An Australian Halloween
Australians of a certain generation seem to really hate Halloween. They despise it. Through gritted teeth they say it’s a ridiculous American tradition. They say it has nothing to do with our ...
What to say to your kids when they’re going on their first date
Australia doesn’t have much of a dating culture. Our kids aren’t usually asking someone on a date, going out as a couple, and then dating someone different next week. Instead, it’s more… Yr...
How can I help my child be resilient?
Today’s parents are working overtime to help pave the way for their kids. The New York Times has dubbed them ‘snowplow’ or ‘lawn mower parents’ – ‘machines chugging ahead, clearing ...
What to do when your teen is caught ‘sexting’
Dear Dr Justin, I have a teenage daughter who has been sending inappropriate photos to boys, and one has been shared around amongst her peer group. We’ve raised her to know that’s wrong, but ...
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 ...
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. ...
How To Stop Yelling
Dear Dr Justin I have been reading a lot about how yelling isn’t good for my kids, but I can’t seem to get them to listen if I don’t raise my voice! Any suggestions on how I can stop yelling?...
Screen Time and Our Teens’ Mental Health Crisis
In a 2018 survey half of the parents questioned believed that smart phone usage negatively affected their child’s mental health. And nearly half thought their child was actually addicted to the ...