Parenting Great Kids With Dr. Meg Meeker

In this episode of "Parenting Great Kids," Dr. Meg Meeker and Dr. Stephen Whiteside, a distinguished board-certified clinical psychologist and director of pediatric anxiety disorders at Mayo Clinic, explore the crucial topic of managing anxiety in children. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Whiteside stresses the significance of accurate diagnosis and provides practical tips for parents navigating childhood anxiety. They emphasize the idea of managing rather than eliminating your child’s anxiety, because it's a normal part of life. The conversation also delves into exposure therapy, explaining how repetitive practice in confronting anxiety can boost confidence and reduce its impact. Dr. Whiteside emphasizes how parents can take an active role in how their children deal with anxiety in a therapeutic setting and participate in post-practice discussions to reinforce learning and instill confidence. This unique approach ensures that both the child and the parent can handle anxiety-inducing situations at home indepen

In this episode of the Parenting Great Kids podcast, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by Brooke Romney, author of "52 Modern Manners for Today's Teens." They explore the critical role of teaching etiquette and interpersonal skills to children. Brooke discusses the inspiration behind her passion for manners, derived from observing both socially adept and challenged youngsters. They delve into how mastering etiquette boosts a child's self-esteem and enriches their relationships. They also discuss the importance of parents modeling respectful behavior to instill these values in their children. The episode is packed with actionable advice and real-life examples that demonstrate the value of manners. Essential listening for parents, this podcast offers practical strategies to nurture children’s social and emotional growth! Today’s Guest Brooke Romney is a writer, speaker and leader of an online community who helps moms of teens and tweens create meaningful, healthy and enjoyable relationships with their children through

Are you grappling with your teenager's excessive screen time and finding it difficult to limit their digital usage? This week on the Parenting Great Kids podcast, we delve deep into the challenges of teen screen addiction with Michael Jacobus, a seasoned summer camp director and the visionary behind Reset Summer Camp. With an impressive career spanning over three decades and a personal journey through his son's battle with gaming addiction, Michael is uniquely positioned to offer actionable advice and expert insights. In a world where digital devices are omnipresent, understanding the nuances of screen addiction and implementing effective strategies is crucial for parents. Michael discusses the critical role of specialized programs, like Reset Summer Camp, in supporting teenagers to overcome the allure of screens and video games. He shares essential tips on recognizing addiction signs, the significance of timely intervention, and tailoring approaches to meet individual needs. Furthermore, he emphasizes the b

In this episode of The Parenting Great Kids podcast, Dr. Meg Meeker chats with Jennifer Wallace, an award-winning journalist and social commentator, about the impact of achievement culture on children. Jennifer shares her insights from a national survey of parents, revealing the pressure parents feel to ensure their children's academic success, and the toll it takes on their own wellbeing. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by parents in navigating societal expectations and the detrimental effects of achievement culture on children's mental health. Jennifer’s findings serve as a wake-up call to parents, urging them to prioritize their children's wellbeing and connection over performance pressures. Today’s Guest Jennifer Wallace is an award-winning journalist and author of the New York Times bestselling book Never Enough: When Achievement Pressure Becomes Toxic – and What We Can Do About It. She is a frequent contributor to The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post, and appears on televisi

As a parent, we all have fears, doubts, or concerns that we need help figuring out. In this special episode, Dr. Meg Meeker responds to listener-submitted questions covering a range of parental concerns. She dives into real-life situations that everyday parents are facing. From dealing with absentee biological parents to setting boundaries with teenagers, managing young children’s behavior, and balancing attention between siblings, Dr. Meeker shares her years of experience, wisdom, and practical advice on how to navigate the toughest parenting challenges and how to stay cool under pressure. Have a question of your own for Dr Meg? Email her at hello@Meekerparenting.com for a chance to be answered on an upcoming episode. Our Sponsors Masimo Stork is a revolutionary new baby monitor. To learn more, go to masimostork.com Crunch Labs: CrunchLabs is a STEM monthly subscription build box for kids. Learn more by visiting crunchlabs.com/DrMeg Thrive Market: Thrive Market is the customized and economical way to shop o

In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Dr. Tim Elmore, renowned founder of Growing Leaders, and Christa Campbell, an inspiring Boston University student and creator of the Gwinnett Meal Bridge program. This episode is packed with motivational stories and practical advice on nurturing meaningful family discussions, transforming personal struggles into community service opportunities, and instilling a resilient growth mindset in our children. Learn how to guide your children in recognizing and acting on their compassion for others, embracing setbacks as learning moments, and cultivating a positive outlook. Our expert guests share their experiences and strategies for empowering young individuals to contribute positively and make a lasting difference in their communities. Tune in for invaluable insights on fostering your child's potential to lead, learn, and serve to become a conscientious and capable adult. Perfect for parents, educators, and anyone invested in nurturing the next

In this episode of "Parenting Great Kids," Dr. Meg Meeker joins forces with Dr. Chap Clark, an expert in youth, family, and culture, to discuss the challenges kids face with identity and purpose in today’s culture. Dr. Clark draws on his deep understanding of adolescent psychology and emphasizes the importance of adapting parenting approaches and encouraging community and nonparental adult connections beyond the immediate family for children. Throughout their discussion, Dr. Meeker and Dr. Clark stress the need for parents to actively build a nurturing environment that fosters their children's growth, curiosity, and sense of belonging. This episode serves as a valuable resource for parents seeking to navigate the complexities of modern parenting, offering key insights and advice on how to support their children's journey toward becoming well-rounded individuals. Today’s Guest As a former pastor of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Newport Beach, CA, a professor and vice provost at Fuller Seminary, and a 1

Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Parenting Guru Dayna Abraham, author of the acclaimed book "Calm the Chaos," to unveil science-backed strategies for raising emotionally intense children. They delve into Dayna's personal journey, the triggers behind challenging behaviors, and her empathy-based approach to parenting. They emphasize the importance of managing meltdowns, fostering a harmonious family dynamic, and building rock-solid parent-child bonds as the foundation for effective guidance. The discussion also highlights the critical role of community support and parental self-care in navigating the emotional rollercoaster of parenthood. Key Takeaways: Understanding Your Child: Dayna dives into "Calm the Chaos," exploring the reasons behind tantrums, defiance, and emotional dysregulation. She emphasizes the importance of compassionate understanding and validation to effectively reach your child. Five-Step Blueprint: Dayna unveils a proven five-step approach to handling challenging behaviors, including de-escalat

Join us on Parenting Great Kids as we welcome Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski, co-authors of "When You Wonder, You're Learning," to delve into the timeless lessons of Fred Rogers. Known for his iconic show Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, Fred Rogers' legacy extends far beyond his cardigan sweaters and piano songs. Discover how his teachings on nurturing creativity, curiosity, and care continue to shape generations of children. Embrace Fred's scientific principles of learning to create an enriching environment that fosters emotional and intellectual development in your kids. Learn from his enduring wisdom as we explore practical tips to deepen connections, ignite curiosity, and cultivate creativity in today's fast-paced world. Perfect for parents, teachers, and caregivers seeking to instill values that transcend time and inspire lifelong growth. Our Guests Gregg Behr an advisor to The Brookings Institution and The Fred Rogers Institute, and has been honored by President Obama, the Disruptor Foundation, ISTE, and AASA

How do you teach your children to develop a strong sense of who they are and what they're meant to be? In this episode of the Parenting Great Kids podcast, Dr. Meg Meeker chats with George Barna about the vital role of discipling children. As a renowned figure in faith and research, Barna shares his compelling insights on intentional and proactive parenting, shedding light on the surprising lack of a biblical perspective among both parents and church leaders. His expertise and research-backed findings provide valuable guidance and a fresh perspective on how parents can foster a deep sense of identity and purpose in their kids.  Today’s Guest George Barna, Professor at Arizona Christian University, heads its Cultural Research Center. He's also Sr. Research Fellow at Family Research Council Center for Biblical Worldview and a Fellow at the Townsend Institute at Concordia University. As founder of The Barna Group, he conducted pioneering research on worldview, cultural transformation, ministry applications, spir

Children are experiencing unprecedented levels of anxiety. Dr. Erica Komisar, a psychoanalyst and author, discusses the critical role of parental well-being in promoting children's mental health. Erica emphasizes the profound impact of early attachment and the importance of parents being emotionally present during the crucial first three years of a child's life. Her expertise and insights underscore the need for parents to prioritize their own emotional well-being in order to support their children effectively. If you’re looking to raise resilient and mentally healthy kids in today's digital age, then this is a must-listen. In this episode, you will learn about: The Power of Attachment: Rooted in the undeniable fact, healthy attachment lays the groundwork for essential feelings of safety and trust that are crucial for your child’s mental health. The Influence of Technology: The lure of overstimulating technology and its addictive nature can often outrun children’s and adolescents’ emotional regulation cap

In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker chats with Jon Acuff, a New York Times bestselling author, about the power of positivity, overcoming fear, and the importance of goal-setting for personal growth. Acuff shares practical strategies and insights that can be applied to all aspects of your life, including parenting and overcoming the challenges of social media. He discusses the significance of setting achievable goals, breaking them down into manageable steps, and finding joy in pursuing them. His own journey as a late bloomer proves that age should not limit one's potential. By encouraging individuals to recognize and embrace their own best moments, Jon not only transformed his own life but also became a catalyst for positive change in the lives of countless others. Today’s Guest Jon Acuff is the New York Times bestselling author of nine books, including his most recent, All It Takes Is a Goal: The 3-Step Plan to Ditch Regret and Tap Into Your Massive Potential. Published in more than twenty languages, his work i

You’ve heard that leaders aren’t born, they’re made. And that’s great news. So what exactly sets exceptional leaders apart from the rest? After studying over 30,000 extensive interviews with top candidates for leadership roles, the standout unicorns at the very top consistently demonstrated strengths in 12 key areas – ranging from self-awareness to decisiveness and more. Anyone can cultivate these habits to become a strong leader.  William shares his experience and findings, as well as draws from his personal journey, transitioning from a pastor to the business world, and highlights the challenges of balancing career aspirations with parenting responsibilities. His relatable stories and actionable insights provide for excelling in both professional and parental roles. In this episode, you will learn how to: Foster Positive Family Dynamics for a Happier Home Life. Cultivate Open Communication to Strengthen Family Relationships. Achieve Work-Life Balance by Implementing Twelve Successful Habits. Develop Sel

Humans love and connect through storytelling, especially kids. In this episode of the Parenting Great Kids podcast, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Andrew Peterson, an award-winning singer, songwriter, and the author of the Wing Feather Saga. Andrew shares his journey from aspiring author to accomplished musician, and how reading the Narnia books with his kids inspired him to write his own captivating stories. His intentional approach to leaving room for hope and imagination in his storytelling, drawing from his Christian faith, offers valuable insights for parents who are seeking to cultivate a love for reading and creativity in their own children. TODAY’S GUEST: For more than twenty years now, Andrew Peterson has been about the business of quietly changing lives in four-minute increments. In the city of Nashville where music is an industry in the same way fast food, generic greeting cards, and bumper stickers are industries, Peterson has forged his own path, refusing the artistic compromises that so often co

If your kids play sports, there are some fundamental values and life lessons they can gain from them. This week Coach Denny Duron joins Dr. Meg Meeker to share his unique journey in sports and the profound impact of instilling values, teaching life lessons, and fostering personal growth in youth sports. He emphasizes that success in sports goes beyond winning on the field and highlights the importance of creating a supportive environment for children to thrive.  TODAY’S GUEST: Denny Duron, a football coach, pastor, leadership coach, and speaker, is the guest on this episode of Parenting Great Kids. With his involvement in Meeker Parenting, a nonprofit organization with diverse outreach programs, Denny has a wealth of experience in instilling values in youth sports. His story and the Evangel Christian Academy's football program are the subjects of the Docuseries God Family Football. Denny's background in film, music, and innovation has earned him awards and patents, adding credibility to his insights on the t

In our efforts to protect and shield our kids from the pain and discomfort of this world, we inadvertently can make them be more codependent and fearful instead of resilient. Dr. Jonathan DePierro joins Dr. Meeker to discuss the power of resilience. Dr. Jonathan DePierro shares powerful strategies for building resilience, even in the face of unforeseen adversity and chaos. It may sound counterintuitive but our constant rescue missions and avoidance tactics are unintentionally hindering our children’s growth and ability to bounce back.  In the face of relentless bullying, Dr. Jonathan DePierro's childhood seemed destined for darkness. But hidden within the shadows of his past lies a remarkable twist, a glimmer of hope that defies all odds. Listen to discover the secrets to raising resilient kids and how to empower them to face adversity head-on. In this episode, you will learn how to: Build Resilience in Children: Discover practical strategies to help your children develop resilience skills and thrive in the

In this episode of the Parenting Great Kids podcast Dr. Meg Meeker and Brent Dusing chat about the need for creating safe and wholesome entertainment options for children in the digital age. They discuss the alarming rates of anxiety, depression, and moral decline among kids and how True Play aims to address these issues. True Play offers a subscription-based platform that provides high-quality, biblically sound content, including video games, digital comics, and videos. If you're a parent seeking safe and engaging entertainment for your children, this episode is a must-listen. You'll gain insights into the importance of media choices and how True Play can contribute to your child's mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. In this episode, you will learn how to: Discover the power of biblically sound entertainment that nurtures your child's mind, heart, and spirit. Teach character development and moral values through entertainment to shape your child's behavior and choices. Explore the world of safe a

Do you want to feel empowered and confident when making important medical decisions for your children? Wondering how you can ensure that your choices are based on solid evidence? Dr. Marty Makary, a renowned medical expert, joins Dr. Meg Meeker on this episode of Parenting Great Kids podcast to discuss the importance of taking an evidence-based approach to medical decision-making. His insights shed light on the need for open dialogue and critical thinking when it comes to medical decisions, urging parents to be proactive in seeking reliable information. By the end of the episode, you will feel empowered to navigate the complex world of medicine with confidence and make informed choices for your children's well-being. In this episode, you will learn how to: Gain a balanced perspective on the ongoing debate surrounding COVID-19 vaccines and make informed decisions for your child's health. Learn why considering diverse perspectives is crucial for making well-rounded decisions that prioritize your child's heal

Does this sound familiar? You've been told that spending more time with your child will strengthen your bond, but despite your efforts, you still feel a disconnect. The pain of longing for a closer relationship with your child while constantly wondering what you're doing wrong can be overwhelming. In this episode I’m joined by Aaron Bryant, a passionate advocate for father-child relationships as he guides fathers to mend broken bonds and foster open communication with their children. In this episode, you will learn how to: Strengthen your bond with your child through shared experiences. Foster open and natural conversations with your child, creating a safe space for communication. Build a strong and secure relationship with your child based on trust and affirmation. Gain practical strategies to build and nurture strong parent-child relationships that will last a lifetime. TODAY'S GUEST(S) Meet Aaron Bryant, a key figure in Family Lines, an organization dedicated to enhancing the father-child bond throug

If you want to support your child through their grief and trauma, but you feel unsure of what to do, this episode is a must-listen. Maybe you've been told to just give it time or try to distract them, but deep down, you know these actions aren't meeting your child's needs. Dr. Julie Kaplow shares practical ways to support our children through their healing journey, including the importance of self-care as you help your kids. In this episode, you will be able to: Learn practical strategies to help your child cope with grief and trauma and support their healing journey. Discover the importance of open communication about grief and how it can strengthen your relationship with your child. Understand the unique challenges children face in experiencing grief and trauma and gain insights on how to navigate them. Gain valuable insights on how to navigate your own emotions as a parent while supporting no your child through their grief and trauma. TODAY'S GUEST(S) Julie Kaplow, PhD, ABPP, is an accomplished clini