Thriving Kids

Parenting can feel overwhelming when kids struggle with anxiety, behavior, school, or big emotions. Thriving Kids is a podcast for parents and caregivers who want clear, honest answers about child and adolescent mental health.

Hosted by Dr. Dave Anderson, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute, each episode focuses on a common parenting challenge — from tantrums to school struggles — with practical strategies grounded in science.

You’ll hear direct, expert guidance from clinicians who work with kids and families every day.

New episodes every week, with companion newsletters for easy reference.

Latest Episodes:

How to Promote Good Behavior in Kids Jul 17, 2025

Show notes

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 think
How to “catch them being good” — and why that phrase is more than a cliché
What the behavior pyramid is (and how to use it)
Why consistency beats intensity every time
What actually makes time-outs effective
And how to handle common behavior challenges like sibling conflict and screen time battles

This 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 Institute
How to Handle Tantrums and Meltdowns – Child Mind Institute
The Power of Positive Attention – Child Mind Institute

Introducing Thriving Kids by the Child Mind Institute Jul 02, 2025

Show notes

What do I do when my child is anxious — or angry — or just shuts down?

Welcome to Thriving Kids, a new podcast from the Child Mind Institute. Hosted by clinical psychologist Dr. Dave Anderson, each episode shares practical tools and clear answers to tough parenting questions. Always evidence-based and judgment-free, you’ll hear advice from experts and real parents, all focused on helping you raise confident, connected kids.

Subscribe now!

Learn more at childmind.org/podcast.