Alle afleveringen
72 afleveringen, van nieuw naar oud
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Q&A: How to Help an Anxious Child Without Making Anxiety Worse
29 oktober 2026 · 44 min
Every child worries sometimes, but how can parents tell when it has become something more? In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson is joined by Dr. Theresa Welles, Shapiro Family Director of the Bubrick Center for Pediatric OCD at the Child Mind Institute, to answer listener questions about anxiety in children and teens. Dr. Welles explains why anxiety is a normal and even helpful emotion. She also covers signs that a child’s anxiety has become a problem, like when their world gets smaller because they're avoiding school, friends, or activities they used to enjoy. Lees meer
In this episode, Dr. Dave and Dr. Welles cover:
· How to tell the difference between normal worries and an anxiety disorder
· Less obvious signs of anxiety in teens, including anger, procrastination, and saying they "don't care"
· Why stomachaches and headaches before school can be signs of anxiety, and how to respond
· How to help a child who avoids activities because they're afraid of failing, without pushing too hard
· How to help an anxious child without accidentally reinforcing their anxiety
· When to seek professional help, including when family routines start to revolve around a child's anxiety
· What good treatment for child and teen anxiety looks like, and signs that it isn't working
· How OCD differs from anxiety, and how exposure and response prevention (ERP) helps kids break the cycle
Further Reading
· How Anxiety Affects Teenagers
· Anxious Stomachaches and Headaches
· What to Do (and Not Do) When Children Are Anxious
· What Does OCD Look Like in Kids?
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Motivation, Persistence, and Learning
22 oktober 2026 · 42 min
Why do some kids keep trying when something is difficult while others quickly give up? In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with Yale University researcher Dr. Julia Leonard to explore the science of motivation, persistence, and learning — and the important role parents and other adults can play in helping kids decide which challenges are worth pursuing. Lees meer
In this episode, they cover:
• How children develop beliefs about what they’re capable of
• Why stepping in too quickly can unintentionally discourage independence
• How modeling your own hard work can help kids learn to keep trying
• Why giving kids opportunities to struggle and improve can build confidence
Key takeaways• Kids learn about effort through relationships. When children face a difficult task, they look to parents, teachers, and other adults for clues about whether the challenge is worth pursuing and whether they’re capable of succeeding.
• Resist the urge to immediately take over. When a task is developmentally appropriate, giving kids room to try, struggle, and problem-solve can help them build independence and confidence.
• Let kids see your hard work. Adults often make everyday tasks look effortless, while doing their own difficult work out of sight. Showing kids that adults struggle, practice, make mistakes, and eventually improve helps make effort visible.
• Praise the process, not just the person. With younger children, highlighting effort, strategies, persistence, and progress can be more motivating than simply telling them they’re smart, talented, or “the best.”
• Keep praise authentic. Over-the-top praise can backfire, and as kids get older, they become increasingly sensitive to praise that doesn’t match their own assessment of how they performed.
• Create opportunities for kids to improve. Whether at home or in school, feedback, second chances, and opportunities to revise work send kids the message that learning is a process — not a single judgment of their a…
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Q&A: When Kids Don’t Want to Go to School: Anxiety, Avoidance, and Refusal
15 oktober 2026 · 30 min
When a child refuses to go to school, it can be easy to assume they’re unmotivated, being defiant, or simply trying to skip class. But school avoidance is often driven by anxiety — and understanding what’s behind it is an important first step toward helping kids get back to school. Lees meer
In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson is joined by Alana Cooperman, LCSW, a senior social worker in the Anxiety Disorders Center at the Child Mind Institute, to answer parents’ questions about school anxiety, avoidance, and refusal.
Cooperman explains how school avoidance can look different across ages, from crying and clinging to parents in younger children to stomachaches, sleep problems, irritability, frequent trips to the nurse, or repeated requests to come home in older kids and teens. She and Dr. Dave also discuss how ADHD, learning difficulties, autism, peer problems, academic pressure, and embarrassing experiences at school can contribute to avoidance.
In this episode, they cover:
• Common reasons kids may avoid school
• How bullying, peer conflict, tests, teachers, bathrooms, and lunchrooms can become triggers
• How ADHD, executive functioning challenges, learning disorders, and autism can contribute
• How to validate anxiety without validating avoidance
• Why staying home shouldn’t become more rewarding than going to school
• How gradual exposure can help kids build tolerance for anxiety
• When professional help may be needed
• Why progress isn’t always linear — and why effort mattersFurther reading
When Kids Refuse to Go to School
How Anxiety Affects Kids in School
Anxious Stomachaches and Headaches
Have a question you’d like Dr. Dave and a Child Mind Institute expert to answer in a future episode? Send it through the Child Mind Institute’s social channels or email podcast@childmind.org.
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Getting Sober Young: Molly Jong-Fast on Addiction and Recovery
8 oktober 2026 · 45 min
Journalist, author, and podcast host Molly Jong-Fast got sober at 19 — and nearly three decades later, she continues to speak candidly about her experience with alcoholism and recovery. In this episode of Thriving Kids, she joins Dr. Dave Anderson for a conversation about recognizing addiction in adolescence, overcoming stigma, and why young people struggling with substance use need to know that recovery is possible. Lees meer
In this episode, they cover:
• Why addiction can look different from typical adolescent experimentation
• Why family history can be an important part of conversations about substance use
• How parents can talk openly with kids about addiction without relying on shame
• What parents should know about marijuana and the developing adolescent brain
• Why lasting recovery involves more than simply removing access to a substance
• How schools and colleges can better support young people who choose sobriety
Key takeaways• Addiction can begin early. Jong-Fast describes recognizing during adolescence that she had difficulty controlling her substance use and that her experience looked different from that of many of her peers.
• Pay attention to patterns, not just individual incidents. Repeated inability to stop, dramatic changes in behavior, escalating use, or repeatedly trying and failing to cut back may signal that a young person needs additional support.
• Talk honestly about family history. When addiction runs in a family, age-appropriate conversations can help kids understand that they may have increased vulnerability without framing their future as inevitable.
• Shame isn’t treatment. Families can establish clear boundaries around substance use while continuing to communicate love, connection, and a willingness to help.
• Legal doesn’t mean harmless. Alcohol and marijuana may be legal for adults, but that doesn’t eliminate the potential risks associated with adolescent use.
• Young people need spaces that support sobriety. Substance-free housing, …
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Q&A: How to Handle Attention & Focus Issues
1 oktober 2026 · 32 min
Attention problems can be frustrating for kids and parents. In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers nine parent questions about attention and focus, including when difficulties may point to ADHD. Lees meer
Dr. Dave explains why ADHD can make boring or repetitive tasks especially difficult and shares practical strategies for strengthening study, organization, and attention skills.
In this episode, Dr. Dave covers:
• How to distinguish attention problems from lack of motivation
• Strategies for kids with attention difficulties
• How phones, gaming, and social media may affect attention
• Why ADHD can look different in girls and boys
• Helping kids start homework & stay focused
• When to seek a professional ADHD evaluationKey takeaways
• ADHD is not simply a lack of effort. Kids may struggle most with tasks that feel boring.
• Attention problems don’t always mean ADHD. Anxiety, depression, trauma, learning disorders and other factors can also affect focus.
• ADHD strategies can help even without a diagnosis. Routines, reinforcement and organization systems can make tasks easier.
• Planners, calendars, distraction-free workspaces, technology impacts and more.
Further readingHow to Get an ADHD Diagnosis
How to Tell if Your Daughter Has ADHD
How Girls With ADHD Are Different
How to Help Yourself Get Organized
Side Effects of ADHD Medication
Not All Attention Problems Are ADHDBooks mentioned in the episode
All About ADHD: The Complete Practical Guide for Classroom Teachers — Linda J. Pfiffner
Taking Charge of ADHD: The Complete, Authoritative Guide for Parents — Russell A. Barkley
Managing ADHD in School — Russell A. Barkley
The Everyday Parenting Toolkit — Dr. Alan E. Kazdin
Organizational Skills Training for Children with ADHD: An Empirically Supported Treatment — Richard Gallagher, Howard B. Abikoff, and Elana G. Spira
Additional Resources
ADDitude
CHADD
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What to Know About Teen Substance Use
24 september 2026 · 59 min
Experimenting with alcohol, marijuana, tobacco, and other substances isn’t uncommon during adolescence — but that doesn’t mean that parents don’t, or shouldn’t, have concerns about it. On this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson is joined by two experts from Partnerships to End Addiction, clinical psychologist Dr. Aaron Hogue and licensed clinical social worker Molly Bobek, for a practical conversation about preventing teen substance use, recognizing the warning signs of substance use problem, and helping young people make safer decisions. Lees meer
They explain why the relationship parents build with their kids may be one of their most powerful prevention tools. And they discuss how to talk about drugs and alcohol without exaggerating the risks or losing credibility, what parents should know about the connection between substance use and mental health, and how to respond when a teenager comes home after drinking or doing drugs. They also offer guidance on when to seek treatment, what effective treatment should look like, and why it’s important for families to be involved in the recovery process.
In this episode, they cover:
• How to distinguish typical experimentation from more concerning patterns of substance use
• Why mental health challenges can make teens more vulnerable to misusing substances
• How parents can balance family values, consequences, safety, and open communicationKey takeaways
• Relationships are a powerful prevention tool. Staying calm, curious, and connected — Dr. Hogue’s “three C’s” — can offer teens somewhere to turn when they encounter substances or difficult situations.
• Don’t feel like you have to exaggerate the risks of substances to be heard. Scare tactics can backfire, undermining parents’ credibility. Accurate, age-appropriate information can help teens understand real risks while preserving trust.
• Think in terms of many small conversations, as opposed to one “big talk” about drinking and drugs. You can create an ongoing dialo…
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Q&A: Anger, ADHD, Lying, OCD, and Big Feelings
17 september 2026 · 40 min
In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers eight parent questions about some of the most common — and challenging — behaviors families face. From aggression and ADHD to lying, motivation, OCD, and big emotions, Dr. Dave explains what may drive these behaviors and offers practical, evidence-based strategies parents can use to respond. Lees meer
In this episode, Dr. Dave covers:
• Why is my three-year-old so angry and aggressive?
• How can I help a child with ADHD without medication?
• My child is out of control. Where can I send him?
• How do I motivate a “lazy” child?
• How do I explain OCD to a child?
• Why does my child lie about everything?
• Why won’t my child listen unless I yell?
• Why is my child so sensitive?Key takeaways
• Anger and aggression in young children can stem from temperament, development, family stress, and other factors. Behavioral parent training can help parents combine warmth with clear expectations and consistent consequences.
• Medication is not the only evidence-based ADHD treatment. Parent training, classroom support, organizational skills, and help with peer relationships can all be effective but require consistent adult involvement.
• Even when behavior feels out of control, behavioral and family interventions can help. Families may also consider school-based services, therapeutic programs, residential treatment, or hospitalization when safety is a concern.
• What looks like “laziness” may reflect depression, ADHD, learning challenges, or other difficulties. Parents can build motivation through meaningful rewards and opportunities for success.
• OCD involves intrusive thoughts and/or repetitive behaviors a person feels driven to perform. Treatment, including exposure and response prevention (ERP), can help kids tolerate anxiety without compulsions.
• Lying is common in childhood. Parents can emphasize honesty, reinforce truth-telling — especially when it’s difficult — and use calm, proportionate consequences when …
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Dad Brain: Fatherhood, Parenting, and the Brain
10 september 2026 · 47 min
Becoming a father doesn’t just change your life, research suggests it can actually change your brain. In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with psychologist and researcher Dr. Darby Saxbe, author of Dad Brain: The New Science of Fatherhood and How It Shapes Men’s Lives, to explore the emerging science of what happens to men’s brains, hormones, relationships, and sense of identity when they become fathers. Lees meer
Dr. Saxbe explains why some of the brain changes associated with fatherhood may help dads become more attuned to their children, how testosterone levels can shift as men move into caregiving roles, and why becoming a parent can bring both psychological vulnerability and long-term neurological benefits. They also discuss paternal mental health, loneliness, and social connection among men, the pressures created by online messages about masculinity, and how being an engaged father can offer men a powerful source of connection and purpose.
In this episode, they cover:
• How men’s brains can change during the transition to fatherhood
• Why some brain changes may help fathers become more responsive to their babies
• What researchers are learning about paternal postpartum depression and anxiety
• Why the popular idea that “higher testosterone is always better” misses what the research actually shows
• How relationships and social connection contribute to men’s long-term health
• How fatherhood can encourage healthier behaviors in menKey takeaways
• Fathers’ brains change, too. Research suggests that becoming a father is associated with changes in brain structure and function, including areas involved in understanding and responding to other people’s thoughts and emotions.
• Those changes can bring both opportunity and vulnerability. In Dr. Saxbe’s research, some of the brain changes associated with stronger bonding and greater caregiving involvement were also associated with more symptoms of anxiety, depression, psychological distress, and…
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Q&A: Friendship, Neurodiversity, and Staying True to Yourself
3 september 2026 · 33 min
In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers listener questions inspired by last week’s conversation with Caroline Maguire about friendship, neurodivergence, masking, and building authentic relationships. Lees meer
Dr. Dave discusses how parents can help kids make friends without making them feel like they have to change who they are, how to understand the difference between practicing social skills and masking, and how to support kids who over-apologize, over-explain, or spiral after awkward social moments. He also offer advice on navigating social anxiety, loneliness, and friendship expectations — and talks about how adults can model healthier friendship habits for kids.
This episode offers practical, compassionate guidance for helping children build meaningful connections, tolerate the ups and downs of friendship, and find relationships where they feel accepted for who they really are.
In this episode, Dr. Dave covers:
How to help kids make friends without pressuring them to change who they are
Why one awkward moment does not mean a friendship is ruined
What to do when kids say they “don’t need friends”
How to help kids who move too quickly from meeting someone to “best friend”
How adults can model boundaries, repair, and healthier friendship habits
Further Reading
How to Help Kids Who Are Lonely
Helping Young Children Who Are Socially Anxious
How to Help Kids Who Are Too Hard on Themselves
Caroline Maguire
Why Will No One Will Play With Me
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Summer Hot Takes: Parenting Advice With Dr. Aliza Pressman
27 augustus 2026 · 49 min
From gentle parenting to strict rules about screen time, today’s parents are constantly bombarded with advice about the “right” way to raise their kids. But how much of that advice is actually supported by research? Lees meer
In this special Summer Hot Takes episode, Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with developmental psychologist, bestselling author, and Raising Good Humans podcast host Dr. Aliza Pressman to explore some of parenting’s most talked-about topics. Together, they discuss why it’s important for any approach to be rooted in science, how authoritative parenting (not to be confused with the harder-to-define gentle parenting) balances warmth with boundaries, and how families can develop healthier relationships with technology.
They also talk about the importance of letting kids experience disappointment, navigate failure, and learn from difficult emotions without treating every feeling like an emergency. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Dave and Dr. Pressman remind parents that thoughtful, flexible parenting is the goal, not perfection.
In this episode, they cover:
What people often mean when they talk about “gentle parenting” and common misunderstandings about the term
What authoritative parenting is and why it remains one of the most evidence-supported parenting approaches
Practical ways to create healthier screen habits for children and teens
Why boredom, waiting, and feeling lonely sometimes can help kids build resilience and independence
How to help kids tolerate disappointment, failure, and rejection
Key takeaways
Healthy screen habits focus on balance, connection, and intentional use.
Kids benefit from experiencing age-appropriate disappointment and failure.
Parents don’t need to solve every emotion immediately to support emotional health.
Parenting trends come and go, but warmth combined with clear boundaries remains the most effective approach.
Further reading from the Child Mind Institute
· Helping Kids With Flexible Thinking
· Three Common Pare…
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Q&A: Back-to-School Survival Guide
21 augustus 2026 · 35 min
Back-to-school season can bring a lot of excitement, but it can also bring anxiety — stressful mornings, friendship worries, homework battles, and questions about how to help kids adjust after summer break. Lees meer
In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson tackles some of the biggest concerns families face as a new school year begins. From how to tell the difference between normal first-day jitters and more serious anxiety to how to reset kids’ sleep routines after summer, Dr. Dave offers compassionate guidance and practical strategies you can put into practice right away.
In this episode, Dr. Dave covers:
How to recognize the difference between typical back-to-school nerves and anxiety that may require extra support
Practical ways to reset sleep schedules, screen time, and morning routines after the summer break
How to help children build friendships and navigate worries about fitting in
Why stomachaches and headaches can sometimes be signs of anxiety — and when to seek a medical evaluation
Strategies for supporting students with ADHD, learning disorders, and executive functioning challenges
How to partner effectively with teachers at the beginning of the school year
Key Takeaways
Small, gradual routine changes make the back-to-school transition easier for children.
Anxiety about going to school is common, but persistent school avoidance can benefit from early support.
Strong parent-teacher partnerships help children succeed academically and emotionally.
Sleep, consistent routines, and healthy technology habits create a stronger foundation for learning.
Family schedules should prioritize wellness, not just productivity.
Further Reading
Back-to-School Hub
The Child Mind Institute’s comprehensive collection of expert advice for preparing children and families for the new school year.
Help for School Refusal
Managing Back-to-School Anxiety
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Helping Neurodivergent Kids Make Friends
13 augustus 2026 · 37 min
In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson is joined by Caroline Maguire, an ADHD and executive function coach and author of Friendship Skills for Neurodivergent Adults. They discuss friendship, social anxiety, and how neurodivergent kids and teens can build more authentic relationships without feeling pressured to hide or “mask” who they are. Lees meer
In this episode, they cover:
• What masking is and how it can affect kids’ mental health
• Why getting support for social skills doesn’t mean people need to abandon their authentic selves
• How black-and-white thinking can make social situations feel more painful
• How parents, clinicians, and coaches can help kids build confidence in relationshipsKey takeaways
• Masking — hiding how you really feel — can help people get through social situations, but over time it may lead to anxiety, depression, people-pleasing, and disconnection from the self.
• Neuro-affirming social support should help kids and adults connect with others while still honoring their own needs, values, and personalities.
• Social mistakes are part of being human, and over-apologizing or repeatedly revisiting them can make anxiety worse.
• Black-and-white thinking can turn a mostly positive interaction into something that feels like a failure.
• Building authentic friendships often starts with understanding your own patterns, communicating your needs, and finding people who appreciate you as you are.
Further reading
Kids Who Need a Little Help to Make Friends
Helping Girls With ADHD Make Friends
What Is Neurodiversity? -
Q&A: Sleep, Safety, Resilience, and More
6 augustus 2026 · 22 min
In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers listener questions inspired by last week’s conversation with Dr. Lisa Damour about how to “future-proof” kids in an uncertain world. Lees meer
Dr. Dave breaks down the simple but powerful habits that help protect children’s mental health over time, including consistent sleep, family connection, face-to-face time with peers, satisfying hobbies, and emotional flexibility. He also discusses how parents can tell whether changes in a child’s mood, focus, or behavior might be related to sleep, how to handle bedtime resistance, and why family meals matter even when no one is having a deep conversation.
This episode offers practical guidance for helping kids build resilience, confidence, and a perseverance.
In this episode, Dr. Dave covers:
The basic habits that support kids’ long-term mental health
How sleep affects mood, focus, behavior, and stress
What to do when kids push back hard against bedtime
Why “pointless” hobbies can still build pride, confidence, and identity
How to help kids practice flexible thinking when faced with a challenge
Further Reading
Healthy Sleep Habits for Kids
How to Help Kids Learn to Fail
Raising Resilient Kids Who Are Prepared for the Future
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How to Future-Proof Kids for an Uncertain World
30 juli 2026 · 39 min
In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson welcomes back Dr. Lisa Damour for a conversation about how parents can help kids prepare for an uncertain future. Drawing on decades of clinical experience, Dr. Damour explains why the most protective tools are often the simplest: sleep, safety, family connection, coping skills, and opportunities for kids to develop interests that truly belong to them. Lees meer
In this episode, they cover:
• Why sleep is one of the most important foundations for kids’ mental health
• How safety, structure, and clear limits help kids feel secure
• Why family meals can matter even when the conversation is not perfect
• How hobbies help kids build confidence, identity, and coping skills
• Why parents should make room for interests that are not tied to achievement
• What families can do now to help kids face an unpredictable futureKey takeaways
• Sleep is one of the strongest protections for kids’ mental health, learning, attention, mood, and emotional regulation.
• Parents do not need to control every part of a child’s future, but they can build routines and expectations that help kids feel grounded.
• Safety is a reasonable area for parents to be firm about, including issues like seatbelts, helmets, substance use, and other non-negotiables.
• Family meals are not valuable because they are always magical; they matter because they create warmth, structure, and regular connection.
• Hobbies give kids a sense of ownership, pride, mastery, and healthy coping that may not come from school or achievement alone.
Further reading
Why Are Teenagers So Sleep-Deprived?
Media Guidelines for Kids of All Ages
Helping Kids Who Struggle With Executive Functions
10 Tips for Parenting Anxious Kids
What to Do and Not Do When Children Are AnxiousPre-Order Lisa Damour's newest book: The Emotional Lives of Parents: Caring for Ourselves to Better Care for Our Children
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Q&A: Talking to Kids about Mental Health, Suicide, and Suicide Loss
23 juli 2026 · 27 min
In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers listener questions inspired by last week’s conversation with NBC News anchor and correspondent Kate Snow about mental health, journalism, and how suicide loss has shaped her reporting. Lees meer
Dr. Dave discusses how parents can talk with kids about suicide and mental health honestly and in age-appropriate ways, what changes in a child’s mood or behavior may indicate that they need support, and why asking directly about suicidal thoughts does not make those thoughts worse. He also explains how families can determine what level of care a child may need, what to look for in a treatment or residential program, and how to build emotional skills and family connection before a crisis occurs.
This episode offers compassionate, practical guidance for recognizing when a child may be struggling, keeping communication open, and helping families find the right support.
In this episode, Dr. Dave covers:
How to talk with kids about suicide or a suicide loss honestly and appropriately
What changes in mood, behavior, and personality parents should take seriously
Why parents should ask direct questions about sadness and suicidal thoughts
How to understand the differences among therapy, psychiatry, school support, higher-level care, and emergency help
What to look for in a treatment, residential, or intensive-care program
How families and schools can build resilience and connection before a crisis
Further Reading
Signs a Child Might Be Suicidal
Reducing Suicide Risk With Safety Plans
Supporting Children After the Suicide of a Classmate
Complete Guide to Emergency Hospitalization
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An Expert Perspective at the Intersection of Journalism and Mental Health
16 juli 2026 · 44 min
In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson is joined by NBC News anchor and Senior National Correspondent Kate Snow for a conversation about journalism, mental health, and the power of telling stories that can reduce stigma. Kate discusses how personal loss shaped her reporting on mental health, as well as suicide prevention, substance use, access to care, and the systems that families often have to navigate during moments of crisis. Lees meer
In this episode, they cover:
• Why journalists can play an important role in reducing stigma
• What Kate has learned from reporting on teen mental health, substance use, and access to care
• Why transitions or experiencing a loss of purpose can be mental health risk factors
• How young people are broadening conversations about mental healthKey takeaways
• Sharing personal stories about mental health can help people feel less alone and make it easier for them to seek support.
• Suicide loss can be traumatic for an entire family, and talking about it thoughtfully may help reduce shame and stigma.
• Young people may be more open to conversations about mental health than previous generations, but they still need trusted adults and systems that can respond when they ask for help.
Further reading (and viewing)
NBC’s Kate Snow Shares Impact of Her Father-in-Law’s Suicide on Her Family, Today Show
The Link Between Smartphones and Kids' Mental Health, NBC Nightly News
Opioid Crisis: Historic Cape Cod Town Experiencing Staggering Toll, NBC Nightly NewsAllegations of Abuse at Home for At-Risk Kids, NBC News
Further reading from the Child Mind Institute
What to Do if You’re Worried About Suicide
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Q&A: Talking to Kids About Mental Health, Processing Current Events, and More
9 juli 2026 · 40 min
In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers listener questions inspired by last week’s conversation with actress and author Busy Philipps about parenting, mental health, technology, and staying actively involved in kids’ lives. Lees meer
Dr. Dave discusses how parents can stay connected to what kids are seeing on the internet, including how to help them think critically about influencers and what to do when they start wondering if they have ADHD, depression, or another diagnosis based on mental health content they see online. He also explores how ADHD can be missed in girls and high-achieving kids, how to talk with children about scary news and current events, and why building a parent “village” can help families better understand what’s happening socially, online, and at school.
This episode offers practical guidance for staying curious, setting limits, building trust, and helping kids develop the critical thinking skills they need as they grow more independent.
In this episode, Dr. Dave covers:
• How to stay involved in kids’ online lives without becoming “Big Brother”
• Why screen independence should grow through an “I do, we do, you do” model
• How to help kids think critically about influencers and online algorithms
• What to do when kids self-diagnose after seeing mental health content online
• How AI and social media can be useful tools without replacing real support
• Why ADHD is often missed in girls, women, and high-achieving kids
• How to talk with kids about politics, school safety, traumatic upsetting news, and current eventsFurther Reading
Social Media and Self-Doubt
Does Social Media Use Cause Depression?
Not All Attention Problems Are ADHD
Big TalksDon’t forget, you can now watch Thriving Kids on Apple Podcasts and our Thriving Kids YouTube channel!
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The Challenges of Modern Parenting with Busy Philipps
2 juli 2026 · 36 min
Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with best-selling author, actor, and activist Busy Philipps to discuss the challenges of modern parenting. Busy talks about her adult ADHD diagnosis, helping kids navigate mental health TikTok, and how to broach tricky conversations about the “manosphere” and politics with honesty and love. Lees meer
They also cover:
• Active parenting in the digital age. Busy shares why watching YouTubers and learning Roblox alongside her kids was more effective than setting blanket screen-time rules.
• TikTok, self-diagnosis, and critical thinking. Mental health TikTok can empower kids to seek earlier diagnoses, but it can also lead impressionable teens to misidentify normal traits as disorders. Dr. Dave and Busy emphasize teaching kids to think critically about online health content and come to trusted adults with questions.
• Talking to kids about politics. A recent survey found that kids want open civic discourse. Dismissing children's political views is psychologically harmful, while honest, values-driven conversations — grounded in love and critical thinking — help them thrive.
Further Reading
Teen Self-Diagnosis and How to Respond, Child Mind Institute
When Parent and Child Both Have ADHD, Child Mind Institute
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Q&A: Setting Healthy Screen Limits and Supporting Kids’ Well-Being Offline
25 juni 2026 · 33 min
In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers listener questions inspired by last week’s conversation with Dr. Candice Odgers about kids, social media, and what the research really says about screens and youth mental health. Lees meer
Dr. Dave discusses how parents can set healthy limits around phone use without reacting out of fear, why screens are often part of a much bigger picture, and how families can focus on the core drivers of kids’ well-being — including sleep, school, friendships, family connection, offline activities, and caregiver mental health. He also explains how to respond when kids see something upsetting online, how to manage parent anxiety around tech headlines, and how to model healthier screen habits at home.
This episode offers practical guidance for helping kids use technology more intentionally, while keeping the focus on connection, communication, and the everyday habits that help children thrive.
In this episode, Dr. Dave covers:
How to tell the difference between healthy phone limits and fear-based reactions
Why screens should be considered in the context of a child’s whole life
What to focus on first when you’re worried about a child’s mental health
How to respond when kids see something upsetting online
Why parents should avoid passing tech anxiety on to kids
Why caregiver mental health is a major driver of child well-being
How to approach online risk when a child is already struggling offline
Further Reading
How to Set Limits on Screen TimeMedia Guidelines for Kids of All Ages
How Phones Ruin Concentration
Common Sense Media
American Association of Pediatrics -
What the Research Really Says About Kids, Phones, and Mental Health
18 juni 2026 · 36 min
In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson is joined by Dr. Candice Odgers, a professor of psychology at the University of California, Irvine, whose research focuses on adolescent mental health and the role of smartphones and social media in kids’ daily lives. Together, they discuss what the evidence does — and does not — show about technology and youth mental health, and why the most popular explanations are not always the most accurate. Lees meer
In this episode, they cover:
• What current research can tell us about the relationship between smartphones and social media and adolescent mental health — and why correlation does not necessarily prove causation
• How adult anxiety about technology can shape the way we talk about kids
• Why family conflict, school stress, and peer relationships are still central factors affecting youth mental healthKey takeaways
• The research on social media and youth mental health is more complicated than many headlines suggest.
• Many studies show associations between screen use and mental health symptoms, but that does not mean screens are the primary cause.
• Family conflict, pressure to succeed at school, peer stress, and caregiver mental health are major factors that affect young people’s well-being.
• Tech companies should be held accountable, but blaming social media alone can distract from other urgent supports kids and families need.
• Parents can help kids more effectively by investing in relationships, routines, school support, and open conversations rather than focusing only on restrictions.
Further reading
What We're Getting Wrong About Teens and Tech
Screen Time & Technology
Does Social Media Use Cause Depression?
How Using Social Media Affects Teenagers
Media Guidelines for Kids of All Ages
How Much Should You Monitor Your Teen’s Social Media? -
Q&A: Your Questions about Your & Your Child's Mental Health
11 juni 2026 · 29 min
In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers listener questions inspired by last week’s conversation with Dr. Alfiee about youth mental health, community care, and what it really means to help young people thrive. Lees meer
Dr. Dave discusses how parents can talk with kids about mental health without making them feel like something is “wrong” with them, how to help children process stressful news and current events, and how families can think about social media in a balanced way. He also explores the mental health needs of marginalized kids, how to reduce stigma around therapy — especially for boys and young men — and why community support can make parenting feel less isolating.
In this episode, Dr. Dave covers:
What to do when kids are stressed by politics, current events, or frightening news
How to balance concerns about social media with the belonging some kids find online
What parents should understand about the mental health needs of marginalized kids
How to reduce stigma around therapy, anxiety, depression, and asking for help
Why boys and young men may need extra support talking about emotions
Realistic ways to build community around parenting and caregiving
What parents can do while waiting for therapy or additional support
Further Reading
Helping Children Cope After a Traumatic EventHelping Children Cope With Frightening News
Mental Health Challenges of LGBTQ+ Kids
Mental Health Support for Black Families
Meeting the Mental Health Needs of Black Adolescent Boys
What to Do (and Not Do) When Children Are Anxious
Video Library
Family Resource Center
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Supporting Your Child's Mental Health and Your Own With Dr. Alfiee
4 juni 2026 · 36 min
In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson is joined by Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble — better known as Dr. Alfiee — psychologist, founder of The AAKOMA Project, and author of Rise and Thrive: An intentional guide to caring for your mental health. Together, they discuss youth mental health, the importance of community-based care, and how parents, caregivers, and mental health professionals can better support young people as they navigate stress, stigma, social media, and the challenges of growing up today. Lees meer
In this episode, they cover:
How political news, social media, and stigma affect young people’s emotional well-being
Why social media can be both risky and meaningful for marginalized kids
How community-based organizations can help make mental health care more accessible
Why representation, empathy, and cultural understanding matter in mental health support
Key takeaways
· Young people are managing a wide range of stressors, including anxiety, depression, political unrest, and the lingering effects of the pandemic.
· Social media can pose real risks for kids and teens, but it can also provide connection, community, and support — especially for young people who may feel isolated offline.
· Stigma remains a major barrier to mental health care, even as conversations about mental health become more common in popular culture.
· Community-based organizations can play a powerful role in helping families access mental health support from people they already know and trust.
· Representation matters, but so does what Dr. Alfiee calls an “empathy match” — the feeling that someone understands your experience and can meet you with compassion.
Further reading
Does Social Media Use Cause Depression? – Child Mind Institute
Quick Guide to Anxiety in Children – Child Mind Institute
Dr. Alfiee – Dr. Alfiee’s website with research,
interviews, and moreRise and Thrive by Dr. Alfiee
Couched in Color – A podcast with Dr. Alfiee
The AAKOMA Project
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Q&A: How to Help Kids Face Fear and Build Resilience
28 mei 2026 · 33 min
In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers parents’ questions inspired by last week’s conversation with Dr. Brian Hoeflinger, a neurosurgeon who talked about how the death of his son led him to face his panic attacks over public speaking. Lees meer
In this episode, he covers:
What parents can learn from doctors about staying calm in a crisis
Why anxiety can run in families — and what parents can do about it
How parents can help kids face their fears
How to encourage to kids to take risks while still keeping them safe
How to talk to kids about grief and loss
Key takeaways
· To try and figure out if your child’s anxiety is problematic, consider the frequency, intensity, duration, and level of impairment.
· Facing your fears is about being able to ride the discomfort. It doesn’t necessarily mean you feel comfortable.
· Encouraging your child to try something scary by taking a small step can help them push themselves to try hard things.
· If you're experiencing loss and you're sad, it’s important to label that and let your kid know it's okay for them to feel those emotions.
Further reading
Healthy Minds, Thriving Kids
Why Childhood Anxiety Often Goes Undetected
Treating Anxiety in Kids by Working With Parents
Panic Attacks and How to Treat Them
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Anxiety and the Brain
21 mei 2026 · 51 min
In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson talks with Dr. Brian Hoeflinger, a neurosurgeon whoseprofession and personal story gives him a rare perspective on mental health. Lees meer
Dr. Hoeflinger shares how his brother’s traumatic brain injury first inspired him to pursue neurosurgery, howchronic panic attacks shaped his adolescence and early professional life, and how the loss of his son changed the way he speaks publicly about grief, purpose, and prevention.
They also discuss what parents should understand about panic, head injuries, and the everyday choices that support a healthier brain.
This conversation is both practical and deeply human — a reminder that the brain is powerful, fragile, resilient, and still full of mystery.
In this episode, they cover:
How childhood panic attacks affected Dr. Hoeflinger’s life and career
Why anxiety can be treated more effectively when kids get support early
What neurosurgery can teach us about staying calm during crisis
Why sleep, movement, and overall wellness matter for brain health
How grief can reshape a person’s purpose, perspective, and voice
Further information on these topics from the Child Mind Institute:
Why Childhood Anxiety Often Goes Undetected
Panic Attacks and How to Treat Them
Behavioral Treatment for Kids With Anxiety
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Q&A: Parental Stress
14 mei 2026 · 37 min
In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers parents’ questions about the intense stress that can come with raising young children. Inspired by his recent conversation with pediatrician Dr. Lauren Hughes, this episode focuses on the early years of parenting: feeding decisions, sleepless nights, emotional overload, relationship strain, and the pressure many parents feel to do everything “right.” Lees meer
Dr. Dave also explains how parents can recognize when stress is affecting their mood, relationships, or ability to function — and why asking for extra support is not a failure.
He covers:
• Supporting moms and birthing parents around breastfeeding, formula, and feeding pressure
• Creating emotional safety at home
• Navigating sleepless nights and early infant care
• Avoiding comparison around developmental milestones
• Knowing when to seek early intervention or professional guidance
• Staying connected as a family during the early years of parenting
• Practical self-care habits for overwhelmed parentsKey takeaways
• A parent’s mental health matters, especially during the early years when stress and sleep deprivation can be intense.
• Supporting a partner often starts with asking what would actually help, not making them carry the burden of explaining everything.
• Developmental milestones matter, but children grow at different rates, and variation is normal.
• Self-care does not have to be expensive or time-consuming; small changes in sleep, hydration, movement, relationships, or screen use can help parents feel more grounded.Further reading
• 8 Self-Care Tips for Parents
• [Video] How can I take care of myself to be the best parent I can be?
• Mindful Parenting -
How to Deal With Parenting Stress
7 mei 2026 · 40 min
In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson talks with Dr. Lauren Hughes, a board-certified pediatrician, mother of three, and trusted voice for realistic, evidence-based parenting guidance. Together, they explore the stress and pressure parents can face in the first years of raising a child, from navigating developmental milestones to feeding choices and methods for sleep training. Dr. Hughes also offers practical tips on how to support your child’s well-being without neglecting your own. This conversation can help parents separate common worries from real concerns learn to prioritize connection over perfection. Lees meer
In this episode, they cover:
Why “weird but normal” child behaviors are often part of healthy development
When to seek an evaluation or early intervention if something feels off
Why feeding choices — breastfeeding, formula, or supplementation — should support both you and your child
How to approach sleep training without one-size-fits-all pressure
And why repair, connection, and physical and emotional safety are key to raising thriving kids
Further reading
Complete Guide to Developmental MilestonesChoosing a Sleep Training Program That Works for Your Family
The Public Hughesletter
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Q&A: Dyslexia Myths, Learning Differences, and How to Help Your Child Thrive
30 april 2026 · 29 min
In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers parent questions sparked by the Orlando Bloom conversation, focusing on dyslexia myths, practical at-home learning strategies, self-esteem, movement and focus, AI tools, and the emotional impact of learning differences. He explains what dyslexia actually is, why evaluation and targeted support matter, and how parents can help kids understand a learning disorder in a way that feels honest, empowering, and grounded in their full identity — not just their struggle. Lees meer
Show Notes
· What dyslexia really is — and why letter reversals are not required for a diagnosis.
· How schools and neuropsychological testing can identify reading, writing, or math-related learning disorders.
· At-home strategies that may help kids learn, including writing things out by hand, trying creative workarounds, and measuring what actually improves retention or task completion.
· How to protect a child’s self-esteem when they feel “stupid” or defeated by school.
· Why movement breaks can help with focus, and how to talk with teachers about using them thoughtfully and effectively.
· Where the line is between AI as a helpful learning tool and AI as a crutch.
· Whether learning differences can be linked to strengths like creativity, resilience, or big-picture thinking — and what the research can and can’t say yet.
· Signs that a learning disability may be affecting a child’s anxiety, mood, identity, or school engagement beyond academics.
· How parents can talk about a learning disorder in a way that is truthful, supportive, and empowering.
Relevant Links from the Child Mind Institute
· Understanding Dyslexia: Signs of Dyslexia in Kids
· Inside an Evaluation for Learning Disorders
· How to Help Kids Talk About Learning Disabilities
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Orlando Bloom on Growing Up With Dyslexia
23 april 2026 · 43 min
This week on Thriving Kids, I’m joined by actor Orlando Bloom. He talks about growing up with dyslexia, including the challenges he faced paying attention and concentrating in school, and how he developed his own workarounds before many of today’s evidence-based supports existed. We also discuss how movement, mindfulness, good nutrition, and sleep can help kids
(and adults) manage attention and learning challenges — and why every child should discover their area of excellence.
In this episode, we cover: Lees meer• Orlando Bloom’s experience growing up with dyslexia
• How learning disabilities can affect confidence and school performance
• Why diagnosis and support matter
• Practical strategies for reading, memorization, and focus
• The role of movement, mindfulness, and routine in mental health
• How parents can help children build resilience and self-belief
• Why neurodiversity includes both challenges and strengthsFurther reading from the Child Mind Institute:
• Understanding Dyslexia - https://childmind.org/article/understanding-dyslexia/
• ADHD and Exercise - https://childmind.org/article/adhd-and-exercise/
• The Power of Mindfulness - https://childmind.org/article/the-power-of-mindfulness/ -
Q&A: Your Questions About Learning Disabilities
16 april 2026 · 31 min
In this Thriving Kids Q&A, Dr. Dave Anderson explains how parents can recognize early signs of dyslexia, ADHD, and learning disabilities, advocate for school support, and protect their child’s self-esteem while they struggle academically. This episode offers practical guidance on evaluations, IEPs and 504 plans, reading intervention, ADHD treatment, and why early support can change a child’s trajectory. Lees meer
In this episode, we cover:
· Early signs of dyslexia and learning disabilities
· ADHD in kids and why it’s not just about trying harder
· When to ask for a school evaluation
· IEPs, 504 plans, and school accommodations
· The emotional impact of academic struggles
· How early intervention supports confidence and long-term success
· What parents can do when teachers say a child will “grow out of it”
Podcast Links
· Understanding Dyslexia
· Getting Support From Your Child’s School
· Inside an Evaluation for Learning Disorders
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What Every Parent (and Non-Parent) Should Know About Learning Disabilities
9 april 2026 · 40 min
What happens when systems built to support kids with learning disabilities change? In this episode, Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez, CEO of the National Center for Learning Disabilities, to discuss the state of learning disability support across the country, from early screening and phonics-based reading instruction to IEP protections and the real concerns parents are raising right now about changes at the Department of Education.
Whether you're a parent, educator, or someone who cares about public education, this conversation is for you. Lees meerMentioned in this episode:
National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) — https://ncld.org/
IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) — https://ncld.org/join-the-movement/understand-the-issues/learn-the-law/
Further reading:
· How Kids Learn to Read – Child Mind Institute
· Learning Disabilities and Self-Advocacy – Child Mind Institute
· Quick Guide to Specific Learning Disorder – Child Mind Institute
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Q&A: How to Maintain a Positive Relationship with Your Child
2 april 2026 · 34 min
In this Q&A follow-up to our conversation with Dr. Rubén Parra-Cardona, Dr. Dave answers eight listener questions about building and maintaining warm, positive relationships with your children, from toddlerhood through the teen years. Lees meer
He covers questions, including:
- How do I stay present during child-led play when I'm bored out of my mind?
- Can I build a positive bond with a child whose personality clashes with mine?
- How do I stop my "inner drill sergeant" from taking over?
- How do I keep the relationship going when my teen won't talk to me?
0Key takeaways
• Being together is the most important thing. You don't have to be endlessly delighted during child-led play — just showing up can fill their emotional cup.
• It's okay to talk about your differences. When personalities clash, explicitly telling your child "I'm devoted to building our unique relationship" goes further than you might think.
• You can be warm without losing structure. Ditching your “inner drill sergeant” doesn't mean abandoning your values — it's a "yes, and" approach: maintain expectations while opening space for connection.
• Instead of questions, try descriptions. With a silent teen, use behavior descriptions, reflections, and praise instead of peppering them with questions — it resets their expectations and opens the door for genuine conversation.
• Positive Parenting Thriving Kids Curriculum
• Family Resource Center
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How to Build a Positive Parent-Child Relationship
26 maart 2026 · 30 min
In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with[MH1] Dr. Rubén Parra-Cardona, a family therapist and the Roger and Carol Nooe Endowed Chair and Professor[MH2] in the College of Social Work at the University of Tennessee. They discuss the ethical foundations of parenting and share key principles to guide parents in nurturing resilient children. Lees meer
They also cover:
• How reflecting on your own history and motivations as a caregiver can lead to more intentional and effective parenting.
• Ethical mandates — your responsibilities for raising another human being — and how they can guide you in making decisions that prioritize the well-being and development of your child.
• Applying the principle of “asymmetry” to parent-child relationships and how it creates a secure environment for children to thrive.
Further reading:
How to Build a Positive Parent-Child Relationship – Child Mind InstituteTips for Communicating With Your Teen – Child Mind Institute
Tips on Helping Your Child Build Relationships – Zero to Three
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Q&A: Your Questions About Healthy Technology Use, Answered
19 maart 2026 · 35 min
In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson follows up on last week’s conversation with Dr. Linda Charmaraman about how kids feel about social media. Lees meer
In this episode, we cover:
Smartphone readiness is about preparation, not just age. Delaying access can help, but parents also need to take a realistic, flexible approach. Help build digital literacy and encourage kids to come to you for help when something goes wrong.
Educational screen time can be useful, but entertainment is ok, too. Evidence-based apps can support learning, especially for younger children, but the goal is thoughtful boundaries, not treating all non-educational screen time as automatically bad.
Privacy and independence should be earned gradually. Parents should stay curious about their child’s digital world. Use clear guideposts and increase freedom as kids demonstrate responsibility over time — much like learning to drive.
Key takeaways:
Children should know they can come to you when something goes wrong online. Let them know that honesty about a situation will lead to a much better outcome than hiding it.
Setting strong boundaries around screen time to protect time for sleeping, playing, and interacting with family especially are among the most important digital rules you can set.
Digital freedom should be earned gradually through coaching, building trust, and meeting milestones.
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How Social Media Affects Your Teen’s Mental Health (and What to Do)
12 maart 2026 · 35 min
Parents and caregivers may have a lot of worries about their teens using social media, from encountering harmful content to cyberbullying. But what do teens themselves say about how social media affects them day to day? Lees meer
In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with Dr. Linda Charmaraman a senior research scientist at the Wellesley Centers for Women and founder and director of the Youth, Media & Wellbeing Research Lab. Dr. Charmaraman's research follows kids from middle school into high school. She shares what teens say actually helps their well-being (social support, finding community, learning, exploring identity) and what tends to hurt (peer dynamics, exclusion, comparison, and hits to self-esteem).
They also talk about what works at home:
Keep screens out of bedrooms and protect sleep
Use screen limits to support daily life, not as punishment
Stay curious so your kid keeps talking
Focus on relationship quality and communication, not perfect control
The key message for every kid: No matter what happens online — even if it’s embarrassing or scary — you can come to your parent, and they will help you through it.
Further reading
The Family Media Plan – American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
When Are Kids Ready for Social Media? – Child Mind Institute
How Phones Ruin Concentration – Child Mind Institute
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Independence, Routines, and College Success Q&A
6 maart 2026 · 33 min
Part 3 of 3: What actually helps students succeed in college? Lees meer
In this episode of Thriving Kids, our clinicians offer practical guidance for families preparing for the transition to college. From understanding accommodations to building routines that support mental health, this conversation focuses on actionable steps.
Moderated by Dr. Morgan Eldridge with Dr. David Friedlander and Dr. Adam Zamora, this episode covers:
• Academic supports and documentation
• Counseling centers and mental health care
• Self-advocacy in college
• How parents can support teens' independence
College Readiness Toolkit
Our toolkit has guidance for teens — along with a section for parents — on how to get a good start in college and navigate this important period of building independence.
Download it here: https://childmind.org/topics/college/#toolkit
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Executive Function, Procrastination, and the College Brain
5 maart 2026 · 9 min
Part 2 of 3: College demands a new level of self-management Lees meer
In this episode of Thriving Kids, our clinicians unpack executive functioning and procrastination — and why struggling to start a task isn’t about laziness, but about skill development and brain maturation.
In this moderated conversation led by Dr. Morgan Eldridge with Dr. David Friedlander and Dr. Adam Zamora, you’ll hear:
• What executive functioning actually involves
• Why procrastination can become a cycle
• How brain development affects follow-through
• Why building these skills matters in college
College Readiness Toolkit
Our toolkit has guidance for teens — along with a section for parents — on how to get a strong start in college and manage this transition.
Download it here: https://childmind.org/topics/college/#toolkit
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Why College Can Feel Harder Than Expected
4 maart 2026 · 20 min
Part 1 of 3: Why does college feel overwhelming — even for strong, capable students? Lees meer
In this episode of Thriving Kids, our clinicians explore why the transition from high school to college can be harder than expected. Students move from a structured, familiar environment to one that demands independence, self-management, and new social connections.
You’ll hear a moderated conversation led by Dr. Morgan Eldridge with Dr. David Friedlander and Dr. Adam Zamora that covers:
• Why anxiety and depression often emerge freshman year
• The impact of losing structure
• The emotional adjustment of leaving home• How belonging affects mental health
College Readiness Toolkit
Our toolkit has guidance for teens — along with a section for parents — on how to get a good start in college and navigate this critical period of building independence.
Download it here: https://childmind.org/topics/college/#toolkit
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What to Say When a Child Sees or Experiences Racism
26 februari 2026 · 42 min
Talking to kids about racism and discrimination can feel intimidating. But in this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson and Dr. Isha Metzger discuss how to start the conversation early, keep it practical, and support kids in ways that match their age and situation. Lees meer
What you’ll learn:
How to convey a clear definition of racism that goes beyond “one person being mean”
How microaggressions show up in everyday life, even when someone “didn’t mean it”
Why kids might show stress from experiencing racism through behavior (withdrawal, irritability) or physical symptoms (headaches, stomachaches)
How to help your child respond if they experience discrimination
How to teach ally behavior: what to say, when to get help, and why speaking up in the moment matters
What to do if your child causes harm: Reflect → Repair → Relearn
Key takeaways:
Start the conversation early and keep it going. Don’t wait for a single “big talk.”
Use direct, factual language. Kids do better with simple, clear wording.
Practice a few “in the moment” phrases your kid can actually say, like: “That’s not okay.”
If your child is targeted: validate first, then problem-solve.
If your child is the one who said something harmful: stay calm, name the impact, and coach a better next step.
From the episode: M&M exercise
Use a small bag of M&Ms to talk about difference and unfair treatment:
Observe differences (color, shape, cracked shells)
Ask: “Are any better than the others?”
Connect it to how people can get treated unfairly based on how they look
Keep it simple: same on the inside, differences add value
Tips from the Thriving Kids tip sheet:
Talk about it. Kids are likely to encounter racism and discrimination at a young age. Put aside any discomfort and talk about these topics with your kids early and often.
Be direct and factual. When you’re explaining racism for the first time, it’s important to use clear, straightforward language.
It’s ok to show emotion. When talking with you…
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Q&A: Filling Your Cup Without Guilt
19 februari 2026 · 27 min
In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson follows up on last week’s conversation with Dr. Joanna Kim about parental self-care and the invisible labor of raising kids. He answers listener questions about guilt, exhaustion, and how to make “filling your cup” realistic in a normal week. Lees meer
In this episode, we cover:
“How do I help friends who feel guilty taking time away from their kids?” Reframe from quantity to quality time. Try a one-week experiment: take a little time back, then notice what changes (energy, patience, connection).
“I’m a chronic yes-person. What do I say no to?” Sort non-negotiables, want-to-dos, and energy drains. Practice saying "no" for a short window (a few days), then decide what boundaries should stick.
“I get homework from my child’s therapist and forget. I feel like I’m failing.” You’re not failing. Your therapist wants honesty. Build a simple system for tracking and prioritizing, then accept that some tasks won’t happen every week.
“I have no time. Work, dinner, bedtime, repeat. What can I do?” Start by naming what actually calms you (food/drink, movement, sleep, connection, faith/spiritual practices, quiet). Then look for small pockets to repeat, not a perfect routine.
“Any clever tricks to get a break without my kids interrupting?” Tricks can work in the short term, but the long-term goal is modeling normal boundaries: “I’m taking 20 minutes. I’ll be back at ___.”
Key takeaways:
“Self-care” doesn’t require money or big blocks of time.
Start with minutes, then build.
Your goal isn’t more time with your kids — it’s better time with your kids.
Boundaries often matter as much as adding new habits.
If you’re working with a therapist/coach, missed homework is useful info — it helps you set a plan that fits your real week.
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How Can I Take Care of Myself So I Can Be The Best Parent I Can Be?
12 februari 2026 · 35 min
Self-care for parents isn’t selfish — it’s fuel. Lees meer
In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson talks with Dr. Joanna Kim about what real self-care looks like for busy parents — especially those who feel guilty about taking a break.
We cover:
• Why self-care can feel like a privilege or unrealistic
• How to “fill your cup” in 1 to 5 minutes (no spa day required)
• The science of parent engagement and what gets in the way
• How sleep, boundaries, and saying no protect your energy
• Why modeling rest and balance matters for your kidsFrom tea with a daily quote to pocket Sudoku to sleeping in without guilt — this episode is about small, doable changes that help you show up as the parent you want to be.
Follow Dr. Kim’s Engaging Families Lab:
Instagram: @engagingfamilieslab
Website: engagingfamilieslab.orgFurther reading
The Impact of Parental Burnout – American Psychological Association (APA)
Mental Health Resources for Parents – Mental Health America (MHA)
Why Self-Care Is Essential to Parenting – Child Mind Institute -
How Parents Shape Their Child’s Stress — and What Actually Helps
5 februari 2026 · 22 min
In this Thriving Kids Q&A episode, Dr. Dave Anderson answers parent questions about child stress, anxiety, avoidance, burnout, and coping with big emotions. Lees meer
Building on a recent conversation with Dr. Dylan Gee, a professor of psychology at Yale University, this episode focuses on how kids learn to respond to stress — and how parent behavior can either ease anxiety or reinforce it over time.
Dr. Anderson addresses common situations parents face, including school anxiety, physical symptoms of stress, over-scheduling, achievement pressure, and burnout. He explains why avoidance often makes anxiety worse and how parents can support kids without pushing too hard or being too accommodating to their anxiety.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How kids pick up on parental stress — and how to change your own venting habits
Why avoidance increases anxiety over time
Why anxiety often shows up as stomachaches or headaches
Why reassurance can backfire — and what to do instead
How accommodation can unintentionally reinforce anxiety
How to support over-scheduled teens under college pressure
What teen burnout looks like after prolonged stress
Simple tools to reset a child’s nervous system before tests, games, or performances
This episode draws on evidence-based approaches from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), child development research, and clinical practice. It’s designed for parents of kids navigating anxiety, perfectionism, stress, and emotional overload.
Further reading
(Video) How do I help my child cope with stress? – Child Mind Institute
The Art and Science of Mindfulness – Child Mind Institute
For more expert guidance and free family resources, visit:
https://childmind.org/resources
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How To Help Your Child Cope With Stress with Dr. Dylan Gee
29 januari 2026 · 34 min
Is your child struggling with stress — or is it something more? Lees meer
In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with Dr. Dylan Gee, a professor of psychology at Yale University, to explore the vital difference between managing stress and simply trying to avoid it. While it’s natural to want to "pave the road" and remove obstacles for our children, learning to tolerate discomfort is one of the most important emotional skills a child can build.
We discuss the "avoidance trap," where stepping in to solve every problem can actually make a child's stress worse over time. Dr. Gee explains how kids can learn to recover from hard moments and why your own emotional state as a caregiver is the most powerful tool for helping a stressed child feel safe and supported.
In this episode, we discuss:
The avoidance trap – Why helping kids avoid stress can undermine their ability to build long-term resilience.
The power of parental regulation – How staying calm and regulated helps your child cope when things feel overwhelming.
Validation and labeling – Why identifying big emotions like "frustrated" or "scared" is the first step toward managing them.
Challenging extreme thinking – How to guide kids away from "all-or-nothing" thoughts and toward more balanced perspectives.
Filling the coping toolbox – Practical strategies like deep breathing, mindfulness, and creative expression to help kids bounce back.
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Should You Let Your Kid Fail? A Parent Q&A on Pressure, Resilience, and Emotions
22 januari 2026 · 28 min
In this Q&A edition of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers listener questions following last week’s conversation with Jennifer Wallace on toxic achievement culture and helping kids feel like they matter. Lees meer
Parents asked practical, hard questions about failure, pressure, motivation, and emotional regulation. This episode focuses on striking a balance — between support and independence, structure and flexibility, and validation and limits.
Questions cover:
Natural consequences vs. stepping in – Did you rob your child of a lesson by rescuing a forgotten school project? How to decide based on context and stakes.
Kids who cheat because they hate losing – What’s developmentally normal at younger ages, when rule-following matters for peer relationships, and how to address cheating without turning games into power struggles.
Paying kids for good grades – Does it increase pressure? How to use rewards thoughtfully and fade them out over time.
When your child says, “I suck at this” – How to respond to negative self-talk and helping kids move from self-blame to problem-solving.
The brutal car ride home after a loss – Why “I loved watching you play” can backfire and how to ask your teen what support they actually need.
When schools make failure feel high-stakes – What to say when mistakes lead to remedial groups or lost electives and how parents can act as “counter-programming” to achievement culture.
Key takeaways:
There is rarely one “right” parenting move.
Kids need both scaffolding and space to struggle.
Pressure affects children differently.
Validation doesn’t mean fixing feelings.
Effort matters more than perfection.
This episode is especially helpful if you’re parenting a child who is sensitive to failure, a perfectionist, or feeling overwhelmed by expectations at school or in sports.
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Helping Kids Feel Like They Matter with Jennifer Wallace
15 januari 2026 · 38 min
In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson speaks with Jennifer Wallace, an award-winning journalist and author, about her books Never Enough and Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose. They discuss the culture of toxic achievement and how fostering a sense of mattering can serve as an antidote. Wallace shares research findings on mattering, practical strategies for parents, and emphasizes the importance of making others feel valued in everyday interactions. They also explore the impact of parental self-care on creating a healthy environment for children. Lees meer
Further Reading:
How to Help Kids Learn to Fail – Child Mind Institute
Raising Resilient Kids Who Are Prepared for the Future – Child Mind Institute
How to Model Healthy Coping Skills – Child Mind Institute
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Q&A: How to Stay Connected Without Power Struggles
8 januari 2026 · 26 min
Parenting teens can feel confusing and exhausting — especially when connection starts to slip. Lees meer
In this Thriving Kids Q&A episode, Dr. Dave Anderson from the Child Mind Institute answers real questions from parents about staying connected to teenagers during adolescence.
We cover:
Why teens can be warm and talkative with other adults but distant at home
How memes, TikToks, and inside jokes still count as real connection
How to prepare teens for college and independence without constant conflict
What to do when defiance and power struggles escalate
How to respond when teens self-diagnose ADHD or other mental health conditions online
This episode focuses on relationship-first parenting, clear boundaries, and helping teens feel understood — so they’re more likely to come to you when it really matters.
Further reading
Help! My Teen Stopped Talking to Me – Child Mind Institute
Tips for Communicating With Your Teen – Child Mind Institute
Parenting a Defiant Teen: Expert Tips – Child Mind Institute
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How to Build a Better Relationship With Your Teen with Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart
1 januari 2026 · 34 min
Parenting a teen can feel like walking on eggshells. Conversations can turn into conflict. Teens may pull away, and parents may wonder how to navigate boundaries and stay connected. Lees meer
In this episode of the Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson is joined by pediatric psychologist Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart to talk about what actually helps build a stronger, healthier relationship with your teen — even during tough moments.
They discuss:
• Why teens push back and pull away during adolescence
• What real connection with teens looks like (and what it doesn’t)
• How to set limits without damaging trust
• Common parenting mistakes that increase power struggles
• How to stay grounded when emotions run high
• Practical ways to rebuild connection after conflictThis conversation focuses on realistic, evidence-based strategies parents can use to improve communication, reduce tension, and strengthen trust — without trying to control or fix their teen.
Further reading
Tips for Communicating With Your Teen – Child Mind Institute
Help! My Teen Stopped Talking to Me – Child Mind Institute -
How to Talk to Kids About Scary Topics: A Parenting Q&A
26 december 2025 · 34 min
How do you talk to kids about the hard stuff — without making their worries worse? Lees meer
In this Thriving Kids Q&A episode, Dr. Dave Anderson answers real questions from parents about how to talk with kids and teens about difficult, emotionally loaded topics in calm, developmentally appropriate ways.
Drawing on clinical experience from his work at the Child Mind Institute, Dr. Anderson walks through what helps — and what often backfires — when kids ask about scary news, big life fears, or sensitive issues at home.
Topics covered in this episode include:
Talking to kids about anxiety, disasters, and frightening news
Helping children cope with worries about climate change
Supporting kids dealing with unkind friends or social rejection
How to respond when kids fear losing a parent
Discussing financial stress without passing on adult worry
How to talk about suicide safely and openly
Explaining substance use and addiction in age-appropriate ways
Throughout the episode, Dr. Anderson emphasizes validation, honesty, emotional regulation, and keeping conversations open — even when a parent feels they didn’t handle a moment perfectly the first time.
Further reading
Helping Children Cope With Frightening News – Child Mind Institute
Kids and Climate Anxiety – Child Mind Institute
Big Talks: How to Have Important Conversations With Kids – Child Mind Institute
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Raising Kids Who Can Handle the Real World
18 december 2025 · 34 min
Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with science journalist and author Melinda Wenner Moyer to talk about what kids actually need to cope, connect, and grow up healthy today. Lees meer
They cover:
Why letting kids experience big feelings builds resilience
How listening (not lecturing) strengthens connection
What parents get wrong about screens and tech
Why avoiding hard topics doesn’t protect kids
How everyday conversations shape empathy and judgment
This episode is about practical, research-backed parenting — not perfection.
Further reading
How Can We Help Kids With Self-Regulation? - Child Mind Institute
How to Raise Kids Who Aren’t A**holes - Melinda Wenner Moyer
Hello, Cruel World - Melinda Wenner Moyer
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Big Emotions, Meltdowns, and “I Can’t Do It”: Thriving Kids Q&A
11 december 2025 · 37 min
Join Dr. Dave Anderson for this special Q&A edition of Thriving Kids, where he addresses parenting questions ranging from managing a 6-year-old's meltdowns to navigating screen time battles to keeping the peace between siblings. Dr. Anderson offers advice on emotion regulation, developing coping skills, setting effective boundaries, and more. Lees meer
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Mastering Emotional Intelligence for Kids With Dr. Marc Brackett
4 december 2025 · 42 min
Dr. Dave Anderson and special guest Dr. Marc Brackett, the founding director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, discuss the importance of understanding and managing emotions. Dr. Brackett shares insights from his books, Permission to Feel and Dealing with Feeling, and highlights practical strategies. Whether you're a parent, educator, or caregiver, this conversation offers valuable guidance on raising emotionally healthy children and the vital role emotion regulation plays in a child's well-being. Lees meer
Further reading from the Child Mind Institute
How Can We Help Kids With Self-Regulation?
How to Help Children Calm Down
And more from Dr. Marc Brackett
Dealing with Feeling