Celebrate Kids Podcast with Dr. Kathy

As our kids grow, something powerful replaces control. That something is influence. And influence is built on relationship.
Influence grows where conversations feel safe. It deepens where respect is mutual. It strengthens when our kids know they are valued not just for what they do, but for who they are.
This shift mirrors a beautiful picture from Scripture. In 1 Thessalonians, Paul describes his relationship with others not through authority, but through gentleness, encouragement, and shared life. He speaks as both a nurturing mother and an encouraging father, showing us that lasting impact comes through relational investment.
When we move from controlling behavior to cultivating connection, we position ourselves to remain a meaningful voice in our children's lives.
In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack how parents can move from control to influence and respond when adult kids name old hurts in ways that build relationships that stay strong for the long haul.
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In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the challenges and struggles that come with parenting, especially for those who are also caring for aging relatives. With an estimated 1.3 million "sandwich carers" in the UK, this segment addresses the pressures faced by individuals juggling multiple responsibilities. Dr. Kathy discusses the feelings of isolation and doubt that can arise during tough times, reminding listeners that it's essential to acknowledge the reality of life's struggles rather than promoting a false narrative of perfection in faith. Tune in for insightful advice on navigating these complexities while raising children and supporting loved ones.

In this episode, we delve into the insights shared by Dr. Kathy, focusing on the concerning trends highlighted by author Jonathan Haidt in his book, "Anxious Generation." Haidt discusses the alarming increase in high school seniors who feel their lives are useless, with the percentage doubling since 2010. We explore the impact of storytelling on youth, emphasizing the moral order present in narratives from previous generations and how this contrasts with the current environment. Additionally, we highlight the importance of nurturing creativity in children through resources like Creating a Masterpiece, which offers guided art projects that inspire and awaken their creative potential. Tune in to learn more about these critical issues facing today's youth and the tools available to support their emotional well being.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the ongoing discussions surrounding gender identity within the church, particularly in light of a leaked training video from North Point Community Church. The video showed a ministry director instructing leaders to use affirming language for transgender students aged 11 to 14. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of truth in guiding youth, expressing concern over the confusion that can arise from misleading ideas propagated by leaders. She offers insights on how to navigate these challenging conversations with children, highlighting the necessity of making sure that the church remains a place of truth while ensuring that all students feel safe and supported. Tune in as Dr. Kathy shares helpful strategies for parents and leaders facing this complex issue.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the importance of self-efficacy in children and how daily chores contribute to this vital character quality. Drawing on research conducted by pediatrician Rebecca Schraff at the University of Virginia Medical School, Dr. Kathy discusses the findings that children who regularly participate in household chores develop a stronger sense of capability compared to those who do not. This episode delves into the benefits of assigning age-appropriate responsibilities to kids, emphasizing how chores can foster independence, confidence, and a positive mindset about their abilities. Tune in for insightful tips on how to integrate chores into family life in a way that feels rewarding rather than burdensome.