Thriving Kids: A Parenting Podcast From the Child Mind Institute – Details, episodes & analysis

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

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:

• 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.

Resources Mentioned

From the Child Mind Institute:

• Positive Parenting, Thriving Kids Guide to Good Behavior
• Complete Guide to Managing Behavior Problems
• Behavior Problems Resource Center

Books We Recommend:

• Raising Human Beings by Dr. Ross Greene
• The Everyday Parenting Toolkit by Dr. Alan Kazdin
• Evidence-Based Parenting Books – Behavioral Collective

Parenting Programs & Online Tools:

• PAXIS Institute School-Based Programs
• Incredible Years Parenting Course
• FAST Resources for Parents – Seattle Children’s Hospital
• Caregiver Handout on Supporting Teenagers – Seattle Children’s
• Encouraging Positive Behavior: Tips – Raising Children Network
• Encouraging Positive Behavior – Children’s Hospital of Orange County
• Mental Health Minute Series – American Academy of Pediatrics

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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

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:

• How to handle lying, even when kids show no remorse
• Teaching respect, kindness, and standing up for others
• Whether there’s such a thing as “good” or “bad” behavior
• What to do when boys’ behavior becomes more destructive as they grow
• How to help kids recognize areas for growth without shame
• What to do when a high-energy child is sensitive to feedback

 
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:

• Positive Parenting, Thriving Kids video series → childmind.org/positiveparenting
• Full podcast feed → childmind.org/podcast

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/