Celebrate Kids Podcast with Dr. Kathy

Building Resilience in Children: The Impact of Overprotective Parenting on Child Longevity

On this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the impact of overprotective parenting on children's life expectancy. A new report reveals that children with overprotective parents in the baby boom generation actually died earlier than their peers. Dr. Kathy offers insights on building resiliency in children to help them engage with life differently. The episode explores the delicate balance between protecting and empowering children for a well-lived life.

How Dads Battle Depression and Build Identity in Kids - ReAir

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, the importance of fathers in children's lives is explored, especially in light of the mental health crisis and shifting cultural norms. The episode discusses the impact of missing fathers on children's sense of identity and the challenges they face when fathers are not actively involved. Dr. Kathy shares insights from a survey showing that teenagers are more comfortable opening up to their mothers than their fathers about mental health issues. ...

Resilience Built in Summer Reading: Mentoring Kids in Reading

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch discusses the importance of developing a love for reading in children during the summer. Research shows that reading is strongly linked to summer learning and that a lack of access to books can lead to a decline in reading achievement, especially for children from low-income families. Dr. Kathy provides insights on how parents can take small steps to encourage reading in their kids, highlighting the long-term benefits of fosterin...

Does Stress Lead to Meaning for Teens? Parenting Kids in Stressful Times Leading to Resiliency

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores whether parents should encourage their children to face challenges and difficult situations early in life. She discusses the importance of children experiencing hard things and how it can help them build resiliency and avoid insecurities later on. Dr. Kathy also touches on the balance between guiding and protecting children while preparing them for future challenges. Tune in to learn more about fostering growth and resiliency...

Summer Jobs and Teaching Kids Financial Resiliency: Lessons on Money and Mistakes

This episode explores the importance of allowing children to make mistakes to learn resilience. Dr. Kathy discusses a scenario where a child wants to buy expensive shoes but may regret not being able to buy a birthday gift for his brother. The episode also delves into the decline of teens seeking employment since 1978, with a recent increase post-pandemic. Studies show that teens benefit from working early, learning valuable budgeting skills.

Guiding Kids Towards True Identity

On this episode of the Celebrate Kids daily podcast, Dr. Kathy Koch discusses the topic of identity and the challenges parents face in guiding their children to discover who they truly are. The episode delves into the concept of choosing one's identity and the impact of societal trends on personal beliefs. Dr. Cooke explores the idea of individualism in Western culture and its connection to the current crisis of identity. The discussion also touches on the power of influencing children's de...

Snapchat's New Safety Features and Parenting Kids Deep in Tech.

The episode discusses the importance of parents monitoring and regulating their children's tech use to protect them from online dangers like sextortion. It highlights Snapchat's new safety features aimed at preventing teenagers from being contacted by strangers. Dr. Kathy explores the balance between internet safety and allowing teens to navigate the online world responsibly.

Google's Gemini and Guiding Kids to Truth in Education

In this episode, we explore Google's AI technology Gemini, and how it's being designed for teenage students using school Gmail accounts. Google aims to equip teens with skills for a future with artificial intelligence by providing real-time feedback through Gemini. The company emphasizes responsible use, ensuring data privacy and implementing guardrails to prevent inappropriate responses. Educators are also granted access to new tools to support students' development in information literacy...

Helping Teens on Obesity Prescriptions from Wegovy to Zepbound, Ozempic and Mounjaro: Empowering Youth

The episode explores the rise in prescriptions for weight loss medications among young people, particularly females. It delves into the impact of medications like Wegovy, Zepound, Ozempec, and Murano on obesity medicine and public perception. The host and guest discuss the significant increase in prescriptions from 8,000 in 2020 to over 60,000 in 2023, highlighting the importance of addressing weight gain and promoting weight loss, especially among youth.

Reinforcing Gender Identity: Responding to Puberty Blockers, The Supreme Court, and Culture

Exploring the intersection of faith and gender identity, this episode delves into the debate surrounding the use of puberty blockers for teens with gender dysphoria. With a focus on compassion and understanding, the episode discusses the implications of a major case on this issue heading to the Supreme Court. Delving into the real impact on individuals grappling with gender identity, the conversation aims to shed light on the complexities involved in this sensitive topic.

Overcoming "I think I'm Ruining My Kids" - Dr. Kathy Responds to Reports Dads Feel They're Missing the Mark

A recent article outlines how many dads, and parents in general, feel like they're missing the mark. The article shares how some dads, especially on the gender issue, don't feel equipped nor prepared to handle the weight of these moments and struggle with moving forward. Dr. Kathy gives important insight, and we close today looking at a passage that guides us to casting all our cares on Christ.

An 8 Great Smarts Summer - How to reset Summer When Plans Change

In this episode of Facing the Dark, we delve into the challenges and pressures parents face in creating a successful summer for their children. Dr. Kathy dives into the "Eight Great Smarts," a powerful tool for understanding and remembering different intelligences, as she frames out how we can approach the latter part of summer with great intentionality. 

Understanding Teen Perspectives and Correcting the Cultural Narrative

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the issue of kids defining themselves negatively and explores how to combat this trend. She delves into the importance of speaking words of truth and life into the younger generation. Tune in to learn how to empower kids to overcome self-doubt and embrace their true potential.

The Tests of Good Parents: From Caretaker to Coach Considering Summer Jobs

On this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the topic of how parents interact with their children in a healthy and supportive way, without being overly concerned about how they are perceived by others. The discussion delves into the importance of focusing on building resilience and strength in children. 

Strategies for Healthy Tech Habits Beyond Smart Phone Bans

Exploring the complexities of kids and technology, Dr. Kathy delves into the topic of cell phones and whether banning them is the solution. Highlighting the struggle between understanding the negative impact of technology while still clinging to it, she poses the question of filling the void with something positive instead. 

Sad-Fishing, Happiness, and Parenting: Understanding the Developmental Shift in Sad Fishing Trends

Today on the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the issue of how to handle kids who fake sadness for attention. Is pushing our kids always towards happiness the right approach? 

Why Sleep Might Be the Most Import Thing Teens Can Learn This Summer - Dr. Kathy responds to recent studies and gives encouragement to parents - ReAir

Sleep has always been a challenge for teens. Staying up later and being more "grown-up" with managing their own bed time has been a hallmark of American teens. However, Dr. Kathy encourages parents of teens to hold tightly to bed times and longer sleep for the benefit of their kids.

Forming Faith with Kids in an anti-Christian world as the Rise of the Nones Plateaus

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the plateau of the demographic known as the "nones," those who do not affiliate with any religious denomination. She explores the challenges parents face in preparing their children to navigate a world that may not align with their Christian beliefs. 

Overcoming Trauma and Challenges with Kids and Teens - Considering "Bad Therapy" by Abigail Schrier - ReAir

Exploring the delicate balance between building resilience in children and seeking professional help when needed, this episode delves into the importance of instilling efficacy in young people. Drawing on insights from journalist Abigail Schreier, the discussion challenges the prevailing narrative around trauma and emphasizes the power of overcoming challenges. Dr. Kathy's expertise in parenting offers valuable perspectives on navigating these complex issues

Raising Kids in a World of Benchmarks and Standardized Tests

Dr. Kathy shares valuable insights on parenting challenges and the pressure of standardized testing in this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast. She discusses how to balance encouraging fun and growth while navigating societal expectations. 

The Benefits of Nature for Kids From a Study in Finland on Benefits in Outdoor Play

Today on the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the importance of engaging kids with nature, even if they prefer indoor activities. She discusses the benefits of outdoor play, citing a study from Finland that showed increased T-cells in kids playing in natural environments. 

Parent Habits Drive Tech Satisfaction in Teens

On this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we explore parents' influence on their children's use of technology. Do children mimic their parents' tech habits, or is there a need for intentional teaching about technology use?

Helping Kids Navigate a Screen Dependent World Amidst the Surgeon Generals Warning on Mental Health

Dr. Kathy looks at a recent Surgeon General's warning that boasts tech today is driving kids to their greatest mental health crisis. With so much of the world screen dependent, how do we give support for our kids, knowing much of society drives them into places that will compromise their mental health? 

Telehealth for Teen Mental Health Support - Is New York City wise to push it?

On this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, the host explores the idea of connecting with teens through various support systems like pastors, friends, schools, and churches to promote mental health. The episode delves into a new telehealth program in New York City aiming to provide support through screens.

Teens Want More Engagement from Mom and Dad with Tech - Supporting Teens with Tech Anxiety

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses a recent study that reveals how young people, especially teens and young adults, actually want their parents to track their technology usage and location. The survey highlights the anxiety experienced by Gen Z, the most anxious generation, and how social media and real-time news contribute to their heightened anxieties. The episode explores the reasons behind this desire for parental tracking and the implications for parent...

"Pride Puppy" and "Born Ready" - Navigating Pride Month in the Wake of Montgomery School District and the Fourth Circuit's Decision

The Fourth Circuit of Appeals ruled against Maryland parents who objected to the inclusion of LGBTQ plus texts in their school's curriculum without an opt-out option. The books Montgomery County Public School parents opposed were reportedly Pride Puppy, an illustrated children's book about a dog who gets lost while attending a pride parade with a family, and Born Ready, the true story of a boy named Penelope Chronicling the so-called transition of the author's son. Dr. Kathy has some hope-fi...

Talking future plans of college, career, or gap year: Helping Kids think well of the future

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the challenges parents face as their children transition into adulthood. She offers valuable insights on guiding kids towards the right path for their future, whether it involves school or other options.

Building Gender Confidence in Kids

This podcast episode delves into the fundamental questions of identity, purpose, and trust in relation to gender issues, especially for parents. Dr. Kathy Koch provides insights on navigating these complex topics, addressing the challenges and uncertainties faced by youth exploring gender identity. The discussion touches on studies showing that gender confusion in youth often resolves as they transition into adulthood, prompting reflection on the implications of such findings for individual...

Sharenting and Living a Snap and Post Lifestyle

This episode explores the concept of "sharenting," where parents share private information about their children online. The discussion delves into how this practice may impact children's sense of vulnerability and ability to tell their own stories as they grow older. Dr. Kathy Koch opens Leah Plunkett's insights shed light on the potential consequences of oversharing on social media and offer valuable perspectives for parents and caregivers to consider.

Understanding the Influence of Technology on Teen Identity

Discover how technology is shaping our kids' lives in today's episode. Dr. Kathy delves into the impact of algorithms on teenagers and provides insight to help parents navigate this digital landscape. Sponsored by Summit Ministries, offering worldview-based camps to guide kids through life's challenges and deep questions. Tune in to gain valuable perspective on parenting in the age of technology.

The Power of Grandparents in Helping Kids with Anxiety

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the powerful impact of intergenerational relationships, specifically focusing on the role of grandparents in helping children navigate anxiety and fear. Research highlights the benefits of older adults engaging in communities, preserving stories, and contributing to healthy aging. 

Teen Preference in Algorithm Begs For Leadership in Forming Identity - ReAir

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the impact of technology on children, exploring how much data technology knows about them and whether kids prefer living a life based on algorithms. The episode delves into the challenges this presents for parents in today's digital age. This episode is sponsored by Summit Ministries, known for their worldview-based camp that helps guide kids through challenging life questions.  

Navigating Teen-Only Spaces: A Parent's Dilemma

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the idea of creating spaces for teens where adults are not present, raising questions about the wisdom of such environments. The episode is sponsored by Summit Ministries, a camp dedicated to addressing big questions that kids face during their development. Dr. Kathy speaks at Summit, where mentors help kids navigate challenging times. Summit Ministries offers camps in Manitou Springs, Colorado, and Lookout Mountain, Georgia,...

Creating Spaces of Belonging: A Core Need for Families - ReAir

On this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the importance of creating families as a place of belonging. Referencing a recent Christianity Today article, the discussion explores the role of belonging in discipleship and personal development. Dr. Kathy emphasizes that belonging is a core need for all individuals, highlighting its significance in understanding one's identity and embracing their humanity. Tune in for insights on the value of connection and the impact ...

The Importance Of Fear And Danger In Child Development - ReAir

In this episode, Dr. Kathy addresses the growing concerns of parents about their children's mental health, specifically anxiety and depression. A new report reveals that 40% of U.S. parents are extremely or very worried about their children experiencing these issues. These concerns outweigh worries about physical dangers such as bullying, kidnapping, and drug/alcohol use. Dr. Kathy explores the role of fear in parenting and how it should guide our interactions with kids. Tune in to gain in...

Character Age vs. Chronological Age: Rites of Passage and Benchmarks for Kids

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses how to determine when children are ready for more responsibilities and how to adjust our conversations and interactions with them as they mature. She addresses the various societal benchmarks like getting a driver's license, voting, and registering for the military, and offers guidance on approaching these discussions. 

Embracing Boredom And Forming A Summer of Stillness

Exploring the concept of summer activities and mental health for kids, this episode delves into the idea of combating boredom and engaging children's minds during the summer months. Dr. Kathy provides insights on the importance of allowing space for deep thinking and processing in children's lives. 

The Passivity of Devices: A Threat to Active Learning

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the challenges of managing screen time as a parent. She explores the idea of using screen time as a tool for motivating children to complete tasks and responsibilities. Dr. Kathy addresses a parenting philosophy on screen time from a Newsweek article and offers insights on balancing screen time with educational benefits.

Protecting Children: A Discussion on Language and Technology

Dr. Kathy discusses a new law in Oklahoma aimed at protecting kids from pornography by using different terminology. She dives into the importance of guiding and defending children while empowering them to navigate difficult situations.

Nurturing Nature Smart Kids: The Benefits of Outdoor Play

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the importance of getting kids outside and how it benefits their well-being. She emphasizes the power of children looking into the distance and seeing the horizon. The episode is sponsored by Summit Ministries, a camp that helps teens explore a Christian worldview. 

The Impact of Mental Health Awareness Month on Teens

This episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast delves into the topic of teen mental health during Mental Health Awareness Month. The host questions whether raising awareness truly helps teens and introduces Summit Ministries as the sponsor. They discuss the perspective of Lucy Fulkes from Oxford University, who suggests that there may be an overabundance of mental health awareness. Stay tuned to hear Dr. Kathy Cooke's insights on this thought-provoking topic.

The Importance Of Music In A Child's Life - ReAir

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the decline of music education among young people. She discusses the impact of music on personal expression and opportunities for advancement. Dr. Kathy shares alarming statistics from studies conducted in Texas and California, highlighting the significant attrition rates and decreased enrollment in music classes. She emphasizes the importance of encouraging young people to embrace music and advocates for equal access to mus...

Understanding Developmental Delays and Guiding Kids to Thrive In The Face of Them - ReAir

Dr. Kathy considers a new report that highlights where some developmental delays may come from. With many turning to technology and the pandemic era policies, Dr. Kathy considers parental involvement and gives parents some helpful tips on engaging their child.  

Suicide Clusters and Youth Mental Health Struggles: A Parent's Guide

Parental Loneliness: A Rising Trend

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the rising trend of feeling lonely, sad, and isolated, discussing how parents can support their children through similar emotions. The episode is sponsored by Summit Ministries, known for training young people in Christian worldview with a two-week summer camp featuring top experts like Dr. Kathy. For more information on Summit Ministries, visit summitministries.org/celebratekids.

The Link Between Substance Use and Teen Mental Health

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the impact of alcohol, marijuana, and nicotine on the mental health of high school students. She addresses the findings of researchers in Massachusetts who surveyed over 15,000 students and discovered a higher risk of mental health disorders among those using these substances. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of having meaningful conversations with teens about these issues in a culture that often overlooks their struggles...

Navigating Parenting: Quality vs. Quantity Time

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the debate between quality and quantity time spent with children. She addresses the importance of parental engagement at specific moments throughout the day, as highlighted by neuroscientist Jacques Penkeeps.

Kids in Challenges: The Science Behind Supporting Kids in Hard Times

The episode discusses a study showing that positive childhood experiences reduce mental health issues, while adverse experiences can lead to depression and anxiety. The importance of fostering environments that promote positive childhood experiences is highlighted. The host shares a personal anecdote about parenting and seeking to build confidence in his children.

Teen Preference in Algorithm Begs For Leadership in Forming Identity

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the impact of technology on children, exploring how much data technology knows about them and whether kids prefer living a life based on algorithms. The episode delves into the challenges this presents for parents in today's digital age. This episode is sponsored by Summit Ministries, known for their worldview-based camp that helps guide kids through challenging life questions.

Navigating Substance Use Conversations with Kids

On this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the reframing of substances like vapes and marijuana as less harmful, exploring the impact on teens and adults. The episode highlights research showing potential toxic metal exposure in teenagers who vape regularly, emphasizing the importance of understanding the health implications. This episode is sponsored by Verse Chocolate, offering pure dark chocolate without additives or sugars. Tune in for insightful perspectives on ...