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
Jul 13, 2025 • 21min
Demanding Kids Who Argue When Told No: 3 Strategies That Work #498
Explore effective strategies for managing strong-willed kids who resist authority and often spark power struggles. Learn how to validate their feelings while setting firm boundaries. Discover the benefits of empowering children by giving them responsibilities that enhance their decision-making skills. Shift from a focus on mere obedience to guidance, transforming conflicts into valuable learning experiences and strengthening family bonds in the process.
12 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 25min
10 Insights into Strong-Willed Kids You Must Know & Accept #497
Discover practical strategies for parenting strong-willed children who resist authority and challenge norms. Embrace their strengths and unique motivations instead of relying on traditional discipline. Learn how to foster curiosity and independence in a structured environment, promoting autonomy and decision-making. Understand the complexities of their behavior and shift your perspective to appreciate their resilience. This approach could transform family life and reduce power struggles, allowing you to enjoy your time together more.
18 snips
Jul 6, 2025 • 25min
Kids Who Complain, Relatives Who Judge, Parents Who Are Overwhelmed #496
Handling strong-willed children during family vacations can be tricky! Discover how to set boundaries with critical relatives and foster a happier environment. Learn to process emotions effectively and encourage children to express frustration constructively. Get insights on combating boredom during family gatherings and prioritizing your family’s well-being. This discussion provides actionable strategies for navigating family dynamics while balancing various parenting styles.
9 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 22min
10 Do’s & Don’ts to Stop Emotional Fireworks & Meet Sensory Needs #495
Discover why maintaining eye contact with upset kids might not be the best approach. Learn how too much talking can actually escalate anger and what specific actions can help de-escalate meltdowns. Kirk shares ten actionable strategies for managing strong-willed and neurodivergent children's emotional outbursts. Explore techniques for meeting sensory needs, such as providing personal space and sensory activities. With practical tips, you can foster a calmer family environment and improve communication around feelings.
12 snips
Jun 29, 2025 • 23min
Discipline Without Yelling or Giving In? 3 Questions You Must Ask #494
Explore why traditional consequences often fail and learn effective ways to foster trust and self-discipline in your relationship with your child. Discover three crucial questions that can guide your disciplinary approach. Understand the limitations of punishment, especially with strong-willed kids, and why addressing emotional needs is essential. Dive into the root causes of behavior to nurture healthier connections, and gain insights into the developmental stages of children, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth.
8 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 23min
Summer Sanity: 6 Ways to Build Your Child's Confidence #493
The discussion focuses on rebuilding children's confidence during the summer. Creative strategies include fostering family connections through outdoor play and embracing boredom. Practical experiences, like running a lemonade stand, are emphasized as tools for growth. The podcast also highlights the importance of teaching financial literacy to equip kids with essential life skills. Engaging activities keep young minds active, while exclusive discounts for summer gear add a fun twist.
10 snips
Jun 22, 2025 • 23min
The Battle That Changed Me: How To De-Escalate & Discipline #492
Discover two powerful phrases that can transform your approach to discipline and de-escalation with children. Learn how recognizing a child's overwhelm can shift your perspective from defiance to understanding. Emphasize the importance of calm communication to strengthen parent-child relationships. Gain practical insights and strategies for navigating parenting challenges, especially with strong-willed children, fostering trust and cooperation in the process.
10 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 23min
More Scripts to Explain Your Child’s Diagnosis or Struggles (Part 2) #491
Discover ways to help your child recognize their unique strengths while tackling challenges. Topics include navigating the difference between school skills and real-life skills. Learn practical solutions to understand children's behavior beyond traditional labels. The discussion emphasizes movement and sensory engagement as key strategies for improving focus, especially for kids with ADHD. Embrace the idea that every child has 'super powers' and the potential to thrive with the right support!
5 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 25min
A Script to Explain Your Child’s Diagnosis or Struggles (Part 1) #490
Learn how to positively communicate with children about their diagnoses, focusing on their strengths instead of weaknesses. Discover effective strategies to engage kids during summer while nurturing their confidence. The discussion critiques labeling, especially in conditions like ADHD, and offers practical tools for skill development. Personal anecdotes enrich the conversation, showing how families can better understand and support each other through challenges.
7 snips
Jun 15, 2025 • 23min
10 Ways to Stop Irritating Power Struggles Without Reacting #489
Discover transformative strategies to turn power struggles with your children into meaningful bonding moments. Learn practical tips to enhance communication and emotional control, fostering calm interactions. Explore how conflicts can serve as valuable teaching opportunities, encouraging parents to embrace patience and collaboration rather than frustration. Uncover ways to keep kids engaged in learning over the summer while nurturing deeper connections through personal experiences.
