Raising Teens with Collett Smart

Hope 103.2
  • 4.9 (32)
  • Parenting
  • Updated Weekly

When it comes to raising little ones, we often feel as though we have a small village around us – in morning play groups, meeting other parents at tots’ birthday parties, or on the sides of sports fields. It can feel like we have it (mostly) under control. Until our child gradually emerges into their teen years and so much changes! It is a unique time for both you and your child. Sometimes, everything you thought you knew goes out the window and you’re struggling to keep up. You look around and the village seems to have diminished. Raising Teens will be part of your support system – your village! There will be something here for everyone who cares for teens. Most importantly, this is your resource, so we want to hear from you – your challenges, your suggestions – you are part of this community. For more information, expert advice or to ask Collett a question, visit raisingteens.au. The information provided on this podcast is for general educational purposes only and does not take into account your personal situation. It is not a substitute for professional advice. We recommend you seek a medical or healthcare professional if you are seeking advice, diagnosis or treatment. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via the Hope website, Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. 

  1. Letting Teens Go: The Shift No One Prepares You For

    2 days ago

    Letting Teens Go: The Shift No One Prepares You For

    Key Takeaways: Transition from Authority to Ally: Empowering parents to shift their roles from strict rule enforcers to supportive allies, improving the parent-teen relationship. Control and Instructions: Highlighting the risks of micromanaging older teens, emphasising that too much control can create distance instead of fostering growth and maturity. Effective Connection: Suggesting practical ways to nurture connection with teens through natural interactions, like shared activities and thoughtful conversations. Boundaries as Bridges: Encouraging open discussions about household chores, privacy, and personal space to enhance mutual respect and prevent resentment. Acceptance of Different Choices: Emphasising the importance of staying supportive and connected even if children make choices that differ from parental hopes, ensuring they feel safe. Notable Quotes: "Instead of being a rule setter, you might now be more of a sounding board instead of being the manager Think of yourself as becoming an ally." "Mistakes are what help us and them to learn and to grow. And protection can just feel like pressure for them." "Boundaries aren't walls, they're bridges." "Connection doesn't mean we always have to agree. Support also doesn't always mean silence." "The good news is that this stage can bring some of the most meaningful, honest and rewarding relationships that you'll ever have with your kids."   Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team. Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice. Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. Support the show: https://hope1032.com.au/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    17 min
  2. Empty Nest: When Your Teen Leaves Home - Janet Evans

    16 June

    Empty Nest: When Your Teen Leaves Home - Janet Evans

    Win a copy of Janet Evans' book Empty Next by clicking here!!!  Janet Evans is an accomplished author and podcast host recognised for her insightful work on the themes of parenting and personal growth. She co-authored the book "Empty Next" with Dr. Amelia Haynes, targeting the often unspoken phenomenon of empty nest syndrome. Alongside her literary contributions, Janet is known for co-hosting the podcast "She Wasn't Born Yesterday," which celebrates the experiences and transitions faced by women over 40. Janet’s expertise in traversing this delicate phase of parenting combines personal experience with practical strategies tailored to support parents through this emotional transition. Key Takeaways: Emotional Spectrum: Parents often experience a mix of pride and grief when their children leave home, highlighting the natural, varied responses to empty nesting. Improved Relationships: Interviews with young adults reveal that many develop stronger relationships with their parents after moving out, underlining the potential for positive change. Reevaluating Misconceptions: The episode challenges common misconceptions, such as the assumption that mothers are more affected than fathers by their children's departure. Global Phenomenon: Empty nest syndrome is not exclusive to Western cultures; parents worldwide experience similar emotional transitions despite differing family structures. Proactive Transitioning: Parents are encouraged to plan ahead by prioritising personal interests and marital relationships to ease the transition into this new stage of life. Notable Quotes: "You bring them up for like 20 odd years. It's a long time to be in the same job." "A lot of [young adults] got on a lot better with their parents once they'd moved out." "You should never feel guilty about missing your children after they've left home." "With all of the people that we spoke to, the dads were just as affected. Oh, my goodness. And some of them even more so." "Every single situation is different, and every personality is different… overwhelmingly, most parents want the very best for their kids." Resources: Janet Evans's book "Empty Next" explores empty nest syndrome and its impact. Podcast "She Wasn't Born Yesterday" hosted by Janet Evans, focused on women over 40. Hope 103.2 Radio, mentioned as an initial platform for the podcast concept.   Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team. Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice. Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. Support the show: https://hope1032.com.au/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    37 min

  3. 9 June

    Is Your Teen in Crisis? 4 Signs to Know & How to Respond

    Key Takeaways: Recognise Behavioral Changes: Learn to identify key signs of a teen in crisis, such as withdrawal, risk-taking, diminished school performance, and expressions of hopelessness. Maintain Calm and Support: Discover the importance of staying calm and curious, not reactive, to offer a safe environment where teens feel supported. Focus on Connection: Prioritise emotional safety and connection over immediate problem-solving to build trust and open communication lines with adolescents. Support Over Correct: Understand the need to connect with your teen before introducing any corrective actions or consequences post-crisis. Professional Help: Reinforce that seeking professional support is essential and conveying that doing nothing is not an option for their well-being. Notable Quotes: "Crisis behavior is often communication, not defiance or attention-seeking." "A calm parent becomes the emotional anchor in a teen's storm." "Connect before we correct." "Doing nothing is not an option. My job is to love you and support you." "I'm here to listen if you need me. I'm here for you if you want to brainstorm any ideas together."   Support the show: https://hope1032.com.au/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    15 min
  4. My Teen Won't Talk to Me Anymore - What Parents Can Do

    24 Mar

    My Teen Won't Talk to Me Anymore - What Parents Can Do

    Key Takeaways: Teens distancing from parents is a normal developmental phase as they seek independence. Parents should provide a "steady presence" and adapt to their teen's communication preferences. Emotional regulation and repair after conflicts are vital to maintaining trust. Giving teens some control over their choices within healthy boundaries can foster connection. Family connection, though on the teen's terms, remains crucial for their overall life satisfaction. Notable Quotes: "Pulling back is often part of building independence, and it's how teens practice being separate, capable people." "Very often, the closeness returns once the emotional storm has passed." "Connection still matters. It's often more on our teens' terms, but connection is what we need to be fighting for as parents." "You will know your teen best. You will know what works well." "Even well-intentioned advice can land as criticism when emotions are high."   Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team. Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice. Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. Support the show: https://hope1032.com.au/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    19 min
  5. Parenting Through Loss: 21 Gifts from Amy - Raewyn Elsegood

    17 Mar

    Parenting Through Loss: 21 Gifts from Amy - Raewyn Elsegood

    PURCHASE the book for $1.39AUD here at Amazon Raewyn Elsegood is a seasoned author and chaplain renowned for her empathetic writing and expertise in grief counseling. With over ten years of experience as a trained writer, Raewyn has channeled her profound personal experience of losing her daughter into her work, penning "21 Gifts" as a testament to her healing journey. Her professional history includes extensive work as a chaplain, where she has supported countless individuals in times of grief with her compassionate presence and insightful guidance.   Key Takeaways: Grief is Messy and Individual: Raewyn underscores that grief is not a linear process but unique to each person and can evolve over time. Writing as Healing: "21 Gifts" harnesses the power of writing as a therapeutic outlet, documenting a mother's journey through loss by reflecting on life's gifts. The Power of Presence: Offering support to those grieving involves simply "being there," as a witness to their experience without needing to fix it. Faith's Role in Grief: Raewyn candidly shares her struggle and reconciliation with faith amidst her grief, revealing the comfort and complexity it brings. Lessons in Legacy: Through her book and public speaking, Raewyn continues to honor Amy's legacy, teaching that healing often involves transforming personal pain into purposeful action. Notable Quotes: "Grief is very messy, and even trained professionals need to surrender to it." "Losing Amy didn't mean losing my purpose as her mother. Writing 21 Gifts, establishing her scholarship, speaking to others; this is mothering her legacy." "What I want people to feel as they read this book is they're walking with a companion, and I want them to have hope in their hurting heart." "In our fear, we stay away, not knowing what to do. But there's no perfect words. Please just show up." "Worry is normal, but it is a waste of time." Resources: Raewyn Elsegood's Website Book: 21 Gifts   Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team. Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice. Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. Support the show: https://hope1032.com.au/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    52 min
  6. Teen Drivers & Precious Cargo: When Siblings Are on Board

    10 Mar

    Teen Drivers & Precious Cargo: When Siblings Are on Board

    Key Points: Understanding legal responsibilities is crucial when teens commence driving alone. Assessing a teen driver's experience and confidence helps gauge their readiness. Safety must be a priority, especially when younger siblings are passengers. The approach to driving should be gradual, with trust-building measures. Continuous communication about safe practices reinforces learning and responsibility. Notable Quotes: "Letting our teens drive their younger siblings is another huge step." "It's crucial to look at the legal side of things with our children, with our teens." "Does your teen understand that they're not just a taxi for their sibling?" "I think it's okay to consider easing into this whole new arrangement." Resources: Follow Collett Smart on Instagram and Facebook. Learn more on Collett Smart’s website: www.collettsmart.com   Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team. Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice. Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. Support the show: https://hope1032.com.au/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    11 min
  7. Rites of Passage: Why Boys Need Humbling & Girls Empowerment - Dr. Arne Rubinstein

    3 Mar

    Rites of Passage: Why Boys Need Humbling & Girls Empowerment - Dr. Arne Rubinstein

    WIN Dr Arne’s book!! Click here to enter! Dr. Arne Rubinstein is a leading expert on rites of passage and adolescent development. As the founder of the Rites of Passage Institute, Dr. Rubinstein is devoted to creating transformational experiences for teenagers and communities. With over 30 years of experience, including a decade and a half as an emergency medicine doctor, he has a profound understanding of human development and the challenges young people face today. Dr. Rubinstein is also the author of "The Making of Men" and has significantly contributed to the field by working with schools globally and supporting over 500,000 people through his programs. Key Takeaways: A rite of passage is a guided process essential for successfully transitioning youth from childhood to adulthood, offering community support and shared wisdom. Unstructured "rites of passage," such as schoolies, often involve risk and lack meaningful guidance, leading to potentially harmful outcomes. Structured programs emphasise storytelling, challenge, vision creation, and recognition of unique gifts as critical components, providing a healthier and more profound transition experience. Both teenagers and their communities, including parents and elders, benefit from engagement in rites of passage, promoting stronger, more supportive relationships. Rites of passage are not limited to adolescence; they are valuable throughout life for managing transitions like leaving home, marriage, and aging. Notable Quotes: "I am convinced that every one of our children is going to go through a rite of passage. The question is, will that be a healthy rite of passage?" "When we are creating rites of passage for our young people, we need to take into account that every child is different, and every child is born with their own unique gifts and talents." "Instead of having elders in the community who are actually doing it for the benefit of the young ones, when they're doing it as a way of sort of staying on top of them, that's when it goes wrong." "One thing, if we could teach girls to listen to their inner voice, that would really be impactful and important for those girls." "Bringing out their gifts and their spirit. That's what rites of passage are about." Resources: Rites of Passage Institute Dr. Arne Rubinstein's book: The Making of Men Online Rites of Passage Leadership Training via the Rites of Passage Institute   Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team. Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice. Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. Support the show: https://hope1032.com.au/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    54 min
  8. My Teen Won't See a Counsellor: 6 Things to Try

    24 Feb

    My Teen Won't See a Counsellor: 6 Things to Try

    Key Points: Encouraging teens to consider counseling should be a gentle process that respects their need for control and privacy. Parents should emphasise the confidentiality of counseling, reassuring teens that professionals will maintain their privacy while sharing critical concerns. Involving teens in the decision-making process, such as choosing a counselor, can increase their sense of ownership and reduce resistance. Building a supportive home environment and maintaining open communication can lay the foundation for teens to feel comfortable seeking external help. Parents should also seek support for themselves to strengthen their ability to provide effective guidance and emotional stability for their teens. Notable Quotes: "A no to counseling doesn't mean a child is rejecting help. It's not a sign that things are hopeless." "Our teens need to feel part of the choices and part of the decisions." "Everyone needs to talk to someone from time to time, adults included." "Focus on your relationship with your teenager first. Feeling safe and respected and heard at home lays such a good foundation." "Even if your teen isn't ready for counseling, you can still seek support as a parent." Resources: Follow Collett Smart on Instagram and Facebook. Learn more on Collett Smart’s website: www.collettsmart.com   Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team. Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice. Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. Support the show: https://hope1032.com.au/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    14 min
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4.9
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About

When it comes to raising little ones, we often feel as though we have a small village around us – in morning play groups, meeting other parents at tots’ birthday parties, or on the sides of sports fields. It can feel like we have it (mostly) under control. Until our child gradually emerges into their teen years and so much changes! It is a unique time for both you and your child. Sometimes, everything you thought you knew goes out the window and you’re struggling to keep up. You look around and the village seems to have diminished. Raising Teens will be part of your support system – your village! There will be something here for everyone who cares for teens. Most importantly, this is your resource, so we want to hear from you – your challenges, your suggestions – you are part of this community. For more information, expert advice or to ask Collett a question, visit raisingteens.au. The information provided on this podcast is for general educational purposes only and does not take into account your personal situation. It is not a substitute for professional advice. We recommend you seek a medical or healthcare professional if you are seeking advice, diagnosis or treatment. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via the Hope website, Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. 

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