In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the pressures parents face as their children return to school, particularly the urge to ensure high achievement through tutoring and extra activities. Drawing on insights from Jennifer Wallace's research, which highlights the importance of a "mattering mindset," Dr. Kathy emphasizes that children's long-term success is rooted in their belief in their inherent worth and ability to positively impact the world. The discussion delves into the societal expectations of parenting, the push for children to excel, and the need for a balance between achievement and self-worth. Tune in for valuable insights on fostering motivation and self-esteem in kids.

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In this episode of the Celebrate Kids Podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender explore why more young people are disengaging from education and work and why the answer may begin much earlier than adolescence. They discuss the importance of security, identity, belonging, purpose, and competence, as well as the role that parents, schools, churches, and communities can play in helping kids discover that they are capable and created to contribute. Parents and leaders will be encouraged to look beyond early warning signs and instead help children recognize the gifts and purposes God has already placed within them.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids Podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender explore new research showing how severe early childhood stress can leave lasting biological effects while also emphasizing that those effects do not have to determine a child's future. They discuss the difference between healthy stress that builds resilience and traumatic stress that overwhelms, as well as the importance of presence, patience, compassion, and safe relationships in helping children heal. Parents will be encouraged to look beneath behavior and remember that consistent, loving adults can play a powerful role in rebuilding security and hope.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids Podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender explore new research showing how warm, responsive caregiving can shape a child's developing brain and even buffer against some early risks associated with ADHD. They discuss the power of eye contact, conversation, play, and simply responding when kids reach for us, while also considering what parents may lose when screens repeatedly pull their attention away. Parents will be encouraged to remember that it is never too late to become more present and that small, intentional moments of attention can build connection and trust.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids Podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender explore new research suggesting that the impact of screens may depend less on simple time limits and more on how, when, why, and with whom kids use them. They discuss the difference between screens as toys and screens as tools and why parents need to know their individual children when setting boundaries. Parents will be encouraged to move beyond fear based rules and instead teach kids to use technology with wisdom, balance, curiosity, and discernment.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of play in childhood and how it shapes children's self worth and resilience. Highlighting a recent statement by Senator Lincoln Fillmore, Dr. Kathy reflects on the nostalgic view of childhood, emphasizing the shift from unstructured play to a more programmed and supervised environment. Fillmore argues that this change is hindering children's development of crucial life skills such as perseverance and self confidence. The episode dives into the balance between safety and the necessity of allowing children the freedom to explore, learn, and grow independently. Join us for valuable insights on fostering independence in children and the critical role of play in their development.

In this episode of Celebrate Kids, Wayne Stender shares exciting updates from their recent meeting with book publishers before Dr. Kathy explores new data that shows a shift in teen perspectives in technology. She dives into a new trend in identity dysphoria, and gives helpful tips to connect being created on purpose with a purpose for a purpose.

Resources in this podcast:

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• Start with the Heart>>

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy shares her journey of personal growth and the importance of allowing young people the space to explore their paths without the pressure to get it right immediately. Drawing on her experiences as a teacher and professor, she emphasizes that change is a natural part of life and growth. The discussion shifts to the future of parenting, highlighting a recent Gallup survey that explored parents' perceptions about their children's readiness to launch into adulthood. Dr. Kathy encourages parents to embrace the journey of raising their children, preparing them to thrive as young adults in an ever-changing world. Join her as she offers insights and reflections on navigating the challenges and uncertainties of parenting.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids Podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender explore how parents can help children develop confidence in the way God created them while navigating a culture filled with competing messages about gender and identity. They discuss the importance of grounding kids in Scripture, security, belonging, and identity in Christ while also teaching them to treat others with respect and compassion. Parents will be encouraged to speak truth clearly and help kids understand that genuine love does not abandon truth, especially when a child is confused or hurting.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids Podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender explore what parents gain and risk losing when AI becomes part of family life. They discuss how technology can be a useful tool for learning, while reminding parents that information can never replace relationships, curiosity, presence, and truly knowing a child. Parents will be encouraged to protect the quiet, ordinary moments when trust grows and to ensure AI supports their parenting rather than replacing the conversations and connections their kids need most.