Parenting

Building a Better Body Image

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences, University of Kentucky
Guest: Courtney Luecking, PhD Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health
Season 7, Episode 35
Join host Mindy McCulley and guest Dr. Courtney Luecking, Assistant Extension Professor for Maternal and Child Health, as they delve into the importance of cultivating a positive body image from a young age. In this episode, they discuss how body image influences overall well-being and share actionable tips for parents to help their children appreciate their bodies amidst societal pressures and unrealistic media portrayals.
Dr. Luecking emphasizes the role of social media, family, and friends in shaping perception and offers strategies for parents to be positive role models. The conversation touches on the challenges adolescents face and provides practical advice for fostering affirming environments that celebrate body diversity. Learn how to guide conversations away from body size and toward healthy lifestyle habits.
This episode of Talking FACS is a must-listen for parents seeking to empower their children with confidence and a healthy perception of self.
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Helping Neurodivergent Kids learn Financial Skills

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky
Guest: Whitney Holmes, MS Assistant Director for Learning Services, Center for Academic and Tutorial Services (CATS)/UK Athletics
Season 7, Episode 32
In this engaging episode of MoneyWi$e on Talking FACS, Mindy McCulley sits down with special guest, Whitney Holmes, Associate Director of Learning Services with CATS/UK Athletics to discus how neurodivergent children can be empowered with essential financial skills.
Whitney discusses the commonality of neurodivergence, the importance of a strengths-based approach, and how to leverage the unique abilities of neurodivergent individuals. This episode offers practical strategies for helping children with diverse learning profiles build financial competence.
Listeners will gain valuable insights on the benefits of starting financial education early, how to utilize school resources for support, and the importance of patience and adaptability when teaching kids financial literacy. Tune in to discover how these approaches not only benefit neurodivergent children but can enhance learning outcomes for all.
For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$e topics, visit:
MoneyWi$e Newsletter
MoneyWi$e Website
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
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Navigating Preteen Needs: Essential Parenting Tips

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: David Weisenhorn, PhD Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development  
Season 7, Episode 30
Join host Mindy McCulley and guest Dr. David Weisenhorn in this insightful episode of "Talking FACS" as they explore what preteens need from their parents. Delve into the challenges and pivotal moments faced by children aged 9 to 12, a time marked by significant physical, emotional, and social development.
Dr. Weisenhorn, an Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development, outlines four essential aspects that are crucial for parents to consider: maintaining open communication, offering emotional support, setting clear boundaries, and encouraging independence. Through engaging dialogue, Mindy and David provide practical advice and personal anecdotes that highlight the importance of adapting these strategies to meet individual needs, taking into account gender and personality differences.
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Whether you're a parent seeking reassurance or strategies to support your preteen, this episode equips you with the knowledge to foster a nurturing environment and successfully guide your child through this transformative stage.

Avoiding Snowplow Parenting Pitfalls

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: David Weisenhorn, PhD Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development  
Season 7, Episode 26
Join host Mindy McCulley and guest Dr. David Weisenhorn, Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development, as they delve into the concept of snowplow parenting. In this enlightening episode of Talking FACS, they explore the transition from helicopter to snowplow parenting and discuss the implications of overly protective parenting styles on children's development.
Dr. Weisenhorn emphasizes the importance of allowing children to face obstacles, make mistakes, and develop resilience and problem-solving skills. Mindy shares personal anecdotes and the lessons she learned as a parent, highlighting the significance of finding a balance between offering support and fostering independence.
Listeners will gain insights into promoting open communication, recognizing the potential pitfalls of over-parenting, and understanding how to nurture their children's independence effectively. Tune in for practical advice that underscores the crucial role of stumbling blocks as stepping stones in a child's growth journey.
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
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Packing Lunches for Healthy Enegetic Kids

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences, University of Kentucky
Guest: Courtney Luecking, PhD Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health
Season 7, Episode 7
As another school year approaches, the challenge of packing nutritious and appealing lunches looms large for many parents. Dr. Luecking provides expert advice on selecting the right lunchbox, ensuring food safety, and creating balanced meals that keep kids energized throughout the day.
Discover the magic of combining proteins, carbohydrates, and fats to fuel young bodies and minds. Learn how to navigate allergy concerns, choose the best drinks, and add colorful fruits and vegetables to make lunchboxes visually appealing. Creative strategies, like using frozen fruits to keep meals cool and involving kids in the packing process will help make mornings less hectic.
Join us for this engaging and informative discussion that will leave you equipped with practical pointers to make the school lunch break a highlight of your child's day.
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about this topic or any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
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Easing the Pain of Childhood Vaccinations

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, University of Kentucky  
Guest: Katherine Jury, MS Extension Specialist for Family and Health
Season 7, Episode 5
In this insightful episode, discover the secrets to making the vaccination process smoother for both parents and children. From understanding the importance of vaccines to practical tips for easing discomfort, Katherine Jury shares valuable strategies to transform a daunting experience into a manageable one. Learn how to have productive conversations with healthcare providers, the role of comfort measures, and the power of honest, age-appropriate discussions with your child.
Whether it's choosing the right distraction, bringing a favorite stuffed animal, or offering a small treat, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help parents navigate the vaccination journey with confidence.
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about this topic or any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
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Alcohol Myths

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky 
Guest: Alex Elswick, PhD Extension Specialist for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery
Season 6, Episode 44
Dr. Alex Elswick, Extension Specialist for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery, discusses widely believed alcohol myths and dismantles them with factual information.
With substance use being a pervasive concern, we clarify misconceptions about alcohol use, some as common as; 'alcohol is not a drug', 'people with alcohol problems drink alcohol daily' and 'because kids in Europe begin drinking at an earlier age, they drink more responsibly'. As the discussion unfolds, it becomes apparent how these myths not only misinform society but also contribute to an oblique understanding of alcohol-related issues.
Listen in to learn more about the facts behind these myths, how they impact public health, and the importance of accurate information in promoting healthier life choices. This episode encourages listeners to take a more informed approach towards alcohol use. In the end, it is the debunking of alcohol myths and the propagation of correct information that will lead to a healthier society.
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Strategies for a Healthy Digital Lifestyle

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: David Weisenhorn, PhD Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development  
Season 6, Episode 40
Dr. David Wiesenhorn, our Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development, presents practical strategies for managing and understanding our screen time. He inspires listeners to take a moment of reflection and ask key questions such as: "Am I being mindful?", "Am I being kind?" and "Am I being constructive?" among others as we consider the time we spend on phones and other digital devices. These questions aid in promoting conscious use of digital devices, encouraging a healthier and more beneficial digital lifestyle.
He also points out the research from Boston Children's Hospital's Digital Wellness Lab that throws light on the same. The episode nudges listeners to reevaluate their online habits, prioritize personal connections, and make choices that promote mental, emotional health. Tune in for some insights on maintaining a healthy balance in this digital age.
For more information:
Family Guide to Digital Wellness
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
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Kentucky Kinship Resource Center

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: Sheila Rentfrow, MSeD, Kinship Program Coordinator | UK College of Social Work
Season 6, Episode 35
Across the nation, nearly 2.7 million young people are being raised by relatives and Kentucky is estimated to have one of the highest kinship care rates in the country. The Kentucky Kinship Resource Center provides services to meet the unique needs of kinship providers across the Commonwealth. It's nationally recognized one-on-one peer support group, KY-KINS was named the 2023 Parent Group of the Year.
Coming Soon:  Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Conference (click the image for additional information)
 
For more information about this topic:
Kentucky Kinship Resource Center - University of Kentucky College of Social Work (uky.edu)
UK Social Work Kinship Program certified, meeting critical state need - University of Kentucky College of Social Work (uky.edu)
Investing in Kinship Families: KY-KINS Provides Individualized Peer Support - University of Kentucky College of Social Work (uky.edu)
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Allowances: Life Skill Building

Host:  Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: David Weisenhorn, PhD Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development  
Season 6, Episode 34
Allowances can be excellent life skill building tools if parents put a bit of forethought into the process.  On this episode of Talking FACS, Dr. David Weisenhorn shares many of the benefits of giving children allowances and strategies for helping them begin to develop financial management skills on a small scale.
For more information about this topic and other MoneyWi$e topics, visit:
MoneyWi$e Newsletter
MoneyWi$e Website
MoneyWi$e Facebook Page
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
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Is Baby-led weaning for me and my baby?

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, Family and Consumer Sciences, University of Kentucky
Guest: Courtney Luecking, PhD Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health
Season 6, Episode 31
Baby-led weaning has grown in popularity in recent years, but what is it? Is it the right approach for me to help my baby transition to table food? Dr. Courtney Luecking joins the Talking FACS podcast to answer these questions and many more for parents who are on the brink of transitioning their infant to solid nourishment options.
Connect with FCS Extension through any of the links below for more information about this topic or any of the topics discussed on Talking FACS.
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Social Media Use and Youth - Part 2

Host:  Mindy McCulley, Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky  
Guest: David Weisenhorn, PhD Extension Specialist for Parenting and Child Development  
Season 6, Episode 8
Social media seems to be everywhere but its use by our youth has reached epic proportions.  On this episode of Talking FACS, we continue the discussion with Dr. David Weisenhorn about the prevalence of social media use by our youth and the impact that it is having on their well being.  He shares guidance for parents about solutions to mitigate the effects of social media use on children's mental health.
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