Helping Kids Navigate Puberty With Confidence and Calm

*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "a8c6b819-8960-4d58-8ae6-ad1a9c0e5c24" data-testid= "conversation-turn-180" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Puberty can feel overwhelming for kids and parents alike. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy Koch explore new research on pubertal self efficacy and why confidence, not avoidance, is key to helping kids navigate this critical season. Drawing from findings in the Journal of Adolescence, they discuss how teens who understand what's happening in their bodies and emotions experience less anxiety and depression. Dr. Kathy explains self efficacy as the belief that "I can handle what's being asked of me," and shows parents how this confidence is built through contribution, clear instruction, patience, and ongoing conversation. Together, they unpack why puberty is such a significant identity shaping moment and why kids don't need mystery or silence, but guidance and reassurance. Grounded in Luke 2 and Jesus' own growth into maturity, this episode equips parents to replace fear with formation, helping kids experience puberty not as something to endure alone, but as a God designed process they are capable of walking through well.