

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

14 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 22min
Get Kids Moving More Quickly: 10 Practical Ideas To Try This Week #513
Struggling to get your kids moving? Discover creative strategies to encourage them to act quickly without the usual battles. Explore how anxiety and neurodivergence affect behavior, and learn practical tips to motivate all ages. Find out how setting clear boundaries empowers children to make choices while enhancing family dynamics. Plus, uncover techniques for stress-free school mornings that foster connection and healthy habits. Transform chaos into cooperation with these actionable insights!

8 snips
Aug 24, 2025 • 23min
Are Kids Supposed to Be Immediately Obedient? How Can You Motivate Kids Without Fear? #512
Dive into the challenges of expecting immediate obedience from kids, especially those with strong wills. Explore how these expectations can harm their emotional growth and lead to unnecessary conflict. The conversation emphasizes nurturing responsibility and compassion instead. Discover practical ways to encourage your child's unique traits and foster deeper family relationships, all while balancing societal pressures. Get ready to rethink parenting, focusing on empathy and understanding as essential tools for a harmonious home.

7 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 26min
Unmotivated Child, Won’t Push Through, Avoids Tasks, Always Asks “Why?” #511
Navigating the challenges of raising a strong-willed child can be a journey. Discover how questioning authority can indicate potential and success. Embrace their curiosity and shift your perspective on obedience. Learn to communicate effectively and prioritize your child's independence while nurturing their critical thinking. Celebrate their individuality, creativity, and personal growth. This enlightening discussion offers scripts and strategies to transform family dynamics for the better.

Aug 17, 2025 • 27min
Big Emotions Are Coming: 5 Ways to Prepare #510
Get ready for big emotions as the new school year kicks off! Discover five practical strategies to effectively navigate tantrums and sibling rivalries. Learn how maintaining your well-being is crucial when handling intense emotional reactions. Explore the power of validating feelings and fostering communication during tough moments. Uncover calming techniques that empower both parents and children to manage intense interactions with ease. Prepare to transform emotional upheavals into opportunities for growth!

Aug 13, 2025 • 21min
Want A Resilient Child? Back Off (& Shut Up) Part II #509
Explore how to cultivate resilience in children by allowing them the freedom to learn and grow independently. Discover the importance of letting kids face challenges and boredom to enhance their problem-solving skills. Learn practical tips for creating supportive environments without hovering, and embrace the significance of silence in fostering self-exploration. Through anecdotes and actionable advice, gain insights into nurturing adaptability while managing parental anxieties. Empower your child to thrive in their own way!

28 snips
Aug 10, 2025 • 24min
Want A Responsible Child? Back Off (& Shut Up) Part I #508
Discover how to foster responsibility in your children by adopting a hands-off approach. Explore the delicate balance between guiding and allowing independence, especially with strong-willed kids. Learn about the pivotal role communication plays in parent-child relationships, emphasizing positive reinforcement over anxious lecturing. Delve into the importance of resilience through struggles, and how trusting children with challenges, such as social media, promotes their growth. Get ready for actionable tips to transform parenting dynamics!

Aug 6, 2025 • 22min
Back-to-School Anxiety & Refusal? 5 Action Steps That Work #507
Explore the challenges of back-to-school anxiety and what parents can do to help their children transition smoothly. The discussion includes five actionable strategies for coping with anxiety, building confidence, and fostering supportive relationships. Learn how friendships and adult support play a crucial role, while also recognizing the impact of parental anxiety. Discover the power of self-control in parenting, reshaping family dynamics for a more peaceful environment.

Aug 3, 2025 • 22min
School Struggles with Transitions, Impulse Control, Following Directions, Social Skills? #506
School can be tough for kids, especially when it comes to transitions and behavioral challenges. Discover effective communication strategies to share with teachers that can help support your child's unique needs. The podcast also dives into proactive behavioral strategies for strong-willed kids, encouraging a focus on positive reinforcement. Whether tackling impulse control or social skills, there's a wealth of practical advice for parents navigating this school year.

30 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 23min
10 Quick Phrases That Instantly Calm Kids Who Are Angry, Defiant, Arguing & Bossy #505
Discover ten effective phrases to help calm angry or defiant children! The hosts dive into mindful communication, providing practical strategies for reducing power struggles. They emphasize empathy and understanding as key components for fostering stronger connections. Learn how to validate your child's feelings while asserting parental authority. Plus, understand the significance of allowing kids to express their emotions, creating a calmer family environment. These insights transform challenging moments into opportunities for growth!

13 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 24min
The Root of Anger & Frustration: 8 Questions to Ask #504
Discover the underlying causes of children's anger and frustration, from trauma to dietary issues. Learn how to communicate openly with your child to uncover these roots effectively. Explore the impact of family dynamics on their emotions and the importance of validating their feelings. Redefine success by nurturing confidence in children, celebrating their unique strengths instead of focusing solely on academic performance. Get practical insights to foster resilience and emotional well-being in your parenting journey.