In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the concerning statistics surrounding children affected by parental substance abuse. With nearly 19 million children in the United States having at least one parent with a substance use disorder, the episode emphasizes the emotional and psychological impacts on these kids, who may feel undervalued and unimportant. The discussion highlights the need for pediatricians to screen for mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD in these children, as they are more prevalent in this demographic. Dr. Kathy also notes the various forms of addiction parents may struggle with, including alcoholism and marijuana use, underscoring the urgency to address these issues and support affected families.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Wayne Stender delves into the evolving landscape of education, emphasizing the importance of fostering a love for learning over traditional metrics like grades and GPAs. Drawing from Proverbs 4:13, Dr. Kathy stresses that instruction and a desire for knowledge should be the focus, rather than the pressure of achieving honor roll status. The discussion touches on the historical shift towards standardized education and critiques the current free market approach, highlighting a recent interview with Arne Duncan, former Secretary of Education, who pointed out the lack of coherent educational goals and strategies at the national level. Dr. Kathy encourages parents and educators to prioritize meaningful learning experiences for children amidst the complexities of modern education.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of getting children outside to play and engage with their environment. She highlights a long-term study linking physical activity in teenagers to lower symptoms of depression, emphasizing that those who maintain or increase their activity levels are less likely to experience mental health issues. Dr. Kathy explores the challenges some kids face in enjoying outdoor play due to sensory sensitivities and other barriers, offering insights into how parents can encourage outdoor activities in a positive way. Tune in for practical tips and a deeper understanding of the connection between physical activity and mental well-being in children.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the critical issue of student engagement in education. She highlights the findings from a recent Brookings Institution survey revealing that only one-third of children are enthusiastic about school by age 13, contrasting sharply with parents' perceptions. Dr. Kathy addresses the reasons behind children's boredom and disinterest in learning, emphasizing the importance of making education relevant and beneficial. She also explores how parents can respond to their children's frustrations with school, acknowledging that while some level of boredom can build resilience, it can also lead to a diminished love for learning. Tune in for valuable insights on fostering enthusiasm in education and maintaining a positive learning environment for children.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we dive into the complexities of parenting as children grow and change, particularly during their teenage years. Wayne Stender opens, discussing the natural evolution of children's interests and behaviors, highlighting the emotional challenges parents face when their kids transition from childhood. Drawing insights from Dr. Kathy, the conversation explores how to navigate these changes with grace and understanding, encouraging parents to embrace their children's growth while glorifying their role in their lives. The episode emphasizes the importance of accepting that it's okay for children to change their preferences and for parents to adapt alongside them, fostering a supportive environment as families move through different seasons of life.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of fostering gratitude in both ourselves and our children. Drawing on insights from former First Lady Michelle Obama, who reflects on her own upbringing and the gratitude she felt for the hard work of her parents, the conversation explores the challenges parents face in guiding their kids towards a thankful mindset. Dr. Kathy emphasizes that gratitude is a vital quality for a fulfilling life and shares strategies for cultivating thankfulness in daily life. Tune in for practical advice on nurturing gratefulness in families and creating a positive atmosphere at home.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, hosts Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy delve into the impact of social media on adolescents, particularly those with mental health conditions. They discuss how teens with internalizing issues, such as anxiety and depression, often face more negative experiences online compared to their peers. The conversation highlights the challenges of social comparison, struggles with self-control, and the emotional fluctuations linked to social media interactions, such as likes and comments. Tune in to understand the unique hurdles these young individuals encounter and gain insights on how to support them in navigating the complexities of the digital world.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the challenges children face in building friendships and the growing trend of using artificial intelligence as a solution. With insights from Meta's Mark Zuckerberg's recent interview, the discussion highlights the alarming reality of declining real-life friendships and the potential impact of AI chatbots on social connections. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of providing children with opportunities to practice friendship skills in social settings, while also addressing the dark implications of relying on technology to combat loneliness. Tune in for valuable perspectives on fostering genuine connections in a digital age.