Parental As Anything ABC listen

Does your teen love nothing more than slothing about on the sofa? And the mere idea of a walk, bike ride or jumping on the trampoline seems like too much effort?

We know that movement and exercise is good for our mental and physical health, but knowing that, and getting our teen to muster the energy to do it are two different things.

Bec Sparrow gives her tips on how to get your teen moving.

Female teachers are being sworn at, sexually harassed and physically threatened in high schools by male students. These young men are under the thrall of Andrew Tate and other online influencers and are taking his misogynist ideas into the classroom. 

Your daughter asks you to buy her a vibrator. What should you do? 

Bec Sparrow on why sex positivity for our teens is important, why there’s still a taboo around female masturbation and the awkward, but important, conversations to have around pleasure. 

When they’re little, our kids idolise us. Then, they become teenagers and start to push us away, refusing to chat and rolling their eyes. 

What can parents do to stay connected, when suddenly you're no longer the Taylor Swift or Drake of your teen's life? And why do they pull away from us in the first place?

Dr Justin Coulson joins Bec Sparrow to explain what is going on, and gives tips on how to stay close to your teenager. 

(PS If you have a trick on how you have managed to stay connected, we’d love to hear them for a special episode we’re working on. Send us a voice note or email us at teens@abc.net.au) 

The advice in this podcast is general and does not consider your personal situation. If you require further advice specific to your needs, please consult a professional. 
Guest: Dr Justin Coulson
Producers: Hannah Reich, Josie Sargent 
Supervising Producer: Tamar Cranswick
Executive Producer: Alex Lollback
Sound design: Ann-Marie de Bettencor

 

Has your tween bugged you to buy them fancy face cream or a Drunk Elephant serum? Younger and younger teenagers are lusting after super expensive — and age-inappropriate — beauty products that they’ve seen on social media.

Bec Sparrow is here to help you know what to do if your tween or teen is breaking the bank with creams, make-up and serums.  

The advice in this podcast is general and does not consider your personal situation. If you require further advice specific to your needs, please consult a professional. 
Producers: Hannah Reich, Josie Sargent 
Supervising Producer: Tamar Cranswick
Executive Producer: Alex Lollback
Sound design: Ann-Marie de Bettencor

What do you do when you don't like your teen's mates?

Friends are so important for our teens, so how can you guide them to make good choices when it comes to buddies? Should you try and intervene, or will that only backfire?