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.