Celebrate Kids Podcast with Dr. Kathy

Australia's social media ban for children under 16 has generated headlines around the world, but perhaps not for the reasons many expected. Three months after the law took effect, most teenagers were still finding ways around it. Did the policy fail? Maybe not. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore why true formation is rarely measured in months. Instead, they discuss how parents shape character over the years through consistent habits and patient discipleship. If you've ever wondered whether your parenting is making a difference, this conversation offers a hopeful reminder that God's work in our children is often slow, quiet, and deeply transformative.

Family vacations aren't just about getting away; they're opportunities for formation. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore why travel can become one of the most powerful developmental experiences in a child's life. They discuss how new environments awaken curiosity, strengthen relationships, activate learning, and help children discover the unique ways God designed them. Whether your family is taking a cross country vacation or simply spending an afternoon exploring a local park, this conversation will encourage you to see summer adventures as opportunities to disciple your children.

Summer creates a unique opportunity for families. Without the constant rhythm of sports and homework, children suddenly have more freedom and more choices about how they'll spend their time. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore why the parent child relationship remains the strongest protective factor in a world filled with screens, social media, online gaming, and AI chatbots. They discuss how parents can help children discover curiosity, awaken their God given gifts, and build memories that shape a lifetime of faith.

When a child's mental health begins to unravel, our first instinct is often to build better systems. But are systems enough? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy discuss a California school struggling to care for students amid a growing mental health crisis and ask a deeper question: What do children actually need to flourish? They explore why genuine relationships, not simply more programs, remain one of God's primary ways of bringing healing, hope, and resilience to children.

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-68c436b6-c164-832c-9422-c7a823071a31-1" data-turn-id-container= "request-68c436b6-c164-832c-9422-c7a823071a31-1" data-testid= "conversation-turn-318" data-turn="assistant"> The Supreme Court has issued one of its most significant rulings yet on transgender participation in school sports, and parents are left wondering how to explain it to their children. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack the decision and move beyond the headlines to explore what it means for identity, compassion, and truth. The Court ruled unanimously that state laws restricting participation in girls' sports based on biological sex do not violate Title IX, and by a 6–3 majority held that these laws also do not violate the Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause. The case arose after transgender student-athletes—including Becky Pepper-Jackson in West Virginia and Lindsay Hecox in Idaho—challenged state laws requiring athletes to compete according to their biological sex. Writing for the majority, Justice Brett Kavanaugh argued that states may preserve women's sports for biological females and determine eligibility based on biological sex, while Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, in dissent, argued that excluding transgender women from women's sports still constitutes discrimination "on the basis of sex." Rather than focusing only on the legal questions, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore the deeper issue every family faces: How do we help our children develop a secure identity in Christ so they can engage difficult cultural conversations with both conviction and compassion? They discuss why security forms identity, why identity shapes belonging, and how parents can teach their children to hold firmly to biblical truth while treating every person with dignity, kindness, and genuine love.  

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy examine a heartbreaking story that raises an important question for every family: What happens when children lose the ability to find joy in ordinary life? As concerns grow about social media's impact on identity, comparison, and emotional health, they discuss how parents can help their children discover lasting joy through relationships, purpose, and the presence of God.  

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the emotional challenges parents face as they prepare for significant transitions in their children's lives, such as entering the workforce or pursuing higher education. She explores how to guide kids through these pivotal moments, emphasizing the importance of discerning the right path for each child. The episode also highlights the partnership with Summit Ministries, a dynamic organization offering students opportunities to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith through engaging summer programs. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating these critical decisions and supporting your child's future.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we delve into the significant concerns parents have regarding their children's mental health in today's digitally connected world. Host discusses a recent Pew Research Center report revealing that 40% of U.S. parents are extremely worried about their children struggling with anxiety or depression, surpassing fears related to physical dangers such as kidnapping or substance abuse. Dr. Kathy explores the impact of these worries on parental behavior and the importance of focusing on the light amidst the darkness. Join us as we unpack the balance between natural parental fears and the hope found in a supportive, faith-based perspective.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we dive into the important topic of boredom and its impact on children. Dr. Kathy discusses the challenges parents face when their kids experience boredom and how this can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, including substance use. Recent research highlights the necessity of teaching children to manage boredom effectively, as it is a natural part of life. Dr. Kathy also examines the shift in reasons behind teen vaping, noting that many now turn to it as a means of relaxation amidst rising stress levels. This episode offers valuable insights and strategies for parents to help their children build resilience and navigate feelings of boredom in a healthy way. Join us as we explore these crucial issues and equip ourselves to lead our kids well.

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy discuss the emotional weight of the sandwich generation, parents raising children while also caring for aging parents. They offer encouragement to humbly ask for help and to trust God with seasons that feel too heavy to carry alone.

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy talk about how financial and medical stress, as well as family pressure, affect children. They reflect on how parents can be honest without overwhelming kids, and how security in God helps families mature through hard seasons.

Argentina is taking a strong stand to show dads how they want them to behave. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy discuss the responsibility of fatherhood and why engaged dads matter deeply to children. They reflect on culture and the biblical picture of a father who keeps watching for his children.

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy discuss the growing presence of screens at family meals and why the dinner table matters for belonging. They explain how an undistracted presence helps children feel known and loved.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we dive into the importance of fostering a love for reading in children, especially during the summer months. Wayne Stender discovers insights from Dr. Kathy, highlighting research that shows reading is crucial for summer learning and can significantly impact children's reading achievement, particularly for those from low-income families. Recent surveys reveal a concerning decline in the number of kids who read for fun, with only 42% of nine-year-olds and just 17% of 13-year-olds engaging in daily reading. Tune in for practical tips on how families can encourage reading habits and create enjoyable reading experiences together.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids daily podcast, "Facing the Dark," we explore the profound joys and fears of parenting, particularly around helping children discover their true identities as created by God. Dr. Kathy discusses insights from a recent Summit Ministries blog that examines the modern identity crisis, linking it to a historical trend of Western individualism and the questioning of truth. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding how choices are presented to children and the significant impact this has on their self-identity. Tune in as we delve into these critical topics and reflect on the balance between guiding our kids and allowing them to become who they are meant to be.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the concerning trend of negative self-perception among kids today, which is often exacerbated by societal narratives labeling them as an anxious generation. She explores the implications of these self-definitions, questioning their healthiness and how parents and educators can respond effectively. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of speaking truth, positivity, and encouragement into the lives of children to counteract these negative labels. Additionally, she highlights the partnership with Summit Ministries, a program that offers engaging camps where teens can explore significant questions in a supportive community, fostering both personal growth and friendship. Tune in for valuable insights on nurturing resilience and self-esteem in today's youth.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the complexities of technology, particularly cell phones, and their impact on children. Reflecting on a poignant conversation about hopes for the next generation, she explores how kids recognize the negative aspects of technology but feel compelled to keep using it due to societal pressures. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of not just banning technology, but also providing meaningful alternatives to fill the void. Additionally, she highlights the support from their ministry partner, Summit Ministries, which offers a two-week worldview camp that helps kids engage with cultural dynamics and personal development. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating technology in today's world.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the essential qualities that contribute to children's success, inspired by an article from CNBC by Susan Domenez. The episode highlights five key elements identified in successful children's stories: the importance of optimism, the need to understand and tailor motivation to each child, the idea that learning and empowerment can occur in any environment, the value of a genuine love for knowledge alongside hard work, and the role of parents as loving coaches. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the significance of applying knowledge, which she defines as wisdom, as a crucial component of this journey. Join us as we explore how to cultivate these traits in children to help them thrive.

In this episode, Wayne Stender explores the profound idea that a good life is more important than simply having a good job. He and Dr. Kathy define a good life as one filled with fulfillment, connection, joy, commitment, growth, service, and learning. Dr. Kathy encourages listeners to reflect on what a "good job" means to them, emphasizing aspects like providing for family, flexibility, and personal maturity. The conversation aims to deepen the understanding of how our careers can align with our overall life satisfaction and personal development. Additionally, Wayne highlights the importance of awakening different smarts in children through art, mentioning the work of Creating a Masterpiece, which offers structured art education to help kids thrive creatively and emotionally. Tune in for insights on prioritizing life fulfillment while navigating career choices.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses a concerning trend revealed in a recent HarperCollins survey from the UK, which shows a significant decline in the interest of parents reading aloud to their children. Less than half of parents of kids up to 13 find reading aloud fun, and only 29% of children aged 5 to 13 view reading as enjoyable rather than just a school subject. The episode highlights alarming statistics showing a decrease in literacy rates in the U.S., with nearly 28% of adults ranking at the lowest literacy levels. Dr. Kathy discusses the critical importance of reading aloud for children's development, emphasizing how it fosters a love for reading and helps children navigate challenges in life with the understanding that there is always a conclusion. Tune in to learn more about the impact of reading on children's growth and the urgent need to reinvigorate the joy of reading in homes.

In this episode, we delve into the changing landscape of teen employment, noting a significant decline in the percentage of teens working since the late 1970s. Recent statistics reveal a slight recovery post pandemic, with around 38% of teens aged 16 to 19 actively seeking jobs as of May 2024. Surveys indicate that part-time work is beneficial for youth, helping them understand budgeting and financial responsibility. Join us as we discuss these themes and share insights on how to support children in their financial journeys.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the concerning trend of negative self-perception among today's youth, highlighting how many kids define themselves through a lens of anxiety and mental health challenges. She explores the implications of this self view and its potential to become a self fulfilling prophecy. Listeners are encouraged to consider effective ways to speak truth and positivity into this generation's lives. The episode also features a special mention of Summit Ministries, a partner organization that offers enriching two week camps for teens, providing them with an opportunity to engage with peers, ask important questions, and build community through both educational and fun activities.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, host Wayne Stender introduces a heartfelt discussion with Dr. Kathy on the challenges faced by children of divorce and their parents. They explore the feelings of disconnection from faith that often arise during such tumultuous times and emphasize that God understands the pain associated with divorce. The episode encourages listeners to recognize that not every light in their lives will guide them positively, urging caution and reflection in their journeys. Tune in for insightful perspectives and support for navigating these difficult emotions.

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy discuss the national conversation about gender identity, children, medical care, and parental responsibility. They explore why parents must speak truth with compassion, and help children build a secure identity rooted in Christ.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the importance of getting kids outside and engaging with nature, especially during the summer months. The discussion arises from concerns parents face when their children prefer indoor activities, like reading, over outdoor play. Dr. Kathy explores the benefits of nature for children's health and development, referencing a recent study from Finland that shows significant advantages for kids who play in natural environments compared to those in urban daycare settings. Listeners are encouraged to think critically about how to inspire their children to appreciate the great outdoors. Tune in for practical insights on fostering a love for nature in our children!  

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy talk about the growing concern around declining reading scores and the rise of screen based learning. They explore why reading is more than an academic skill and how it forms attention, imagination, empathy, wonder, wisdom, and identity.

In this episode of Celebrate Kids, Wayne Stender discusses the importance of nurturing different intelligences in children. Dr. Kathy then emphasizes how giving kids opportunities to explore new and challenging activities can help them discover their capabilities and prepare for future success. The episode highlights the value of creativity and artistic expression, featuring the resource Creating a Masterpiece, which offers step-by-step guidance for parents and children to engage in various art projects. By awakening different "smarts," especially visual-spatial intelligence, families can foster growth and self-discovery. Tune in to learn more about embracing challenges and the significance of art in development.

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy talk about the tension parents feel when raising independent kids in an anxious culture. Using stories of children walking to the library, running errands, and practicing small responsibilities, they explore how competence, confidence, character, and resilience grow through wise, supported independence.

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy talk about a neighborhood using simple WiFi "tin can phones" to help kids call friends and build real life connection without smartphones. Together, they explore why conversation skills must be taught, why belonging grows through practice, and how parents can help kids develop confidence and relational maturity in a screen shaped world.

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy Koch step into one of the most common and uncomfortable parenting conversations: How do we explain where babies come from without confusing or misleading our kids? The discussion is sparked by a popular podcast moment in which a celebrity mom offers a simple explanation: "When two people love each other enough, their love gets them a baby." While well-intentioned, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore why answers like this, though emotionally appealing, can quietly create confusion or misunderstanding in a child's mind. Using a memorable ice-skating analogy, the episode acknowledges how slippery these conversations can feel for parents. But avoiding them doesn't make kids safer; it just sends them elsewhere for answers. Dr. Kathy explains why parents must be the trusted authority on questions about bodies, intimacy, and life, and why clarity matters even when the details are age-appropriate and gradual. Rooted in Psalm 139, the episode reassures parents that a child's worth is never defined by how they were conceived, but by who created them. When kids eventually learn the fuller story of biology, relationships, or even painful family circumstances, honest foundations help them feel secure rather than misled. Wayne and Dr. Kathy encourage parents to speak the truth with care, to name body parts accurately, to explain intimacy appropriately, and to always frame life as something intentionally crafted by God. Kids can handle reality when it's delivered with love, wisdom, and patience. This episode equips parents to step onto the ice with confidence, helping their children grow in understanding without fear, and letting truth become a bright light that cuts through confusion later in life.

Screens do more than entertain children; they shape habits, identity, attention, and belonging. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack new health concerns about rising screen use among kids and teens while exploring the deeper heart needs driving attachment to technology. They discuss why screens often become substitutes for security and identity, while offering parents practical ways to rebuild rhythms that strengthen real connection and healthy character formation.

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore one of the most challenging conversations parents are navigating today: helping kids build healthy identity in a culture filled with competing voices. Drawing on insights from Raising Gender Confident Kids, they discuss why identity confusion often runs deeper than surface level questions and how parents can become intentional builders of security, identity, belonging, purpose, and confidence in their children.

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy respond to recent reports of teen violence in public spaces and ask what may be happening beneath the behavior. They discuss anger, emotional regulation, isolation, authority, and why parents must move toward kids with truth, courage, accountability, and compassion before culture pulls away from them.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the pressures teenagers face to be exceptional, referencing a 2024 study from the University of Indiana. The study reveals that over half of surveyed teens feel pressured by expectations surrounding their achievements, future plans, and even their appearance. As graduation approaches, the conversation often shifts to what comes next for students, amplifying this pressure. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the dangers of these expectations and encourages a shift in perspective, highlighting the benefits of being average and the importance of allowing kids to explore their paths without the burden of needing to be extraordinary. Tune in for insights on how to support kids during this pivotal time in their lives.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the concept of "dry texting," which refers to minimal responses in text conversations that lack depth and engagement. She discusses how this trend may lead to conflict-averse behavior and poor communication skills in children. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of encouraging children to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings rather than settling for one-word answers. She suggests using more engaging questions, such as "What intrigued you today?" to foster richer conversations and help children practice effective communication. Tune in to learn how to cultivate better dialogue with your kids and support their emotional development.

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. The episode also features a sponsorship message from Summit Ministries, a ministry focused on shaping the hearts and minds of young people with a biblical worldview. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating the journey of raising children and helping them mature in their understanding of themselves and their faith.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the concept of launching children into adulthood and the importance of broadening their definition of success. Drawing from a recent article by Jamie Richardson in Business Insider, she discusses the benefits of having adult children live at home, particularly in helping them navigate unfulfilling careers and relationships. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the value of redefining success beyond traditional metrics, focusing instead on health, wisdom, and happiness. This broader perspective encourages young adults to connect with their true selves and articulate their own definitions of success as they prepare to launch into the world. Tune in for insights on parenting and guiding kids toward meaningful adulthood.

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 Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy talk about how teens are forming opinions through social media and AI, even while doubting the credibility of what they find. They unpack why uncertainty affects security, identity, and confidence, and how parents can teach kids to evaluate truth with wisdom.

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy talk about teens who say "not every home is safe" and why some kids seek belonging in risky places. They unpack how parents can build homes marked by safety, attention, correction without criticism, and meaningful connection.

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy discuss the common habit of using screens to calm kids in cars, restaurants, airports, and other stressful moments. They explore why screens can weaken emotional regulation over time and how parents can gradually help children build patience and self control.

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy talk about Pizza Hut's returning Book It program and whether rewards help or hurt a child's love of reading. They explore how parents can motivate reluctant readers, make reading relational, and build habits that last longer than the reward.

In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy discuss rising reports of sadness and hopelessness among teens and what those struggles can look like in everyday family life. They explore how parents can notice changes without panic and guide children toward the steady truth of who they are in Christ.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we delve into the significant benefits of outdoor play for children. Dr. Kathy discusses how spending time outside can alleviate anxiety and feelings of loneliness in kids, while also providing them with a broader perspective on life by encouraging them to look towards the horizon. She joins the conversation to offer insights and encouragement for parents struggling to get their kids off devices and engaged with nature. The episode emphasizes the importance of outdoor activity, highlighting a recent NPR report that suggests spending at least two hours outside each day can greatly protect children's eyesight. The episode also features a brief mention of Summit Ministries, a two-week camp designed to deepen teens' understanding of a Christian worldview. Tune in for valuable tips on fostering a love for the outdoors in your children!

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we delve into the significant benefits of outdoor play for children. Dr. Kathy discusses how spending time outside can alleviate anxiety and feelings of loneliness in kids, while also providing them with a broader perspective on life by encouraging them to look towards the horizon. She joins the conversation to offer insights and encouragement for parents struggling to get their kids off devices and engaged with nature. The episode emphasizes the importance of outdoor activity, highlighting a recent NPR report that suggests spending at least two hours outside each day can greatly protect children's eyesight. The episode also features a brief mention of Summit Ministries, a two-week camp designed to deepen teens' understanding of a Christian worldview. Tune in for valuable tips on fostering a love for the outdoors in your children!

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy discusses the vital role of reading aloud to children and its profound benefits on their development. Citing research from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, she highlights that a significant percentage of four-year-olds are not read to regularly, which can impact their vocabulary, reading comprehension, and motivation. Dr. Kathy shares insights on the positive outcomes linked to parents reading to their kids as young as one to two and a half years old, emphasizing that reading at least five books daily can expose children to an impressive 1.4 million words by the time they enter kindergarten. Tune in for practical tips on how parents can easily incorporate reading into their daily routines, fostering a love for reading and enhancing their children's literacy skills.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we explore the idea of preparing children for the challenges of the world by intentionally placing them in difficult situations. Host discusses the overwhelming amount of social science research available to help parents and adult leaders navigate the mental health crises and emotional challenges faced by kids today. The conversation highlights the importance of fostering mental toughness and resilience in children, encouraging them to embrace struggles as opportunities for growth. Featuring insights from Dr. Kathy Cooke, the episode offers practical advice for Christian parents on equipping their kids to face inevitable challenges with confidence and strength. Tune in to discover how to transform fear into readiness for life's obstacles.