Thriving Kids

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  An Expert Perspective at the Intersection of Journalism and Mental Health 16.07.2026 43мин

  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.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 ShowThe Link Between Smartphones and Kids' Mental Health, NBC Nightly NewsOpioid Crisis: Historic Cape Cod Town Experiencing Staggering Toll, NBC Nightly NewsAllegations of Abuse at Home for At-Risk Kids, NBC NewsFurther reading from the Child Mind InstituteWhat to Do if You’re Worried About Suicide  
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  Q&A: Talking to Kids about Mental Health, Suicide, and Suicide Loss 23.07.2026 26мин

  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.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 appropriatelyWhat changes in mood, behavior, and personality parents should take seriouslyWhy parents should ask direct questions about sadness and suicidal thoughtsHow to understand the differences among therapy, psychiatry, school support, higher-level care, and emergency helpWhat to look for in a treatment, residential, or intensive-care programHow families and schools can build resilience and connection before a crisis  Further ReadingSigns a Child Might Be SuicidalReducing Suicide Risk With Safety PlansSupporting Children After the Suicide of a ClassmateComplete Guide to Emergency Hospitalization
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  Q&A: Talking to Kids About Mental Health, Processing Current Events, and More 09.07.2026 39мин

  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.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 ReadingSocial Media and Self-DoubtDoes Social Media Use Cause Depression?Not All Attention Problems Are ADHDBig TalksDon’t forget, you can now watch Thriving Kids on Apple Podcasts and our Thriving Kids YouTube channel!
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  How to Help Kids Build Positive, Healthy Friendships 31.07.2025 30мин

  Friendships are a major part of growing up — but they don’t always come easy. In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson talks with Dr. Mandi Silverman, a psychologist and member of the Child Mind Institute’s Clinical Advisory Council, about how to support your child’s social development at every age.From navigating playdates to managing screen-based relationships, they unpack what’s typical (and what’s not), how to encourage connection, and what to do when your child seems left out. Whether your child is struggling to make friends or just figuring out who they click with, this episode offers practical guidance and real-world perspectives.Further reading• Kids Who Need a Little Help to Make Friends – Child Mind Institute• How to Help Kids Who Are Lonely – Child Mind Institute
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  Your Questions About Death and Grief, Answered 02.10.2025 24мин

  How do you support your child through grief when you’re grieving too?In this Q&A edition of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers your top questions about helping kids navigate death, loss, and big emotions. He covers how to support neurodivergent kids when grief shows up as anger or outbursts, how much to show your own emotions, when grief becomes something more serious, and even the surprising role imaginary friends can play in healing.What you’ll learn:• “All feelings are welcome, all behaviors are not” — how to validate emotions while holding boundaries• How grief can look different in kids with ADHD or ODD — and how to respond• The clearest language to use when telling a child someone has died• What not to say when trying to soften the news• How to talk to a 5-year-old about loss in three simple steps• Why grief comes in unpredictable waves — and how to help kids ride them• How to model healthy coping when your child sees you cry• Signs that suggest it may be time to seek additional support• How pretend play and imaginary friends can actually aid the healing processHave a question for Dr. Dave? Email podcast@childmind.org.
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  Mastering Emotional Intelligence for Kids With Dr. Marc Brackett 04.12.2025 42мин

  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.Further reading from the Child Mind InstituteHow Can We Help Kids With Self-Regulation?How to Help Children Calm DownAnd more from Dr. Marc BrackettDealing with Feeling
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  How to Talk to Kids About Death and Grief 25.09.2025 25мин

  How do I talk to my child about death and grief — without making things worse or shutting down their feelings? In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with Katie Peinovich, LCSW, to share compassionate, practical guidance for supporting kids through loss. Drawing on years of experience working with children in New York City schools who’ve faced trauma, Peinovich explains why it’s important to be direct, validate emotions, and model coping — even when you’re grieving too.Key topics include:• Why kids need clear, honest language (and why euphemisms don’t help)• What grief looks like in children — and why it often comes in waves• How to sit with a child’s feelings without trying to “fix” them• When to worry that grief may be interfering with daily life• Scripts for answering tough questions like “What is death?”• Whether children should attend funerals or memorial services and how to prepare them• Creative ways kids can remember loved ones, from memory boxes to rituals• Why it’s okay for kids to see parents grieve, as long as they feel safe and lovedFurther readingTalking to Kids About Death and Grief – Child Mind Institute
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  Your Questions About Parenting Teens, Answered 04.09.2025 36мин

  Parenting teenagers can feel like a rollercoaster — mood swings, pushback, and “leave me alone”… until they need a ride. In this Q&A edition of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers parents’ real questions about staying connected when teens shut you out, handling blow-ups, setting boundaries that actually stick, spotting the signs of depression, and helping teens cope with rejection and social media comparison.Have a question for a future episode? Email podcast@childmind.org.
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  Supporting Your Teen Through the Tough Years 28.08.2025 27мин

  Raising a teenager isn’t easy — but it is possible to stay connected. In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with Dr. Janine Domingues to explore how caregivers can support teens through adolescence — from emotional shutdowns to risky behavior to the weird world of YouTube.Together they unpack:• What’s really going on in the adolescent brain• How to connect with your teen even if they won’t talk to you• The power of shared rituals, from car rides to diner breakfasts• Why you should care about what they care about (yes, even Minecraft)• How to model communication — and stay regulated when they roll their eyes• Tips for keeping teens safe around drugs, alcohol, social media, and more• What to do when your teen shuts you outWhether your child is 13 or 18, this conversation offers practical insights for building trust, maintaining open communication, and guiding kids through one of the most intense developmental phases of their lives.Further readingCommunicating with Teens – Child Mind InstituteHow do I help my child through the challenges they face in the teen years? – Child Mind Institute
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  How to Talk to Kids About Scary Topics: A Parenting Q&A 26.12.2025 33мин

  How do you talk to kids about the hard stuff — without making their worries worse?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 newsHelping children cope with worries about climate changeSupporting kids dealing with unkind friends or social rejectionHow to respond when kids fear losing a parentDiscussing financial stress without passing on adult worryHow to talk about suicide safely and openlyExplaining substance use and addiction in age-appropriate waysThroughout 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 readingHelping Children Cope With Frightening News – Child Mind InstituteKids and Climate Anxiety – Child Mind InstituteBig Talks: How to Have Important Conversations With Kids – Child Mind Institute
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  Making the Holidays Less Stressful for You and Your Kids 20.11.2025 33мин

  The holidays can feel like a marathon for parents — full of expectations, logistics, and emotions. In this episode, Dr. Dave Anderson talks with clinical psychologist (and new parent) Dr. Kimberly Alexander about what she calls “running the gauntlet” of the holiday season.They unpack how to manage your own expectations, keep kids regulated, and handle tricky family moments — without losing your sense of humor or sanity.You’ll learn:Why “know thy child” might be the best holiday mantraHow to balance structure and flexibility when school’s outWhat to do when your child’s behavior doesn’t match your “perfect family” visionHow to set boundaries with relatives who take it personallyTips for teaching gratitude and handling gift-giving meltdownsDr. Alexander also shares what she calls “the Kim package” — her practical approach to balancing family needs, setting limits with grace, and remembering that every year looks different.Related resources:Making the Holidays Kid-Friendly – Child Mind InstituteHow to Take the Stress Out of Family Gatherings – Child Mind Institute 
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  Helping Kids Feel Like They Matter with Jennifer Wallace 15.01.2026 38мин

  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.Further Reading:How to Help Kids Learn to Fail – Child Mind InstituteRaising Resilient Kids Who Are Prepared for the Future – Child Mind InstituteHow to Model Healthy Coping Skills – Child Mind Institute
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  Orlando Bloom on Growing Up With Dyslexia 23.04.2026 42мин

  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:• 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/
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  How to Help Children Build Healthy Self-Esteem 14.08.2025 27мин

  In a world full of comparison — from the classroom to social media — it’s not always easy for kids to feel confident, capable, and valued just as they are. In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson is joined by Dr. Jenny Louie, a psychologist in the Anxiety Disorders Center at the Child Mind Institute, to explore how parents can help children develop healthy self-esteem.You’ll hear about creating a safe, supportive home environment, encouraging healthy challenges, and finding the right balance between nurturing and pushing kids to grow. Dr. Louie shares practical, real-world examples (including some from her own life) that show how small shifts in what we say and do can make a big difference in how kids see themselves.You'll learn:Why unconditional love is the foundation of self-esteemWhy it's good to encourage kids to try new things — even when they’re nervousWhy effort matters more than achievementHow to help kids recover from mistakes and “beautiful oopses”How to support self-esteem in the teen yearsFurther reading12 Tips for Raising Confident Kids – Child Mind Institute(Video) How to Help Kids Build Healthy Self-Esteem – Child Mind Institute
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  Q&A: Kids and Friendships 07.08.2025 22мин

  What do you do when your child is struggling to make friends, or causing conflict with the friends they have? In this Q&A edition of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers real questions from parents and caregivers about how to help kids build and maintain healthy relationships, from early childhood through the teen years.We cover:How to explain that not everyone will like you — and that’s okayWhat to do if your child doesn’t seem to have “real” friendshipsHow to support your child’s social life if you’re a shy parentHow to help a tween handle peer rejectionWhat to do when your teen gossips or ghosts their friendsHow to respond to “bossy” behavior in younger kidsWhy teen friendships can sometimes feel toxic — especially among girlsWhat to do when an older sibling is being unkindHow to recognize emotional dependence in friendshipsTips for supporting a child with ADHD who struggles sociallyWhether your child is 6 or 16, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you guide them toward strong, supportive friendships — and build the social-emotional skills they’ll use for life. Further reading(Video) Being a Good Friend in Hedgehog Land – from the Child Mind Institute's Emmy and Webby-nominated series for young kids, featuring music by Lake Street DiveHow to Help Teens Through a Friendship Breakup – Child Mind InstituteHow to Help Kids Who Are Lonely – Child Mind Institute
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  How to Deal With Parenting Stress 07.05.2026 40мин

  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.In this episode, they cover:Why “weird but normal” child behaviors are often part of healthy developmentWhen to seek an evaluation or early intervention if something feels offWhy feeding choices — breastfeeding, formula, or supplementation — should support both you and your childHow to approach sleep training without one-size-fits-all pressureAnd why repair, connection, and physical and emotional safety are key to raising thriving kidsFurther readingComplete Guide to Developmental MilestonesChoosing a Sleep Training Program That Works for Your FamilyThe Public Hughesletter 
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  Q&A: Your Questions About Healthy Technology Use, Answered 19.03.2026 34мин

  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. 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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  Why College Can Feel Harder Than Expected 04.03.2026 19мин

  Part 1 of 3: Why does college feel overwhelming — even for strong, capable students?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 healthCollege Readiness ToolkitOur 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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  How to Promote Good Behavior in Kids 17.07.2025 30мин

  In this first episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson and Dr. Caroline Mendel, a psychologist, dive into one of the most common questions parents ask: How can I get my child to behave better?From toddlers to teens, they explore what really works when it comes to promoting positive behavior — and why quick fixes and harsh discipline aren’t the answer. Instead, they break down a proven, evidence-based approach that starts with the foundation of a strong parent-child relationship.You’ll learn:Why quality time matters more than you thinkHow to “catch them being good” — and why that phrase is more than a clichéWhat the behavior pyramid is (and how to use it)Why consistency beats intensity every timeWhat actually makes time-outs effectiveAnd how to handle common behavior challenges like sibling conflict and screen time battlesThis episode is packed with realistic strategies, expert insight, and personal stories that remind us: there’s no magic solution — but there is a better way.Further reading(Video) How Can Parents Promote Good Behavior? – Child Mind InstituteHow to Handle Tantrums and Meltdowns – Child Mind InstituteThe Power of Positive Attention – Child Mind Institute
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  Q&A: Filling Your Cup Without Guilt 19.02.2026 26мин

  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.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.