Thriving Kids

Epizódy

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  What to Know About Teen Substance Use 24.09.2026 58min

  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.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 dialogue about peer pressure, family values, mental health, and safety.• Prioritize safety when something happens. If your teen has used a substance, beginning with curiosity about what happened and whether they’re safe preserves an open line of communication that can help them make better decisions in the future.• If a teen does need treatment, it should be framed as a form of support, not a punishment. Parents can approach counseling as something the family can work on together rather than evidence that the teen has failed or needs to be “fixed.”• Effective treatment should address the whole child. For adolescents, that often means addressing co-occurring mental health challenges and meaningfully involving parents and families in care.Further readingHow to Talk to Your Teen About Substance Use  – Child Mind InstituteComplete Guide to Substance Use + Mental Health – Child Mind Institute
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  Q&A: Anger, ADHD, Lying, OCD, and Big Feelings 17.09.2026 39min

  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.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 needed.• If kids only listen after a parent yells, the family may be in a coercive cycle. Calm directions and predictable consequences can break the pattern and show that yelling isn’t what makes a direction matter.• Some children experience emotions more intensely. Parents can help them identify feelings, build coping skills, and learn to move forward after difficult moments. Further ReadingAngry Kids: Dealing With Explosive BehaviorBehavioral Treatments for Kids With ADHDBehavioral Parent TrainingSchool Success Kit for Kids With ADHDComplete Guide to ADHDWhy Kids Lie and What Parents Can Do About ItHow to Give Kids Effective InstructionsHealthy Minds, Thriving Kids
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  Dad Brain: Fatherhood, Parenting, and the Brain 10.09.2026 46min

  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.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 sleep problems.• Fathers’ mental health deserves attention. Becoming a parent is a major physical, emotional, and social transition for all parents, yet fathers are often overlooked in conversations about postpartum well-being.• Testosterone isn’t simply a “more is better” hormone. Testosterone can naturally change as men transition into caregiving roles, and Dr. Saxbe argues that flexibility — rather than maximizing testosterone — is a more useful way to understand these changes.• Fatherhood can encourage healthier habits. Research suggests fathers may be more likely to engage in protective health behaviors and less likely to engage in some risky behaviors once they become responsible for a child.• Great parents are made, not born. One of Dr. Saxbe’s central messages is that good parenting isn’t innate. Investment, motivation, practice, and experience help parents develop the skills they need.Further reading10 Tips to Help Dads and Daughters Stay Close – Child Mind Institutehttps://childmind.org/article/parenting-through-depression/Parenting Through Depression – Child Mind InstituteDad Brain: The New Science of Fatherhood and How It Shapes Men’s Lives by Dr. Darby Saxbe
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  Q&A: Friendship, Neurodiversity, and Staying True to Yourself 03.09.2026 32min

  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.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 areWhy one awkward moment does not mean a friendship is ruinedWhat 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 ReadingHow to Help Kids Who Are LonelyHelping Young Children Who Are Socially AnxiousHow to Help Kids Who Are Too Hard on ThemselvesCaroline MaguireWhy Will No One Will Play With Me
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  Summer Hot Takes: Parenting Advice With Dr. Aliza Pressman 27.08.2026 48min

  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?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 termWhat authoritative parenting is and why it remains one of the most evidence-supported parenting approachesPractical ways to create healthier screen habits for children and teensWhy boredom, waiting, and feeling lonely sometimes can help kids build resilience and independenceHow to help kids tolerate disappointment, failure, and rejectionKey takeawaysHealthy 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 Parenting Traps·      How to Set Limits on Screen TimeMore from Dr. Aliza Pressman·      Raising Good Humans With Dr. Aliza (podcast)·      The 5 Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans
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  Q&A: Back-to-School Survival Guide 21.08.2026 35min

  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.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 supportPractical ways to reset sleep schedules, screen time, and morning routines after the summer breakHow to help children build friendships and navigate worries about fitting inWhy stomachaches and headaches can sometimes be signs of anxiety — and when to seek a medical evaluationStrategies for supporting students with ADHD, learning disorders, and executive functioning challengesHow to partner effectively with teachers at the beginning of the school year Key TakeawaysSmall, 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 ReadingBack-to-School HubThe Child Mind Institute’s comprehensive collection of expert advice for preparing children and families for the new school year.Help for School RefusalManaging Back-to-School Anxiety
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  Helping Neurodivergent Kids Make Friends 13.08.2026 37min

  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.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 readingKids Who Need a Little Help to Make FriendsHelping Girls With ADHD Make FriendsWhat Is Neurodiversity?  
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  Q&A: Sleep, Safety, Resilience, and More 06.08.2026 22min

  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.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 healthHow sleep affects mood, focus, behavior, and stressWhat to do when kids push back hard against bedtimeWhy “pointless” hobbies can still build pride, confidence, and identityHow to help kids practice flexible thinking when faced with a challenge Further ReadingHealthy Sleep Habits for KidsHow to Help Kids Learn to FailRaising Resilient Kids Who Are Prepared for the Future
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  How to Future-Proof Kids for an Uncertain World 30.07.2026 39min

  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.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 readingWhy Are Teenagers So Sleep-Deprived?Media Guidelines for Kids of All AgesHelping Kids Who Struggle With Executive Functions10 Tips for Parenting Anxious KidsWhat 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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  An Expert Perspective at the Intersection of Journalism and Mental Health 16.07.2026 43min

  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 26min

  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 39min

  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 Do I Help My Child Do Well in School? 12.09.2025 30min

  How can I help my child do better in school — without pushing too hard or taking over? In this episode, Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with Dr. Adam Zamora, a neuropsychologist at the Child Mind Institute, to talk about how to build the habits, mindset, and support systems that help kids thrive academically. From kindergarten through college, they cover everything from procrastination and motivation to homework battles, parent-teacher communication, and how to know when it’s time to get extra support.Key topics include:Building a growth mindset vs. a fixed mindsetSupporting effective homework routines (without micromanaging)When to push, when to scaffold, and when to step backHow to work with schools and teachers as part of your child’s “village”The value of neuropsych evaluations and what they actually tell usPrepping kids for college success — academically and emotionallyFurther readingCollege Readiness Toolkit – Child Mind InstituteStrategies to Make Homework Go More Smoothly – Child Mind Institute
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  Your Questions About Talking to Kids About Sex, Consent, and Safety, Answered 13.11.2025 30min

  Parents sent in smart, honest questions about how to keep conversations about sex, consent, and safety going at home. In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson from the Child Mind Institute, answers questions about when to start, what’s age-appropriate, and how to talk about everything from consent to porn — without losing your kid’s trust.You’ll learn how to:• Start early talking about body boundaries and use accurate language• Talk about consent in everyday life• Handle porn exposure and online curiosity• Balance privacy, safety, and your family’s values• Keep the door open even when teens roll their eyesKey takeaways:• What age to start talking about sex and consent• How to explain the biology of reproduction without euphemisms• Setting boundaries and modeling consent in daily life• Talking about porn and online exposure without shame• Balancing privacy and safety with teens in relationships• How to share family values without sounding preachy• What to do if your teen is already sexually active• Keeping awkward conversations open and honestResources mentioned:BooksWhat Makes a Baby, Sex Is a Funny Word, and You Know, Sex – Cory SilverbergBeing You and Yes! No! – Megan MadisonOrganizations & platforms• Peer Health Exchange• Selfsea – digital platform by Peer Health Exchange with stories and tools created with and for young people• Planned Parenthood – resources and education for sexual and reproductive healthFurther reading• How to Talk to Kids About Sex and Boundaries – Child Mind Institute• How to Talk to Your Kids About Porn – TIME, by Dr. Dave Anderson• Talk to Your Kids About Sex and Healthy Relationships – health.gov• The Best Sex Education Books for Kids of All Ages (And Their Parents!) – Parents / AAP
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  What Every Parent (and Non-Parent) Should Know About Learning Disabilities 09.04.2026 40min

  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.Mentioned 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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  How to Build a Positive Parent-Child Relationship 26.03.2026 29min

  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. 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 InstituteTips on Helping Your Child Build Relationships – Zero to Three
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  Q&A: Building a Healthy Parent-Teen Relationship 30.10.2025 28min

  In this Q&A edition of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson takes on parents’ top questions about raising teenagers. Building on last week’s conversation with Dr. Lisa Damour, he shares research-backed guidance for navigating everything from therapy resistance and social media boundaries to privacy battles, motivation slumps, and shifting moods — all while maintaining connection and keeping communication strong.What you’ll learn: • How to approach therapy when your teen refuses to go• The best way to address vaping or substance use without pushing your teen away• What to do when school motivation swings from “I love it” to “I don’t care”• How to set limits around social media that actually stick• Ways to balance trust, privacy, and safety at home• How to support anxious teens without reinforcing avoidance• Signs that moodiness is typical vs. when it’s time to seek help• Why staying connected — even through protest — protects teen mental healthHave a question? Email [email protected].
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  Q&A: How to Stay Connected Without Power Struggles 08.01.2026 25min

  Parenting teens can feel confusing and exhausting — especially when connection starts to slip.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 homeHow memes, TikToks, and inside jokes still count as real connectionHow to prepare teens for college and independence without constant conflictWhat to do when defiance and power struggles escalateHow to respond when teens self-diagnose ADHD or other mental health conditions onlineThis 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 InstituteTips for Communicating With Your Teen – Child Mind InstituteParenting a Defiant Teen: Expert Tips – Child Mind Institute
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  Anxiety and the Brain 21.05.2026 50min

  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.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 careerWhy anxiety can be treated more effectively when kids get support earlyWhat neurosurgery can teach us about staying calm during crisisWhy sleep, movement, and overall wellness matter for brain healthHow grief can reshape a person’s purpose, perspective, and voiceFurther information on these topics from the Child Mind Institute: Why Childhood Anxiety Often Goes UndetectedPanic Attacks and How to Treat ThemBehavioral Treatment for Kids With Anxiety
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  Your Questions About Challenging Behavior, Answered 24.07.2025 10min

  In this first Q&A edition of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers real parenting questions about kids’ behavior — what it is, how to shape it, and how to support children through challenges.We cover:How to handle lying, even when kids show no remorseTeaching respect, kindness, and standing up for othersWhether there’s such a thing as “good” or “bad” behaviorWhat to do when boys’ behavior becomes more destructive as they growHow to help kids recognize areas for growth without shameWhat to do when a high-energy child is sensitive to feedbackFurther readingCommon Causes of Behavior Problems in Kids – Child Mind Institute Why Do Kids Act Out? – Child Mind Institute Why Kids Lie and What Parents Can Do About It – Child Mind Institute