Celebrate Kids Podcast with Dr. Kathy

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the complexities of diagnosing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in children. She discusses the challenges faced by scientists and psychologists in recognizing this condition, particularly due to children's limited communication skills and emotional awareness. Highlighting recent advancements, Dr. Kathy shares insights on an innovative AI system developed by researchers at the University of South Florida. This system analyzes physical data—such as head positioning, gaze, and facial expressions—to better understand and identify PTSD in children. Tune in to learn how these developments could transform the approach to mental health treatment for kids, making it more effective and accessible.

Short form videos may entertain our children, but are they changing the way their brains learn? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy examine new neuroscience showing how fragmented media disrupts memory and deep learning. Together they discuss why each of the Eight Great Smarts requires sustained attention to mature, and how parents can cultivate environments where wisdom, not just information, can grow.

More teenagers are turning to AI chatbots for friendship advice, family conflict, and even romantic conversations. But what happens when artificial relationships begin replacing real ones? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore why God designed adolescents to learn conflict, empathy, forgiveness, and resilience through real people, not perfectly agreeable machines. Together, they unpack why AI can never satisfy our deepest relational needs and how parents can prepare children to use technology wisely without sacrificing the relationships that shape character.

Summer brings something many parents dread: bored kids. The familiar cry of "There's nothing to do!" often sends adults scrambling for activities or handing over a screen. But what if boredom isn't a problem to solve? What if it's one of the greatest opportunities for growth? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore why unstructured time builds competence, creativity, resilience, and self discovery. Together, they unpack research showing that boredom becomes one of God's most powerful classrooms when parents resist the urge to entertain and instead help children learn to engage with the world around them.

For years, many people assumed mothers were biologically wired for parenting while fathers simply learned on the job. But new research is revealing something remarkable: fatherhood changes men, too. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore how becoming a dad literally reshapes a man's hormones and heart. More importantly, they discuss why Scripture has always pointed to the unique and complementary role of fathers in raising secure and confident children. Whether you're a dad, a mom, a kid, or simply want to encourage the fathers around you, this conversation offers hope and a renewed vision for one of God's greatest callings.