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 the Thriving Kids Podcast, Dr. Dave Anderson is joined by Dr. Jenny Louie, a clinical psychologist in our Anxiety Disorders Center, to explore how parents can help children develop true self-esteem that lasts.
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 (yes, even from her own parenting life) that show how small shifts in what we say and do can make a big difference in how kids see themselves.
In this episode:
Tips for Parents & Caregivers (from Child Mind Institute):
Resources & Links:
What do you do when your child is struggling to make friends, or causing drama in the ones they have? In this Q&A episode, 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:
Whether 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.
Resources Mentioned:
Be sure to subscribe and check out last week’s main episode with Dr. Mandi Silverman: How Do I Help My Child or Teen Build Positive, Healthy Friendships?
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. Mandy Silverman, clinical psychologist and member of the Child Mind Institute’s Clinical Advisory Council, about how to support your child’s social development at every stage.
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 perspective.
Subscribe for expert-backed parenting advice every other Thursday.
More free resources at childmind.org/thrivingkids
Resources Mentioned
From the Child Mind Institute:
• Friends and Socializing Resource Center
childmind.org/topics/concerns/friends-socializing
• How to Help Kids Make Friends: 12 Evidence-Based Tips
childmind.org/article/how-to-help-kids-make-friends
• Kids Who Need a Little Help to Make Friends
childmind.org/article/kids-who-need-a-little-help-to-make-friends
• Helping Children Make Friends: What Parents Can Do
childmind.org/article/helping-children-make-friends-what-parents-can-do
• Contact a Clinician
childmind.org/contact
• The Thriving Kids Projects
childmind.org/education/outreach-partnerships/thriving-kids
Other Helpful Reading:
• APA – Help Kids Navigate Friendships
apa.org/news/press/releases/2023/08/help-kids-navigate-friendships
• Harvard Health – What Parents Can Do
health.harvard.edu/blog/helping-children-make-friends-what-parents-can-do-202301052874
• Verywell Family – Recognizing Controlling or Toxic Friendships
verywellfamily.com/signs-your-friend-is-controlling-and-a-bully-460803
• Raising Children Network – Encouraging Positive Behavior
raisingchildren.net.au/
In this first Thriving Kids Q&A episode, 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:
For more on this topic, check out our full episode with Dr. Caroline Mendel: How do I promote good behavior in my children?
Resources mentioned:
In this premiere episode, Dr. Dave Anderson and Dr. Caroline Mendel 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.
Guest: Dr. Caroline Mendel, Former Senior Director of Clinical Services at the Child Mind Institute
You’ll learn:
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.
Resources Mentioned
From the Child Mind Institute:
Books We Recommend:
Parenting Programs & Online Tools:
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Download our College Readiness Toolkit: https://childmind.org/topics/college/#toolkit
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🔗 Subscribe to the podcast and the companion newsletter at childmind.org/podcast
💬 Got a question or feedback? Email us at podcast@childmind.org or DM us on Instagram @thrivingkidspod
What do I do when my child is anxious—or angry—or just shuts down?
Welcome to Thriving Kids, the 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 from experts and real parents, all focused on helping you raise confident, connected kids.
Subscribe now!
Learn more at childmind.org/podcast
