Are Activity Trackers Good for Children?
Wearable trackers like the Fitbit, Garmin, Moove, or even smart-watches are gaining significant market-share with children – and with Christmas so close, it’s likely that…
Six Science-Backed Benefits of Gratitude
I recently wrote an article about Halloween. I argued that it’s actually a whole lot of fun and we should embrace it. Some people responded…
Why Your Kids Need a Tribe
Everyone needs to be known by someone. Just one significant other. For our kids, knowing that they are known and loved by one caring adult…
Teaching your Child the Art of Psychological Flexibility
Have you ever watched what happens when your child or teen is upset, sad, or challenged? Sure, they might become more emotional. We’ve all seen…
A Balanced Approach to Parenting
I had a call from a journalist recently. She asked me, “Have you heard of Panda parenting? It’s kind of different to Tiger Parenting. It’s…
An Australian Halloween
Here are 5 Reasons we should enjoy Halloween, and stop being such a pumpkin about it Australians of a certain generation seem to really hate…
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…
Navigating Your Children’s Unequal Abilities
It’s an objective fact: one of our children is always going to be better than another child at any given activity. One child might be…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…