In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we explore the profound journey of parenthood, from the exhilarating moment of bringing a child home to the subsequent challenges of exhaustion and anxiety. Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy discuss the deeper questions surrounding why we invite children into our lives and the cultural importance of caring for them. A recent report from Forbes.com highlights the difference between immediate happiness, likened to the pleasure of chocolate, and reflective happiness, which provides meaning and fulfillment. Join us as we delve into these concepts and examine the unique factors that make raising children a rewarding experience.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the power of words and their impact on children, emphasizing the importance of speaking life and affirmation rather than criticism. As the year winds down, she discusses the significance of choosing a "word of the year," highlighting Merriam-Webster's selection of "Polarization" for 2024. Dr. Kathy unpacks the meaning of polarization, defined as division, and how understanding such words can guide children amid cultural shifts. Join Dr. Kathy as she encourages listeners to be mindful of the language they use and its influence on the next generation.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the pressing issue of technology's impact on children's mental health, particularly focusing on social media usage. Citing a 2019 JAMA study, she highlights that kids using social media for more than three hours daily face a significantly increased risk of anxiety and depression. Dr. Kathy addresses the challenges parents face in guiding their children through the digital landscape, especially when technology companies acknowledge the negative effects but struggle to implement effective solutions. She explores tools introduced by platforms like TikTok designed to help manage screen time and promote healthier online habits. Join Dr. Kathy as she provides valuable insights on navigating these concerns and fostering a respectful, healthy relationship with technology for our children.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the concept of the "millennial success sequence," a research initiative highlighting the path to success for younger generations, specifically Gen X, Gen Y, and Gen Z. The sequence involves three key milestones: graduating from high school, working full-time, and marrying before having children. Dr. Kathy discusses the significant findings of the research, revealing that only three percent of individuals who follow this sequence end up in poverty. However, she notes concerning trends such as declining graduation rates, rising unemployment, decreasing marriage rates, and falling birth rates. Join us as we delve into the implications of these trends and what they mean for the future of these generations.

In this episode, the Dr. Kathy and Wayne Stender grapple with the tragic reality of school shootings, focusing on the recent incident at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, where two lives were lost and several others injured. They discuss the alarming rise in school shootings, with statistics indicating a significant increase in incidents in recent years. The conversation delves into the underlying issues facing today’s youth, exploring themes of despair, violence, and the search for meaning or justice. The Dr. Kathy gives helpful conversation tips on topics to cover and how to approach each unique child in a way that they'll best process things to build resiliency. This episode serves as both a reflection on current events and a call for deeper understanding and action in the face of such tragedies.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, host Wayne Stender shares his fears and reflections on parenting, particularly the challenge of guiding children towards their true strengths and potential. The conversation then shifts to Dr. Kathy, who discusses the vital connection between exercise and brain development. Citing a recent meta-analysis published in Pediatrics, she highlights how structured physical activity programs can lead to an average increase of four points in IQ scores among young people. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of nurturing children's unique abilities and encouraging them to pursue their God-given paths. Tune in for insights on how to support your kids in becoming their best selves while fostering both physical and mental growth.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy engages in a Q&A segment, sharing her insights and wisdom in response to listener questions. The host Wayne Stender introduces an exciting new platform called Thriving Five, designed to provide quick, five-minute encouragements from Dr. Kathy right to your inbox or phone. This initiative aims to offer bite-sized wisdom from Dr. Kathy’s books for those who may not have time to read daily. Listeners can also interact with Dr. Kathy by submitting their questions, allowing for a more personalized experience as they navigate challenges in their lives. Tune in to learn more about how this platform can support you in your journey!

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we delve into the recent warning from the U.S. Surgeon General about the significant health effects of loneliness, which are comparable to smoking tobacco. Host Dr. Kathy discusses the challenges parents face in today's interconnected society, where understanding children's online behavior and social interactions has become paramount. The episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing loneliness in teens and offers insights into how parents and caregivers can navigate these difficult feelings with confidence. Dr. Kathy shares practical advice on supporting children through dark and lonely moments, reminding us that we are never truly alone. Please tune in for valuable perspectives on fostering connections and mitigating the impacts of loneliness in our kids' lives.