Celebrate Kids Podcast with Dr. Kathy

Why are so many young adults trusting social media over doctors, and what does that mean for how kids form wisdom? In this Facing the Dark episode, Wayne and Dr. Kathy examine new global research revealing Gen Z's growing reliance on peer-driven and influencer-based information. Together, they explore the difference between knowledge and wisdom, why algorithms reward immediacy over discernment, and how parents can teach kids to seek truth deeply rather than settle for the first answer. Rooted in Scripture and practical mentoring, this conversation equips families to help kids hunger for understanding, cultivate discernment, and pursue a truly flourishing life grounded in Christ—not clicks.

Should parents teach kids to be defiant? In this Facing the Dark episode, Wayne and Dr. Kathy respond to a growing cultural narrative that suggests children need to practice defiance in order to become confident, assertive adults. Together they unpack the difference between healthy self-advocacy and arrogant rebellion, explaining why confidence doesn't come from saying "no" loudly, but from knowing when and how to speak with wisdom. Drawing on biblical insight, the Five Core Needs, and real parenting examples, this conversation helps parents guide kids toward courage, discernment, and self-efficacy rooted in truth, not impulse.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy addresses the challenge of entitlement in children and offers valuable strategies for parents. She begins by sharing her frustration with entitled behavior in her own kids and emphasizes the importance of helping children learn to tolerate frustration instead of removing it. Drawing from insights by Dr. Becky, she highlights the significance of acknowledging and validating children's feelings when they face challenges. Dr. Kathy encourages parents to resist the urge to immediately solve their kids' problems, allowing them the opportunity to wrestle with difficulties and develop resilience. Tune in for practical tips on fostering a healthier mindset in your children and guiding them toward a more appreciative attitude.  

As Australia enacts sweeping social media restrictions for kids under 16, parents everywhere are asking the same question: Is limiting tech actually healthy, or just disruptive? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore what happens when screens are removed, why kids' intense reactions may signal dependence rather than harm, and how parents can lead tech fasts with wisdom, clarity, and confidence. Drawing from research, real family experience, and Scripture, this conversation reframes digital detox not as punishment, but as liberation—an opportunity to rebuild rhythms, restore relationships, and form character that lasts far beyond the screen.

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.

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) show up far more often than parents realize, sometimes through big, obvious events, and sometimes through subtle shifts in a child's behavior, mood, or habits. In today's Facing the Dark, Dr. Kathy and Wayne unpack the latest research on ACEs, explore how parents can recognize early signs of struggle under their own roof, and offer practical ways to respond with wisdom, presence, and hope. They discuss how real resiliency develops—not through trauma, but through supported challenges, and how parents can guide, advocate, and walk with their kids through difficult seasons without fear. Full of clear insight, relatable examples, and Christ-centered direction, this episode helps you navigate the more challenging moments of childhood with confidence and compassion.

Parents everywhere feel the December pressure: "What on earth do I buy my kids this year?" In today's Facing the Dark episode, Dr. Kathy and Wayne unpack the gift-giving stress that so many families carry, whether it's the hunt for the "perfect" present, or navigating Amazon wish lists, trying to understand what a nine-year-old even likes anymore is dynamic. Together, Dr. Kathy and Wayne explore how gifts can honor a child's identity, how the 8 Great Smarts can guide meaningful choices, and why experiences often build deeper belonging than toys ever could. With stories, humor, and deeply practical wisdom, this episode reframes holiday giving as a chance to communicate connection, confidence, and love, not pressure. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or friend, this conversation helps you give with purpose, joy, and peace.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, we delve into the importance of teaching children the purpose of boredom. Dr. Kathy discusses the challenges parents face when their kids experience boredom and the potential negative consequences, including the turn to substances as a coping mechanism. Dr. Kathy shares valuable insights on how fostering resilience in the face of boredom can help children navigate life's challenges. The conversation highlights recent research indicating that many teens now use vaping as a way to relax from stress, underscoring the need for healthier coping strategies. Tune in for practical advice on guiding our youth through boredom and stress, helping them build essential life skills.  

In this episode of Raising Gender-Confident Kids, Wayne and Dr. Kathy dive into Chapter 5 of Raising Gender Confident Kids and explore how truth actually takes root in a child's heart. They unpack why identity grows through discipleship, why presence matters more than performance, and why kids don't just need information—they need formation. With stories, Scripture, psychology, and practical rhythms for daily family life, this episode equips parents to build secure attachment, model truth consistently, and disciple their kids toward deep, lasting confidence in who God created them to be.

When teens and college-age kids come home for the holidays, families often feel the tension between independence and connection. In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack what's really happening in the brain during "emerging adulthood," why young adults come home exhausted, and how parents can welcome them without slipping back into old patterns. You'll learn how to set healthy expectations, reframe the transition with hope, and use each child's unique strengths, including their 8 Smarts, to build meaningful connections this holiday season. This episode brings clarity, grace, and practical wisdom for anyone navigating the in-between years.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, host Wayne Stender discusses the vital role children play in today's society with Dr. Kathy, arguing against the notion that they are merely the church's future. He reflects on a meaningful conversation with his son about the purpose of kids in a family and within culture. This leads to deeper questions about how society perceives children—whether they are seen as participants in cultural building or simply as a legacy for the future. Dr. Kathy explores these themes further, drawing insights from philosopher Anastasia Berg's work, "What Are Children For?" This episode encourages parents and caregivers to wrestle with the significance of children's roles in the present and the challenges that accompany these perspectives. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that aims to reshape how we view and nurture the children in our lives.

Every parent knows the morning rush can swing from peaceful to chaotic in seconds. But new research suggests that what we do in those early minutes may shape much more than how fast we get out the door, it may shape our children's resilience, emotional stability, and sense of belonging. In today's Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore a study highlighting nine morning habits practiced by parents who raise happy, resilient kids. They unpack why connection matters more than control, how mornings imprint identity, and why some "chaotic kids" just think differently, not worse. With humor, real family stories, practical tools, and Scripture, this episode reimagines mornings not as a battleground, but as one of parenting's most powerful windows of influence.

A groundbreaking brain study from Cambridge reveals that adolescence may last far longer than we once believed, stretching all the way into the early 30s. Today on Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack this research and explore what it means for parents raising kids in a confusing and fast-changing culture. They contrast chronological age with "character age," explain why maturity can't be rushed, and offer hope for parents who feel overwhelmed by their children's slow progress or surprising immaturity. Through Scripture, science, and practical encouragement, this episode reframes the expectations we place on our kids and helps parents parent with confidence for the long haul.

Reading scores are dropping across the country, and behind every statistic is a child trying to make sense of words, meaning, and identity. In today's episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack why reading matters so deeply, not just for academics but for confidence, identity, and a child's formation. They explore a Georgia district working to retrain teachers, explain why vocabulary and decoding are such obstacles today, and show parents simple, powerful ways to support struggling readers using the 8 Great Smarts. With wisdom from Scripture, especially the beautiful pattern in Acts 8, this episode gives parents practical hope: you can help your child learn to read, and you don't have to panic or do it alone.

Gender confusion doesn't begin in the body, it begins in the mind. And the way kids think is shaped by the worldview they're given. In today's episode of Raising Gender-Confident Kids, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack Chapter 4 of Raising Gender-Confident Kids and explain how worldview becomes the lens through which kids interpret reality, identity, feelings, and truth. They explore why kids need a worldview big enough to handle disappointment, how emotions can hijack decision-making, and why mentoring kids through the Five Core Needs builds clarity instead of confusion. Practical, deep, and hope-filled, this episode will help you guide your kids to see themselves the way God sees them.

Kids often build their Christmas lists from influencer recommendations, trending videos, and carefully curated feeds. But what if we used gift-giving to help kids feel truly seen—not just marketed to? In today's Facing in the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy explore how parents can use this season to cultivate discernment, deepen connection, and choose gifts that strengthen identity rather than feed consumer pressure. You'll learn how to navigate social-media-driven wants, avoid gift-giving guilt, and lean into meaningful, memorable ways to bless your kids this Christmas.

Holiday gatherings can feel like a joyful reunion, or a pressure-filled performance. In this Thanksgiving episode of Facing in the Dark, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack why kids struggle during big family events, how parents can prepare them beforehand, and what it looks like to approach the holidays with patience, curiosity, and a heart aimed at connection rather than perfection. You'll learn how to lower anxiety, handle family dynamics, create space for rest, and help kids feel secure as they reconnect with relatives they barely know.

Gratitude isn't just a holiday feeling, it's a way of seeing the world. In today's Facing in the Dark, Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy Koch explore why thankfulness is essential for a child's identity, maturity, and resilience. Drawing from Dr. Kathy's book Parent Differently, they unpack how gratitude protects against entitlement, strengthens character, deepens humility, and centers kids on God's goodness. Together they discuss how families can build rhythms that cultivate gratitude year-round, how remembering anchors identity, and why thankful hearts shine light into the dark places kids face today.

Before you hand your child their first device, consider this: tech boundaries aren't rules, they're love in action. In today's Facing in the Dark, Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy Koch unpack why shared expectations around phones and screens help kids feel secure, valued, and connected. Drawing from the American Academy of Pediatrics, Dr. Kathy explains how a family media plan, and a "we, not you" mindset, creates clarity, prevents conflict, and protects character. They explore co-authoring agreements with kids, resetting tech habits when things have slipped, and why thoughtful shifts don't harm a child's security, they strengthen it. This honest, grace-filled conversation centers on identity, belonging, and how families can create a tech culture rooted in peace, faith, and love. Find Dr. Kathy's Family Media Covenant developed with Techless Wireless here>> Considering a phone for your child? Check out Techless Wireless>>

If our kids can ask a chatbot for every answer, what happens to their ability to think? To struggle? To wrestle with an idea long enough for it to shape them? Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy Koch dig into the hidden cost of growing up in an AI-accelerated world. They explore research showing how automation is changing workplaces and may be changing the cognitive wiring of the next generation. Wayne shares a classroom moment where students traded screens for paper and suddenly came alive, wrestling through ideas, searching for their own words, and discovering the power of slow thinking. Dr. Kathy explains why struggle isn't failure, it's formation. Kids who push through discomfort develop creativity, discernment, people-skills, and self-efficacy, traits that technology cannot automate and AI cannot produce. Together they ask the question every parent now faces: Are we raising kids who can think deeply, connect relationally, and lead wisely in a world that wants to think for them? This rich conversation offers hope—and practical insight—for families who want their kids to be more than consumers of answers. They want them to become thinkers, creators, friends, leaders, disciples, and whole people.

In this episode, Wayne and Dr. Kathy examine the swirling headlines about a supposed "dramatic decline" in transgender identification. They reveal why the current data has major methodological issues, why some trends reverse when properly weighted, and why numbers—whether up or down—tell us nothing about a child's internal world. The heart of the episode centers on identity formation: how confusion takes root, why kids grasp for labels, and how cultural pendulums create whiplash for an already overwhelmed generation. Dr. Kathy explains the five core needs (security, identity, belonging, purpose, competence) and shows how the identity need sits at the center of gender confidence. The pair offer practical, grace-filled coaching for parents navigating these waters with kids who are not struggling—and kids who are very much in the struggle. The episode closes with a reminder that this cultural moment is actually a perfect opportunity for parents to speak truth, stability, and love into their kids' lives more intentionally than ever.

Books are disappearing from kids' lives, and so is something sacred. In this episode of Celebrate Kids: Facing in the Dark, Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy Koch explore startling new data showing that only 30% of eighth-graders read at or above proficiency, and that over 30% of teens hardly ever read for fun. Together, they unpack why reading has declined over the last 40 years and how technology has quietly taken its place. Dr. Kathy, whose Ph.D. is in reading and educational psychology, explains that kids don't just learn from books, they learn through them. Reading shapes imagination, memory, empathy, and even spiritual understanding. From a dad's nightly reading routine full of laughter and silly voices to the ancient call in Deuteronomy for God's Word to be read aloud to every generation, Wayne and Dr. Kathy remind parents that reading isn't just an academic exercise; it's identity formation. Discover how reading together restores belonging, deepens faith, and invites our kids to see the world through God's story, not just a glowing screen.

What if the words we speak over our kids aren't just communication, but are actually creation? In this episode of Facing in the Dark, Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy tackle a new claim from psychologist Dr. Chelsea Haug-Zavaleta that children should receive 100 compliments a day to thrive emotionally. Dr. Kathy challenges the research, explaining that it's not about the number of compliments, it's about the ratio of affirmation to correction and the meaning behind our words. She offers practical insights for balancing affirmation with healthy boundaries, showing how kids form identity through the voices they trust most. Together, Wayne and Dr. Kathy unpack what it means to parent fragile and resilient kids, share how correction can build character rather than shame, and connect the science of affirmation to the biblical power of blessing from Genesis 27. This episode reminds us that spoken love forms lasting truth, and that a few sincere words can build what a hundred empty praises never could.

Online platforms like Roblox promise fun, creativity, and connection, but for millions of kids, those promises are breaking. In this episode of Facing in the Dark, Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy Koch unpack the rise of digital gaming and the dangers hidden behind "safe" online play. From lawsuits and predatory risks to the loss of imagination, they contrast artificial worlds with the kind of real play God designed to shape hearts, build courage, and foster identity. Drawing on the story of David's childhood play and its role in forming his bravery, Dr. Kathy reminds us that kids don't just need entertainment; they need formation. Discover why parents stepping in to set boundaries isn't control; it's love, and how playing together as families restores joy, resilience, and faith in a distracted age. Visit today's sponsor, Summit Ministries at: summit.org/celebratekids Use the code celebrate26 at checkout for some great discounts and gifts.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Wayne reflects on the challenges and inefficiencies of parenting, particularly when trying to nurture a child's potential. He and Dr. Kathy discuss the importance of recognizing and encouraging a child's unique personality traits while acknowledging that parenting often involves navigating dark and inconvenient moments. The episode highlights a fascinating study from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, which reveals that handwriting engages the entire brain, unlike typing. This insight serves as a reminder for parents to embrace less efficient, more meaningful interactions with their children.   

Why are more teens struggling with anxiety even though mental health resources have never been more abundant? In this episode, Dr. Kathy explains the unseen forces driving the rise in youth mental health challenges, from family fragmentation to identity pressure to cultural lies that amplify insecurity. She breaks down why more kids are in counseling today, why increased services haven't solved the problem, and what actually helps kids build resilience. You'll learn how to speak hope into a child who feels overwhelmed. Dr. Kathy gives insight to call out strengths when mental health feels like a defining label. Wayne and Dr. Kathy also explain how faith reframes weakness as a place for God's strength to shine. 

In this episode, we explore one of the most important—and overlooked—truths about modern parenting: kids model their screen habits after their parents. Drawing on new research, Dr. Kathy explains why parental phone use is the strongest predictor of a child's screen time and how small shifts in our habits can reshape the culture of our homes. We look at how to replace screen time with meaningful connection, why outdoor time matters (even for kids who aren't nature-loving), and how biblical principles from Ephesians 4 guide real, lasting change. This episode equips parents to lead with intention, break the tech cycle, and help kids thrive, mind, body, and soul.

How do we help kids open up about their day—really open up—so we can guide their hearts, not just manage their behavior? In today's episode, we explore why the classic parent question, "How was your day?" almost always leads to a dead end, and how we can replace it with questions that actually build connection, confidence, and identity. Drawing from Dr. Kathy Koch's deep insight into child development, we look at why kids often shut down when they come home from school, what their silence might be telling us, and how timing, tone, and relational approach matter more than the words themselves. Dr. Kathy explains how performance-centered questions unintentionally send the message that grades matter more than character, and she challenges parents to ask questions that explore who their child was during the day—not just what they did. Together, we unpack better conversation starters that help kids reflect, process emotions, develop humility, grow in problem-solving, and see where God showed up in their lives. We also discuss five identity-based categories—intellectual, emotional, social, physical, and spiritual—and how to engage each one meaningfully. You'll learn about a simple "Go Fish" dinner-table activity that brings the whole family into the conversation and how three words—curious, confused, confident—can reshape the way you talk with your kids about school. Wayne also reflects on a powerful moment from John 21, where Jesus asks Peter three times, "Do you love me?" Instead of shaming Peter, Jesus restores him. That same pattern—gentle, repeated questions that lead to deeper truth—shows us that good questions don't interrogate a child; they bless them. They help them see who they are becoming. This episode is an encouraging, practical guide for parents, grandparents, and caregivers who want to build stronger connections, nurture identity in Christ, and create moments of reflection that shine a bright light through the emotional fog kids sometimes carry home. You'll walk away with new tools, new questions, and a renewed sense of hope as you shepherd your children's hearts.

In a world where masculinity is politicized and femininity misunderstood, Dr. Kathy Koch reminds parents that flourishing isn't about control, it's about character. Considering a recent interview where California Governor Gavin Newsom raised concern at the growing number of men who are not following his political party, Dr. Kathy and Wayne make some parallels and comparisons to how some parents fall into a similar trap with their kids. Boys and girls thrive when they understand who they were created to be, delight in God's design, and use their strength to serve, and that's what we talk about in today's podcast.  

What happens when the world feels uncertain? From canceled flights to government shutdowns, kids are watching and wondering if they're safe. Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender talk about how parents can recognize insecurity in their children, help them rebuild trust, and anchor their hearts in the one thing that never changes—God's goodness and presence.

Are moms and dads interchangeable? Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender unpack research showing how mothers and fathers each uniquely shape children's growth. From academic success to emotional stability, each role carries divine purpose. This episode reminds parents, mentors, and single caregivers that their influence isn't just important—it's irreplaceable.

What makes a child truly successful? Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender unpack new research on sibling success and connect it to a biblical view of wisdom, resilience, and contentment. Discover why optimism isn't enough, how wisdom grows through struggle, and what it really means to "press on" toward the goal Christ has called us to.  

Memorizing math facts is helpful—but without meaning, it's just noise. Dr. Kathy Koch unpacks the science behind fluency and confidence, while Wayne Stender reflects on how families can apply Deuteronomy 6 in education. Together they help parents see how curiosity, practice, and purpose create lifelong learners who love truth.

A new study reveals how marijuana use before age 15 can alter a child's mental health and sense of purpose. In this conversation, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender explore why teens chase short-term relief, how adrenaline and constant activity can mimic addiction, and how parents can help their kids pause, rest, and choose long-term wisdom over momentary thrill.

AI can replicate faces, voices, and personalities—but it can't duplicate the image of God. In this conversation, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender explore Denmark's bold new proposal to give citizens ownership of their likeness and what it means for parents raising kids in a world where identity can be digitally faked. Discover how to help children stay grounded in truth, not technology.

Embarrassment isn't failure, it's the birthplace of faith. Join Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender as they explore how God uses uncomfortable moments to strengthen kids. Discover how the 8 Great Smarts help children face challenges with creativity and confidence, and learn to celebrate the courage it takes to "step out of the boat."

Confusion about gender doesn't start with culture—it starts with unmet core needs. Dr. Kathy Koch joins Wayne Stender to explore how God designed children with five foundational needs that shape their confidence and faith. From bedtime routines to meaningful conversations, discover practical ways to disciple your kids toward identity, purpose, and peace in Christ.

Halloween can be full of confusion for Christian parents, with spooky decorations, dark themes, and cultural tension. Dr. Kathy and Wayne Stender explore how to approach the holiday with grace, discernment, and purpose. Learn how knocking on doors and sharing candy can become an opportunity to teach kids about community, belonging, and being a light for Jesus in their neighborhood.  

What makes kids successful? It's not grades or grit alone. In this episode, Dr. Kathy Koch shares how true success is rooted in wisdom: applying truth, agreeing with God, and living with resilience and purpose.

Reading aloud to kids does far more than build vocabulary; it builds connection, confidence, and faith. In this episode, Dr. Kathy Koch explains why reading is one of the most powerful tools parents have to shape hearts and minds.

In a world full of noise, distractions, and dopamine-triggering apps, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender talk about how parents can help kids rediscover the gift of focus — and why staying faithful to one task is an act of worship that builds character and identity.

New research shows a sharp decline in college students identifying as transgender. Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender unpack what's behind the trend, why it's hopeful, and how parents can raise children anchored in God's truth instead of cultural confusion.  

When stress hits, kids retreat to what feels safe, often a screen. In this conversation, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender help parents understand what kids are really searching for in gaming and how to reconnect them to God's design for competence, purpose, and belonging.

New research shows that early social media use lowers kids' reading, memory, and vocabulary, but that's not the only loss. In this episode, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender explore how constant scrolling reshapes our children's ability to think, rest, and relate. Learn how to help your family unplug with purpose, restore focus through faith, and find joy in being fully present.

Is math just another school subject, or could it be a way to see God's order and beauty? In this episode, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender unpack the growing math crisis in schools and explore why numbers, patterns, and problem-solving matter for your child's confidence and faith. Discover how interest drives ability, and how teaching kids that math reflects God's design can help them approach learning with joy instead of fear.

As AI “friends” become more common, what are our kids really learning about friendship? In this episode, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender unpack Meta's new chatbot update and explore how true friendships form character, resilience, and faith. Learn how to help your kids value real people over artificial connection—and why Jesus' definition of friendship changes everything.

When does helping someone cross the line from compassion into condescension? In this episode, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender unpack a viral Supreme Court moment that raises tough questions about empathy, equality, and how we treat others. Learn how to teach your kids the difference between pity and Christ-like compassion—and how true love restores dignity instead of diminishing it.

What if our culture's obsession with happiness is actually making our kids less happy? In this episode, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender unpack why chasing happiness leads to emptiness and how teaching contentment, gratitude, and respect helps kids develop real joy. Learn how to guide your children through sadness and disappointment so they can grow strong, wise, and anchored in faith.

What if gratitude isn't just good manners, but the foundation of mental health and spiritual maturity? In this episode, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender explore how gratitude shapes a child's character, rewires family culture, and builds resilience in tough times. Learn how to nurture a thankful heart in your home through conversation, creativity, and Christ-centered habits.

In a world where social media normalizes labels, more kids are turning to self-diagnosis to make sense of their struggles. Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender unpack why this happens, how labels can both help and harm, and how parents can respond with curiosity, compassion, and truth. Learn how faith, relationship, and guidance help kids find their identity in who God says they are—not in a diagnosis.

Why are so many kids anxious, lonely, and unsure of who they are? In this episode, Dr. Kathy Koch and Wayne Stender unpack new research showing that a loss of play and independence is leaving kids less creative, more fearful, and increasingly depressed. Learn how restoring freedom, purpose, and connection through Dr. Kathy's Five to Thrive model can help kids rediscover joy, confidence, and identity in Christ.