Emerging Minds Families: Recent Episodes
Emerging Minds
Welcome to the Emerging Minds Families podcast. Each fortnight, we chat with parents, family members and practitioners from all over Australia. They generously share with us their experiences and the knowledge, strength and the skills they’ve developed while navigating the ups and downs of parenting, raising a family and the tricky things that life can sometimes throw at us. We discuss a range of topics close to families hearts and always with a mind to supporting children’s mental health and wellbeing. Tune in today.
In this episode host Naida Rossi speaks with Dany Elachi, founder of the Heads Up Alliance, a grass roots organisation supporting parents who want to delay smart phones and social media for their children. Dany talks about complex issue of smart phone use in our children and young people and how building a supportive community can help parents navigate some of the challenges.
This is the final episode in a two-part series where host Alicia Randford is joined by developmental pediatrician and cohost of the popular parenting podcast Pop Culture Parenting, Dr Billy Garvey. In part twoBilly talks about prioritising building connection with our children over ‘perfect parenting’, how setting boundaries collaboratively and consistently with our children is most effective, and recognising when your family may need to seek extra support.
This is the first episode in a two-part series where host Alicia Randford is joined by developmental pediatrician and cohost of the popular parenting podcast Pop Culture Parenting, Dr Billy Garvey. In part one, Billy highlights the importance of understanding the emotions behind a child’s behaviour, the concept of emotional regulation, resilience and the role parents play in creating safe and supportive environments for children.
Host Alicia Ranford welcomes back psychologist Rachel Samson to discuss the importance of teaching children about diverse family structures and fostering inclusivity. Rachel shares ways we can guide children to embrace difference and be inclusivity champions, both in their peer groups and how they live in the world.
In this episode host Alicia Randford and psychologist Rachel Samson explore the emotional development of young boys. Rachel shares ways we can encourage them to express their feelings and navigate through big emotions at any stage of their development.
In this episode host Nadia Rossi welcomes back Anna Ritan, an accredited paediatric dietitian-nutritionist and the founder of Nourish Little Lives. Anna shares insight into why mealtimes can be tricky for some neurodivergent children and the best ways we can support them.
In this episode host Nadia Rossi speaks with Sally Venus, a paediatric speech pathologist, to unpack what a speech pathologist does and how they play a vital part in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people.
In this episode, host Nadia Rossi is joined by Rochelle Courtney, founder of Share the Dignity, a national charity with the mission to ensure that no woman, girl or person who menstruates has to choose between food and period products. Rochelle talks about the reality of period poverty and how we can better educate our children with the right language about periods to eliminate shame and stigma while supporting their mental health and wellbeing.
In this episode our host Nadia Rossi is joined by Amy Saunders, the Wellbeing Impact Lead from Nature Play SA. Amy talks about how playing outside in nature can help to support the mental health and wellbeing of children while providing moments of connection for families.
Many children and young people in Australia are currently being cared for full time by their grandparents. People who take on this role are known as ‘grandparent carers’. In this episode, host Nadia Rossi speaks with Mike Feszczak, the CEO of Grandcarers SA, to learn more about this lesser-known caring role.
Emerging Minds consulted with practitioners and families with lived experience to develop ‘the PERCS of parenting’, which outline five key ways to support your children's mental health. The PERCS provide guidance on: parent-child relationships, emotions and behaviours; routines; communication and meaning-making; and support networks. In this episode our host Alicia Ranford is joined by Emerging Minds Practice Development Officer, Jacquie Lee. Jacquie talks through each key area and how parents can use the PERCS to support their children’s mental health and wellbeing.
In this episode, guest host Nicole Rollbusch talks to Arianne, a parent of six. While supporting her child through coming out and transitioning, Arianne and her daughter found their social and family supports significantly challenged. She shares her family’s experience of supporting their daughter and sister, navigating support services and the benefits of creating strong support networks around the whole family.
Navigating through separation and divorce can understandably be one of the hardest and most stressful experiences for a family. As a parent it can be hard to know how to talk to your children about what is going on. In this episode host Nadia Rossi speaks with family law counsellor Alesha Akintoye about how we can best support our children and ourselves during this difficult time.
In this episode host Alicia Ranford talks with Neil Davis from the Sammy D Foundation. Neil and his wife Nat Cook started the foundation after their teenage son Sam fell victim to a one punch attack. Neil shares their story and how the Sammy D Foundation works tirelessly to build confidence in children to speak up for themselves and each other, with the message that using violence can have consequences which can’t be undone.
Many parents struggle to navigate gender and sexual diversity with their children and young people. They might feel unsure of how to best support their family in what can seem like a rapidly changing landscape. In this episode, host Nadia Rossi welcomes back Jason Tyndale to share his experience of supporting his child on their journey.
In this episode host Alicia Ranford welcomes back youth advocate and educator Daniel Principe. They discuss some of the issues that young people are sharing with Daniel, including ideas about masculinity. He also talks about how to raise boys to be good men and ways that the adults in young people's lives can be there for them.
This episode is the first in a two part series where host Alicia Ranford is joined by youth advocate and educator, Daniel Principe. In this first episode, Daniel talks with Alicia about the effects that watching pornography and sexualised content can have on young people. He talks about how we can encourage boys to recognise and resist distorted attitudes towards bodies, relationships, and sex and instead build healthy, respectful relationships with others and themselves.
In this episode host Nadia Rossi talks with Jason Tyndale about his journey as a transgender parent. Jason shares how he navigated his transition with his family and friends, and the unique strengths that come with being a transgender parent.
In this episode, host Nadia Rossi talks with Anna Ritan, an accredited paediatric dietitian-nutritionist and the founder of Nourish Little Lives, where her role includes providing online nutrition resources and support for nourishing infants, toddlers and children.Anna talks with Nadia about how we can manage expectations at family mealtimes to make them enjoyable for everyone. Anna shares ways to create balanced meals and insights in to how we can manage food refusal in children.
In this episode host Nadia Rossi welcomes back Kirsty, Schools Coordinator at Shine SA, to talk about the differences between consent and sexual consent. Kirsty shares how and why it is important to talk to children and young people about consent, how adults can model consent to children and how it supports a child’s wellbeing to be informed about consent.
In this episode, host Nadia Rossi talks with Kirsty, Schools coordinator at SHINE SA. Kirsty offers tips for parents on talking to their children about sex and their bodies, and how to respond to the inevitable ‘Where do babies come from?’ question in age-appropriate ways. Kirsty also shares how equipping children with the right information […]
This episode is the second in a two-part series on supporting the mental health of children who stutter. Host Nicole Rollbusch is joined by Rich Stephens, President of SAY:Australia (the Stuttering Association for the Young – Australia), and Mitchell, who originally became involved with SAY:Australia as a participant and is now a mentor to other children and young people who stutter. In this episode, Rich and Mitchell talk about the helpful ways people in their lives have supported them over the years, their experiences working with SAY:Australia and their advice to children who are growing up speaking with a stutter.
This episode is the first in a two-part series on supporting the mental health of children who stutter. Host Nicole Rollbusch is joined by Rich Stephens, President of SAY:Australia (the Stuttering Association for the Young – Australia), and Mitchell, who originally became involved with SAY:Australia as a participant and is now a mentor to other children and young people who stutter. In this episode, Rich and Mitchell talk about how common stuttering is and what it can look like, along with the impact that speaking with a stutter can have on children’s mental health and wellbeing.
The Pear is more than a coffee house – it’s a neighbourhood meeting place that hosts community-driven events. In this episode we talk with Carol, Leonie and Annemijin from The Pear about how they found connection, The Pear and a sense of community.
Christmas and the end of year holiday season can hold different meanings for different families. Some families revel in the joy of gift-giving, transforming their homes with decorations and festive cheer. However, for many the holidays can also evoke stress, feelings of loneliness or financial pressure. In this episode we talk with psychologist Dr Angie Willcocks about navigating this Christmas holiday season and finding ways to make it work for you and your family.
It might surprise you to know there are nearly four hundred thousand young people (under 25 years) in Australia who provide unpaid care and support to a loved one. In this episode host Nadia Rossi talks with Isabella Hassall, Young Carer Coordinator at Carer Gateway for the Benevolent Society. Isabella shares how carers are often hidden figures in our community. She also discusses the challenges of being a young carer, how the adults in their life can support them and what opportunities they can access.
When it comes to suicidal ideation, we are unlikely to think of children as having such distressing thoughts. But recent research by Wesley Mission Queensland has found that some children under 12 years have negative thoughts which may be the first sign of suicidal ideation. In this episode host Alicia talks with Emma and Chloe from Wesley Mission Queensland. They help us to understand the signs of suicidal ideation that we can look out for and what we can do to support children who might be experiencing distressing thoughts.
In this episode host Alicia Ranford talks with social worker, parent educator, author, founder of Connected Parenting and mother to four boys, Gen Muir. Gen shares ways parents can support their children when they experience big feelings and emotions, especially when they don’t have the words to tell us what they need.
This episode is the fourth in a series where we talk to families who have experienced disasters. In this episode host Nadia Rossi talks with Willow who was 20 years old when her family experienced severe storms in the Dandenong Ranges in 2021. Willow shares her perspectives as a young person experiencing such a major event. Willow also offers some advice on how adults can help support the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people who experience disasters.
In this episode, host Alicia talks with Sam and Kathy from Centacare’s Unify reunification service. They discuss what it can be like for children and parents to be separated from each other by the child protection system, and the shame and stigma that these families can experience. Sam and Kathy also offer insights into the reunification process and how they support families through it.
In this episode, host Alicia Ranford talks with Dr Zali Yager, an internationally recognised expert in body image with a background in health and physical education. She co-founded The Embrace Collective with 2023 Australian of the Year, Taryn Bromfield. In this episode, Dr Yager shares things families, educators and practitioners can do to help create safer body image environments for children and young people.
The term ‘global majority’, a collective term for non-white people, and people and groups who don't experience white privilege. It aims to the ‘flip the script’ on power as something that only white people can hold and help provide a sense of empowerment and belonging to those who are often excluded based on appearance, particularly skin colour. In this episode, guests Julie Ngwabi and Nancy Jeffrey share their personal stories with podcast host Rosie and explore cultural identity, the damaging impact of assumptions and biases, and the importance of courageous conversations in being more inclusive.
In this episode, host Nadia talks with Tegan and Shelly from the Finding Your Voice Choir, a community choir of women with lived experience of family and domestic violence. Together they share how the choir supports and empowers its members and helps them to form lifelong connections.
This episode is the third in a series about families who have experienced disasters. Disasters like floods, bushfires and drought are becoming more frequent and severe across Australia and can leave a lasting impact on the children who experience them. In this episode host Nadia speaks with Bron, who survived the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires alongside her husband and two young children. Bron shares her family’s story of losing their house and their journey of recovery after being displaced from their home.
In this episode host Alicia Ranford talks with Sally Braddy. Sally is a mother of three children whose husband has to spend a lot of time away from home for work. Sally talks about finding family balance while her husband is away working and how they find moments of connection for their family.
This episode is the second in a series about families who have experienced disasters. Disasters like floods, bushfires and drought are becoming more frequent and severe across Australia and can leave a lasting impact on the children who experience them. In this episode, host Nadia Rossi speaks with Sarnia. A parent of three children, she lives with her family who have experienced flood, cyclones and bushfire living in northern Queensland. Sarnia’s family know what it is like to have time to prepare for a disaster, but also what it is like to have to evacuate immediately without time to process what is going on around them.
In this episode, host Nadia Rossi talks with Wei about how the stigma of single parenting has impacted her and her children's lives. Born in China and living in Australia, Wei also describes the racism and discrimination they have faced, and how she navigates and supports her family through it all.
In this episode host Nadia Rossi speaks with Heather, who lives with her family in regional New South Wales and knows first-hand the importance of accessing age-appropriate support for children who experience disaster.
In this episode host Alicia Ranford talks with Emerging Minds Director, Brad Morgan, and Emerging Minds Manager, Digital Health, Ben Rogers. They take an in-depth look at children’s mental health, including a new suite of resources aimed at supporting parents’ understanding of this important topic.
In this episode host Nadia Rossi talks with award-winning musician, writer and disability advocate Eliza Hull. Eliza shares her story about parenting with a disability and the stigma that many parents with a disability, and their children, have to navigate.
In this episode, our host Alicia Ranford welcomes back Emi and their son, Elliot, to talk about the unique connection of single parent families.
In this episode, host Alicia Ranford talks with Masha, a single mother who migrated to Australia alone, and is a survivor of domestic violence. Masha used her connection with spirituality and nature to help her build strength when connection with other people didn't come easily. She talks about how when she felt alone, this connection with faith and nature actually made it easier to connect and build the relationships that she was seeking with others.
Relationships can provide us with a wonderful feeling of connection and shared experiences but they can also be challenging at times. In this episode, our host Nadia Rossi talks with Jess, a foster parent and youth worker who knows firsthand how complex it can be helping children and young people navigate the relationships in their lives.
Even when we really care about each other, feeling or staying connected with family can be hard. This can be especially true when a family or family member is experiencing difficult times. In this episode, our host Alicia Ranford talks with Emi (or Mumza as Elliot refers to them as) and their son, Elliot, about how they worked to rebuild connection after time apart.
In our fast-paced, digitally-connected world, the importance of building meaningful relationships within our local communities often gets overlooked. In this episode, our host Alicia Ranford talks with mother and son, Debbie and Sam, along with Sarah from the local council, about how they teamed up to create a beautiful Butterfly Garden for their community.
In this episode, our host Alicia Ranford talks with Leigh and her daughter Charlotte. Leigh is a mother of two who separated from her husband when she was pregnant with their second child. Leigh talks to us about how she navigated the separation and her husband’s new relationship while supporting her children to reconnect with their father and build connections with his new family. Charlotte offers her own insights on this time in their lives and how she remains connected to her whole family.
Experiencing homelessness and unstable housing can be an incredibly difficult journey, and when children are involved it can become even more complex. In this episode, our host Nadia Rossi talks with Susie Lukis and Savannah West from Statewide Children’s Resource Program about how to talk to children about experiencing family homelessness.
In this episode, our host Alicia Ranford talks with Flick, a mother of four who has navigated the child protection system and managed to stay connected with her children through difficult circumstances.
In this podcast, our host Nadia Rossi talks with Jackie Amos. Jackie is a child and adolescent psychiatrist who understands how important and complex it can be to find the right support and a health professional – also known as a practitioner – that you feel comfortable with and are confident will meet your and your family’s healthcare needs.
In this episode, we talk to John Clark: a father of three and social worker who knows firsthand how complex talking to your children about your mental illness can be. John speaks from his own personal experience and offers tips and strategies for navigating these conversations with your family.
Christmas and the end of year holiday season can hold different meanings for different families. Some families revel in the joy of gift-giving, transforming their homes with decorations and festive cheer. However, for many the holidays can also evoke stress, feelings of loneliness or financial pressure. In this episode we talk with psychologist Dr Angie Willcocks about navigating this holiday season and finding ways to make it work for you and your family.
The Pear is more than a coffee house – it’s a neighbourhood meeting place that hosts community-driven events. In this episode we talk with Carol, Leonie and Annemijin from The Pear about how they found connection, The Pear and a sense of community.
In this episode we talk to Justin McArthur about understanding how early childhood educators can support children who have experienced trauma. Justin is an early years educator who has a special interest in working with children who have experienced trauma. He offers strategies educators and families can use to support the children in their care.
When your family experiences a loss, each of you may process grief differently. As a parent, it can be hard to juggle supporting children and helping them understand their feelings while managing your own grief.In this episode we speak with Kaz Amos. She's a provisional psychologist at the Hummingbird Centre in New South Wales and has spent many years helping people address grief and loss.
This episode is the final in a two-part series where we discuss the complex issue of childhood bullying. Part two focuses on when a child engages in bullying behaviour and how parents can approach this behaviour with their child. In these episodes, we talk with Jessica Staniland, a clinical psychologist and the Director of Counselling and Psychological Services at Trinity Grammar School to explore the dynamics for both children who experience bullying and those who engage in bullying behaviour.
In a society that often places importance on achieving unrealistic body standards, many children and young people struggle with their relationship between food and their bodies.In this episode we welcome back Ellen Murray. Ellen is a mental health nurse who supports children and young people who experience disordered eating and also helps them and their families navigate through what can be an incredibly difficult time.
This episode is the first in a two-part series where we discuss the complex issue of childhood bullying. Part one focuses on how parents and schools play a role in supporting and creating safe spaces when a child experiences bullying. In these episodes, we talk with Jessica Staniland, a clinical psychologist and the Director of Counselling and Psychological Services at Trinity Grammar School to explore the dynamics for both children who experience bullying and those who engage in bullying behaviour.
In this episode we chat with Ellen Murray about how parents can support the children and young people in their lives as they explore their gender identity. Ellen is a mental health nurse who supports young people and their families to embrace their children's authentic selves.
Children encounter screens from a very early age and for many parents it can be hard to know how to manage screen time in a healthy way.
In this episode we welcome back Nikki Taranis. Nikki is a social worker and therapeutic specialist, and until recently a team leader with the Australian Childhood Foundation. We talked with Nikki about screen time and how to find a healthy balance for the children and young people in your care.
Outside the family home children spend most of their time in school or early childhood education and care. In this episode we focus on early learning services (or early childhood services as mentioned in the podcast), otherwise known as preschool, early learning centers, daycare, kindergarten or childcare. Our guest this episode is Sally Braddy, the assistant director for children's programs at Gowrie South Australia. who we talk to about how to find the right early childhood service for your child.
Gaming is a big part of many young people’s lives. As a parent it can be hard finding the right balance (or even knowing what that is) when it comes to both gaming and screen time. In this episode we talk with Nikki Taranis who was recently a team leader with the Australian Childhood Foundation, as she draws on her experience as a social worker and therapeutic specialist, as well as her own interest in gaming.
Parenting is an adventure no matter where you are located, but it can bring unique challenges and opportunities when you are raising a family in the remote areas of outback Australia. In this episode we talk to Petie, a mother to four children who lives with her family in a beautiful and unique part of the country.
For many parents and caregivers, it can be hard to know how to foster a strong and positive relationship with their child, while also allowing them space to explore and grow.
In this podcast, we talk to Lyndsay Healy, Director of the Children’s Program at Gowrie South Australia. Lyndsay has over 20 years experience in helping parents respond to the needs of their children in a way that allows children to feel safe and secure, while helping build strong relationships between family members.
When it comes to the health of children and families, general practitioners, or GPs, are often the first port of call for parents seeking advice and treatment for their child's health concerns.
In this podcast we talk with Dr Andrew Leech who has over 12 years experience as a GP, and a special interest in child mental health and wellbeing.
Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in the human brain and the different ways in which people think, learn and process information. In this podcast we talk with Bec, a mother and stepmother to three children, who shares her parenting journey with us, including the challenges and valuable lessons she has learned from her neurodivergent son.
There are many reasons why some children are not able to remain living with their birth families. In Australia, this is referred to as out-of-home care. While it’s intended to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children, out-of-home-care can also come with its own set of challenges. In this podcast we talk with Meryl Klimczack, who has over 20 years’ experience as a foster mum.
Our childhood experiences often shape who we are and how we view the world. Children who grow up with a parent who experiences mental health difficulties can experience challenges that impact and shape their life. In this podcast we talk with Abbey Clark. She's 18 years of age and is generously sharing her experiences of growing up with a father living with mental health difficulties.
All children deserve to have safe environments where they can thrive. But when a child’s trust is broken and their environment no longer feels safe, this can have significant ramifications for the child’s life and development. In this podcast we talk with Dan Moss, who has a long history of working in support services with children who have experienced trauma. Dan helps us understand what relational trauma is and how it can affect the mental health and wellbeing of the children in our lives.
As a parent or caregiver it can be difficult to know how to help your child manage their big feelings. In this podcast we talk to Ben Rogers, a father and occupational therapist who has spent much of his career looking at emotions and how to help children and parents manage them in a healthy way.
In this podcast we talk to Vicki Mansfield, a mother and mental health accredited social worker about our natural instinct to compare ourselves to others, how this can increase for new parents and how to remind yourself that you are doing a good job.
In this podcast we talk to Vicki Mansfield, mother and mental health accredited social worker, about bonding with your baby in their first 12 months, and what can help if this doesn’t come naturally.
Many ‘firsts’ happen in a child’s early years, so it's common for them to feel nervous or anxious sometimes. But it's important to understand the difference between children's big feelings and experience of anxiety. In this podcast we chat to psychologist Dr Angie Willcocks about understanding your child’s experience of anxiety.
In this podcast we talk to Jason Tyndale, a father of four, on about how to remain connected to your children when you are experiencing mental health difficulties.
In this podcast, our host Nadia Rossi talks with Jackie Amos. Jackie is a child and adolescent psychiatrist who understands how important and complex it can be to find the right support and a health professional – also known as a practitioner – that you feel comfortable with and are confident will meet your and your family’s healthcare needs.
In this episode, we talk to John Clark: a father of three and social worker who knows firsthand how complex talking to your children about your mental illness can be. John speaks from his own personal experience and offers tips and strategies for navigating these conversations with your family.
In this episode, we talk to one of the leading experts in disaster recovery: educator, psychologist and the director of the Australian Child and Adolescent Trauma Loss and Grief Network at the Australian National University, Michelle Roberts. Michelle explores what families can do to look after themselves following a flood event, along with advice on how to talk to children about planning for natural disasters.
We all become parents without any formal training and it’s one of the things that can make parenting so challenging. Babies aren't born with a manual and it can take time to learn the skills required for parenting.
One of the main ways we learn how to raise our kids is from our parents, who role modelled ways of parenting when we were growing up. Once we become parents ourselves, we may adapt their parenting methods into our own style and routines. Some of us were raised by parents or care givers who were able to provide a safe and secure upbringing; but for others it is an entirely different story.
In this podcast, we talk to Flick, a mother of four, about how she learnt to parent when she wasn’t parented well herself.
Content warning: This podcast includes mentions of domestic violence, sexual trauma, substance use and child removal/. If listening to this podcast brings up any difficult feelings for you, you can seek help from one of these mental health crisis, or support services. In this episode you will hear: * Flick discuss her experience accessing support services and how they have influenced her parenting [7:22] * Flick talks about reaching her ‘turning point’ [8:39] * How Flick learnt to be the parent she wanted to be [10:32] * Flick’s journey to reconnecting with her children [11:47] * How Flick is now supporting other parents and her advice to them [15:32]
Welcome to the Emerging Minds Families podcast. Each fortnight, we chat with parents, family members and practitioners from all over Australia. They generously share with us their experiences and the knowledge, strength and the skills they’ve developed while navigating the ups and downs of parenting, raising a family and the tricky things that life can sometimes throw at us. We discuss a range of topics close to families hearts and always with a mind to supporting children’s mental health and wellbeing. Tune in today.
How do you support a child through the transition to school, whilst also managing constant changes related to the COVID-19 pandemic?
Educator and researcher, Dr Kathryn Hopps, has spent her career as an early childhood educator and primary teacher in a diverse range of education settings. Her research expertise is in school transitions, and her PhD study focused on the transition to primary school. Kathryn is a member of several national and international transition networks, whose important work includes a transitions position statement.
In this episode of the Emerging Minds podcast, we discuss her particular interest in families’ and children’s experiences of transitions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Kathryn also draws on her knowledge of early learning and primary school transitions to provide practical advice for parents and carers.
In this episode you will learn: * transitions can sometimes be thought of as a one-off event. However, it’s important to think of a child’s transitions as a process of adapting to change and finding a sense of belonging that happens over time (02:38) * transitions can also be an opportunity for families to work in partnership with educators to establish a plan aimed at supporting their child’s needs (18:12) * research about children's experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted that disruptions to their peer relationships has been impactful on their social and emotional wellbeing (25:09) * it’s important to know that there can be a level of parental grief associated with transitions, and to recognise that this is a common experience. As a parent, it becomes important that you’re aware of these emotions and find ways of looking after yourself during these times. (26.20)
Further information and resources: First transitions take time – RMIT
Transition (back) to school – Dr K. Hopps
Transition to school – Preparation for families – ACT Council of P&Cs
Follow Kathryn on Twitter – @drkhopps
South Australia’s first Commissioner for Children and Young People, Helen Connolly, shares advice on engagement, how we can better listen to this age group and insights on what it is like for rural children and young people during time of adversities, such as drought. In this episode, Helen Connolly, South Australia’s first Commissioner for Children and Young People, shares her experiences and what she has leant from talking and working with thousands of children and young people from all over South Australia.
Some of the stories in this podcast may be distressing to some people. If you or someone you know require assistance, please call LifeLine on 13 11 14 or beyondblue on 1300 22 4636. If life is in danger, call 000. Reflections: * Reflection 1: Commissioner’s role [00:47] * Reflection 2: Commissioner’s approach in engaging children and young people [01:20] * Reflection 3: Commissioner’s insight of regional and rural children and communities [03:32] * Reflection 4: Commissioner’s advice for adults [04:48] * Reflection 5: Commissioner’s insight on how to better listen to children and young people [06:17] * Reflection 6: Commissioner’s on how children and young people voices can be heard [08:15] * Reflection 7: Commissioner’s on how to support a positive future for children and young people in their lives [10:02]
Further information and resources: * Commissioner for Children and Young People SA: https://www.ccyp.com.au/
The SA commissioner’s role is to promote and advocate for the rights, interests and wellbeing of children and young people. This is done through: making recommendations to government and examining systemic issues relating to children and young people; conducting research and producing reports; and ensuring that South Australia meets its international obligations. The commission also seeks to engage children and young people to encourage their participation in decision making that affects their lives (Government of South Australia, 2018; The Children and Young People (Oversight and Advocacy Bodies) Act 2016).
- List of all the Australian, State and Territories Children's and Young People Commissioners and Guardians via the CFCA website: https://aifs.gov.au/cfca/publications/childrens-commissioners-and-guardians
Acknowledgements: Hosts: Events On Air (Drew and Leigh Radford). The Radford brothers previously work for the ABC and held various roles from Journalist, Executive Producers and Directors in both the urban and regional settings in Australia. Drew Radford is passionate about rural issues and need for respectful and authentic storytelling to ensure that the essence of people’s experiences and stories are captured.
Podcast voices: Emerging Minds thanks the South Australia Commissioner for Children and Young People, for contributing to this podcast.
Development committee: This podcast series has been co-designed with support from executive members - Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association SA and NSW Branches, Remote Isolated Children’s Exercise, South Australia Government Drought Response program, Department of Rural Health, University of South Australia and Emerging Minds staff.
Music: Podcast music theme for this series has been created by Stu Day Music: https://studaymusic.com/ Photos and Drawings: Postcard images courtesy SA Commissioner for Children and Young People’s “Tell Helen Postcard Project” Visit ccyp.com.au for details.
Focus on the positive future for you, your children and your community. It is important to remind yourself and your children that this drought will pass. Doing fun activities together or even making a list of things that you are all looking forward to will help in keeping a more positive future in focus.
In this episode, three rural parents share their experiences on how they focus on a positive future to support them during tough times, such as drought. Clinical psychologists John Dean and Andrea Baldwin provide their practice wisdom for parents and caregivers on why it’s important to have hope, and to focus on fun and looking forward in a positive way for their children and themselves.
Some of the stories in this podcast may be distressing to some people. If you or someone you know require assistance, please call LifeLine on 13 11 14 or beyondblue on 1300 22 4636. If life is in danger, call 000. Reflections: * Reflection 1: Amy (parent) [01:04] * Reflection 1a: Andrea (clinical psychologist) [02:19] * Reflection 2: Jane (parent) [04:09] * Reflection 2a: John (clinical psychologist) [05:22] * Reflection 3: Belinda (parent) [07:27] * Reflection 3a: John (clinical psychologist) [08:58]
Further information and resources: * Parent-child play: A mental health promotion strategy for all children: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/parent-child-play-a-mental-health-promotion-strategy-for-all-children/ * Parent-child play: Conversation guide: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/parent-child-play-conversation-guide/ * Parent-child play: Practice resource: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/parent-child-play-practice-resource/ * The importance of story and play for young children following a natural disaster * The use of therapeutic story books following a natural disaster * Child 360 app: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/child360-app/
Acknowledgements: Hosts: Events On Air (Drew and Leigh Radford). The Radford brothers previously work for the ABC and held various roles from Journalist, Executive Producers and Directors in both the urban and regional settings in Australia. Drew Radford is passionate about rural issues and need for respectful and authentic storytelling to ensure that the essence of people’s experiences and stories are captured.
Podcast voices: Emerging Minds thanks the parents for Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association SA, School Link and Got It! Programs, NSW Health Murrumbidgee Local Health District and Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health, Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, for contributing to this podcast.
Development committee: This podcast series has been co-designed with support from executive members from Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association SA and NSW Branches, Remote Isolated Children’s Exercise, South Australia Government Drought Response program, Department of Rural Health, University of South Australia and Emerging Minds staff.
Funders: This podcast series has been made possible by funding from Country SA PHN under the ‘empowering our communities SA’ grant and the National Workforce Centre for Child Mental Health, led by Emerging Minds. The National Workforce Centre for Child Mental Health is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health under the National Support for Child and Youth Mental Health Program.
Music: Podcast music theme for this series has been created by Stu Day Music: https://studaymusic.com/ Photos and Drawings: Postcard images courtesy SA Commissioner for Children and Young People’s “Tell Helen Postcard Project” Visit ccyp.com.au for details.
Give your child the opportunity to make decisions and have their voice heard. Drought is notable for the sense of powerlessness it creates, which is why giving children choices and asking for their opinions, can help them feel more empowered and positive.
In this episode, two rural parents share their experiences in how they support their children to make decisions and have their voices heard. Clinical psychologists John Dean and Andrea Baldwin provide their practice wisdom for parents and caregivers on why it’s important to support a child on their own decision-making, and some practical strategies on supporting a child to achieve this.
Some of the stories in this podcast may be distressing to some people. If you or someone you know require assistance, please call LifeLine on 13 11 14 or beyondblue on 1300 22 4636. If life is in danger, call 000. Reflections: * Reflection 1: Belinda (parent) [00:48] * Reflection 1a: John (clinical psychologist) [02:11] * Reflection 2: Kirsty (parent) [05:25] * Reflection 2a: Andrea (clinical psychologist) [06:43]
Further information and resources: * Parent-child play: A mental health promotion strategy for all children: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/parent-child-play-a-mental-health-promotion-strategy-for-all-children/ * Parent-child play: Conversation guide: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/parent-child-play-conversation-guide/ * Parent-child play: Practice resource: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/parent-child-play-practice-resource/ * The importance of story and play for young children following a natural disaster * The use of therapeutic story books following a natural disaster * Child 360 app: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/child360-app/
Acknowledgements: Hosts: Events On Air (Drew and Leigh Radford). The Radford brothers previously work for the ABC and held various roles from Journalist, Executive Producers and Directors in both the urban and regional settings in Australia. Drew Radford is passionate about rural issues and need for respectful and authentic storytelling to ensure that the essence of people’s experiences and stories are captured.
Podcast voices: Emerging Minds thanks the parents for Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association SA, School Link and Got It! Programs, NSW Health Murrumbidgee Local Health District and Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health, Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, for contributing to this podcast.
Development committee: This podcast series has been co-designed with support from executive members from Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association SA and NSW Branches, Remote Isolated Children’s Exercise, South Australia Government Drought Response program, Department of Rural Health, University of South Australia and Emerging Minds staff.
Funders: This podcast series has been made possible by funding from Country SA PHN under the ‘empowering our communities SA’ grant and the National Workforce Centre for Child Mental Health, led by Emerging Minds. The National Workforce Centre for Child Mental Health is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health under the National Support for Child and Youth Mental Health Program.
Music: Podcast music theme for this series has been created by Stu Day Music: https://studaymusic.com/ Photos and Drawings: Postcard images courtesy SA Commissioner for Children and Young People’s “Tell Helen Postcard Project” Visit ccyp.com.au for details.
Support your child's social connections with family, friends, school and hobbies. Children need positive time spent with family, friends and doing activities that they enjoy. Most of all, they need time to be kids, which includes regular routines at home and with school.
In this episode, four rural parents share their experiences on how they support their child's social connections with family, friends, school and communities during tough times, such as drought. Clinical psychologists John Dean and Andrea Baldwin provide their practice wisdom with some tips for parents and caregivers on why social connections are important for children, with some practical strategies during difficult times.
Some of the stories in this podcast may be distressing to some people. If you or someone you know require assistance, please call LifeLine on 13 11 14 or beyondblue on 1300 224 636. If life is in danger, call 000. Reflections: * Reflection 1: Kirsty (parent) [00:48] * Reflection 1a: Andrea (clinical psychologist) [02:13] * Reflection 2: Amy (parent) [05:59] * Reflection 2a: John (clinical psychologist) [07:09] * Reflection 3: Jane (parent) [09:18] * Reflection 3a: John (clinical psychologist) [10:03] * Reflection 4: Belinda (parent) [12:30] * Reflection 4a: John (clinical psychologist) [13:18]
Further information and resources: * Child 360 app: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/child360-app/ * Queensland Centre for Perinatal & Infant Mental Health: Natural disaster resources * The importance of story and play for young children following a natural disaster * The use of therapeutic story books following a natural disaster * Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health – Bird’s Tree: https://www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au/natural-disaster-recovery/
Acknowledgements: Hosts: Events On Air (Drew and Leigh Radford). The Radford brothers previously work for the ABC and held various roles from Journalist, Executive Producers and Directors in both the urban and regional settings in Australia. Drew Radford is passionate about rural issues and need for respectful and authentic storytelling to ensure that the essence of people’s experiences and stories are captured.
Podcast voices: Emerging Minds thanks the parents for Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association SA, School Link and Got It! Programs, NSW Health Murrumbidgee Local Health District and Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health, Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, for contributing to this podcast.
Development committee: This podcast series has been co-designed with support from executive members from Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association SA and NSW Branches, Remote Isolated Children’s Exercise, South Australia Government Drought Response program, Department of Rural Health, University of South Australia and Emerging Minds staff.
Funders: This podcast series has been made possible by funding from Country SA PHN under the ‘empowering our communities SA’ grant and the National Workforce Centre for Child Mental Health, led by Emerging Minds. The National Workforce Centre for Child Mental Health is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health under the National Support for Child and Youth Mental Health Program.
Music: Podcast music theme for this series has been created by Stu Day Music: https://studaymusic.com/ Photos and Drawings: Postcard images courtesy SA Commissioner for Children and Young People’s “Tell Helen Postcard Project” Visit ccyp.com.au for details.
Be on the lookout for changes in your child's behaviour as this can indicate that they need support. At times of stress, children can respond in different ways. While most have a natural resilience, a minority of children will find the impacts of drought more difficult to deal with. If you are concerned about your child, it may be helpful to link them in with additional support.
In this episode, three rural parents share their experiences on how they have been on the lookout for mood changes in their children during tough times, such as drought. Clinical psychologists, John Dean and Andrea Baldwin, provide their practice wisdom with some tips for parents and caregivers on practical strategies, and when to seek support for their children during drought.
Some of the stories in this podcast may be distressing to some people. If you or someone you know require assistance, please call LifeLine on 13 11 14 or beyondblue on 1300 224 636. If life is in danger, call 000. Reflections: * Reflection 1: Amanda (parent) [00:46 min] * Reflection 1a: Andrea (clinical psychologist) [02:05min] * Reflection 2: Jane (parent) [05:29 min] * Reflection 2a: John (clinical psychologist) [06:52 min] * Reflection 3: Belinda (parent) [10:52 min] * Reflection 3a: John (clinical psychologist) [12:20 min]
Further information and resources: * The big dry: the impact of drought on children and families: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/the-big-dry-the-impact-of-drought-on-children-and-families/ * How can I support children during a drought? https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/how-can-i-support-children-during-a-drought/ * Child 360 app: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/child360-app/ * The importance of story and play for young children following a natural disaster * The use of therapeutic story books following a natural disaster
Acknowledgements: Hosts: Events On Air (Drew and Leigh Radford). The Radford brothers previously work for the ABC and held various roles from Journalist, Executive Producers and Directors in both the urban and regional settings in Australia. Drew Radford is passionate about rural issues and need for respectful and authentic storytelling to ensure that the essence of people’s experiences and stories are captured.
Podcast voices: Emerging Minds thanks the parents for Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association SA, School Link and Got It! Programs, NSW Health Murrumbidgee Local Health District and Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health, Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, for contributing to this podcast.
Development committee: This podcast series has been co-designed with support from executive members from Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association SA and NSW Branches, Remote Isolated Children’s Exercise, South Australia Government Drought Response program, Department of Rural Health, University of South Australia and Emerging Minds staff.
Funders: This podcast series has been made possible by funding from Country SA PHN under the ‘empowering our communities SA’ grant and the National Workforce Centre for Child Mental Health, led by Emerging Minds. The National Workforce Centre for Child Mental Health is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health under the National Support for Child and Youth Mental Health Program.
Music: Podcast music theme for this series has been created by Stu Day Music: https://studaymusic.com/ Photos and Drawings: Postcard images courtesy SA Commissioner for Children and Young People’s “Tell Helen Postcard Project” Visit ccyp.com.au for details.
Keep an open conversation so they can come to you any time. Let your children know that you are available to talk with them when needed. Encouraging children to talk about their feelings will help them understand their experiences. Sometimes children don’t have the words to describe their feelings, however you can reassure them that their feelings are normal and that they will come and go.
In this episode, three rural parents share their experiences on how they have encouraged their children to talk about their feelings during tough times, such as drought. In addition, John Dean and Andrea Baldwin, two clinical psychologists, provide their practice wisdom with some tips for parents and caregivers in how they can support open conversations during and after these difficult times.
Some of the stories in this podcast may be distressing to some people. If you or someone you know require assistance, please call LifeLine on 13 11 14 or beyondblue on 1300 224 636. If life is in danger, call 000. Reflections: * Reflection 1: Amanda (parent) [00:56 min] * Reflection 1a: Andrea (clinical psychologist) [01:34 min] * Reflection 2: Jane (parent) [05:05 min] * Reflection 2a: John (clinical psychologist) [5:45 min] * Reflection 3: Belinda (parent) [08:40 min] * Reflection 3a: John (clinical psychologist) [10:05 min]
Further information and resources: * The big dry: the impact of drought on children and families: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/the-big-dry-the-impact-of-drought-on-children-and-families/ * How can I support children during a drought? https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/how-can-i-support-children-during-a-drought/ * Child 360 app: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/child360-app/ * Communicating with your baby during ‘tough times’ * Communicating with your toddler during ‘tough times’ * Communicating with your primary school-age child during ‘tough times’ * Communicating with your teenager during ‘tough times’ * E-safety Commissioner - eSafetyparents: https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents * Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health – Bird’s Tree: https://www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au/natural-disaster-recovery/
Acknowledgements: Hosts: Events On Air (Drew and Leigh Radford). The Radford brothers previously work for the ABC and held various roles from Journalist, Executive Producers and Directors in both the urban and regional settings in Australia. Drew Radford is passionate about rural issues and need for respectful and authentic storytelling to ensure that the essence of people’s experiences and stories are captured.
Podcast voices: Emerging Minds thanks the parents for Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association SA, School Link and Got It! Programs, NSW Health Murrumbidgee Local Health District and Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health, Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, for contributing to this podcast.
Development committee: This podcast series has been co-designed with support from executive members from Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association SA and NSW Branches, Remote Isolated Children’s Exercise, South Australia Government Drought Response program, Department of Rural Health, University of South Australia and Emerging Minds staff.
Funders: This podcast series has been made possible by funding from Country SA PHN under the ‘empowering our communities SA’ grant and the National Workforce Centre for Child Mental Health, led by Emerging Minds. The National Workforce Centre for Child Mental Health is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health under the National Support for Child and Youth Mental Health Program.
Music: Podcast music theme for this series has been created by Stu Day Music: https://studaymusic.com/ Photos and Drawings: Postcard images courtesy SA Commissioner for Children and Young People’s “Tell Helen Postcard Project” Visit ccyp.com.au for details.
Try looking at things through your child's eyes and see things from their perspective. If possible, try to imagine the drought from your child's point of view. This may help you to understand some of their reactions and behaviours. It may also assist connecting and supporting them.
In this episode, two rural parents share their experiences on how they look at things from their children’s perspective and what they are seeing, hearing, and feeling during tough times, such as drought. In addition, clinical psychologists John Dean and Andrea Baldwin provide their practice wisdom on how parents and caregivers can help their children by understanding their reactions and behaviours during and after these difficult times.
Some of the stories in this podcast may be distressing to some people. If you or someone you know require assistance, please call LifeLine on 13 11 14 or beyondblue on 1300 224 636. If life is in danger, call 000. Reflections: * Reflection 1: Jane (parent) [00:43 min] * Reflection 1a: John (clinical psychologist) [02:12 min] * Reflection 2: Kirsty (parent) [04:11 min] * Reflection 2a: John (clinical psychologist) [05:40 min] * Reflection 3: Sam (childcare director) [07:31 min] * Reflection 3a: Andrea (clinical psychologist) [07: 56 min]
Further information and resources: * The big dry: the impact of drought on children and families: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/the-big-dry-the-impact-of-drought-on-children-and-families/ * The impact of drought on children: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/the-impact-of-drought-on-children/ * Child 360 app: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/child360-app/ * How can I support children during a drought? https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/how-can-i-support-children-during-a-drought/
Acknowledgements: Hosts: Events On Air (Drew and Leigh Radford). The Radford brothers previously work for the ABC and held various roles from Journalist, Executive Producers and Directors in both the urban and regional settings in Australia. Drew Radford is passionate about rural issues and need for respectful and authentic storytelling to ensure that the essence of people’s experiences and stories are captured.
Podcast voices: Emerging Minds thanks the parents for Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association SA, School Link and Got It! Programs, NSW Health Murrumbidgee Local Health District and Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health, Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, for contributing to this podcast.
Development committee: This podcast series has been co-designed with support from executive members from Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association SA and NSW Branches, Remote Isolated Children’s Exercise, South Australia Government Drought Response program, Department of Rural Health, University of South Australia and Emerging Minds staff.
Funders: This podcast series has been made possible by funding from Country SA PHN under the ‘empowering our communities SA’ grant and the National Workforce Centre for Child Mental Health, led by Emerging Minds. The National Workforce Centre for Child Mental Health is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health under the National Support for Child and Youth Mental Health Program.
Music: Podcast music theme for this series has been created by Stu Day Music: https://studaymusic.com/ Photos and Drawings: Postcard images courtesy SA Commissioner for Children and Young People’s “Tell Helen Postcard Project” Visit ccyp.com.au for details.
Try to look after yourself so you can look after your children. Parents play a vital role for children in times of drought. Your capacity to cope during drought impacts your children's response to stress and their wellbeing during and after the event. Self-care is vital, so it is important that you seek out any help you need so you are better able to support your kids.
In this episode, three rural parents share their experiences on how they look after themselves during tough times such as drought. Clinical psychologists John Dean and Andrea Baldwin provide their practice wisdom gained over many years in how parents and caregivers can establish self-care routines and the importance in doing this during and after these difficult times.
Some of the stories in this podcast may be distressing to some people. If you or someone you know require assistance, please call LifeLine on 13 11 14 or beyondblue on 1300 224 636. If life is in danger, call 000. Reflections: * Reflection 1: Amy (parent) [00:56] * Reflection 1a: Andrea (clinical psychologist) [01:50] * Reflection 2: Belinda (parent) [05:32] * Reflection 2a: John (clinical psychologist) [06:36] * Reflection 3 : Jane (parent) [10:37] * Reflection 3a: John (clinical psychologist) [11:00]
Further information and resources: * The big dry: the impact of drought on children and families: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/the-big-dry-the-impact-of-drought-on-children-and-families/ * Self-care plan – completed: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/self-care-plan-completed/ * Self-care plan – blank: https://emergingminds.com.au/resources/self-care-plan-blank/
Acknowledgements: Hosts: Events On Air (Drew and Leigh Radford). The Radford brothers previously work for the ABC and held various roles from Journalist, Executive Producers and Directors in both the urban and regional settings in Australia. Drew Radford is passionate about rural issues and need for respectful and authentic storytelling to ensure that the essence of people’s experiences and stories are captured.
Podcast voices: Emerging Minds thanks the parents for Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association SA, School Link and Got It! Programs, NSW Health Murrumbidgee Local Health District and Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health, Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, for contributing to this podcast.
Development committee: This podcast series has been co-designed with support from executive members from Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association SA and NSW Branches, Remote Isolated Children’s Exercise, South Australia Government Drought Response program, Department of Rural Health, University of South Australia and Emerging Minds staff.
Funders: This podcast series has been made possible by funding from Country SA PHN under the ‘empowering our communities SA’ grant and the National Workforce Centre for Child Mental Health, led by Emerging Minds. The National Workforce Centre for Child Mental Health is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health under the National Support for Child and Youth Mental Health Program.
Music: Podcast music theme for this series has been created by Stu Day Music: https://studaymusic.com/ Photos and Drawings: Postcard images courtesy SA Commissioner for Children and Young People’s “Tell Helen Postcard Project” Visit ccyp.com.au for details.