In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, host Wayne Stender discusses the vital role children play in today's society with Dr. Kathy, arguing against the notion that they are merely the church's future. He reflects on a meaningful conversation with his son about the purpose of kids in a family and within culture. This leads to deeper questions about how society perceives children—whether they are seen as participants in cultural building or simply as a legacy for the future. Dr. Kathy...

Dr. Kathy considers a recent article that linked depression to the decrease in outside play and forming identity. She has some important insights for parents to inspire being creative, guiding outside play, and forming identity for their kids. According to some, the mix of those three in repeated succession drives kids to strong mental health.

Today we take a few extra minutes to explore Dr. Kathy's new book on character, titled Parent Differently. Dr. Kathy explains why she chose specific character traits to include in her book and how those caring for kids can build places for character formation.  Buy the book today at www.celebratekids.com If you want to support the ministry do so at www.celebratekids.com/give

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the complexities of gift-giving during the holiday season. She explores the expectations surrounding gifts for children and how these expectations can sometimes lead to challenges for parents. The discussion highlights the difference between gifts based on children’s curated lists from social media and those that parents feel might be more beneficial or meaningful. Dr. Kathy encourages parents to consider the deeper...

In this episode, we explore the dynamics of family gatherings during the holidays, particularly Thanksgiving. Dr. Kathy discusses how children may react differently to the holiday feast, with some eagerly enjoying traditional dishes while others stick to familiar comfort foods. Drawing on insights from dietitian Diana Rice, she highlights the unique challenges kids face during these gatherings, such as excitement, anxiety, and unfamiliar foods. The conversation shifts to the pressure families...

In this episode, we delve into the significance of gratitude, especially during the Thanksgiving season. Dr. Kathy discusses how a regular gratitude practice can heal past traumas and foster resilience for future challenges, as highlighted by Stanford professor Andrew Huberman. Dr. Kathy shares insights from her book, "Parent Differently," emphasizing the vital role gratitude plays in family dynamics and personal growth. The conversation explores practical ways to cultivate gratitude within...

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we delve into the importance of teaching children the purpose of boredom. Dr. Kathy discusses the challenges parents face when their kids experience boredom and the potential negative consequences, including the turn to substances as a coping mechanism. Dr. Kathy shares valuable insights on how fostering resilience in the face of boredom can help children navigate life's challenges. The conversation highlights recent research indicating that many...

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the transformative power of Scripture and its role in rebuilding identity for both individuals and their children. She reflects on the common tendency to rely on personal problem-solving skills rather than turning to prayer or biblical teachings during challenging times. Dr. Kathy emphasizes that accepting and believing in the truth of the scripture can lead to a deeper understanding of one's purpose and security in God’s...

In this special weekend edition of the Celebrate Kids podcast, hosts Dr. Kathy and Wayne Stender introduce an exciting new initiative aimed at addressing the pressing questions of parents and caregivers. Drawing from Wayne's observations at various conferences, the hosts recognize the need for a platform where individuals can seek guidance and support. Listeners are encouraged to submit their questions via email to Wayne at [email protected], ensuring that their concerns are heard and...

In this episode, we explore the fundamental differences and attributes that define gender, emphasizing the importance of understanding God’s design in creating male and female. The discussion delves into the challenges parents face in equipping their children to embrace their true identities amidst cultural pressures. Dr. Kathy shares insights on the recent political shifts among influential figures like Bill Maher, Elon Musk, and J.K. Rowling, who have moved towards conservative viewpoints,...

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the alarming increase in nearsightedness among children. She explores the shift from genetic factors to environmental influences as a possible cause, particularly the excessive screen time and lack of outdoor activities. The World Health Organization's warning that 40% of the world's population will be nearsighted by 2030 is a concerning statistic. She delves into the implications for culture and the potential impact on...

In this episode, we delve into the complexities of identity formation in children and the significant role that external influences play, particularly in the realm of online gaming. Dr. Kathy discusses the potential dangers associated with platforms like Roblox, which not only offer a variety of user-generated games but also a social media component that encourages interaction among users. She highlights the alarming trends reported in a Bloomberg Businessweek article regarding the safety of...

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we explore the complexities of relationships in a hyper-sexualized world and how the church can play a pivotal role in guiding our understanding of friendship and romantic partnerships. Dr. Kathy discusses the challenges parents face in teaching their children about meaningful connections amidst cultural pressures that often misconstrue appreciation between individuals. She references biblical figures like David and Jonathan to highlight the need...

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, host Dr. Kathy explores the unique and vital roles that mothers and fathers play in children's development. Drawing on a recent study from the University of Leeds, the discussion highlights how a father's involvement positively influences educational outcomes while a mother's engagement enhances cognitive behavior and social skills. The episode addresses the implications of these findings in the context of diverse family structures, considering...

In this episode of Dr. Kathy Says, Dr. Kathy aims to provide us with the core needs to address the tech lies that are in the world. She explores how we build identity and how we reinforce a Biblical identity to attack lies by addressing the lies that are attacking us form technology. Listeners are encouraged to join Celebrate Kids as we prepare to launch big initiatives in the new year as we launch this new program that will turn into a Q&A segment next Saturday. To support Dr. Kathy...

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the complexities surrounding the topic of gender, particularly for children and teenagers. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and connecting with young people to help them navigate confusing messages about gender identity. Dr. Kathy discusses a recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics, which reveals that transgender teenagers who have undergone medical interventions, such as puberty blockers and hormone therapies,...

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, host Dr. Kathy Cook discusses the significant impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on adolescents, emphasizing that around 80% of children experience at least one ACE, with emotional abuse, household mental health issues, and physical abuse being the most prevalent. Dr. Kathy encourages parents to recognize drastic changes in their children's behavior, including sleep, eating, and overall joy, as potential signs of underlying struggles....

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we explore the surprising benefits of dad jokes for children's development during challenging cultural moments. Dr. Kathy discusses the pressures parents face to equip their kids with the right tools for navigating today's world, often leading to overwhelming feelings of inadequacy. However, recent research by humor expert Mark High Knutson suggests that dad jokes, despite their potential to embarrass, can actually foster positive growth in...

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the pressing issue of teenage anxiety and its implications for parenting in today's world. Citing statistics that reveal anxiety is a common experience for teenagers, Dr. Kathy explores whether managing this anxiety is the most critical responsibility for parents. She references a conversation between Jonathan Haidt and Russell Moore, which delves into the factors contributing to childhood mental health crises, including the...

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we delve into the evolving relationship between teens and technology, particularly focusing on location tracking. Recent studies reveal that a significant number of teens and young adults actually desire their parents to monitor their whereabouts using apps like Apple's Find My and Life 360. This marks a shift in mindset for Gen Z, who, according to the New York Times and Wall Street Journal, are the most anxious generation to date, influenced by...

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the crucial role of reading aloud to children and its numerous benefits. She discusses research findings indicating that a significant portion of four-year-olds are not being read to regularly, highlighting the importance of early reading habits. Dr. Kathy emphasizes that reading to children as young as one to two and a half years old can greatly enhance their vocabulary, reading comprehension, and motivation to read. She also...

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of preparing children for an unpredictable and often dangerous world by fostering resilience rather than simply ensuring their safety. Drawing on insights from Susie Welch's article in the Wall Street Journal, Dr. Kathy highlights the challenges faced by today's youth, including the lingering effects of the COVID pandemic and other societal anxieties. She emphasizes the significance of teaching kids to overcome...

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the challenges young people, especially young women, face in today's culture regarding identity and the perception of heroes. In the segment "Face in the Dark," she discusses a thought-provoking quote from Carrie Gress of Newsweek, highlighting how feminism has altered traditional narratives around womanhood, suggesting that envy has shifted from being seen as a downfall to a badge of honor. Gress argues that the push for...

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the concerning rise in mental health issues among young adults and teens, despite the availability of resources. She emphasizes recognizing and celebrating children's strengths, even during challenging times. Dr. Kathy discusses the recent CDC report indicating an increase in the percentage of children receiving therapy, highlighting a shift in how mental health is approached today. Listeners will gain valuable insights on how...