Parenting Matters Now with Dr. Roger Smith
Parenting Matters Now with Dr. Roger Smith offers quick, 3-minute episodes with practical parenting tips and ideas to help families become more successful. The show avoids technical jargon and focuses on common-sense advice that can be applied immediately. Each short segment is designed to easily fit into a busy parent's day.
Episodes
How Important Are the Small Things in Life? | Episode 581
It is easy to get caught up in planning grand vacations or chasing social-media-worthy milestones, but the true essence of your child's development lies in the mundane. In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explains why being "extraordinary at the ordinary" is the secret to building lifelong resilience and emotional intelligence. Discover why everyday routines—from changing dia
Do You Need to Teach Your Children Vocabulary? | Episode 580
Children are natural sponges for language, meaning you do not need to formally teach them vocabulary rules or flashcards. In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explains how simply reading high-quality books aloud passively and powerfully expands your child's vocabulary. Tune in for expert book-list recommendations—including Honey for a Child's Heart and The Read Aloud Family—to
What is One of the Two Most Important Times in Your Family? | Episode 579
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith highlights the incredible value of family mealtime. Far more than just eating, the dinner table is a pivotal space for connection, empathy, and growth. Dr. Smith shares practical ideas to enrich your meals, from making them tech-free zones to incorporating games, jokes, and conversation cards. Learn how to transform your family table into a
Are You Teaching Your Children How to Express Their Emotions? | Episode 578
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith discusses the importance of helping children expand their emotional vocabulary. By using tools like the "Soul Words" list from HowWeLove.com, parents can help their children accurately identify and describe their feelings. Learn how giving your children the right words can help them move from being controlled by their emotions to being in c
Are You Seeking to Raise a Renaissance Man or Woman? (Part 2) | Episode 577
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith continues his series on raising a modern Renaissance person by emphasizing the importance of practical life skills. Inspired by Popular Mechanics' "100 Skills Every Man Should Know," Dr. Smith challenges parents to create a personalized list of competencies for their children. From changing a tire and basic plumbing to dancing and backing u
Are You Seeking to Raise a Renaissance Man or Woman? | Episode 576
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores how to nurture a wide array of skills in your children by teaching them to master the to-do list. Using the Pareto Principle, Dr. Smith explains how focusing on the top 20% of your tasks can yield 80% of your productivity. Learn how to help your children prioritize their time, manage their commitments, and develop the diverse skill
Do You Want Your Children to Have a Small World or a Huge World? | Episode 575
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith discusses how practicing hospitality can expand your children's worldview. By inviting diverse people into your home—whether for a full meal or just a slice of watermelon—you expose your children to different cultures, races, and life experiences. Learn how simple acts of connection can help your children grow intellectually, emotionally, a
Do You or Your Child Suffer with Anxiety? | Episode 574
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the therapeutic benefits of "grounding"—the simple act of physically touching the earth. Discover why encouraging your children to walk barefoot, roll down hills, and feel different textures in nature can help heal their souls and combat sensory deficits.
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Title: Is Your Child Maturing as Fast as You Would Like? | Episode 573
Do you ever find yourself wishing your child would mature a little faster? In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explains that maturity doesn't just happen by chance—it requires your active participation. Instead of complaining about a lack of maturity, parents can proactively foster their child's growth using two powerful, practical strategies.
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Are You Teaching Your Children to Take Risks or to Play It Safe? | Episode 572
Many parents naturally default to telling their children to "be careful" and "play it safe." But what if this well-intentioned advice is actually short-circuiting their growth? In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith challenges parents to raise dreamers, innovators, and problem-solvers by encouraging calculated risks.
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Do You Ever Have Conflict With Your Children? | Episode 571
Conflict is an inevitable part of any relationship, but it also presents a prime opportunity for parental guidance. In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explains how to turn household arguments into valuable "conflict training" (or as his own kids affectionately called it, "family court"). Rather than simply breaking up a fight, parents can use these moments to teach children
What's in a Name? | Episode 570
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the hidden significance behind the names we encounter every day—from cities like Palm Springs and historical street signs to car logos like the Chevy Impala. Children often pass by these names without realizing the history or literal meanings attached to them. By taking a moment to explain these daily connections, parents can provi
Do You Ever Have Your Family Get in a Hot Tub? | Episode 569
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith answers a common question for families on vacation or relaxing at home: Do you ever have your family get in a hot tub? While jacuzzis look like a fun, safe place to unwind with their steps and handrails, those posted age warnings exist for a vital medical reason.
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Are You Having Problems with Grandparents? | Episode 568
Navigating boundaries with well-meaning grandparents and in-laws can often feel like walking through a relational minefield. In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith shares practical strategies to resolve family conflicts while preserving these vital intergenerational connections.
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Are You Causing Your Children to Be Anxious? | Episode 567
Parents often unknowingly fuel their children's fears by allowing a constant stream of negative news into the home. In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explains how 24/7 exposure to tragedies can distort a child's worldview and offers practical steps to become a calming influence instead.
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Are You Teaching Your Children to Take Care of the Car? | Episode 566
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explains how everyday errands—like stopping at the gas station—can become powerful training modules for your kids. By turning a routine fill-up into a family "pit stop" where children jump out to pump gas, wash windshields, and check the oil, you are teaching them far more than basic auto maintenance.
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Do You Ever Break Any of Your Own Rules? | Episode 565
As adults, we often accidentally break our own rules—like absentmindedly setting muddy work boots on the dining table—simply out of distraction. In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith challenges parents to remember this reality before coming down with an iron fist when their children step out of line.
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Do Your Children Say, "I'm Tired"? | Episode 564
If your pre-teen or young teenager is constantly complaining about being tired, they probably aren't just being lazy—their bodies are going through intense neurodevelopmental changes. In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explains the biological and emotional shifts happening in children between the ages of 10 and 14 that genuinely require more sleep and downtime.
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What's the Value in Doing Hard Things? | Episode 563
While the true value of doing hard things is that it forces us to grow, the more pressing question for parents is: How do you help your child do hard things? In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explains that conquering life’s mountains begins entirely with mindset.
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Is Grammar Really Important? | Episode 562
Parents and children often find themselves in a tug-of-war over proper speech and grammar. Dr. Roger Smith addresses whether this is a battle truly worth fighting, noting that the necessity of perfect grammar largely depends on the situations and career paths your child will eventually navigate.
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Do You Ever Talk About Death with Your Children? | Episode 561
Death and loss are inevitable, yet they remain some of the hardest topics to discuss with our kids. In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores how to navigate the difficult conversations surrounding death—whether it is the passing of a loved one, a family pet, or even the loss of a dream.
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Do You Want to Reduce Resentment and Rebellion in Your Home? | Episode 560
When children push back, a parent's natural instinct is often to tighten the screws and enforce more rules—but this usually just fuels the fire. In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explains why this happens using a simple concept called "relationship math": Rules + Regulation - Relationship = Resentment and Rebellion.
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Does Your Child Know How to Connect with Other People? | Episode 559
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith tackles a vital life skill: learning to genuinely connect with others. While children often default to interacting strictly with their peers, the reality is that much of their lives will be spent communicating with adults and people outside their age group. The good news? Connection is a highly teachable skill.
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What Tools Can You Use to Train Your Children? | Episode 558
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith asks an important question: What kind of tools do you use to train your children? The answer might be found in your local community. Youth development organizations—like 4-H, scouting, sports, or community theater—are not just ways to pass the time; they are powerful, practical tools for teaching communication, leadership, and life skills.
Could Your Child Be More Thoughtful? | Episode 557
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith asks a question we all consider: Could your child be more thoughtful? Thoughtfulness—the practice of prioritizing the needs and feelings of others—is a highly desirable character trait, and fortunately, it is one that parents can actively cultivate. Dr. Roger Smith shares two simple, practical exercises to train your child to think outside
What is Wrong with Most Parenting Instruction? | Episode 556
Most parenting advice is heavily focused on technique—rigid steps designed simply to get your child to do what you want. In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explains why this approach falls short and shares a foundational parenting truth: relationship always trumps technique.
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Are You Training Your Children to Make Decisions? | Episode 555
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith asks a fundamental question: Are you training your children to make decisions? Decisiveness is not just an innate ability; it is a character trait that must be developed through practice. While it is tempting to make choices for our kids or rescue them when they make a poor one, letting them navigate options and endure natural consequences
Does Your Child Need to Know Logic? | Episode 554
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith answers a pivotal question: Does your child need to know logic? The answer is yes, and they will naturally develop it as they transition into their tween and teen years. While young children learn primarily through simple obedience and boundaries, older children develop a renewed cognitive capacity to compare old truths with new information
Is It Ever Okay to Say "Because I Said So"? | Episode 553
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith tackles a familiar moment of parental frustration: defaulting to the phrase, "because I told you so." But is there ever an appropriate time to use it? Yes! Dr. Roger Smith explains that during a child's early developmental years, logic is still underdeveloped, and they learn primarily through obedience, rules, and modeling. Often, a young c
Why You Should Sing with Your Children to Harness the Power of Music | Episode 552
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the profound impact of music and why making it a shared family experience is so important. Combining the meticulous wording of poetry with moving rhythms, songs have a unique ability to soothe the soul, offer comfort during difficult times, and create lasting family bonds. Whether you are singing hymns, belting out show tunes, or j
How to Meaningfully Bless Your Children with Specific Words of Affirmation | Episode 551
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith asks a vital question: Have you blessed your children lately? A true blessing goes far beyond a quick "bless you" or a cliché phrase—it is about ensuring your children feel deeply adored through specific, intentional words. Through an inspiring story of a father who wrote personalized songs for his eight children, Dr. Roger Smith illustrate
Shifting from Negative to Positive: Proactively Building Good Habits in Your Children | Episode 550
Habits often get a bad rap, but what if we viewed them as a powerful parenting tool? In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explains that children will form habits no matter what—it is up to us whether those habits are good or bad. Instead of complaining about messy rooms or forgotten chores, learn how to proactively train your kids using repetition and "muscle memory." Discover
Title: Taking Responsibility When Our Mistakes Impact Others | Episode 549
In this episode, we explore what happens when our mistakes cause trouble for others. Using a real-life example of scattered trash, we discuss the hidden impacts of our actions and the importance of teaching children how to take responsibility. Learn how to guide your children in repairing damage and thinking ahead without condemnation.
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The Value of Having a Fire is Connection | Episode 548
Join Dr. Roger Smith on Parenting Matters Now as he explores the magical, transformative power of gathering around a fire. Discover how a simple campfire or fireplace can open up communication, inspire storytelling, and foster deep connections with your children.
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Why Do Parents Need to Teach Their Children to Swim? | Episode 547
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith discusses the essential reasons for teaching children how to swim. Beyond the critical aspect of safety, learning to swim opens up a world of opportunities and can even shape a child's life purpose. Dr. Roger Smith shares practical advice on how to start small, overcome personal fears of water, and utilize the help of friends, relatives, or
Spanking is a Temporary Language of Boundary-Setting, Not Retaliation | Episode 546
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith tackles a highly debated and controversial topic: corporal punishment. Answering the age-old question of what to think about spanking, Dr. Smith frames it as a "language of pain" meant to induce behavioral change—much like a speeding ticket or a late fee does for adults. He explains how to properly view physical discipline as a temporary to
Why Fear Makes Us Do Things We Regret | Episode 545
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the hidden role fear plays in our children's objectionable behavior. Instead of immediately correcting the action, Dr. Smith encourages parents to look deeper at the insecurities driving their child's fear of rejection. Learn how maintaining your own emotional stability can help you comfort and guide your child through their anxiet
Do Your Children Know How to Do Laundry? | Episode 544
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith discusses the importance of teaching your children how to do laundry. From matching socks as toddlers to fully washing their own clothes by age 12 or 13, Dr. Roger Smith outlines practical steps to help your kids develop this essential life skill.
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What Winnie the Pooh Can Teach Us About Parenting | Episode 543
In this episode, Dr. Roger Smith explores how parents can nurture gratitude in their children. Using a quote about Piglet from A.A. Milne's Winnie the Pooh, she explains that gratitude is a learned habit. Dr. Roger Smith shares practical exercises for modeling thankfulness in everyday moments, helping children grow their capacity for gratefulness.
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Is "Like Father, Like Son" a True Statement? | Episode 542
Dr. Roger Smith from Parenting Matters Now explores the truth behind the old saying "like father, like son." While children can certainly grow to be different from their parents, they often unintentionally reproduce their parents' character traits and habits. Dr. Roger Smith challenges parents to evaluate their own character and set personal goals for growth, because improving ourselves is the bes
Have You Met a Stranger Lately? | Episode 541
In this episode, Dr. Roger Smith shares a chance encounter with a new friend, Kenzie, at an airport gate. What started as a reassigned seat turned into a deep conversation about pursuing hard things, the value of meaningful work, and a shared appreciation for a powerful Teddy Roosevelt quote. Tune in to discover how meeting strangers can enrich your life.
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Thi
The Value of a Friend is Priceless | Episode 540
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith introduces his friend Timmy, a shrimping expert. Dr. Smith shares how much he has learned from Timmy about the shrimping industry, from boots and ropes to deep-water trawling, highlighting the unexpected value and wisdom found in everyday friendships.
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What is Love? | Episode 539
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the true meaning of love in parenting. It's more than just a feeling—it's an action. Dr. Smith discusses how we can correct our children's mistakes in a way that makes them feel protected rather than exposed, helping them truly feel our love.
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The Role of the Father in the Home | Episode 538
Join Dr. Rogers-Smith on Parenting Matters Now as he discusses the vital role fathers play in their children's development. Learn practical ways to increase your influence, build self-confidence in your kids, and work as a team in parenting.
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How to Overcome Fears and Frustrations About Parenting Teens | Episode 537
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith discusses "the parental shift"—the crucial transition from controlling your child's life to influencing it. Learn why trying to maintain absolute control during the teenage years leads to frustration, and how building a relationship based on trust and mutual respect can help you successfully navigate this stage.
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How Can You Help Your Child's Self-Confidence Increase? | Episode 536
Help your child grow their self-confidence by encouraging them to lift others up. Dr. Roger Smith discusses how acts of kindness and serving others can reduce self-focus and build a strong sense of self-worth in children.
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Have You Ever Believed a Lie? | Episode 535
In this episode, Dr. Roger Smith explores the delicate balance between parental control and influence as children grow. Learn how to transition from telling to listening, build strong relationships through conversation, and wisely navigate the moments when your children wrestle with new ideas.
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Are You a Thermostat or a Thermometer Parent? | Episode 534
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the difference between simply announcing your children's behavior (like a thermometer) and actively responding to help them grow (like a thermostat). Learn how to take actionable, patient baby steps to improve your family's dynamic without just announcing your dissatisfaction.
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What Did This Sign Used to Say? | Episode 533
Join Dr. Roger Smith on Parenting Matters as he uses a reclaimed 3,000-gallon milk tank as a metaphor for parenting. Just like the incomplete sign on the tank, our children are a work in progress. Learn how keeping the end result in mind can help us cultivate the patience needed to help our children mature and complete their own unique stories.
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Is Your Family Dealing with Bullies? | Episode 532
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith discusses how to recognize the early signs of bullying behavior in your own children. Learn how the mindset of a bully develops and why training and rewarding kindness from a young age is the true cure for aggressiveness.
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Why the Small Things in Life Matter Most | Episode 531
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the profound impact of ordinary, everyday moments in parenting. Discover why the little things—from wiping noses to comforting falls—build a child's emotional intelligence and capacity to overcome huge obstacles later in life. Learn how to embrace the mundane and "be extraordinary at the ordinary."
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Should Parents Be Flexible with Their Children? | Episode 530
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith discusses the balance between standing firm and being flexible with your children. Learn how to transition from "rock solid" rules in the early years to value-based flexibility as your children grow into independent adults.
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What is One of the Most Important Times in Your Family? | Episode 529
Mealtime is far more than just eating—it is a pivotal opportunity for connection and growth. In this episode, Dr. Roger Smith discusses how to make family meals a rich, tech-free haven. Learn practical ways to spark meaningful conversations, practice gratitude, and create lasting positive impacts on your children's future.
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How to Help Your Child Make Friends | Episode 528
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith addresses the heartache of watching your child struggle to make friends. Before jumping to solutions, Dr. Smith encourages parents to step back and evaluate potential causes—whether situational, relational, or family dynamics. Learn the importance of leading with empathy and discover practical, actionable training, such as teaching your chi
Is Listening a Parenting Skill? | Episode 527
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the balance between active and passive listening. Learn how to truly connect with your child by listening with your eyes, offering the right verbal cues, and resisting the urge to interrogate or criticize their dreams. Discover how simple engagement can build a lasting bridge to your children.
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Is Grounding the Key to Reducing Anxiety in Children? | Episode 526
Join Dr. Roger Smith on Parenting Matters Now as he explores the concept of grounding and its potential benefits for children experiencing anxiety. Discover how simple activities like walking barefoot on grass or touching the earth can be therapeutic. Dr. Roger Smith encourages parents to let their children experience natural textures to promote well-being and emotional healing.
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How Can Hospitality Expand Your Child’s Worldview? | Episode 525
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the impact of hospitality on children’s development. Discover how inviting diverse individuals into your home can broaden your child’s perspective, fostering intellectual, emotional, and philosophical growth. Learn practical tips for creating a welcoming environment that encourages connection and understanding, beyond just sharing
How Can Mealtime Transform Your Family? | Episode 524
Dr. Roger Smith explores how family mealtimes can become a safe, engaging, and meaningful space that strengthens bonds. Learn simple ways to make meals tech-free, foster inclusive conversations, add fun traditions like games or jokes, and create a culture of gratitude. Make mealtime your family’s daily connection point.
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Why Do Teenagers Have an Attitude? | Episode 523
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the common perception that teenagers have a bad attitude. He challenges parents to reconsider their approach, emphasizing the importance of listening to their teens. As children transition into adulthood, they seek to express their thoughts and feelings, and parents must create a safe space for open communication. Dr. Smith offers
How Can You Foster a Mindset of Greatness in Your Child? | Episode 522
Join Dr. Roger Smith on Parenting Matters Now as he explores how to inspire your child to think beyond their current reality and potentially achieve greatness. Discover the power of biographies written for youth, available in both book and audio formats, to introduce your children to heroes and expand their horizons. Learn how these stories can help your child become significant, not just famous,
How Many Children Are Too Many? | Episode 521
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the life-changing decision of how many children to have. He challenges listeners to reconsider their limits, sharing insights from his own experiences and conversations with hundreds of parents. Discover why children are a blessing, how they enrich your life over time, and why sometimes you can’t afford not to have more. Dr. Roger
How Can You Tell If Your Child Feels Heard? | Episode 520
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the signs that your child may feel unheard and offers practical advice on how to recognize and respond to these signals. Discover how to interpret both overt and subtle cues, such as withdrawal or demands for attention, and learn strategies to foster a deeper connection with your child. Tune in for insights on using their words, re
How Do You Help Your Child Navigate Disappointment? | Episode 519
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores effective strategies for teaching children to manage disappointment. He emphasizes the importance of addressing both the emotional and cognitive aspects of disappointment. Dr. Smith advises parents to first provide comfort and allow children to express their emotions before engaging in cognitive discussions. By understanding when t
What Do Your Children Need When They’re Acting Up? | Episode 518
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the essential needs of children when they misbehave. Discover the balance between discipline, attention, and nurturing, and learn when to apply training, correction, or punishment. Understand the importance of emotional control and judgment in handling challenging situations, and how to foster an environment where children feel sup
How Can You Foster a Mindset of Greatness in Your Child? | Episode 517
Join Dr. Rogers on Parenting Matters Now as he explores how to inspire your child to think beyond their current reality and potentially achieve greatness. Discover the power of biographies written for youth, available in both book and audio formats, to introduce your children to heroes and expand their horizons. Learn how these stories can help your child become significant, not just famous, by un
How Do Children Learn? The Power of Asking Questions | Episode 516
Join Dr. Roger Smith on Parenting Matters Now as he explores the fundamental way children learn: through asking questions. Discover why encouraging curiosity and questioning is crucial for effective learning, and learn how parents can model and nurture this process in their children. Tune in for practical tips on fostering a questioning mindset in your kids, from everyday shopping trips to deeper
How Do You Train Your Child to Stop Back Talk? | Episode 515
Dr. Roger Smith of Parenting Matters Now explores how to address back talk in children—teaching respectful communication while preparing them for adulthood. He discusses strategies to correct negative habits, establish authority, and foster a two-way dialogue where kids can ask questions without defiance. Learn practical tips to guide your child from “but I don’t want to” to effective, respectful
How Can We Help Our Children Overcome Their Fears? | Episode 514
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the common question of how often we face things that frighten us and how this impacts our children. He emphasizes the importance of parents first addressing their own fears to set an example for their children. Dr. Smith shares personal experiences, such as his daughter’s journey as a fashion designer, to illustrate how overcoming
How Can Parents Grow to Support Their Children’s Development? | Episode 513
In this episode of “Parenting Matters Now,” Dr. Roger Smith explores the essential ingredients for personal growth, emphasizing the importance of input from books, people, and various learning resources. He shares a personal story about nurturing his son’s leadership skills and highlights the need for consistent time, effort, and information to grow as a parent. Discover how your growth can positi
What’s the Value of a Friend for Parents? | Episode 512
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith explores the essential role of friendships in a parent’s life. Discover why parents need a diverse friend group, including those with older children, peers, and younger families. Learn how these relationships can provide support, advice, and enrichment on your parenting journey. Dr. Smith emphasizes the importance of being proactive in buil
Why Are Family Photos So Important? | Episode 511
In this episode of Parenting Matters Now, Dr. Roger Smith emphasizes the significance of capturing family moments through photographs. He shares personal anecdotes and practical tips on how family photos serve as cherished memory makers, helping us recall both the joyful and challenging times in our lives. Dr. Smith encourages families to take regular photos, whether professionally or with a smart
How Do You Learn About New Things? | Episode 510
Want to master a complex new subject? The best place to start might be the children’s section of the library. Dr. Roger Smith shares a surprising strategy for learning: start with the most basic, "dumbed-down" resources first to build a solid foundation before diving into technical details. In this episode, discover why children's books and pictorial encyclopedias are elite tools for adults, the "
Do You Have to Remind Your Children of Things? | Episode 509
If you feel like a broken record, you aren't alone—but there is a better way to manage the mental load. Dr. Roger Smith explains that because children are constantly learning, reminders are a necessary part of growth. In this episode, learn how to move beyond verbal nagging by using "visual anchors," like his wife’s symbolic baby shoe or placing an item on a car seat. Discover the power of "habit
How Are Your Children’s Social Skills? | Episode 508
Is "good behavior" just about following rules, or is it a secret key to success? Dr. Roger Smith explains that social skills are the currency of human connection—the "little keys" that open the hearts of others. From making eye contact at a birthday party to understanding the unspoken codes of a funeral or a business meeting, children aren't born knowing how to navigate social settings. In this ep
Will Your Children Grow Up to Be Strong or Will They Be Wimps? | Episode 507
Is your instinct to rescue your child actually holding them back? Dr. Roger Smith tackles the unpopular but essential task of raising "tough" kids in a world that often favors comfort. From a baby reaching for a distant toy during tummy time to a teenager facing the fear of public speaking, strength is built through the struggle—not by avoiding it. In this episode, learn how to distinguish between
Is It Okay to Fight? Raising Children with Integrity and a Fighting Spirit | Episode 506
Is "fighting" always a failure of discipline, or is it a necessary life skill? Dr. Roger Smith explores the nuance between innate aggression and a value-based fighting spirit. While the rule of thumb is always to "use words," this episode dives into why children must also be equipped with the capacity to defend what matters most. From martial arts training to deep conversations about integrity, le
How Can You Have a Meaningful Conversation with Your Child? | Episode 505
Are your attempts at deep conversation met with eye-rolls or silence? Dr. Roger Smith shares the secret to breaking through: meaningful connection rarely happens through "big talks" or eye-to-eye interrogations. Instead, he introduces the Four Rights—the right time, situation, length, and intention. Learn why "shoulder-to-shoulder" activities like fishing or driving are the best places for kids to
What Kind of Discipline Is Best? Balancing Training, Correction, and Restoration | Episode 504
Is discipline just another word for punishment? Dr. Roger Smith argues that true discipline is 90% coaching and only 10% correction. In this candid episode, he addresses the "touchy" topic of punishment, emphasizing that while pain can be a powerful instructor, it should never be used as retaliation or rejection. Learn why intervening early requires less force, why your emotional control is more i
Can You Make a Difference in Your Child’s Future? Delivering the "Seven Essentials" | Episode 503
Your child’s future doesn't just happen; it is intentionally shaped by the emotional goods you deliver today. Dr. Roger Smith breaks down seven core needs every child requires to truly thrive: significance, security, acceptance, love (given and received), praise, discipline, and spiritual understanding. In this episode, learn why meeting physical needs like food and clothing is only the beginning.
Do You Play Games with Your Children? Building Bonds Through Play | Episode 502
Is child’s play actually "serious business"? Dr. Roger Smith explains why playing games—from indoor scavenger hunts and hide-and-seek to imaginative role-playing—is essential for building a deep bond with your children. In this episode, learn how games serve as a training ground for real life, teaching children methodical searching, role-playing, and the grace of winning and losing. Discover how t
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CBS Radio Mystery Theater | Old Time Radio
Solved Murders - True Crime Stories
紐約鳥｜New York Aperture
The Swerve Podcast: Obscure Topics | Conspiracy Theories
The Bread and Banter Podcast
