Parenting Matters Now with Dr. Roger Smith

Feeling overwhelmed by your current number of children? Dr. Roger Smith issues a direct challenge to consider having more, arguing that the true measure of family size shouldn't be based on the temporary difficulty of the early years. He breaks down the common stages—overwhelming with one, dividing and conquering with two, and feeling outnumbered with three—to reveal the moment of relief: when the oldest child becomes a helpful assistant. Dr. Smith encourages parents to look past the immediate workload and see children as lifelong blessings who enrich your life immeasurably as they mature. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Is happiness just a feeling, or can it be a choice? Dr. Roger Smith shares his family's mantra: "You do not find happiness, you take it with you." This episode explores how to treat happiness as a character trait—a quality independent of your circumstances. Learn how to prepare your children to approach potentially disappointing situations by deciding beforehand to make the best of it. By choosing to regulate their feelings and actions, you teach them that true joy comes from an internal commitment, not external expectations. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Are you robbing your children of the chance to make decisions? Dr. Roger Smith emphasizes that decisiveness is a critical character trait that must be developed through practice. Using the simple example of choosing between two paths, he explains why parents must intentionally provide opportunities for decision-making—even small ones, like choosing the color of a cup. Learn how to let your children face the low-impact consequences of their choices (like in board games) and how to talk them through potential outcomes without rescuing them from mild discomfort. This training builds the capacity to navigate life's complex options. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do you wish your child considered others more often? Dr. Roger Smith defines thoughtfulness as putting other people's needs on the priority list—a desirable trait we can actively help children develop. This episode gives parents two simple, routine exercises: Looking Backward (Bedtime): Ask your child to reflect on their day and identify someone they wish they could have helped or made things better for. This encourages empathy and perspective. Looking Forward (Start of Day/Activity): Challenge your child as they enter a public space (like a store or church) to "look for people you can make smile or make a difference for." This promotes intentional, positive interaction. Learn how to weave these practices into your daily life to cultivate thoughtfulness and inspire an outward-focused mindset in your kids. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Most children start out self-centered, but generosity is a vital character trait we must intentionally cultivate. Referencing the idea of "audacious generosity," Dr. Roger Smith explains that this concept goes beyond just sharing money—it includes being generous with time, kind words, and possessions. Learn how to model and practice generosity, even with abstract concepts like "sharing," by focusing on taking turns and dividing resources. Dr. Smith encourages praising every effort your child makes to consider another's needs, transforming a self-focused mindset into one that makes the world a better place. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Is your child truly humble, or just self-centered? Dr. Roger Smith redefines humility not as self-deprecation, but as the courage to be authentically known—the good, the bad, and the ordinary. Sitting in his study, Dr. Smith shares how true humility means being "okay with who I am and how I let you know me." Learn how to train your children to be open, vulnerable, and approachable, whether they are winning a game or losing. This episode challenges parents to create practice situations where children can comfortably let others into their lives, fostering a deeply desirable trait. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Is character something children simply pick up, or must it be explicitly taught? Dr. Roger Smith argues that character is best developed when it's both caught and taught. This episode emphasizes that parents must actively place value on desired traits like trustworthiness or integrity. Learn how to use stories and specific language to define these qualities, and most importantly, how to recognize and praise them when you see them demonstrated in your child's life. Discover how to create an environment where strong character is admired, encouraged, and pursued as a valuable prize. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Are you passing on blessings or burdens to the next generation? Dr. Roger Smith argues that generational blessings and curses are often practical, tied directly to the values and habits parents live out daily. This episode challenges you to identify your top three core values (like kindness, honesty, or generosity) and intentionally integrate them into your conversations and actions. Learn how to live your life as a springboard of positive values for your children, ensuring your legacy is one of richness in good deeds and character, not chaos or negativity. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do your children take care of their belongings? Dr. Roger Smith shares a guiding family motto: "The more you have, the more you have to take care of." This episode outlines how to intentionally transfer the concept of personal responsibility to your children's possessions, from toys to bikes. Learn how to involve your kids in the repair process when things are broken or neglected—even enlisting experts if needed. Dr. Smith advises starting with small, modeled steps (like cleaning a room together) and gradually creating distance, ensuring your teaching is guided by a positive concern for their future, not punishment. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Does "just a minute" mean nothing to your child? Dr. Roger Smith explains that the concept of time must be developed through training. This episode provides actionable steps for teaching time management, starting with short, age-appropriate tasks (like 10 seconds for a three-year-old) that end with a desired reward. Learn how to give your child a sense of accomplishment and efficiency, helping them visualize deadlines and stay on task—a crucial skill that starts small and lasts a lifetime. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do you often find yourself giving instructions filled with "don't" and "no"? Dr. Roger Smith challenges parents to adopt a positive communication style. This episode teaches you how to stop barking orders and start framing instructions in terms of the desired behavior. Instead of saying "Don't forget your lunch," learn to say "Remember your lunch." Discover this subtle but powerful shift that assumes competence, focuses on freedom, and fosters a more positive, effective way of giving directions to your children—and everyone else. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do your children ever drop embarrassing comments in public? Dr. Roger Smith uses the image of a private hedge to illustrate the difference between conversations appropriate for home and those suitable for the public square. This episode focuses on teaching children the crucial skill of discerning private versus public language and topics. Learn how to explain boundaries, context, and why certain jokes or lingo might be misunderstood outside of your family circle, helping your children avoid awkward situations and honor the family in public. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Life rarely goes according to plan—from travel delays to spilled orange juice. Dr. Roger Smith argues that flexibility is a vital skill for both parents and children. While the early years require control and rules, this episode explores how to shift your parenting style to train your kids to manage options, cope with disappointment, and adjust when the path changes. Learn to model emotional balance when things go wrong, teaching your child that mistakes are not moral failures and that the ability to flex is key to enjoying the journey of life. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Should your child get a smartphone? Dr. Roger Smith doesn't offer a simple yes or no, but instead provides crucial questions to help you make this difficult decision. This episode guides you to think about your child's long-term functional needs and whether those needs can be met without a smartphone. Most importantly, you'll learn to evaluate your child's capacity for self-imposed limits and the vital role of parental support systems in navigating the challenges of modern technology. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Children are naturally self-focused, but thankfulness is a skill that can be taught. Dr. Roger Smith shares a powerful family tradition—the "Birthday Blessing"—that trained his children to move from self-centeredness to generosity of spirit. Learn how to implement this simple practice where every family member shares what they value and appreciate about the birthday person. This exercise in expressing positive, specific words to people you can see is the perfect foundation for developing a lifelong attitude of gratitude that extends to all areas of life. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Tired of the whine? Dr. Roger Smith tackles this perpetual (but solvable!) problem in communication. This episode offers a direct, two-part strategy: First, stop whining yourself—listen to your own voice to ensure you aren't correcting your child with a whiny tone. Second, address the issue directly and consistently. Learn how to gently yet firmly request a "normal voice," reinforcing appropriate communication while refusing to reward the whine. Dr. Smith provides tips on how to identify the behavior for your child and correct it away from the heat of the moment for long-term success. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do you wish your kids were better listeners? Dr. Roger Smith explains that listening is a skill that needs development, especially in the early years. This episode goes beyond simply giving instructions. Learn practical techniques to train your child's attention to detail, from creating "listening games" at public events to telling stories about themselves. Discover how to use their own name and the world around them as positive tools to develop this crucial life skill—making them more attuned to you and their environment. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Does a broken item immediately trigger your frustration? Dr. Roger Smith shares a personal story about a broken lamp to illustrate a vital parenting lesson: how to handle the emotional loss when things—or even relationships—break. Learn to separate the action from the child's motive, comfort your child (and yourself) through the grief of loss, and then focus on finding creative solutions. This episode gives you a framework for turning an accident into an opportunity for repair, teaching your children resilience and problem-solving skills that last a lifetime. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Did you know the way you touch your child profoundly affects their emotional health? Dr. Roger Smith explains that touch is one of the most powerful ways to fill a child's emotional tank, but warns that touch used only for anger or discipline can become powerfully negative. He shares a study that ranks different types of touch, revealing that a gentle hand on the head or face is often perceived as the most genuine sign of care and concern. Learn how to use deliberate, positive touch—from holding hands to a comforting head scratch—to continually express your sincere love for your children at every age. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Are your children good at noticing the world around them? Dr. Roger Smith shares a moment by a canal in Manchester to explain how you can train your kids to be observant detectives. Learn how to use everyday objects and environments—like a mysterious ring on a wall—to encourage curiosity, ask great questions, and piece together the story of their surroundings. Start with scavenger hunts and simple questions to give your children an important life skill: observation. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Should you travel with your children? Absolutely! Citing Mark Twain, Dr. Roger Smith explains that travel is the cure for bigotry and narrow-mindedness. Discover how exposing your children to different cultures, perspectives, and ways of life—whether through physical travel or imaginative journeys via books—helps them appreciate and love others. Learn how to teach your kids to look past differences in appearance, politics, or fashion to truly value people as they are. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do your children need praise? Absolutely! Dr. Roger Smith shares the powerful principle: "Praise is to children as sun is to flowers." He breaks down the three keys to effective praise: it must be specific (focusing on character and effort, not just appearance), sincere (not manipulative), and delivered soon after the desired behavior. Learn how to praise well to help your child grow and blossom into their full potential. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Even in a two-parent home, parenting is tough! Dr. Roger Smith uses the illustration of a pair of scissors to show that both parents are essential, even when they approach problems from different angles. He argues that two parents are always better together, and neither perspective is wrong—both are needed to "cut" through the challenges of raising children. Learn why tending to your marriage—appreciating your spouse's unique strengths and fostering communication—is the most crucial part of being a good parent. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

The most effective leaders don't always stand in front. Dr. Roger Smith argues that true parental leadership means finding ways to walk behind your children, influencing them while giving them the space to grow. Discover how to foster curiosity and confidence by letting your kids take the physical lead on a hike or even run a simple errand alone, all while remaining engaged and creating a relationship where they choose to look back to you for guidance and safety, not control. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Does taking your kids to a restaurant stress you out? Dr. Roger Smith argues that difficult restaurant behavior is often a result of a lack of training, not rebellion. Learn how to prepare your children for public success by setting clear expectations before you go. This includes everything from reading the menu and talking to the server to understanding how their behavior impacts others. Start small, build their competence, and turn a stressful meal into a valuable life lesson. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Forgiveness is a difficult but vital lesson. Dr. Roger Smith emphasizes that parents must model and teach their children how to give, receive, and ask for forgiveness. Learn how to use small conflicts—like fighting over a toy—as opportunities to teach your child empathy. By guiding them to understand the other person's feelings and practice the specific components of a sincere apology, you equip them with an essential adult life skill for resolving conflict and redeeming challenging relationships. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Have you ever told your child their big idea isn't possible? Dr. Roger Smith shares the story of FedEx founder Fred Smith, whose groundbreaking business plan was dismissed by his college professors. He cautions parents against short-circuiting their children's dreams by focusing on obstacles instead of opportunities. Listen to the encouraging poem, "Can and Can't," and learn why your words should fan the flames of imagination and ambition, helping your child's "Can" win the race every time. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

When your child starts driving, how do you handle car access? Dr. Roger Smith shares a revolutionary family tradition he learned from a friend: making teenagers financially responsible for their miles. Discover how implementing a set cost per mile and involving teens in maintenance can teach crucial life skills—like budgeting, responsibility, and decision-making—long before they buy their own car. Get a plan ready before your oldest child reaches driving age! Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Does your child have an intense interest—whether it's airplanes, robotics, or gardening? Dr. Roger Smith argues that a child's passions, even if different from your own, are vital to nurture. Learn how to expose your child to their areas of interest, not just through books, but by connecting them with people who love those same things. These encounters will spark curiosity, expand their world, and enrich their learning far beyond the classroom. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

What tools are you using to train your children? Dr. Roger Smith argues that youth organizations and extracurriculars—from 4-H to community theatre—should be seen as curricular to a child's development. Learn how to evaluate these activities based on their core values and, most importantly, on your child's needs and the overall impact on your family. He also shares a personal lesson about the need for parents to sometimes say "no" to their own commitments to invest fully in a childhood that has an "expiration date." Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do you know which two U.S. states are shaped like articles of clothing? In this episode, Dr. Roger Smith shares his love for maps and explains why they're more than just a way to get from point A to point B. Learn how introducing maps and geography to your kids can help them understand their place in the world, connect with family, and develop a sense of curiosity about different places and the people who live there. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Ever misjudged a situation based on a first glance? Dr. Roger Smith shares a lesson from a book cover in a library, cautioning parents against judging their children's behavior too quickly. He explains that reacting only to what you see on the surface—whether it's an attitude, a choice, or an action—can damage your relationship and your ability to influence them. Learn to ask more questions, look for what's inside, and preserve the trust you have with your child. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do you talk to your children about who they'll become? In this episode, Dr. Roger Smith uses the image of a pillar to show parents how to use everyday objects to teach their children important life lessons. By explaining the meaning behind common phrases and painting a picture of them as strong, important adults, you can give your child a sense of purpose and direction from a very young age. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do you have a plan for your child's growth, or are you just letting things happen? Dr. Roger Smith shares a powerful lesson he learned from friends about intentional parenting. Using a biblical verse as a guide, they set specific goals for their children each year in four key areas: intellectual, physical, spiritual, and social development. Learn how to create a growth mindset for your child and help them "aim at something" to ensure they're always moving forward. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do you have a favorite poem? Dr. Roger Smith shares his love for rhyming poetry and challenges parents to introduce their children to the beauty of verse. From simple limericks for young kids to classic tales, poetry is a powerful way to engage a child's short attention span and build a stronger connection. He shares a moving poem about a mother's gift of reading and the lasting riches it provides. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Is your child a natural organizer or a whirlwind of chaos? In this episode, Dr. Roger Smith explains that some children are simply wired to be more organized than others. Learn how to train your child's habits while embracing their natural temperament. He shares practical advice for creating a system that works for the whole family and why the most organized person needs to practice grace, not just control. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Getting a bicycle for your child to "grow into" is a mistake many parents make. Dr. Roger Smith explains why size really does matter when it comes to a child's bike. Learn a simple formula to determine the right wheel size for your child's height, ensuring they feel confident and in control as they learn to ride and enjoy their new freedom. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Who is your hero? In this episode, Dr. Roger Smith shares how heroes—from a childhood baseball player to missionaries—inspired his own life. He explains that it's a parent's privilege to help children find admirable heroes and, most importantly, to be a hero for their children. Learn how to live a life worthy of being followed and help your kids find the inspiration they need to grow. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

What do you do when your child makes a huge mistake, has a major disappointment, or gets in an accident? In this episode, Dr. Roger Smith shares a personal story about a fallen tree to explain how parents can calmly help their children navigate life's disasters—big and small. Learn how to manage your own emotions and turn these moments into opportunities for your child to grow in resilience, responsibility, and wisdom. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

When is it safe to introduce your child to a big animal? In this episode, Dr. Roger Smith shares a personal story about how competitive horseback riding taught his children to care for someone or something bigger than themselves. Discover how exposing your kids to animals—even small ones—can help them develop empathy, responsibility, and communication skills, while enriching the entire family's life. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do you hold your kids back from doing things they see you do? In this episode, Dr. Roger Smith challenges the idea that children are incapable. He argues that by allowing children to engage in tasks that feel "dangerous" (like using a knife with supervision or helping in the kitchen), you build their confidence and teach them to be careful. Learn how to manage your own fear as a parent and help your child grow from minor bumps and scrapes into a capable, adventurous adult. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Ever wonder why your child goes from mimicking your every move to doing the exact opposite? In this episode, Dr. Roger Smith explains that a child's learning process isn't static—it evolves with their developmental stage. Discover the key differences between learning by copying, experimenting, and thinking, and how you can adapt your parenting to support your child's natural curiosity and build a stronger relationship. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Frustrated with your teen's "attitude"? Dr. Roger Smith challenges parents to look inward. He argues that often, the root of teenage disrespect and conflict isn't the teen, but a parent's failure to listen. Discover why shifting your role from talker to listener can create a safe space for your teen to open up and build a stronger, more trusting relationship. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Does it seem like your kids are just along for the ride during shopping trips? In this episode, Dr. Roger Smith discusses the importance of involving children, especially teens, in daily responsibilities like grocery shopping. Learn how treating your kids like comrades and companions instead of just recipients of care can help them successfully transition into adulthood. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do you want to gain wisdom quickly? In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith shares his secret: compiling powerful quotes from wise people. He's gathered these concise nuggets of wisdom into a book, "Quick Wisdom, Volume One." Tune in to learn how memorizing these quotes can give you instant wisdom and help you make your point in conversations. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Where does food come from? It's a question many kids can't answer. Join us as we discuss why it's crucial for children to understand the food journey, from farm to table. We'll share simple, fun ways to introduce your kids to the origins of their meals—and maybe even learn a thing or two yourself. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Want to raise a bold and brave child? Learn how to let your kids take calculated risks and embrace adventure at every age. Discover how your words and actions can plant a seed of courage that will last a lifetime. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Emotional meltdowns happen. But what's the best way to handle a temper tantrum? In this episode, Dr. Roger Smith shares practical advice on how to respond to your child's emotional outbursts. He explains how to evaluate your own role, preemptively address triggers, and understand why ignoring a tantrum can be the most effective strategy. Learn how to stay in control of your emotions and help your child navigate theirs without a head-to-head battle. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Whether it's a playful nip or a serious puncture wound, knowing how to respond to an animal bite is crucial for your child's safety. Dr. Roger Smith explains the difference between dog and cat bites, when to seek medical attention, and the critical first steps you should always take at home. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Get past the one-word answers and learn the art of fostering open communication with your teen. Dr. Roger Smith shares the importance of listening, creating a safe space, and asking open-ended questions to get to know your child as they grow into an adult. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Is "loving your children equally" a mistake? Dr. Roger Smith argues that focusing on individuality, not equality, is the key to effective parenting. He discusses how understanding each child's unique personality and needs—using tools like the Five Love Languages of Children—is more important than treating them all the same. Learn how to tailor your love, encouragement, and even correction to fit each child, fostering a stronger, more effective parent-child relationship. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com