Celebrate Kids Podcast with Dr. Kathy

Writing does more than capture thoughts. It can calm the brain and organize emotions, which helps kids grow in resiliency. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore why putting thoughts on paper matters, how journaling helps children process hard moments, and why handwritten words may still be one of the most powerful tools for clarity and growth.

Artificial intelligence can make life faster and easier, but what if it also makes our kids more fragile? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore why failure and curious critical thinking still matter, and how parents can raise resilient kids in a world that keeps trying to remove struggle.

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. GET Dr. KATHY'S NEW BOOK>>

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.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, host Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of building resiliency in children amidst a societal focus on ensuring their happiness. She emphasizes the need for parents to model resilience by overcoming challenges rather than complaining about daily struggles. Dr. Kathy highlights the role of negative experiences in personal growth, drawing from her own journey of faith and resilience. She addresses the concerns surrounding children's mental health and the tendency to create overly protective environments, urging listeners to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Tune in for insights on how to help kids develop the skills they need to face life's obstacles with confidence.

Online platforms like Roblox promise fun, creativity, and connection, but for millions of kids, those promises are breaking. In this episode of Facing in the Dark, Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy Koch unpack the rise of digital gaming and the dangers hidden behind "safe" online play. From lawsuits and predatory risks to the loss of imagination, they contrast artificial worlds with the kind of real play God designed to shape hearts, build courage, and foster identity. Drawing on the story of David's childhood play and its role in forming his bravery, Dr. Kathy reminds us that kids don't just need entertainment; they need formation. Discover why parents stepping in to set boundaries isn't control; it's love, and how playing together as families restores joy, resilience, and faith in a distracted age. Visit today's sponsor, Summit Ministries at: summit.org/celebratekids Use the code celebrate26 at checkout for some great discounts and gifts.

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id="e2c409a2-2e3a-4d96-8323-ff6200a99fa8" data-testid="conversation-turn-58" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn="assistant"> When your son or daughter says, "I'm just not good at math," it's easy to focus on the subject, but the real issue often runs deeper. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack why math struggles are rarely just about numbers and more often about identity, mindset, and connection. They explore how culture, family language, and learning styles shape a child's confidence, and why interest, not pressure, is the key to growth. You'll discover practical ways to make math meaningful in everyday life, how to shift from performance to progress, and why learning to do hard things matters far beyond the classroom. Plus, they'll walk through how the 8 Great Smarts can unlock your child's ability to engage math in a way that actually makes sense to them. If you've ever wondered how to help your child move from frustration to confidence, this conversation will equip you with both perspective and practical next steps.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the complex impact of social media on children and the potential consequences of removing access to these platforms. She emphasizes that simply taking social media away from kids may not be enough to address the underlying issues they face. Instead, she advocates for a proactive approach where parents and educators step in to teach children about the challenges posed by social media. The discussion touches on the increasing number of lawsuits against major social media companies, highlighting concerns about their effects on youth and the strain they place on resources in schools. Dr. Kathy provides valuable insights to help parents better understand the topic and navigate the challenges of raising children in a digital age.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the challenge of entitlement in children and offers valuable strategies for parents. She begins by sharing her frustration with entitled behavior in her own kids and emphasizes the importance of helping children learn to tolerate frustration instead of removing it. Drawing from insights by Dr. Becky, she highlights the significance of acknowledging and validating children's feelings when they face challenges. Dr. Kathy encourages parents to resist the urge to immediately solve their kids' problems, allowing them the opportunity to wrestle with difficulties and develop resilience. Tune in for practical tips on fostering a healthier mindset in your children and guiding them toward a more appreciative attitude.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the prevalent issue of anxiety in children and explores innovative methods to support them. Traditional cognitive behavioral therapy has been the go-to approach, but Dr. Kathy considers a new technique known as Childhood Independence Therapy, developed by the nonprofit Let Grow. This therapy focuses on fostering independence in children by encouraging them to take on new challenges on their own, with parental permission but without direct involvement. The discussion highlights the benefits of this approach, including reduced anxiety, increased confidence, and enhanced independence, providing parents with practical strategies to help their children navigate anxiety both now and in the future. Tune in to learn how these methods can serve as a form of preventative medicine for your child's emotional well-being.

Culture tells kids to "find strength within," but what if that's not enough? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack inner strength, self efficacy, and why true confidence is built on Christ rather than self.

Test scores say kids are falling behind, but is that the full story? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack post-COVID learning gaps, the power of reading, and why curiosity, not scores, may be the real measure of success.

Are today's kids really falling behind, or are we measuring the wrong things? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack the debate around intelligence and what truly matters. Discover why "People Smarts" may be the most important skill your child can develop in today's world.

New research shows that when parents play with their kids, their brains actually sync. But this isn't just science, it's a powerful reminder of how God designed connection. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore how play, shared rhythms, and presence build belonging and lifelong bonds.

Location tracking apps promise safety and peace of mind, but are they quietly undermining trust and confidence in our kids? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore the tension between protection and control and how parents can use technology wisely without damaging relationships.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we explore the significance of everyday moments spent with our children, particularly during car rides. Wayne reflects on a cherished experience with his family, emphasizing how these simple interactions can create lasting memories and foster connections. Dr. Kathy joins the discussion, highlighting the positive impact that mundane engagements have on children's identity and sense of purpose. Inspired by a Men's Health article by Ben Falcone, the episode delves into the joys and challenges of parenting, encouraging listeners to appreciate the little moments that shape family life. Tune in for insights on nurturing relationships and building connections through everyday activities.

In this episode, we explore the fascinating trend of "kidults," adults who are rediscovering their love for toys and play. Dr. Kathy discusses how companies like Hasbro are tapping into this nostalgia driven market, with adults investing in intricate Lego sets, trendy plush toys, and even matching outfits with their American Girl dolls. We delve into the implications of this phenomenon on adult culture and consumer behavior, highlighting how play is not just for kids anymore. Sponsored by Creating a Masterpiece, the episode also emphasizes the importance of encouraging creativity in children through art projects and trainings. Join us as we unpack the intersection of play, nostalgia, and creativity in today's society.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the important topic of building resiliency in children. As parents increasingly seek guidance on this subject, Dr. Kathy explores the concept of "panda parenting," a style that emerges from permissive parenting. This approach emphasizes a balance of warmth, support, and the encouragement of exploration and independence, allowing children to navigate challenges with minimal rules or boundaries. While some experts argue that this method can be detrimental, others believe it fosters self-confidence and resilience. Dr. Kathy provides valuable insights on how to effectively guide children in developing these essential life skills, enhancing their ability to face adversity. Tune in for practical advice on nurturing resilience in the next generation.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, host Dr. Kathy addresses the challenges parents face when their children struggle with friendships or are influenced by negative peers. Drawing on the importance of self-awareness and shared experiences, Dr. Kathy emphasizes the need for parents to communicate their hopes and strengths for their children while teaching them discernment in choosing friends. The segment, titled "Facing the Dark," provides valuable insights to help guide kids toward positive friendships and community involvement. Additionally, Dr. Kathy touches on a recent event where Melania Trump advocated for a bill aimed at protecting individuals from the non-consensual posting of intimate imagery online, highlighting the relevance of consent in the digital age.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the nuances between normal anxiety and chronic anxiety in young people. She highlights the alarming statistics surrounding depression among teens, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe environment for open conversations about mental health. Dr. Kathy encourages parents to foster courage in discussing these sensitive topics, reassuring them that while it may lead to uncovering troubling issues, engaging in these conversations is crucial for supporting their children's well-being. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating mental health discussions with your kids.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the concept of parenting beyond merely raising well-behaved children. She challenges the notion that the primary goal of parenting should be to produce obedient kids who do the right things at the right times. Instead, Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of encouraging children to be comfortable in their own skin and to embrace their true selves. Drawing on insights from Elizabeth Tenty's article in Motherly, the discussion highlights four key practices of parents with well-behaved kids: listening to their children, validating emotions, explaining decisions, and maintaining consistent boundaries. Join us as we explore a more holistic approach to parenting that focuses on nurturing individuality and self-acceptance in children.

Gentle parenting has become one of the most popular parenting trends among millennials. But when warmth replaces structure, experts warn it can backfire. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore the difference between permissive and authoritative parenting and why boundaries are one of the greatest gifts parents can give their children.

Remember when teens spent weekends wandering the neighborhood and doing things just for fun, without documenting it online? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy reflect on what young people have lost in the age of constant connectivity and why kids still need unstructured time, real relationships, and room to grow in independence.

Artificial intelligence is quietly entering children's toy boxes. New reports show dozens of toys marketed to kids using AI systems, despite restrictions meant to keep children away from these technologies. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy discuss how AI toys shape identity and relationships, and why parents must pay attention.

Nearly 80% of high school students report getting less than the recommended amount of sleep. Is it puberty, caffeine, busy schedules, or digital distraction? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore the causes and dangers of teen sleep deprivation and how Psalm 127 reframes sleep as a gift from God.

Broadband internet expanded rapidly in the early 2010s, and teen mental health concerns rose alongside it. Is the internet the problem? Or is loneliness the deeper issue? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack research, rural broadband history, teen identity formation, and what Psalm 42 teaches us about longing and connection.

More parents are pushing back against school issued devices, citing distraction, inappropriate access, and concerns about learning loss. Should schools count classroom screen time differently from recreational use? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore the formation question behind technology and what the Tower of Babel teaches us about tools and pride.

Why are so many kids picky eaters today? Is it selfishness, fear, lack of exposure, or something deeper? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack cultural food trends, parenting pressure, restaurant frustration, and what the Israelites' craving for Egypt teaches us about control and growth.

In this special Saturday Q&A episode, Wayne and Dr. Kathy answer real parent questions from a Be Bold for Jesus event in Spokane. Topics include teenage hormonal rages, foster child grief, loud and goofy personalities, advanced toddlers, adult word-smart debates, and how the 8 Great Smarts apply for a lifetime.

Americans are marrying later than ever. But is delaying marriage actually costing young adults something deeper? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack Brad Wilcox's warning about the "Midas mindset," the difference between marriage and idolatry, and how to talk to kids about family without making it an idol.

A new Institute for Family Studies report (surveying nearly 24,000 parents and more than 40,000 children, including 2,600 teens) argues that modern culture quietly rewards one kind of parenting: keeping kids quiet, often by putting them in front of a screen. In this conversation, Wayne and Dr. Kathy talk honestly about the moment we all recognize, when a baby cries in a restaurant, or a kid is "being a kid" in public, and why our irritation may reveal a deeper cultural drift toward convenience over community. Then they pivot to hope: why real world practice (restaurants, church, airports, sidewalks, teams, trees, and yes, even scraped knees) is one of God's most practical tools for building resilient kids.

February can bring a slump, low motivation, heavier workloads, gray skies, and frayed tempers. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore how parents can respond wisely to midwinter mood dips and meet core needs before pushing harder conversations.

Many parents want to give their children the childhood they never had. But can parenting from past pain unintentionally create new problems? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore how trauma, overcorrection, discernment, and security in God shape healthy parenting, and how to break cycles without parenting from fear.

At the time of recording, Norway was leading the Olympic medal count, and one Norwegian leader said it was because of how their society's structures of work and leisure operate. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore what happens when families plan both discipline and delight, how structure builds security, and why "organized joy" might be one of the most overlooked parenting tools today.

Books are disappearing from kids' lives, and so is something sacred. In this episode of Celebrate Kids: Facing in the Dark, Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy Koch explore startling new data showing that only 30% of eighth-graders read at or above proficiency, and that over 30% of teens hardly ever read for fun. Together, they unpack why reading has declined over the last 40 years and how technology has quietly taken its place. Dr. Kathy, whose Ph.D. is in reading and educational psychology, explains that kids don't just learn from books, they learn through them. Reading shapes imagination, memory, empathy, and even spiritual understanding. From a dad's nightly reading routine full of laughter and silly voices to the ancient call in Deuteronomy for God's Word to be read aloud to every generation, Wayne and Dr. Kathy remind parents that reading isn't just an academic exercise; it's identity formation. Discover how reading together restores belonging, deepens faith, and invites our kids to see the world through God's story, not just a glowing screen.

Every parent knows the morning rush can swing from peaceful to chaotic in seconds. But new research suggests that what we do in those early minutes may shape much more than how fast we get out the door, it may shape our children's resilience, emotional stability, and sense of belonging. In today's Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore a study highlighting nine morning habits practiced by parents who raise happy, resilient kids. They unpack why connection matters more than control, how mornings imprint identity, and why some "chaotic kids" just think differently, not worse. With humor, real family stories, practical tools, and Scripture, this episode reimagines mornings not as a battleground, but as one of parenting's most powerful windows of influence.

In this sobering episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy address recent violent tragedies involving individuals struggling with gender identity and mental health. With compassion and clarity, they explore the link between identity confusion and misplaced hope, and how parents can respond with prayer and character formation in a confusing cultural moment.

More teens are turning to AI chatbots for friendship and emotional support, but can artificial companionship replace real relationships? In this episode, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore why self-reflective kids are especially drawn to AI, what we lose when we prioritize efficiency over embodied friendship, and how parents can guide children toward real, life-giving connection. Before diving in, Wayne shares about our partnership with Summit Ministries. Dr. Kathy will be speaking at Summit's summer sessions, powerful two-week worldview intensives for students ages 16 through college. If you want your teen grounded in biblical truth before stepping into adulthood, visit: summit.org/celebratekids Use code celebrate26 for a discount.

Grief is heavier for kids today. Divorce. Death. Global crises. Friendship fractures. Family instability. Even exposure to constant news cycles. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy talk honestly about what it looks like to help children process grief, without rushing them, fixing them, or forcing conversations they're not ready to have.

In this special Q&A episode of The Celebrate Kids Podcast, Wayne and Dr. Kathy answer real questions from Christian school leaders and teachers at Linville Hill Christian School in Paradise, Pennsylvania and Hillcrest Academy in Minnesota. These questions aren't theoretical. They come from classrooms, dorm rooms, and dinner tables. Here's what they tackle: How do we teach empathy, especially toward students who are hard to love? Dr. Kathy explains that empathy begins with self-awareness. If children can't identify and manage their own feelings, they will struggle to recognize others' emotions. Discernment matters. Service matters. Prayer matters. And sometimes empathy grows not by fixing someone's pain, but by simply acknowledging it. Are we fooling ourselves about technology addiction? Screens are addictive. The dopamine cycle is real. But the deeper issue isn't just devices, it's the lies we attach to them: "I deserve to be happy all the time." "I need constant choice." "I'm the center." Technology amplifies those lies. The solution is formation. Sabbaths. Boundaries. Stewardship. Teaching children that they are created on purpose and cannot afford to waste their time. What about kids using AI to write their papers? This isn't just about cheating. It continues our conversation about formation. Writing is not simply information transfer; it is character development. Wrestling with ideas, revising drafts, struggling through clarity, that's where growth happens. AI might save time. But what if the point wasn't speed? The question becomes: What kind of human are we forming in our writing? How do we help perfectionist students who freeze under pressure? Perfectionism often grows from home culture. It can reflect unrealistic expectations, fear of mistakes, or conditional approval. Dr. Kathy reminds us: Perfect has already been done. His name is Jesus. Progress matters more than flawlessness. Struggle builds endurance, character, and hope. Perfectionism paralyzes. Grace frees. Why should we let kids struggle? Because resilience only grows through recovery. James 1 and Romans 5 remind us that perseverance produces character. If we rescue children too quickly, we risk raising fragile adults. Victory after struggle builds deep confidence. Struggle isn't failure. It's formation. So, this episode is packed with practical wisdom to guide kids and parents to deeper faith and stronger conviction. If you'd like to bring Dr. Kathy to your school, church, or community, visit CelebrateKids.com and click "Book Dr. Kathy." Have a question you'd like answered in a future Q&A episode? Email Wayne at [email protected]. We're grateful you're here. And we're honored to help you celebrate kids well.

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore a fascinating report published in Science examining nearly 35,000 elite performers. The surprising conclusion? Many of the world's most accomplished musicians, scientists, athletes, and chess masters were not early prodigies. In fact, early specialization often predicts burnout rather than lifelong excellence. That challenges modern parenting. In a culture that pushes optimization, early reading programs, elite travel teams, and accelerated academics, many parents feel pressure to help their children get ahead and stay ahead. But what if early polish is not the same as deep potential? What if rushing specialization actually limits exploration? Dr. Kathy unpacks the deeper motivations behind our desire for prodigious children. Sometimes it's fear. Sometimes it's pride. Sometimes it's a longing for ease. And sometimes it's the subtle temptation to tie our identity to our children's performance. The conversation moves beyond academics into identity formation. When competence becomes the foundation of a child's worth, the pyramid flips upside down. Security, not performance, must come first. Children thrive when they know they are loved unconditionally, when their identity is anchored in Christ, and when their gifts are discerned rather than demanded.

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy Koch explore a growing trend among so called "TV Moms," parents who allow television freely but restrict personal devices like iPads and phones. Is there really a difference? Or is all screen time the same? Drawing on current research and practical parenting experience, Dr. Kathy explains why screens are not created equal. Television can become communal and conversational when used intentionally. Personal devices, however, are engineered for individual consumption and often create emotional ownership that's harder for kids to relinquish. But even TV loses its value when it becomes constant background noise. The deeper concern isn't just screen exposure, it's what screens are replacing. Quiet. Conversation. Boredom. Creative play. Relational engagement. In a culture where something is always on, children are losing the natural rhythms that form identity: sitting, walking, listening, asking, and wondering. When noise fills every space, wisdom has no room to rise. Dr. Kathy reminds parents that quiet is not empty. Quiet is formative. It's where discernment grows, where creativity sparks, where the Holy Spirit speaks. Identity is shaped not by constant input but by repeated relational moments in which children feel known and guided. This episode challenges parents to reconsider not just how much media their kids consume, but whether screens are crowding out the spaces where character, connection, and confidence are built. Check out Dr. Kathy's book on this topic, Screens and Teens, here>>

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "217955b7-5fd7-479a-ae95-4239381dfd0a" data-testid= "conversation-turn-202" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy Koch explore a sobering reality: up to 70–80% of young adults aging out of foster care face homelessness, incarceration, addiction, or mental health struggles within just two years. What happens when young people are forced to launch without a runway? The conversation moves from foster care to the everyday home. While many parents joke about 18 being the "launch date," real readiness isn't about a birthday; it's about preparation. Dr. Kathy unpacks how confidence and competence are built over time through identity formation, financial literacy, character development, and gradual responsibility. Launching isn't abrupt independence; it's scaffolded growth. Using the image of learning to ride a bike, from tricycles to training wheels to open pavement, this episode reminds parents that scars are part of growth. Falling while learning to walk didn't mean failure. It meant development. The same is true when young adults stumble in the early stages of independence. Ultimately, the deepest runway parents can build isn't dependence on mom and dad, but security in Christ. When identity is rooted in Jesus, young adults carry with them wisdom, conviction, companionship, and courage wherever they go. True launch readiness isn't just financial or emotional, it's spiritual. If you're wondering how to raise kids who can step into adulthood with clarity and resilience, this episode will give you both vision and practical encouragement.