R U OK Day – Having the conversation and what to do if the answer is ‘no’.
Alex* was a popular kid. He seemed OK. He was good at sports, doing fine at school, and came from an affluent, strong family.
But in early September, 2019, the Year 11 boy took his life.
In the ...
Navigating Your Teen’s Quest For Independence
Dear Dr Justin,
My daughter started high school and already there are parties and outings organised where no parents are allowed. She’s only 12 and I think too young to go unsupervised. Am I ...
Dads: How To Stay Connected With Your Kids
Even When You Don’t Live Together
Research is unequivocal. Dad matters. As long as he is safe towards his family, the more a dad is present and involved in his children’s lives in a positive ...
It takes a village… but the village is sick
In recent weeks, to surprisingly little fanfare, the Morrison Federal Government has announced a new Children’s Mental Health Strategy. Announced by Health Minister, Greg Hunt, at the National Press...
Making Pocket Money Easier
My 9-year-old was carrying $48 in her wallet. Cash. She’s been saving well for some time, and the cash has accumulated. Her plan was to walk to the shops with her big sister to buy a treat.
...
The Case Against Boredom
Recently there has been a groundswell of popular opinion extolling the value of letting our kids be bored. A recent New York Times article argued, ‘Boredom teaches us that life isn’t a parade of ...
Helping Our Kids Feel Good By Doing Good
We all want our kids to feel good. Ice cream. Cake. Beach days. Playdates. These are all great for bringing joy. But typically, these good feelings don’t last. Once the ice cream is gone, or the ...
What To Do When Your Child Lashes Out
Dear Dr Justin,
My 9-year-old son lashes out at his younger siblings when they bother him and often ends up hurting them. He feels terrible afterwards, but he can’t seem to get his anger or his ...
What To Do When Your Child Lies To You
You enter the kitchen. Your child looks at you like she’s hiding something. You see cake crumbs on the counter and the tips of her fingers.
‘Did you eat the chocolate cake?’
Your child smiles ...
How to tell your friend what their teen is doing on Instagram
Dear Dr Justin,
My husband and I have some family friends. Their daughter is friends with our daughter. I recently heard their daughter telling my daughter about her ‘private’ Instagram ...