‘Good Praising’: Why we’ve GOT to Stop Praising our Kids
We all love to be praised. It feels good. It makes us feel as though we’re doing something right. Praise is when we make positive…
Category: Articles
My 6 Year-old has Attention Problems
Hi Dr Justin, I think I have an issue with my 6yo daughter. We were a Defence family and until last year moved around frequently.…
When Teens Stop Conforming: Blue Hair, Piercings, and Tattoos
“It’s my life and I’ll do what I want.” This has been the cry of the vast majority of adolescents for decades as they have…
Can Someone Stop my Kids from Being on the Internet so Much?
I received a phone call recently from a sobbing mother – Amber. She had called in desperation after a night from hell that involved her…
My 5 Year old has Anxiety Issues
Hi Dr Justin, I have a 5 year old who has severe anxiety issues. She wakes during the night to ensure I am still at…
What do I do About my Clingy Child?
Hi Dr Justin, I have a son who is about to turn 2. He is a wonderful little boy and brings us much joy! He…
How to Deal with Teens and Sexting
Sexting refers to taking nude (or semi-nude) photos or videos that are intentionally provocative or sexual and sending the pictures via mobile phone or internet.…
Why a Teenager’s Brain is Like a Ferrari with Bicycle Brakes
Why do adolescents take risks – a lot? It’s almost like they feel they’re immortal. Adolescents are impulsive. They seek constant stimulation. They don’t weigh…
Are Teenagers Really Just Overgrown Toddlers?
Teens are just like toddlers! It’s a common comparison, and the some of the reasons for it are obvious. But is it normal? Are our…
My 12 Year-old is Cutting Herself and Wants to Die
Dear Dr Justin, My 12 year old daughter is cutting. Counsellors, mental health people etc. have had no effect. She hears voices. Writes about suicide.…
How do I Motivate my Child with Sport?
Good Morning Dr Justin, I was hoping you could me some advice? I have a twelve and a half year old daughter who is the…
Speaking Children-ese
Have you ever travelled to a country where your native tongue isn’t the primary language spoken? If you have, what did you notice about communication…
The UGLY Truth About Smacking our Kids (Part 2)
In my last article I discussed a range of problems associated with smacking our kids. The article was designed to demonstrate that there is a lot of evidence…
The UGLY Truth About Smacking our Kids (Part 1)
In my parenting classes and coaching sessions I am regularly confronted with people who become incredulous when I suggest that we need to stop hitting…
The Homework Letter I Send to School Each Year
It seems that homework is a never-ending drama for children AND parents. If you’re like most parents of primary school-aged kids, homework creates tears and…
I don’t need Fixing! I need Guiding and Loving
One of the most respected psychologists in the world today, Dr Martin Seligman, recently said: “(Teaching) children is vastly more than fixing what is wrong…