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
30 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 23min
Kids Who Push Buttons, Roll Their Eyes, or Argue Like Attorneys? Try These 5 Scripts. #541
Explore effective strategies for handling kids who thrive on provoking reactions. Discover how to shift from reactive parenting to a more thoughtful approach by recognizing triggers. Learn how small, sincere apologies can model humility and maturity. Gain insight on nurturing curiosity and praise rather than resorting to lectures. Kirk shares concrete, actionable scripts to respond firmly and consistently to disrespect while understanding the underlying needs of your child. Enhance family dynamics and improve relationships through intentional communication.
19 snips
Nov 30, 2025 • 23min
Tired Of Being A Verbal Punching Bag & Want Kids to Be Responsible For Impulse Control & Sassy Attitudes? #540
Can kids truly take responsibility for their impulsive actions? Yes! Discover effective strategies to help children manage their sass and emotions. Learn how to respond calmly when they fear the dark or face changes to plans. Kirk promotes ownership in decision-making and reframes impulse control as a superpower. He offers scripts for accountability and encourages parents to share their growth journey. Transforming these challenges into learning moments can strengthen family bonds!
Nov 26, 2025 • 21min
5 Quick Ways to Calm Big Emotions During Thanksgiving #539
Holidays can trigger explosive emotions in kids due to disrupted routines and family dynamics. To prepare, parents can create a family plan and give children roles to restore their sense of control. Managing your reactions is crucial, along with validating strong-willed kids. Engaging them in movement and providing space when needed can help process feelings. Finally, addressing post-holiday anxieties with support from family can ease the transition back to school.
Nov 23, 2025 • 24min
Tired Of Being Judged & Having Your Child’s Spirit Crushed? 10 Quick Tips #538
Explore effective strategies for parenting strong-willed kids amid judgment from family and friends. Discover how confidence can empower both parents and children. Learn to proactively showcase your child's strengths to change perceptions. Kirk emphasizes the importance of setting up breaks to recharge and educates relatives on neurodiversity to foster understanding. Enjoy accepting your child's unique nature, and maintain unity as parents for a more harmonious family dynamic.
Nov 19, 2025 • 21min
4 Ways to Avoid Embarrassing Meltdowns With Family & In Public #537
Navigating the emotional landscape of strong-willed children can be a challenge, especially during family gatherings. Discover why kids often melt down around their families and how to address this behavior. Learn four key techniques to manage public meltdowns, including self-control and reframing conflict as a bonding opportunity. Real-life stories about respecting children's boundaries in situations like church provide valuable insights. Plus, get practical tips for handling holiday stress and fostering trust with your child.
13 snips
Nov 16, 2025 • 23min
10 Ways to Cultivate A Growth Mindset in Kids Who Make Excuses, Blame Others, Lose Poorly #536
Discover practical strategies to help kids overcome excuses and blame by cultivating a growth mindset. Learn about encouraging language that fosters independence and resilience. Explore real-life examples like gardening and cooking, which build confidence and responsibility. Understand the importance of allowing kids to fail and grow from challenges. Hear compelling stories of parental belief transforming children's perspectives. Plus, tips on creating life-skill report cards to track unique strengths beyond academics.
9 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 6min
Quick Tips for Dads Ep. 6: How to Lead Kids Who Are Upset or Won’t Listen
How can parents get kids to listen without resorting to threats? Learn to stop being a reactive disciplinarian by becoming a calm leader. Kirk uses metaphors like a quarterback and ER doctor to emphasize the importance of composure during meltdowns. He suggests gathering the family for a 'huddle' to streamline routines. Practicing these approaches at family gatherings can set the stage for compliant kids. Tune in for tips on nurturing a growth mindset and handling public meltdowns.
Nov 12, 2025 • 23min
How to Turn Mad Toddlers, Teens & In Between Into Resilient Kids #535
Kids getting mad is a natural part of parenting. Learn how to handle tantrums with calmness and patience, while teaching toddlers important skills. Discover strategies to help older siblings adapt to new babies, and turn chores into fun challenges. Understand the difference between anxiety and defiance in teens, and how to set predictable limits. Explore the importance of protecting kids online and building trust through honest conversations. Responsibility can spark positive change in your child's behavior!
Nov 9, 2025 • 24min
Triggered By Kids’ Noises & Messes, Sibling Fights, Backtalk, Dawdling? #534
This enlightening discussion dives into the triggers parents face, such as tantrums and sibling squabbles. Strategies for managing messes and noise without overreacting are shared, encouraging a shift in perspective. The host emphasizes breaking negative generational patterns and prioritizing connection over rigid agendas. Tips for handling kids' dawdling and reframing disorder as creativity are introduced, with a focus on transforming irritation into bonding opportunities. It's all about fostering a calmer, more understanding parenting approach.
Nov 5, 2025 • 25min
When Kids Reflexively Say No, Reject Your Ideas, Food & Faith #533
Navigating the constant "No" from kids can be challenging! Discover why children seek autonomy and how to encourage their decision-making. Learn effective strategies for discussing food and faith without defensiveness. Find out how to plant ideas instead of lecturing and promote healthy eating habits. Kirk shares tools to manage strong-willed behavior and set boundaries while allowing kids to take ownership. Plus, consider letting children reflect on the topics to foster understanding and reduce conflicts!
