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Growing Together

Parenting can be tough - but it's easier when we are GROWING TOGETHER

Smoky Hills PBS introduces GROWING TOGETHER, premiering in September 2025, to bring together proven resources for raising kids.  Whether the littles in your life are in diapers or about to leave the nest, GROWING TOGETHER is a gathering place for practical, evidence-based advice for all who raise children. 

Air dates for Growing Together

Episode 1

Responsive Feeding for Babies

Responsive Feeding for Babies

Just when you have mastered nursing or bottle feeding, baby's almost ready for solid foods.  WE'll explore the latest research and best practices for introducing solid foods alongside breast milk or formula.  We'll even have a mini cooking lesson on toddler-friendly food prep and learn how to avoid battles over what children will eat. 
PREMIERES Tues, Sept. 9 on Smoky Hills PBS.

Guests:  Brenda Bandy (IBCLC, Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition) and Dr. Susan Lukwago (PhD, RD, LD Nutrition Services Coordinator SW KS WIC)

Episode 2

Vaping

Vaping

The general lack of knowledge about current nicotine delivery systems and their impact on young people is putting new generations at significant risk.  We visit with Dr. Matthias Salathe (University of Kansas Health Systems, KUMC), who researches the impact of vaping on the respiratory stystem.
Donna Gerstner (Live Well Finney County_ sheds light on the social and psychological aspects of vaping amongst students.
Joined by Kansas' Youth Tobacco Prevention Coordinator, Finn Lanning, and Russell County Sheriff Andy Van Der Wege, our panelists will share what's new and effective in prevention and harm reduction.  PREMIERES Tues., Sept. 16

Episode 3

Adulting

Preparing Young People for Adulthood

We explore what parents and caregivers can do to help their children develop skills and confidence to navigate their longest occupation:  living life as an adult.  Psychologist Dr. Marci Young (Director of Prevention Services, WSU) shares the experiences of 18-22 year olds and Melanie Scott (Riley County High School, & PhD Candidate/GTA at KSU) shares the experiences of Kansas secondary students and the research of hope.  Holly Creamer, Kansas Behavior Supports, also joins us as our panelists relay strategies that parents can implement over time to prepare their children to be successful, independent members of society.  
Premieres Sept. 26, 2025