In this episode, we delve into the complexities of honesty in parenting, particularly when it comes to discussing difficult topics with children, such as illness and medical procedures. The hosts reflect on their experiences with their own kids in hospital settings, grappling with whether to shield them from painful truths or to prepare them for reality. They introduce insights from Dr. Kathy , highlighting the balance between protecting children's hearts and fostering resilience. The conversation also touches on the nature of white lies, referencing Alison Sweetgrant's essay from the New York Times, which discusses the spectrum of parental honesty, from harmless fabrications like Santa Claus to more significant truths. Tune in for a thoughtful exploration of how honesty can shape our children's understanding and resilience.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy delves into the complexities of diagnosing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in children. She discusses the challenges faced by scientists and psychologists in recognizing this condition, particularly due to children's limited communication skills and emotional awareness. Highlighting recent advancements, Dr. Kathy shares insights on an innovative AI system developed by researchers at the University of South Florida. This system analyzes physical data—such as head positioning, gaze, and facial expressions—to better understand and identify PTSD in children. Tune in to learn how these developments could transform the approach to mental health treatment for kids, making it more effective and accessible.

In this episode of the Celebrate Kids podcast, Dr. Kathy explores the evolving standards by which we gauge adolescent well-being. While statistics show that high school graduation rates are up, smoking rates are down, and youth drug use is declining, many teens report increasing struggles with mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Dr. Kathy discusses the disconnect between traditional measures of success and the contemporary realities of adolescent life, questioning whether the goalposts for teen success have shifted. She emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health alongside tangible achievements, urging listeners to consider how societal perceptions of youth may impact their well-being. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating the complexities of growing up in today's world.