Growing up: early years to teens
From the early years through to adolescence, children’s brains, emotions and relationships change significantly. These developmental shifts influence behaviour, communication and independence, and can sometimes challenge the connections within families.
This topic helps parents and carers understand key stages of development from childhood through the teen years. It offers insight into why children’s and adolescents’ needs change over time, and how to stay connected, supportive and responsive as your child grows.
What’s actually happening in the teen brain
Something important shifts in the adolescent brain. Understand how emotions, peer relationships, and brain development influence teen behaviour and decision making, and how parents can stay connected by stepping back from control and leaning into collaboration.
Helping children grow through connection, curiosity and exploration
Between the ages of five and nine, children's brains are developing rapidly, making this a powerful time for learning, growth and discovery. As children become more curious about the world around them, they need both the freedom to explore and the security of knowing a trusted adult is there to support them.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller explains how parents can nurture confidence, independence and strong thinking skills by balancing connection with exploration and using everyday conversations to help children make sense of the world.
Why feeling safe and secure matters for your child’s development
The early years are a time of incredible learning, shaping how children see themselves, relate to others and respond to life's challenges. The experiences and relationships children have during this time can influence them for years to come.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller explores why young children learn so rapidly, the important role parents play in creating a sense of safety and belonging, and how loving, supportive relationships help children develop confidence, resilience and a strong foundation for life.
Why belonging matters for children’s mental health
When children experience big emotions, it can be difficult to know how best to respond. Understanding what's happening in their brains can help parents support them with greater confidence and compassion.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller explains the science behind children's emotional responses and explores why connection, belonging and trust are some of the most powerful building blocks for lifelong mental health.
Connection before correction: helping children through big emotions
When children are overwhelmed by big emotions, it can be tempting to jump straight into correcting their behaviour. But what if connection is the key to helping them calm down and learn?
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller explains why a strong sense of belonging is so important for children's mental health, and shares practical strategies parents can use to stay calm, connect with their child, and guide them through challenging emotions.
How to build your child’s motivation and confidence
Parents often focus on helping children stay calm, but confidence and resilience also come from learning how to take on challenges and then return to a state of calm.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller shares a simple, practical approach to building children's motivation, emotional regulation and confidence. He explains how parents can use fun, everyday activities to help children manage heightened emotions, tackle difficult tasks and develop skills that will support them throughout life.
Why play is one of the most powerful ways children learn
Play is much more than fun. It is one of the most important ways children make sense of the world, develop social skills and build their capacity to learn. Through play, children test ideas, solve problems, practise relationships and process their everyday experiences.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller explains why play is a vital part of children's development and learning. He shares how parents can support play without taking control, and why stepping back and letting children lead can provide valuable insights into their thinking, emotions and growing understanding of the world.
Why children need challenges to build confidence and resilience
While it can be tempting to protect children from struggle, overcoming challenges is an important part of learning and growth. When children are encouraged to persist, try new approaches and build on their successes over time, they develop confidence, motivation and resilience.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller explains why children's brains are built for challenge and how parents can support an adventurous mindset. He shares practical ways to help children embrace challenges, learn from setbacks and develop the confidence to tackle bigger goals one step at a time.
Helping children move from comparison to confidence
The years between nine and thirteen are a time of significant growth and change. As children become more aware of themselves and those around them, they often start comparing their abilities with their peers. Parents can play an important role in helping children recognise and value their own unique strengths.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller explains what happens in children's brains during this stage of development and why focusing on how a child is smart, rather than whether they are smart, can build confidence, motivation and success. He shares practical ways parents can help children identify their strengths, appreciate the strengths of others and develop a positive sense of who they are.
How to build resilience through connection, protection and respect
Resilience is not something children simply develop on their own. It grows through the relationships and experiences that help them feel connected, safe and valued.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller shares the three key ingredients of resilience: connection, protection and respect. He explains how parents can use this simple "CPR" approach to strengthen family relationships, support children through challenges and help them develop the confidence and skills to navigate life's ups and downs.
How to help your child recognise and build on their strengths
Children thrive when the important adults in their lives notice and appreciate what they are doing well. By showing genuine interest in their efforts, skills and achievements, parents can help children build confidence, better understand their strengths and develop a positive sense of self.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller shares a simple but powerful approach to encouraging children. He explains how combining praise with curiosity can help children recognise their own abilities, build on their strengths and feel motivated to keep learning and growing.
Helping children build healthy friendships and a sense of belonging
As children move through the pre-teen years, friendships often become an increasingly important part of their world. While this can sometimes be challenging for parents to navigate, strong friendships and a sense of belonging play an important role in children's confidence, wellbeing and resilience.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller explains why friendships become so important between the ages of 9 and 13, and why having connections across different groups can help children navigate setbacks and challenges. He also shares practical advice for supporting children to develop healthy friendships, understand what they value in a friend and build a strong sense of belonging.
How to help your child develop confidence through curiosity and challenge
Confidence doesn't come from getting everything right the first time. It grows when children are encouraged to have a go, learn from setbacks and stay open to new experiences.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller shares practical ways parents can help children develop a growth mindset, embrace challenges and build confidence through effort and persistence. He also explains why curiosity, adventure and trying new things can help children discover new strengths, interests and opportunities for learning.
How to stay connected while giving your child independence
As children move through the pre-teen years, they naturally seek more independence, new experiences and stronger connections with friends. While they may seem to be pulling away at times, they still need the support, guidance and reassurance of the trusted adults in their lives.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller explains what it means to "hold on tight with an open palm" and why balancing freedom with support is so important during this stage of development. He shares practical advice for helping children explore their interests, pursue their goals and develop confidence, while remaining a steady source of connection and encouragement when they need it most.
Why your relationship with your teen has to change — and how to stay close while it does
Parent–teen relationships are meant to change, and that can feel unsettling. Tension is normal but by respecting independence, holding boundaries with care, and collaborating with your teen, you can help future proof your relationship.
What our teens need most from us
Once parents understand how emotions show up in the nervous system, the next step is helping children and teens make sense of it for themselves. In this video, parenting expert Karen Young will build on your knowledge of the 'house model' by guiding you on how to talk with your children or teens about their feelings and behaviour by providing you with techniques that will reduce their fear and shame and help them to feel safer with emotions like anger, anxiety, and sadness.
What to do when I feel shut out by my teen? How to stay connected without chasing or pushing
Teens need closeness and independence at the same time, which can be tricky for parents to navigate. Learn how to adapt your approach to stay present, warm and connected without chasing or pushing.
Why nagging doesn’t work, and what to do instead
Nagging often fuels resistance rather than change. Learn how the adolescent brain responds to repeated requests and practical ways to communicate expectations while supporting teens’ desire for autonomy, trust, and respect.
WEBINAR: Transition to Kindergarten
In September 2026, Craig Moore, Clinical Psychologist with Catholic Schools Maitland-Newcastle, presented a webinar for parents and carers titled Supporting your child's transition to Kindergarten. The webinar was designed to support families as they prepared for one of the most significant milestones in a young child's life: starting school.
Beginning Kindergarten is an exciting time, but it can also bring uncertainty for children and their families. As children adjust to new routines, relationships and expectations, parents play an important role in helping them develop the confidence, resilience and sense of belonging needed to thrive at school.
In this recorded webinar, Craig Moore shares practical, evidence-informed strategies to help parents support a positive transition to school. He explores what school readiness really means, how to foster confidence and independence, and ways to help children manage emotions and adapt to change. Parents and carers will also gain practical ideas for supporting friendships and belonging, establishing routines that promote wellbeing, and helping their child approach the start of Kindergarten with confidence and enthusiasm.
WEBINAR: Transition to Year 7
In September 2026, Craig Moore, Clinical Psychologist with Catholic Schools Maitland-Newcastle, presented a webinar for parents and carers titled Supporting your child's transition to Year 7. The webinar was designed to help families navigate the important transition from primary school to high school with confidence and optimism.
Starting high school is a significant milestone for young people and their families. Alongside the excitement of new opportunities, students often experience changes in routines, friendships, expectations and levels of independence. Parents and carers play a vital role in supporting their child's wellbeing, confidence and sense of belonging during this important stage of development.
In this recorded webinar, Craig Moore shares practical, evidence-informed strategies to help families support a smooth and positive transition to Year 7. He explores ways to foster independence and organisation skills, help young people manage anxiety, uncertainty and change, and navigate friendships and social challenges. Parents and carers will also gain practical insights into supporting resilience, encouraging healthy use of technology and social media, promoting help-seeking behaviours, and building strong school-family partnerships to support their child's success and wellbeing throughout the transition to high school.