Parenting brings moments that matter – some joyful, some challenging and many that can leave you wondering what to do next. From mental health conditions and big feelings to screen time struggles, friendships and the changes that come with adolescence, these experiences can feel overwhelming- not just for the child, but for the whole family. That’s why Catholic Schools Maitland-Newcastle has partnered with leading Australian parenting experts to create resources designed to support family wellbeing, enhance student learning, and empower parents in their role as the primary caregivers of their children.
Family Matters is here to support and inform, not to replace professional advice or the care your family already receives.
On this site, we use the term parents to describe any family member, carer, guardian, kinship carer, or other adult who takes on a parenting role for a child through care, guidance, and education.
When we use the word family, we are referring to the many different types of families and the immediate and extended family members who play an important role in children’s lives.
The information shared on this site, including within linked resources, is intended to support general wellbeing only. It is not medical, psychological, or professional advice and may not take into account your family’s individual circumstances.
Links to external websites are provided for your convenience, so you can access credible, evidence‑based information. Catholic Schools Maitland‑Newcastle does not control, endorse, or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, or completeness of content on external sites.
For advice or support tailored to your child or family, we encourage you to seek guidance from a qualified health professional.
Our schools also value strong partnerships with families. If you have questions or concerns about how your child’s school can support you or your child, we invite you to contact the school directly. You can find contact details by selecting your child’s school from the list below.
If you or your child are in immediate danger, call 000.
For 24/7 crisis support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Understanding the challenges your child or teen might experience and strategies for supporting their mental health.
Strong emotions are a natural part of growing up, for children and for teens. When big feelings lead to challenging behaviour, it can feel confusing and exhausting for families. Children and adolescents are still developing the skills to recognise, manage and express emotions, and behaviour is often a sign of stress, overwhelm or unmet needs.
Guiding children and teens to build positive relationships and respond to social challenges.
Understanding children and teens' brain development so you can respond to their changing needs with confidence.
Understanding why children and teens experience big emotions and how you can help create calm and connection.
Parenting brings many moments that matter. Some are joyful, some are challenging, and many can leave us wondering what to do next.
We want to hear from you
The team behind Family Matters values input on how to continually provide relevant and practical content to families across Catholic Schools. If you have suggestions, requests or queries, please use this form to share.
The advice provided on this site and contained within the resources relates to general wellbeing information only and should not be considered medical, psychological, or professional advice. It doesn’t take into account your family’s individual circumstances.
Furthermore, links to external websites are provided for your convenience and to access credible, evidence-based information. Catholic Schools Maitland-Newcastle does not control, endorse, or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, or completeness of information on these external sites.
For personalised support, please consult a qualified health professional.
If you or your child are in immediate danger, call 000.
For 24/7 support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.