Listener Q and A

Parenting rarely comes with a manual, which is why listener questions are such valuable conversations. In this special Q&A episode of Let’s Reconnect, psychologist Breanna Jayne Sada answers three common parenting concerns: staying connected with a tween daughter, navigating a teenager accessing mental health support, and preparing young children for the arrival of a new baby.Drawing on psychological theory, child development and years of experience working with families, Breanna offers practical, compassionate advice to help parents strengthen connection, build trust and support their children through life's transitions.How Do I Stay Connected to My Tween Daughter?A father worries that he is losing connection with his tween daughter as she spends more time with friends and seems closer to her mother. Breanna explains why this shift is a normal part of development and shares practical ways fathers can strengthen their relationship without forcing conversations or competing for attention.Topics include:Why eye rolls don't mean rejectionUnderstanding tween and adolescent developmentThe importance of quality over quantity when spending time togetherHow dads can immerse themselves in their child's worldBuilding connection through curiosity and shared interestsWhy fathers shouldn't shy away from difficult conversationsMy Teen Is Seeing the School Psychologist. Should I Be Worried?A parent discovers their 16-year-old son has been seeing the school psychologist and feels hurt, confused and concerned. Breanna explains how confidentiality works for teenagers in Australia and why seeking support is actually a positive sign.Topics include:Teen confidentiality and privacy rights in AustraliaUnderstanding Gillick CompetenceWhen psychologists must inform parentsWhy teenagers sometimes talk more openly to trusted adults outside the familyCreating emotional safety so teenagers feel comfortable opening upHow parents can respond without pushing their child awayPreparing Children for the Arrival of a New BabyA listener asks how to help their five-year-old and two-year-old adjust to a new sibling. Breanna discusses sibling jealousy, emotional adjustment and practical strategies to help children feel secure, loved and included.Topics include:Why jealousy is normal when a new baby arrivesUnderstanding egocentrism in young childrenHelping children feel safe through predictability and routineValidating difficult emotions rather than dismissing themPreparing siblings before the baby's arrivalMaintaining strong individual connections with each childKey TakeawaysConnection with tweens and teens often changes, but it doesn't disappear.Children need parents who are curious about their interests rather than expecting children to enter the parent's world.A teenager seeking support from a psychologist is often a sign of strength, not crisis.Confidentiality helps young people access support safely while still maintaining safeguards around risk.Young children need reassurance, predictability and validation when adjusting to a new sibling.Quality moments of connection are often more powerful than quantity.Memorable Quotes From This Episode"Eye rolling is not an indicator that they don't need you in their life.""Connection doesn't come from lots and lots of interactions. It comes from quality interactions.""Your teenager talking to another trusted adult is not a competition.""Children cope better with change when their environment and caregivers are predictable."Resources & SupportIf you are concerned about your child's mental health or wellbeing, support is available:Lifeline Australia — 13 11 14Kids Helpline — 1800 55 1800Speak with your GP or a registered mental health professionalwww.breannajayne.com - to book in with BreannaLet’s Reconnect with Breanna Jayne Sada is a parenting and mental health podcast helping parents better understand their children, strengthen relationships and navigate the challenges of raising young people in a rapidly changing world.Let's Reconnect next episode. In the meantime, subscribe and follow our podcast and socials @breanna.jayne_psych @letsreconnect_pod. If you or your child would like to write in with a question or story, or you’d like to be a guest advocating for the needs of children and young people, please reach out.Disclaimer:The information in this podcast is general and not a substitute for individual clinical advice or treatment. While I am a registered psychologist, I am not providing personalised guidance here. Every child and family is different, and what’s discussed may not suit your situation.If you have concerns, please seek support from a qualified mental health professional. For immediate help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, or call 000 in an emergency.Views expressed are my own and not those of any organisations I am associated with. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.