In this month's newsletter, you'll find information about:
how to parent when we're really struggling
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parenting
school refusal and supporting children through the social media ban
the impact of loneliness on Australia’s young people and how to support them
ways to nurture the wellbeing of children experiencing chronic illness and support their families
how to follow us on social media for updates, tips and information about children's mental health.
Emerging Minds recognises that families come in all shapes, sizes and forms.
In our resources, the term ‘parent’ encompasses biological, adoptive, foster and kinship carers as well as individuals who have chosen to take up primary or shared responsibility in raising children.
We share information about the needs and experiences of children from birth. We acknowledge that every child is unique and has different strengths, vulnerabilities and experiences that shape their health and development.
When we're really struggling to parent
Showing up for your child can look different from day to day, and you’re not alone on this journey. Parenting is full of learning moments. It’s OK to get things wrong sometimes, because caring, reflecting and trying again are all part of being a parent. What you’re doing matters, and it’s enough.
Taking time to think about the kind of parent you want to be, or reaching out for support when you need it, can help build confidence and a sense of ease as you navigate family life.
For stories and tips from parents who have found ways forward through their own challenges, take a look at our resource, When we’re really struggling to parent.
Parenting our way: Resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents and families
For Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander families, it might be hard to find resources about parenting that feel right or culturally relevant. Parenting our way was made with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing, being and doing at the centre, honouring and building on families’ strengths and skills.
Whether you’re finding things tough right now or searching for a little support for your parenting journey, we invite you to explore these resources on the Emerging Minds Family website today.
The impact of loneliness on Australia’s young people – and how to support them
You might be surprised to learn that young people experience loneliness more than any other age group. While schools are vital for helping kids make friends and find support, they can also be places where some students feel left out or isolated.
Across two podcast episodes, host Nadia Rossi speaks with Amber Brock-Fabel and Dr Ben Lohmeyer about their recent study on loneliness in young people and its relationship to bullying. They discuss the implications of their findings for the wellbeing of young people, and some steps parents and families and can take to best support them.
Listen to both episodes now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and the Emerging Minds website.
Nurturing the wellbeing of children experiencing chronic illness and supporting their families
Living with a chronic illness can be different for each child and depends on the illness they have. In the following podcast episodes, host Nadia Rossi talks with Nicki, a parent supporting her two children who are living with chronic health conditions.
Listen to both episodes now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and the Emerging Minds website.
Help improve support resources for families and children
The Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI) recently developed a series of short videos designed to support parents and caregivers in noticing, understanding, and talking about children's mental health and wellbeing.
Your feedback plays an important part in designing resources like these. The MCRI is looking for parents and caregivers of 2- to 12-year-olds to watch 2 x two-minute videos and answer a few questions about them. It’s quick (15 minutes or less), voluntary and anonymous.
By completing this short activity you will be helping the MCRI support Australian children and families.
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