When children are upset or misbehaving, it’s easy to blurt out quick phrases like “Calm down” or “What’s wrong with you?” But these lines often dismiss emotions, shame the child, or leave them unsure what to do differently next time. This page shares five common phrases to avoid and simple, practical alternatives that validate feelings, set clear boundaries, and guide behaviour. The goal is not perfect parenting, but more helpful communication that builds trust, emotional safety, and healthier coping over time.

When caregiving forces you to take unpaid leave, it can trigger guilt, worry, and a sense that you are falling behind, at home and at work. This article uses an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) lens to help parents respond with more compassion and flexibility. You will learn how to unhook from harsh thoughts, make space for difficult emotions, refocus on the present, reconnect with what matters, and take small, realistic steps that support both your family and your wellbeing.

Scary headlines can unsettle children, even when the event happened far away. If your child is clingy, worried, or asking repeated questions, they are seeking safety. Here are practical ways to respond, limit exposure, and help your child feel calmer and steadier again.

Learn why tantrums happen and how to calm, guide, and support your child through emotional moments. Practical tips to manage tantrums with confidence and empathy.

Feel like you’re falling short as a parent? You may be growing more than you realise. These everyday moments, however small, are signs of strength and love.

It can feel confusing and painful when your once-chatty teen becomes distant, irritable or withdrawn. But pulling away is often less about rejecting you and more about their need for autonomy, belonging and understanding. This gentle guide explains the real reasons behind your teen’s behaviour and offers practical, compassionate strategies to rebuild connection, communication and trust.

AI can be helpful, but children and teens are more vulnerable to overuse and unhealthy attachment. Learn practical ways to set boundaries and keep them grounded.