aloud to children and its profound benefits on their development. Citing research from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, she highlights that a significant percentage of four-year-olds are not read to regularly, which can impact their vocabulary, reading comprehension, and motivation. Dr. Kathy shares insights on the positive outcomes linked to parents reading to their kids as young as one to two and a half years old, emphasizing that reading at least five books daily can expose children to an impressive 1.4 million words by the time they enter kindergarten. Tune in for practical tips on how parents can easily incorporate reading into their daily routines, fostering a love for reading and enhancing their children's literacy skills.