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. 

Growing Together is made possible in part by these sponsors:

• United Methodist Health Ministry Fund
• Western Kansas Community Foundation- Grant
• NW Kansas Innovation Center
• Southwind Bank
• Salina Regional Health Center - Salina Pediatric Care
• Danny and Janis Reichenborn
• Wilson State Bank
• La Pasadita Carniceria

Responsive Feeding for Babies

Just when you have mastered nursing or bottle feeding, baby is 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. 

Guests:  Brenda Bandy (IBCLC, Executive Director of the Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition) and Monique Koerner (K-State Extension Agent in Cottonwood District)

Vaping

The general lack of knowledge about current nicotine delivery systems and their impact on young people is putting new generations at significant risk.  Our guests below will share what's new and effective in prevention and harm reduction.  

PREMIERES Tues., Sept. 16 

Guests:  Dr. Nicole Nollen (The University of Kansas School of Medicine & The University of Kansas Cancer Center), who researches and teaches how vaping impacts community health, Donna Gerstner (Live Well Finney County), student Oliver Spencer (RESIST chapter, Garden City HS) shed 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.

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.

Premieres Sept. 23, 2025

Guests:  Dr. Jessica Provines (Assistant Vice President for Wellness, WSU) shares the experiences of 18-22 year olds, and Melanie Scott (MS, Licensed School Counselor (KS), LPC) offers insights into the lives of younger adolescents and the research of hope. Along with Holly Creamer, Senior Clinical Director at Heartland ABA, our panelists relay strategies that parents can implement over time to prepare their children to be successful, independent members of society.