Celebrate Kids Podcast with Dr. Kathy

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 children's spiritual lives. They also explore potential solutions, such as using glasses or training the eyes to focus on distant objects. 

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 these platforms, emphasizing the need for parents to be vigilant. Dr. Kathy provides valuable insights on guiding children towards a healthy understanding of their identity, rooted in their purpose and values, amidst the challenges posed by the digital world. Tune in for essential advice on navigating these modern parenting dilemmas.

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 for a renewed perspective on relationships, emphasizing that we are designed for connection. Dr. Kathy provides insights and scripture-based guidance, encouraging listeners to foster healthy relationships that bring light to dark times. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion aimed at equipping parents with the tools they need to navigate these important conversations.

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 how to communicate with children about having friends with two moms or two dads. Tune in for valuable insights on the distinct contributions of both parents in fostering children's growth.

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 and Celebrate Kids give at celebratekids.com/give

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, report high satisfaction with their care and experience low levels of regret. This conversation aims to equip parents with insights and conversation points to engage with their children thoughtfully, fostering understanding and reducing confusion about gender issues. Tune in as Dr. Kathy unpacks the findings of the Trans Youth Project and offers guidance on how to support kids in their journey of understanding gender.

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. She offers insights on how to approach these issues with compassion and understanding, highlighting the importance of real conversations with kids. The episode aims to provide hope and guidance for navigating the challenges children may face, underscoring that they can overcome adversity through the grace of Christ. Tune in for valuable strategies to support your child's emotional well-being.

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 children. The episode highlights the importance of humor and laughter in family dynamics, emphasizing that sometimes, a little light-heartedness is exactly what kids need. Join us as we delve into this fascinating topic with Dr. Kathy Cooke in our daily segment, Facing the Dark.

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 impact of social media, smartphones, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussion highlights a shift in parenting approaches over the decades, likening child-rearing to a school project, and examines how this has redefined childhood itself. Dr. Kathy encourages listeners to consider the unique challenges facing today's youth and how parents can navigate these complexities. Join us for an insightful look into the realities of modern parenting and the importance of understanding the changing landscape of childhood.

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 the pervasive presence of social media and real-time news coverage of global events. With 87% of Gen Z respondents utilizing tracking technology, we explore the reasons behind this trend and discuss how the increased anxiety levels and closer bonds with parents are reshaping the dynamics of parental engagement in the digital age. Tune in for an insightful conversation about the implications of these findings for families navigating technology together.