Calm Parenting Podcast
Kirk Martin
Have a strong-willed child who doesn't respond to consequences, argues like an attorney, and refuses to do things your way? Good! You're in the right place. Celebrate Calm Founder Kirk Martin has given over 1,000,000 parents and teachers around the world practical, life-changing strategies to stop power struggles, yelling, and defiance NOW. Based on work with 1,500 challenging kids (many with AD/HD, OCD, ODD, ASD, etc.) in his home, and years spent in classrooms, Kirk's approach is refreshingly practical, honest, and laugh-out-loud funny! Questions? Visit us at www.CelebrateCalm.com or email us directly at Casey@CelebrateCalm.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
6 snips
Feb 1, 2026 • 22min
Tantrums & Meltdowns? Scripts to Stop Them & De-Escalate #558
They break down the difference between manipulative tantrums and true meltdowns. They frame meltdowns as a cry for help and explain when to give consequences versus support. Practical tactics include movement tools, simple task scripts, and offering control with "when you're ready." They recommend practicing a home fire drill to teach self-regulation.
Jan 28, 2026 • 22min
Faster Mornings & Smoother Transitions: 10 Ways to Get Kids Unstuck #557
Practical tactics to tame chaotic mornings and speed up tricky transitions. Tips on managing parental anxiety and connecting with kids before tasks. Creative morning tools like treasure hunts and kid-sized responsibilities. Ways to build ownership within clear boundaries and reinforce progress without lecturing.
Jan 25, 2026 • 24min
Child Who Struggles with Physical Aggression, Impulsivity, ADHD, Social Skills, Anxiety? #556
Practical strategies for managing impulsivity, physical aggression, ADHD and sensory needs in kids of all ages. When testing helps and how to focus on brain needs rather than labels. Tips for teaching impulse control, building social skills, and finding mentors or missions. Advice on reducing anxiety around events and handling family pressure with clear boundaries.
Jan 21, 2026 • 25min
Scripts For Kids Who Talk Back, Lash Out, Won’t Listen, Refuse to Move No Matter Your Consequence? #555
Tired of dealing with disrespectful responses from your child? Discover effective parenting approaches that truly work! Learn practical scripts to calmly set boundaries while ensuring emotional connection. Explore how to navigate transitions for anxious kids without escalating situations. Kirk also addresses unique challenges like handling feelings after divorce and the importance of parental alignment. Tune in for actionable strategies that can transform your parenting experience!
10 snips
Jan 18, 2026 • 27min
How to Discipline Intense Kids Without Using Fear or Being Permissive #554
Navigating parenting with intense kids can feel overwhelming. The discussion explores the complexity of strong-willed children, emphasizing that their questions often stem from curiosity, not defiance. It contrasts harsh discipline with overly lenient approaches, advocating for a calm, authoritative style that fosters connection and teaches responsibility. Practical strategies include validating emotions, allowing space, and using physical tasks to help children regain control. A thoughtful approach promotes healthier relationships while managing intense feelings.
Jan 14, 2026 • 25min
Kids Who Act Like Nothing Happened After Meltdown, Laugh When Disciplined? #553
Discover why kids often act like nothing happened after a meltdown and how shame plays a key role. Learn why lecturing can backfire and escalate behavior instead of correcting it. Gain insights on the power of humility, as modeling apologies can reduce shame and encourage openness. Explore effective ways to de-escalate conflicts and delay consequences for better outcomes. Role-playing calming strategies gives kids control and prevents feelings of helplessness. Build long-term trust and connection by modeling self-control and fostering communication.
18 snips
Jan 11, 2026 • 23min
The One Key to Stop 80% Of Power Struggles With Your Kids #552
Discover the surprising truth that kids aren't rejecting your authority, but rather your anxiety. Learn how parental anxiety manifests and fuels power struggles. The host shares five action steps to regain control and foster healthier dynamics, including acknowledging your anxiety and resisting the urge to lecture. Hear inspiring stories of transformation and practical tips for grounding yourself. Unveil a path to calmer parenting by focusing on change within, not control over your kids.
15 snips
Jan 7, 2026 • 23min
Which Consequences Work for Lying, Disrespect & Defiance? #551
Explore effective strategies for addressing child defiance and disrespect! The host shares insights on handling toddler tantrums and fosters connection over punishment. Learn how engaging in side-by-side activities can lead to sincere apologies. Discover the importance of understanding sensory needs and how they relate to behavior. Identify ways to respond calmly to clever disrespect while maintaining boundaries. Ultimately, nurture a relationship-focused approach to discipline that promotes long-term positive behavior changes.
5 snips
Jan 4, 2026 • 27min
Why Won’t My Kids Do Easy Things When I Ask?! #550
Explore why strong-willed children often resist simple requests, and discover effective tools to ease parental pressure. Learn the impact of stepping back to foster bonding, allowing kids to grow at their own pace. Uncover the importance of modeling behaviors and creating space for children to flourish without scrutiny. Kirk shares powerful release statements to eliminate arbitrary expectations and highlights the benefits of celebrating each child's unique timeline. Empowering insights aim to reshape the parent-child dynamic for a more harmonious relationship.
Jan 1, 2026 • 22min
How To Stop Reacting, Help Kids with Anxiety/PDA/ADHD & Partner With Teachers #549
Discover quick strategies to stop reacting and yelling at kids. Learn how to support children with anxiety, PDA, and ADHD as they face school challenges. Kirk shares effective classroom tools and ways to engage bright kids without boredom. Hear about a teacher's transformative journey after using new resources. Explore practical methods for building connections and affirming strong-willed children. Plus, get insights on normalizing anxiety and creating fun routines to ease back-to-school jitters.
