Parenting Matters Now with Dr. Roger Smith

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 

To a child, a small hill can feel like a mountain. Dr. Roger Smith reminds us that what seems insignificant to an adult can be a huge deal to a child. In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, learn to see the world from your child's perspective, offering compassion for their disappointments, fears, and frustrations. Discover why this shift in understanding can help you comfort them and build a stronger connection, rather than reacting with frustration. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Juggling work and travel with family life? In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith shares essential tips for parents who are frequently away from home. Learn how to communicate your love and presence to your children through heartfelt calls, notes, and other special gestures that reassure them of their importance, no matter the distance. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Navigating bullying is tough for any parent. In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explains that the key to helping your child isn't about confronting the bully—it's about empowering your child. Learn how to foster emotional resilience and take away the bully's power, using insights from expert Brooks Gibbs. Discover why teaching your child a healthy response, rather than retaliation, can make all the difference. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do you have a bully in your house? Dr. Roger Smith explains the tell-tale signs of a child who is prone to bullying and how parents can stop the behavior. Learn how to train your child to be kind and considerate, rather than aggressive and controlling. It all starts with teaching empathy and the importance of others. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Has your child's boundless imagination ever left you scratching your head? Dr. Roger Smith on Parenting Matters Now dives into the wonderful and sometimes challenging world of a child's mind. Discover why young children perceive the impossible as possible and how their understanding of time, distance, and money differs vastly from an adult's. Learn practical ways to communicate effectively with your imaginative little ones, turning potential misunderstandings into opportunities for connection and growth. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Welcome to Parenting Matters, where Dr. Roger Smith reveals how humor can be a surprisingly serious tool in your parenting arsenal. Discover how a well-placed family joke, like the one about the 100-year-old man, can defuse disagreements, improve communication, and even teach storytelling skills. Learn how to leverage the lighter side of life to foster deeper connections and understanding within your family—without ever using humor to demean or attack. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Ever feel like you're just getting through the day-to-day? Dr. Roger Smith reveals why "being extraordinary at the ordinary" is a powerful mantra for your family. Discover how seemingly small, consistent acts of parenting—from changing diapers to comforting scrapes—build crucial confidence, emotional intelligence, and resilience in your child, far more than grand gestures. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Mealtime isn't just about food; it's one of the most important times for family connection! Dr. Roger Smith shares practical tips to transform your family meals into a rich, positive, and distraction-free haven. Learn how to spark engaging conversations, foster gratitude, and create lasting memories that benefit your children's future. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do your kids struggle to express their feelings in a healthy way? Dr. Roger Smith explains why teaching emotional vocabulary is key to helping children understand and manage their emotions. Discover a valuable resource for expanding your child's "soul words" and fostering emotional intelligence. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

In part two of "Raising a Renaissance Kid," Dr. Roger Smith from Parenting Matters Now encourages parents to expose their children to a wide array of skills. Discover why early exposure, even without immediate mastery, reduces fear in adulthood. Learn how to create a "skills checklist" for your kids, encompassing everything from practical mechanics to communication, helping them become competent and confident adults. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Dream of raising a "Renaissance man or woman" who can do almost anything? Dr. Roger Smith from Parenting Matters Now shares a crucial skill: mastering the to-do list. Discover how applying the Pareto principle (the 80/20 rule) to prioritize tasks can boost productivity for both you and your children, helping them develop essential life skills and focus on what truly matters. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Want your kids to have a "huge world" instead of a "small world"? Dr. Roger Smith on Parenting Matters Now reveals how practicing hospitality—inviting diverse people into your home—can profoundly broaden your children's intellectual, emotional, and philosophical horizons. Discover how simple connections can open their minds and foster understanding. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Are you or your child struggling with anxiety? Dr. Roger Smith introduces an often-overlooked practice: grounding. In a world where we're rarely in direct contact with the earth, discover the potential therapeutic benefits of simply touching the ground. Learn why encouraging your child to go barefoot, play in the dirt, and connect with nature might be a powerful, yet simple, way to promote well-being and alleviate sensory deficits. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Is your child maturing at the pace you hoped for? Join Dr. Roger Smith on Parenting Matters Now as he shares actionable strategies to foster your child's growth. Discover the powerful impact of involving five non-parental adults in their lives and the art of asking open-ended questions to encourage critical thinking and deeper connection. Learn how broadening their experiences with diverse individuals can unlock their full potential and help them blossom into well-rounded, mature individuals. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Are you teaching your children to play it safe, or empowering them to take calculated risks and innovate? Dr. Roger Smith challenges common parenting advice, arguing that fostering a risk-taking mindset is crucial for children to become problem-solvers, dreamers, and leaders. Discover how overprotection, premature rescuing, and excessive praise can hinder their development, and learn practical ways to encourage adventure and resilience in your kids.   Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do you ever find yourself in a tug-of-war with your kids? In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith tackles the inevitability of conflict in families. Discover how you can transform disagreements into valuable learning experiences, teaching your children essential skills like active listening and clear communication without accusations. Learn why fostering conflict resolution in childhood is one of the most impactful gifts you can give your kids, preparing them for healthy relationships throughout their lives. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Ever considered the stories behind the names all around us? In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith shares a unique perspective from Palm Springs, California. He explains why understanding the significance of names—from streets to cars to even your child's own name—can be a powerful tool to help kids connect with and understand the world around them. Discover how explaining these simple connections can create "mental hooks" for learning and add value to your child's identity. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Ever wondered if it's safe for your kids to join you in the hot tub? In this concise episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith breaks down the potential dangers of hot tubs for small children and offers crucial advice for parents. Learn why children's bodies react differently to temperature and what to watch out for to ensure a safe and fun experience. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Are you struggling to set boundaries with well-meaning but sometimes overbearing grandparents? Dr. Roger Smith of Parenting Matters Now delves into the common "landmines" that can arise with in-laws and grandparents. Learn how to foster open communication, manage expectations around rules, gifts, and traditions, and maintain that crucial grandparent-grandchild bond without undermining your role as a parent. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Is your child experiencing anxiety, fear, or worry? Dr. Roger Smith of Parenting Matters Now explores how common household habits, like constant news consumption, can unknowingly contribute to your child's anxieties. Learn how to create a more calming home environment and help your children put stressful events into perspective, fostering a sense of safety and well-being. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com

Does the thought of your kids pumping gas or checking the oil sound like a distant dream? Dr. Roger Smith of Parenting Matters Now shares how everyday tasks, like car maintenance, can be powerful training grounds for teaching children responsibility, independence, and a "take care of things" mindset. Discover how to empower your kids from a young age, ensuring they're well-equipped for adulthood, just like Zig Ziglar's philosophy on training employees. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do you ever break your own rules? Dr. Roger Smith opens this episode of Parenting Matters Now with a relatable moment of almost setting muddy boots on the dinner table, highlighting how easily we can slip up. This leads to a crucial discussion: how do we react when our children break rules? Dr. Smith encourages parents to look beyond the behavior itself. Sometimes, rule-breaking isn't rebellion, but a result of carelessness, distraction, or even a valid underlying reason. Learn why it's essential to wisely evaluate the situation and understand what's truly going on with your child, rather than immediately imposing consequences. Discover the power of extending the same grace to our children that we often give ourselves when we unintentionally break our own guidelines. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Is your child constantly saying "I'm tired"? If they're between 10 and 14, Dr. Roger Smith explains why it's likely more than just a complaint! In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, discover the neurodevelopmental shifts happening during pre-pubescence and puberty that genuinely increase a child's need for sleep. Learn how their developing emotional brain influences their expression of fatigue, and why compassion and providing downtime are crucial. Understand the internal changes your child is experiencing, even before external signs of puberty appear, and how to best support them through this naturally exhausting stage of growth. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

This episode of Parenting Matters Now with Dr. Roger Smith tackles a crucial question: How do we help our children embrace challenges and grow through them? While the value of doing hard things is undeniable—it's where true growth happens—Dr. Smith focuses on the "how." He emphasizes the profound impact of mindset, referencing the timeless wisdom: "He who wins is he who thinks he can." Discover why instilling hope and confidence in your child's ability to conquer difficult tasks is paramount, and how your own modeling of this "can-do" attitude is key. As Henry Ford famously said, "Whether you think you can or you think you cannot, you are right." Tune in to learn how to inspire your child to believe in themselves and find the worth in every challenge. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do you find yourself battling your child over grammar? Dr. Roger Smith dives into a surprising question: how much does grammar truly matter in the grand scheme of parenting? Using a humorous anecdote, he illustrates when perfect grammar is essential and when it might be secondary to bigger goals. Discover why preserving your relationship with your child should always take precedence over a grammar tussle. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Death is an uncomfortable but unavoidable part of life. In this episode Dr. Roger Smith tackles the difficult topic of discussing death and grief with your children. Learn how to address questions, foster healthy grieving, and support your kids through loss, whether it's a beloved pet, a family member, or even the "death of a dream." Discover how open conversations can help children cope and move forward. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Ever wondered how music can transform your parenting? Join Dr. Roger Smith as he reveals the incredible power of singing with your children. From soothing tantrums to building lasting memories, discover why a family sing-along, no matter your vocal talent, is a powerful tool for connection and comfort. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com

Do your children truly feel blessed by your words? In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith goes beyond simple praise to explore the profound impact of intentional blessings. Discover how specific, heartfelt words can be a springboard for your child's life, inspiring them with a sense of adoration and purpose. Learn practical ways to craft meaningful affirmations, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com

Habits often get a bad rap, but what if they're the key to smoother parenting? In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith reveals how to proactively shape your children's positive habits, from tidiness to kindness. Learn effective, repetitive strategies that build "muscle memory" for good behavior, saving you from constant nagging and fostering independent, responsible kids. Tune in for practical, few-minute parenting advice! Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com

Ever wonder what happens when your or your child's mistakes create a mess for others? In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith shares a real-life observation that highlights the ripple effect of our actions. Learn practical ways to help your kids own their missteps, understand the impact of their choices, and take responsibility for making things right – all without anger or condemnation. Tune in for quick, actionable parenting advice! Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com

What's the unique value of gathering around a fire with your children? On this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the almost magical quality of fire to foster connection and storytelling within families. Discover how a simple fireplace, fire pit, or campfire can become a powerful tool for parents to open up communication, encourage listening, and share family or historical narratives. Dr. Roger Smith discusses how the mesmerizing nature of flames can create an environment ripe for deeper connection and transformative moments with your children. Tune in to learn how to intentionally create these "fire opportunities" to strengthen your family bonds. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com

Ever wondered why teaching your kids to swim is so important? On this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Rogers Smith dives into why swimming is more than just a safety precaution. Discover how learning to swim can open up a world of opportunities for your children, contribute to their life experiences, and even their sense of purpose. Dr. Miller shares practical advice on how to start, even if your little ones are just beginning in the bathtub, and emphasizes the importance of creating positive early experiences with water. Learn why this essential skill is crucial, not just for safety around pools and open water, but for a richer, more fulfilling life. Tune in for valuable insights on helping your children become comfortable and confident in the water. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Spanking: a parenting hot topic. Join Dr. Roger Smith for a nuanced discussion that goes beyond the typical pro vs. con debate. Regardless of your stance, Dr. Roger Smith asks you to consider the underlying principle: that pain can be a form of communication. Explore the intention behind corporal punishment as a language to establish boundaries, emphasizing that it should be rooted in love and training, never retaliation or anger. Learn to discern when physical correction might be used carefully and when it's crucial to transition to more effective, less "noxious" methods that foster self-control as children mature. Prepare for a thought-provoking perspective on this sensitive subject and share your thoughts respectfully.  Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Have your child's misbehavior or harsh words ever left you wondering what's really going on? Join Dr. Roger Smith for a thought-provoking look at the surprising role fear can play in our children's actions. Discover how insecurity and the fear of rejection can drive kids to "do or say things that offend" or that they later regret. Learn to look beyond the surface behavior and identify the underlying fear, enabling you to respond with understanding and guidance instead of just correction. Tune in for insights on fostering your own emotional stability and helping your child navigate their fears in healthy ways. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Is your teen still relying on you for laundry? Join Dr. Roger Smith  for a quick dose of essential parenting advice. Discover why teaching your children to do laundry, from matching socks as toddlers to independently washing and ironing as teens, is a crucial life skill you're not doing them any favors by skipping. Learn how to involve kids at every age, turning everyday chores into valuable training for adulthood. Tune in to empower your children with independence, one wash cycle at a time. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Can Winnie the Pooh teach us about raising grateful kids? Join Dr. Roger Smith for quick, insightful parenting advice. Discover how A.A. Milne's Piglet, with his small heart and vast gratitude, offers a powerful lesson for parents. Learn practical exercises to model and cultivate an "attitude of gratefulness" in your children, helping them see beyond themselves and appreciate the good around them. Tune in for actionable tips to nurture this vital character quality. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Do children truly follow in their parents' footsteps? Join Dr. Rogers as he explores the popular sayings "like father, like son," "chip off the old block," and "apples don't fall far from the tree." While acknowledging that children can forge their own paths, Dr. Roger Smith emphasizes the powerful influence parents have on their kids' character – both the good and the bad. He encourages parents to honestly evaluate their own traits and set character-based goals for self-improvement, recognizing that they are constantly "reproducing" themselves in their children. Discover why working on your own growth is a vital part of raising the next generation. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Ever strike up a conversation with a stranger and find unexpected inspiration? Join Dr. Roger Smith as he shares a chance encounter at an airport gate with a young woman on her way to Midland, Texas. Discover how a simple conversation about life, dreams of becoming a nurse, and a powerful Teddy Roosevelt quote led to a moment of connection and a reminder that meaningful moments can happen anywhere. Tune in for this quick dose of parenting wisdom and a heartwarming story about the richness strangers can bring to our lives. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

What's the real value of a friend? Dr. Roger Smith introduces a friend, a shrimping expert, and shares how unexpected friendships can enrich your life and broaden your understanding of the world. Discover the surprising things you can learn from those around you and why exposing your children to diverse individuals is a crucial part of their growth. Tune in for insights on the power of connection and the wisdom found in everyday encounters. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com

What does it truly mean to love your children? In this episode, Dr. Roger Smith explores whether your children truly feel your love through your actions. Drawing from the idea that love covers wrongdoings, he poses a crucial question: Are you more inclined to protect your child's mistakes with their sense of shame in mind, or do you tend to expose and weaponize them? Dr. Smith clarifies that addressing wrongdoing is essential, but the key lies in how you do it. Discover the difference between exposing and quietly correcting, and how the latter fosters a deep sense of being loved and protected. Tune in to reflect on how your actions communicate love to your children. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Does a dad really make a difference?  Dr. Roger Smith speaks directly to fathers about their vital role in the home. While acknowledging single-parent households, this episode focuses on empowering dads to increase their influence on their children's development, self-confidence, and ability to handle life's stresses. Discover simple yet powerful ways fathers can connect, even if they've felt emotionally distant. Dr. Smith shares practical tips, from bedside chats and playtime to being present and truly listening. Learn how building a healthy, caring relationship through small, consistent efforts can create a lasting positive impact and foster a stronger family. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Navigating the turbulent teenage years? Feeling frustrated by the shift in your parenting role?  Dr. Roger Smith introduces the crucial concept of the "parental shift." Discover why the control you had with your newborn naturally diminishes as they grow, especially into their teens. Learn the key to a smoother family dynamic: transitioning from control to influence. Dr. Smith explains how building a strong relationship based on trust, respect, and communication becomes your most powerful tool. If you're experiencing conflict and resistance with your teenager, you might still be in the control zone. Tune in to understand how to cultivate influence and foster a healthier connection. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com 

Want to boost your child's self-confidence? Join Dr. Roger Smith on Parenting Matters Now for a quick yet powerful insight. Discover the surprising secret to building genuine self-assurance in your kids: helping them focus on others. Learn how giving children opportunities to assist others, do favors, and volunteer not only benefits those they help but also profoundly increases their own sense of self-worth and competence. Plus, understand the crucial role of your own perception in fostering their confidence. Tune in to learn how lifting others can truly lift your child. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com

Ever look at your child and feel like you're only seeing an unfinished picture? Join Dr. Roger Smith on Parenting Matters Now as he uses a surprising analogy – a reclaimed 3,000-gallon milk tank – to illustrate the ongoing process of raising children. Discover how to look beyond their current imperfections and focus on their potential. Learn the importance of patience, understanding their developmental stage, and nurturing their growth to help them complete their unique story and discover their mission in life. Tune in for insights on how to be the "conditioner" who guides them towards their full capacity. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com

Are you a thermostat parent or just a thermometer? Join Dr. Rogers Smith on Parenting Matters Now for quick, actionable parenting advice. Learn how to move beyond simply labeling your child's behavior and instead, like a thermostat, initiate positive changes to help them grow. Discover practical ways to respond to challenging situations and guide your children towards desirable behavior, one small step at a time. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com

Worried about bullies? What if the issue starts at home? Dr. Roger Smith of Parenting Matters Now tackles the challenging topic of children who exhibit bullying tendencies. Learn to recognize the mindset of a bully and understand that parents have a vital role in training their children away from this behavior. Discover practical ways to cultivate kindness from toddlerhood, emphasizing empathy and consideration for others. Understand why rewarding kindness is a powerful tool in preventing aggression and building a foundation for compassionate interactions. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com

What truly shapes your child's future success and resilience? It might not be what you think. Dr. Roger Smith of Parenting Matters Now dives into the often-underestimated power of the "small things" in life. Learn why being "extraordinary at the ordinary" – those consistent, everyday interactions – has a monumental impact on a child's development, even from infancy. Discover how your daily routines and responses are laying the groundwork for their confidence, emotional strength, and ability to tackle life's challenges. Tune in to shift your perspective and appreciate the extraordinary power of the ordinary. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com

Want to unlock a simple yet powerful key to your children's future? Dr. Roger Smith from Parenting Matters Now reveals why mealtime is one of the most important times in your family. Forget just getting food on the table – this episode provides practical, easy-to-implement ideas to transform your dinner table into a hub of connection, conversation, and fun. Learn how to ditch the distractions, spark engaging discussions, and cultivate gratitude, ultimately creating lasting positive impacts on your children. Tune in to discover how to make your next mealtime truly matter. Visit me at: https://rogersmithmd.com/ This has been a production of ThePodcastUpload.com