THE THERAPIST PARENT

"either we spend time meeting children's emotional needs by filling their cup with love, or we spend time dealing with behaviours caused by unmet needs. Either way, we spend time" Pam Leo

Now Available

Guidance from The Therapist Parent

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Embark on a transformative journey into positive parenting and discover Guidance from The Therapist Parent, a compassionate roadmap crafted by a seasoned psychologist with over two decades of experience working with children and families. Krysten equips parents with an extensive toolkit to nurture their social and emotional development. Drawing from real-world experiences and professional insights, this book offers explanations, proven strategies, and playful activities that children respond to. It provides valuable guidance for parents seeking positive change and stringer bonds with their children. Whether you face specific challenges or aspire to build a well-rounded foundation for your child's growth, this book is an essential companion on your parenting journey.

Ebook also Available

Australia

USA

Canada

Parental Burnout - online course

Parental Burnout is physical, emotional and mental exhaustion that comes from the never-ending challenges of parenting. When we burnout, we can't be the parent we want to be to our children. It is important to recognise the signs, learn what causes burnout and how to restore. In this course you will learn how our expectations of our children, ourselves and partners contribute to burnout. You will find how to identify your triggers and how to manage them. Then we go through how to restore and use self-care at every stage of parenting. This course includes 3 videos that are approx. 30 min each. Plus worksheets and handouts with tools you can use at home. When you purchase the course you will receive an email with the links to download the videos and a worksheets. These links are valid for 72 hours, however once they have been downloaded, you are able to watch them whenever you like.

This online course is full of practical ideas and activities that you can do with your child. In this course you will learn about What is Anxiety and Why? Anxiety and the Brain Explaining Anxiety to Children Sensitive Souls Separation Anxiety What to do in the moment What not to do Mindfulness and Anxiety Helpful/unhelpful thoughts Practical tools The course includes 3 videos between 30-40 min long It also includes 21 printable illustrations and printable instructions for all the practical activities

Online Course -
Growing Calm: Tools to Ease Anxiety in Young Minds

To the Point videos and resources - For a Limited time these are only $3

Online Parenting Sessions

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The Dream Director

This Children's book empowers children and parents to manage nightmares and sleep peacefully

Mindfulness and Gratitude Puzzle

This puzzle teaches children how to create their own "special place" using imagery. This is combined with mindfulness techniques and controlled breathing

Book, Cards and Puzzle Bundle
valued at almost $100 for just $80

Feelings Faces Discs

9 realistic portraits of children's emotions. Each with the written word for the emotion on the back

Gratitude and Mindfulness cards for kids

Gratitude is something we have to learn but when we do it has a major impact on our future physical and mental health. These cards help children recognise all the things that they have to be grateful for

Instant Downloadable Posters
Download some of my most popular illustrations

Breathing Cards

8 engraved wooden cards that children can trace with their finger as they breathe

Self-esteem Bucket Puzzle

This puzzle helps children not only understand how to "fill their bucket" but also "fix their Bucket" when damage has been done

ABOUT ME

I am a Psychologist with over 20 years experience working with children and families. I have worked in many settings including schools, Private Practice and Government agencies. I have extensive experience working Autistic people as well as conducting diagnostic assessments. In this time I found that I was seeing the same issues coming through my door, requiring the same strategies. While some difficulties will need regular sessions with a qualified Psychologist, sometimes parents just need a few tips and creative ideas to bring change to their children's lives. I hope to offer you proven strategies and playful activities that children respond to.

Developing Impulse Control in Children

Helping Children Grow through Set Backs

Cooperation, Not Obedience as a Goal of Parenting

CONTACT ME

As a Psychologist I know that sometimes a few simple tips is all you need. I hope to provide parents with easy to learn skills and strategies

thetherapistparent@gmail.com

Helping a child regulate doesn't mean you are giving in to your child. You can compassionately hold a boundary and help them Co-regulate. Validating their feelings and allowing them to feel heard isn't giving in, it takes the fire out of the fight. They don't feel that they have to prove their feelings to you.

Learning to Co-regulate with your child is a skill that you will be able to draw on during stressful times. It helps children and adults to manage emotions while maintaining connection. It will also help children to grow with a sense of security and the ability to eventually self-regulate. Surely, if you are the parent or the child, this is something we could all use regardless of age.

More information in my book

Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

#parenting #postitiveparenting #gentleparenting #respectfulparenting #resilience #family #children #Psychologist

✨ Say this, not that — Emotion Coaching Edition

What we say in tough moments teaches kids what to believe about their feelings.
Are emotions safe? Are they allowed? Will someone still stay close when they’re big?

These small shifts in language help children feel seen and supported — and that’s what builds emotional intelligence, not just obedience.

💛 Need more strategies like this? You’ll find them in Guidance from The Therapist Parent — available at www.thetherapistparent.com or via the link in my bio.

#TheTherapistParent #RespectfulParenting #EmotionalCoaching #SayThisNotThat #ParentingTips #ParentingSupport #EmotionallyHealthyKids #BigFeelings

When kids act out, push back, or fall apart, it’s not defiance. It’s a signal.
A signal that something feels too big, too hard, or too overwhelming.

Instead of jumping straight to consequences, try this:
💬 “That was a big reaction — are you okay?”
💬 “Looks like something’s feeling tricky right now.”

This doesn’t mean we excuse the behaviour.
It means we meet the need behind it — and guide them from there.
Because connection is what builds cooperation. 💛

📘 Find more tools like this in my book Guidance from The Therapist Parent — available at www.thetherapistparent.com or via the link in bio.

#TheTherapistParent #RespectfulParenting #ParentingSupport #EmotionalSafety #ConnectionOverCorrection #BigFeelings #ParentingWisdom

🎲 BIG Feelings Made FUN! 🎲

Our Emotions Dice help kids express and explore their feelings through play! Roll to show a face—happy, sad, angry, scared, laughing, or surprised—and act it out!

✨ Want to go deeper? Pair it with our Body Parts Dice! Kids roll one for the emotion, one for a body part, and describe how their body responds. “What do your hands do when you’re angry?” “How does your heart feel when you laugh?”

💡 Perfect for:

Solo or group play

Crafty classroom fun

Outdoor movement activities

💬 A playful way to build emotional awareness, body respect, and self-expression!

👀 Grab your set now and turn big feelings into big learning! From my friend Leanne from @5littlebears_aus
🔗 https://www.5littlebears.com.au/products/new-emotions-dice

#EmotionalIntelligence #TherapistParent #LearningThroughPlay

Disappointment is a part of life — and how we respond matters more than fixing it.
💬 “That sounds really tough.”
💛 Let them feel it.
👂 Listen, don’t rush.
🧠 Help them name the feeling.
🌱 Support healthy coping tools like breathing, talking, or taking a break.
✨ Most importantly — model it yourself. Let them see you ride the waves too.

We’re not here to shield them from all pain — we’re here to walk beside them through it. 💛

More practical support in Guidance from The Therapist Parent, available at www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon worldwide.

#respectfulparenting #parentingtips #emotionalresilience #copingskills #thetherapistparent

So often we as parents are frustrated by our child’s behaviour, it can feel so personal. Being so emotional can just be infuriating. The problem is that all of these behaviours are exactly what our children should be doing for their development. When we understand the basics of child brain development and have some insight into why our children are behaving this way, it can make a huge difference in how we see our children. We no longer see our children as being “naughty” or trying to deliberately drive us crazy, but that they are doing the best with what they have. Also if we help them calm and work through what has upset them, then we are actually supporting positive brain development.

More information in my new online course coming soon

Growing Calm: Tools for easing anxiety in young minds

And

My book - Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com
Or
Amazon

#childdevelopment #braindevelopment #behaviour #parenting #parentingtips #playtherapy #psychologist #childtherapy #life #play #parentinghacks #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #resilience #respectfulparenting #asd #ADHD #teacher #mumlife #momlife #dad #family #kids

You are your child’s emotional anchor.

When the world feels big, fast, or overwhelming, they look to you to help them feel safe enough to calm down.

Not because you have all the answers.
Not because you always get it right.

But because your steady presence tells their nervous system:
“You’re not alone.”

That is the work.

And when you don’t feel steady? That’s okay. Anchors aren’t flawless. But every repair you make is another message of safety and connection.

🤍 Gentle parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about relationship.

👉 More on co-regulation, repair, and connection in my book Guidance from The Therapist Parent (link in bio or search on Amazon worldwide).

#RespectfulParenting #TheTherapistParent #ParentingTips #CoRegulation #EmotionalSafety

Your child is not too much.

They're not dramatic. They're not attention-seeking.

What looks like “bad behaviour” is often a nervous system saying:

🚨 “I’m overloaded.”
🚨 “I don’t feel safe.”
🚨 “I need help to come back to calm.”

What they need isn’t less support — it’s more connection, more tools, more safety.

As the adult, we become their external regulator until they can do it themselves.

✨ You’re not enabling them by supporting them.
You’re building their ability to regulate, one calm connection at a time.

Need more practical scripts and strategies? That’s exactly what’s inside my book and membership.

📖 Guidance from The Therapist Parent is available now (link in bio).

#RespectfulParenting #SensoryNeeds #MeltdownSupport #TherapistParent #ParentingWithEmpathy

Kids aren’t always going to get it right — especially when emotions are high. When they speak disrespectfully, it’s not always defiance… sometimes it’s dysregulation.

Instead of reacting, try a do-over:
🌀 “Try that again with a different tone.”
🧘 “Let’s take a break and come back when we’re both calm.”
🌱 “I’m listening, but I won’t accept that tone. Let’s try again.”

These moments teach boundaries and emotional regulation — without shame.

💛 We’re not just correcting behaviour, we’re building skills.

📘 Find more respectful and effective parenting strategies in my book Guidance from The Therapist Parent – available at www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon worldwide.

#TheTherapistParent #RespectfulParenting #DoOversNotPunishment #EmotionalRegulation #ParentingTools #ConnectedParenting #ParentingTips #GentleParenting

✨ Welcome to my Instagram Subscribers! ✨
I’m so glad you’re here. This space is just for you — a place where I’ll share exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, deeper dives into parenting topics, early access to new resources, and honest conversations about the challenges and beauty of raising emotionally healthy kids.

Thank you for choosing to be part of this community. 💛
Let me know in the comments or DMs — what kind of content would be most helpful for you here? I’m listening.

#TheTherapistParent #InstagramSubscribers #ParentingSupport #RespectfulParenting #SubscriberCommunity

🌟 Opening Soon! 🌟
I’m so excited to announce that The Therapist Parent Membership is almost here! This space is designed to give you the support, tools, and community you need to parent with confidence and connection.

💬 Monthly Q&As
🎥 A growing video library of practical strategies
🧠 Real tools for real challenges
👥 A closed Facebook group to connect and grow together
🎨 All my illustrations and access to my online courses

💛 I’d love to know — what are you hoping to get out of this membership? Comment below or send me a message! Let’s build something amazing together.

#TheTherapistParent #RespectfulParenting #ParentingSupport #ParentingCommunity #ParentingHelp

So often we as parents are frustrated by our child’s behaviour. The tantrums, wanting the same coloured cup, and generally being overly emotional can just be so infuriating. But if we stop and think, don't we struggle managing our emotions? All of these behaviours are exactly what our children should be doing for their development. When we understand the basics of child brain development and have some insight into why our children are behaving this way, it can make a huge difference in how we see our children. We no longer see our children as being “naughty” or trying to deliberately drive us crazy, but that they are doing the best with what they have. Also if we help them calm and work through what has upset them, then we are actually supporting positive brain development.

More information in my book

Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

https://www.thetherapistparent.com/post/why-parents-need-to-understand-brain-development

Link in bio

#childdevelopment #braindevelopment #behaviour #parenting #parentingtips #playtherapy #psychologist #childtherapy #life #play #parentinghacks #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #resilience #respectfulparenting #asd #ADHD #teacher #mumlife #momlife #dad #family #kids

Children aren’t designed to sit still all day. Movement helps their brains develop, supports emotional regulation, and builds focus. When we treat movement like a reward, we miss what it really is — a biological need. Respectful parenting means giving our kids the space to move before the meltdown, not after.

📘 Want more insights like this? My book Guidance from The Therapist Parent is packed with practical strategies to support your child with empathy and understanding.

🔗 Available at www.thetherapistparent.com and on Amazon worldwide.

#RespectfulParenting #ChildDevelopment #MovementMatters #TheTherapistParent #ParentingWithEmpathy #NeurodiversityAffirming

Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. We’re not just raising kids, we’re re-parenting ourselves at the same time. Be gentle with you too. 💛

For more support, strategies, and real-talk parenting guidance, grab a copy of my book Guidance from The Therapist Parent:
📖 www.thetherapistparent.com or Amazon worldwide 🌍

#respectfulparenting #gentleparenting #parentinghumor #breakingcycles #thetherapistparent

Co-regulation is a core part of respectful parenting—it’s how children learn to manage big feelings by feeling safe in ours. But it doesn’t always work the way we hope, and that’s not your fault.

Here’s why it can break down:
🔁 You're emotionally flooded or triggered
🌪️ The environment is too loud, chaotic, or sensory-heavy
🔥 The child’s emotions (or yours) are already too escalated

This doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means the nervous system needs safety and space first. Regulation can’t be rushed.

I go deeper into how to co-regulate and support your child’s emotional development in my book Guidance from The Therapist Parent.
📘 Get your copy here: www.thetherapistparent.com or search it on Amazon worldwide 🌍

#CoRegulation #RespectfulParenting #EmotionalSafety #TheTherapistParent #ParentingSupport #ConnectedParenting

Our expectations of our kids can be so incredibly unfair. They are learning everything. It is our job to teach and guide. Emotions are hard to negotiate. Adults often find it hard, so why do we expect kids to know?

More information in my book

Guidance from The Therapist Parent
Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

#parenting #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #resilience #respectfulparenting #psychologist #play #playtherapy #childdevelopment #childtherapy #parentingtips #teachers #asd #family #life #adhd #mumlife #momlife #dads

There is so much more to behaviour than most people think. Children don’t try to upset us, there is usually something behind it. They are communicating their need through behaviour. If we look behind the behaviour we can see a child who is doing the best they can

More information in my book

Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

#parenting #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #respectfulparenting #resilience #family #children #Psychologist #play #playtherapy #life #mumlife #momlife #dads #teachers

It can definitely feel like it, but kids aren't deliberately trying to drive us crazy. They are struggling to manage their emotions which can set off our triggers. That's why it is helpful to work out what your triggers are and work out how to manage them before you kids push those buttons.
More information in my book

Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com

Or Amazon

#coregulating #school #schoolanxiety #coregulation #parentingadvice #play #kids #parenting #parentingtips #playtherapy #psychologist #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #parentingtips #play #parentingwithintention #family #mumlife #momlife #dads #teachers #ADHD #anxiety #anger

As parents, when our child comes into our room frightened by some sort of fanciful Dream, it is tempting for us through bleary eyed exhaustion and say “it’s just a dream, it’s not real, just don’t think about it”. While we do this with the best intentions, the truth is it simply won’t work. To them it was real. If we tell them not to think about, I guarantee that will be ALL they can think about. If I tell you not to think about chocolate, what did you think about?

When I wrote my children’s book “The Dream Director” I found that so many children were struggling with nightmares and parents were at a loss as to how to manage them. However, if we give control back to our kids in how their dreams should end, we take the power away from the fear and give them confidence to sleep. The story in my book give examples of how this strategy can be applied to common childhood nightmares. It gives children the chance to practice this skill when they aren't in the moment and before going to sleep to that if they do wake is is easier for them to take control of their dream and sleep.

In Australia you can buy my book on my website www.thetherapistparent.com/online-store

Everywhere else it is available on Amazon

For more help on sleep, see my blog
https://www.thetherapistparent.com/post/overcoming-nightmares-and-creating-sleep

#author #illustrator #nightmares #sleep #empoweringchildren #dreams #parenting #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #resilience #respectfulparenting #psychologist #play #playtherapy #childdevelopment #childtherapy #parentingtips #teachers #asd #family #life #adhd #mumlife #momlife #dads #bibliotherapy

Respectful parenting doesn’t mean being permissive.
It doesn’t mean saying yes to everything.
It means setting boundaries with empathy. 💛

You can say no and still honor your child’s emotions.
You can hold a limit and hold space for their tears.
Discipline rooted in connection isn’t weak — it’s wise.

Want practical tools for setting boundaries without shame or power struggles?
📘 Guidance from The Therapist Parent is available now: www.thetherapistparent.com + Amazon.

#RespectfulParenting #BoundariesWithEmpathy #GentleDiscipline #TherapistParent #ParentingWithConnection #CycleBreakingParenting

We expect children to listen with respect, even when they’re being spoken to disrespectfully.
Respect isn’t something we demand—it’s something we model.

I go deeper into this (and how to shift the dynamic) in my book Guidance from The Therapist Parent. 💛
You can find it on Amazon or at www.thetherapistparent.com
#TherapistParent #RespectfulParenting #ParentingSupport #EmotionalIntelligence

“NO! I don’t want to!” 😩
If that feels like your child’s default answer lately, you’re not alone — and it’s not always about defiance.

From a respectful parenting lens, a child saying “no” can actually be a good thing.

Here’s what it can mean:
💪 They’re practicing autonomy
🧠 They’re learning to set boundaries
💬 They feel emotionally safe with you
🌱 They’re showing growing emotional maturity
🤝 They’re inviting collaboration — not control

Underneath the “no” could also be:
➡️ Overwhelm
➡️ Transition stress
➡️ Emotional disconnection
➡️ Unmet needs
➡️ A deep need for agency

Instead of shutting down the no, try getting curious about it.

✨ A “no” is not the end of the conversation. It’s the beginning of connection.

🫶 Follow @The_Therapist_Parent for more respectful parenting tools that grow self-trust, not fear.

#respectfulparenting #gentleparenting #consciousparenting #parentingtools #emotionalintelligence #toddlers #positiveparenting #therapistparent #parentingreels

As a family, feelings should be spoken about openly and how they impact you. You can say, "I'm really tired at the moment so I'm finding it harder to be calm". Talk about how your body feels and what you can do to help you remain calm. Ask your child what they would do. When your child is getting frustrated link their body with the emotion, such as "your muscles look really tight, are your feeling frustrated"? You can talk about what you do when you are frustrated and practice together, breathing exercises are a great way to do this (look at previous blogs on fun relaxations).

More information in my book

📖 Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

Link in bio

#selfregulation #coregulation #parenting #parentingtips #playtherapy #psychologist #childtherapy #life #play #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #parentingtips #play #parentingwithintention #family #kids #resilience #respectfulparenting #asd #ADHD #teacher #mumlife #momlife #dad #consciousparenting #illustrations #infographic

When kids have big emotions, we tend to think they are overly sensitive, that they need more resilience. Most of the time, it is because there is a lot happening for the child that we can't see and don't know, that is pushing them beyond their means of coping. Instead, we can change the response from they are overreacting to seeing a child who has a lot happen for them. They are doing the best they can. They need our help, not judgement.

More information in my book

Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

#parenting #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #resilience #respectfulparenting #psychologist #play #playtherapy #childdevelopment #childtherapy #parentingtips #teachers #asd #family #life #adhd #mumlife #momlife #dads

Harsh punishments leave a child’s nervous system trying to find safety and making them reactive. Helping a child calm and coaching them through, will build a calmer nervous system and allow them to learn to manage their emotions better.

We need to discipline our kids in the true sense of the word; teach direct and guide them. We need to work with them and not be an authority to cause fear, but someone that will help them develop to the same moral standard we have.

So when setting a limit:

👉Is it reasonable? Sometimes our first response is "no". But can it be done a different way or at another time?

👉Is it developmentally appropriate? Often our expectations of our kids are just too high

👉 you can set limits in love. Connection is is so important if we want kids to follow our instructions. Be careful not to damage it

👉 problem solve together. If we work with our kids and get them to find a solution then they learn to make good decisions and you are more likely to have cooperation

More information in my book.
Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com/online-store

And on Amazon

#parenting #problemsolving
#discipline #positiveparenting
#gentleparenting #respectfulparenting #resilience #family #life #children #Psychologist #childtherapy #play #mumlife #momlife #dads #asd #adhd #teachers

When a child makes a mistake, they’re not just looking for consequences—they’re looking for connection.

They’re wondering:
“Am I still loved?”
“Am I safe?”
“Will you still accept me?”

If we respond with harshness or shame, they learn to hide.
If we respond with calm, compassion, and guidance, they learn to come closer.

We don’t need to excuse the behaviour—but we do need to protect the relationship.
Because over time, that trust becomes the foundation for honesty, accountability, and emotional safety.

Let’s be the ones they run to, not the ones they fear.

More information in my book
Guidance from The Therapist Parent
Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

#GentleParenting #ConsciousParenting #ParentingWisdom

We’re not supposed to get it right all the time. Parenting is a developmental process—just like childhood. Mistakes aren't failures; they're invitations to grow, reflect, and show up differently next time. You don’t need to be perfect, just willing to keep learning.

Want more support on your parenting journey? Check out my book Guidance from The Therapist Parent at www.thetherapistparent.com or on Amazon worldwide.

#ParentingJourney #ProgressNotPerfection #GentleParenting #TheTherapistParent

Sometimes, your child won't want to be held and don't force it. But if we can stay calm, meet the feeling, not the behaviour, then co-regulation can happen. When we hold our child, there is a physical change. Their nervous system will mirror ours. We just have to wait for the fire to go out.

Co-regulation doesn’t have to involve hugging. Some kids won’t calm when held, but doesn’t mean that you can’t co-regulate. Being close and calm will still impact your child’s nervous system and eventually calm too. When you label the feeling for your child rather than reacting to the behaviour, they feel heard and understood. When they are ready, you can work it out together

More information on my book

Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

https://www.thetherapistparent.com/post/co-regulating-with-children-of-all-ages

Without connection we have to rely on force. We fall back on threats, bribes and harsh punishments. But force usually causes damage. If you want to have influence connection is the key

More information in my book
📖 Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

#parenting #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #resilience #respectfulparenting #psychologist #play #playtherapy #childdevelopment #childtherapy #parentingtips #teachers #asd #family #life #adhd #mumlife #momlife #dads #bibliotherapy #infographic

We are all doing our best. Kids are using what they have to deal with the situation. Their brain and nervous system are underdeveloped and reacting. They are not trying to upset us or manipulate us. It is our job to look beyond the behaviour, teach them and guide them through.

More information in my book

Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available in paperback and ebook on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

#parenting #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #resilience #respectfulparenting #psychologist #play #playtherapy #childdevelopment #childtherapy #parentingtips #teachers #asd #family #life #adhd #mumlife #momlife #dads #bibliotherapy

Helping a child regulate doesn't mean you are giving in to your child. You can compassionately hold a boundary and help them Co-regulate.

Learning to Co-regulate with your child is a skill that you will be able to draw on during stressful times. It helps children and adults to manage emotions while maintaining connection. It will also help children to grow with a sense of security and the ability to eventually self-regulate. Surely, if you are the parent or the child, this is something we could all use regardless of age.

More information in my book
Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

#parenting #postitiveparenting #gentleparenting #respectfulparenting #resilience #family #children #Psychologist

When kids are little, they are overwhelmed with this emotion that crashes over them like a wave. They have no control over it and they don't really understand what it is. It is our job to help them understand. Just like learning to speak, children need to learn the language of emotions. They need to connect the feeling of Anger with their heart racing, getting hot, wanting to yell and kick. When we can name a feeling it becomes less scary, it becomes normal, something that we all experience.

Visual prompts can help children make the connection. I created these illustrations on wooden discs for this reason. Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com/online-store

More information in mybook
📖 Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

Link in bio

#emotions #emotioncoaching #parent #play #kids #parenting #parentingtips #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #psychologist #resilience #respectfulparenting #asd #ADHD #teacher #family #kids #parenting #parentingtips #playtherapy #psychologist #childtherapy #mumlife #momlife #dads #teachers #dad #anxiety

Respectful parenting doesn't mean no consequences — it means consequences without harm. When kids aren't punished, they don't shut down emotionally. They learn, grow, and become more resilient.
#RespectfulParenting #ConsciousParenting #GentleParenting #PositiveDiscipline #ParentingWithEmpathy #ParentingTips #EmotionalResilience #ParentingSupport #BreakTheCycle #PeacefulParenting

When we show our kids how to pause, reset, and express emotions in healthy ways, we’re teaching them powerful lifelong skills. Modeling self-awareness and self-regulation doesn’t just help us—it shows them what to do when they feel overwhelmed. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being human, and showing them how to navigate that with care.

Learn more in Guidance from The Therapist Parent – available now at www.thetherapistparent.com or on Amazon.
#TheTherapistParent #ConsciousParenting #ModelTheMoment #GentleParenting

There are key reasons why punishment just doesn't seem to bring long-term change.

When we punish a child, they focus on what is happening to them rather than what they did that was wrong in the first place. They become more selfish and don't develop empathy for others. They don't develop internal motivation for change.

More information in my book

Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

#punishment #discipline #parenting #parentingtips #playtherapy #psychologist #childtherapy #life #play #psychologist #childtherapy #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #parentingtips #play #parentingwithintention #family #kids #resilience #respectfulparenting #asd #ADHD #teacher #mumlife #momlife #dad

More books have arrived!!!!

I still get excited when I open a new box of books.

I am so thankful for these book reviews. They make such a difference to how my book is promoted.

You can buy my book in Australia on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and worldwide on Amazon

#parenting #respectfulparenting #psychologist #helpingparents

Celebrate Bravery Not Success
Nothing reinforces fear more than failure. If they were scared, tried and failed chances are they won't try again. We need to change the way we view failure. If a child was scared to try something new but they did try then that is a success. Help your child recognise bravery and make sure you label it as bravery. Kids need to realise that they are brave even if things don't work out the way they want. When they realise that they had some success, they will have the confidence to try again.

I have written an online course to help parents support their anxious kids

"Growing Calm: Tools for easing Anxiety in young minds"

https://www.thetherapistparent.com/online-store/Growing-Calm-Tools-for-Easing-Anxiety-in-Young-Minds-p660862504

More information in my book

Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

#brave #school #schoolanxiety #socialdistancing #isolation #lockdown #parentingadvice #play #kids #parenting #parentingtips #playtherapy #psychologist #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #parentingtips #play #parentingwithintention #family #kids #mumlife #momlife #dads #teachers #ADHD #anxiety #anger

Mother’s Day is my favourite day of the year. Birthdays are nice—but I don’t have to do anything to have one. Being a mum is something I give my whole heart to, every single day.

I love the handmade gifts, the thought, and just being together. These moments mean even more because they come from connection—the kind that grows through respectful parenting.

When we lead with empathy, our kids feel safe, seen, and loved—and that’s the best gift of all.

For more thoughts on parenting with connection and compassion, you can check out my book Guidance from The Therapist Parent—available on www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon.

#MothersDay #RespectfulParenting #ConnectedParenting #ParentingWithHeart #TherapistParent #IntentionalParenting #MotherhoodMoments #ParentingJourney #GratefulMama

I spend most of my time as a Psychologist teaching kids about feelings. It never stops amazing me how a lot of adults struggle at doing this. Feelings are there for a reason, we need to recognise them so we can manage them

When kids are little, sticking to Happy, Sad, Angry, Scared and Worried are fine. They are the building blocks for understanding emotions. However, as children get older we need to expand their emotional vocabulary. For example, there is a difference between feeling angry and disappointed or confused and frustrated. The way would would manage anger and disappointment are probably going to be different too.

More information in my book:

Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

Link in bio

#emotions #emotioncoaching #parenting #parentingtips #playtherapy #psychologist #childtherapy #life #play #kids

We can get so focused on getting this parenting thing right, we can lose sight of what is important. You don't have to get it right all the time. Nobody does. When we get down on ourselves, we are at risk of parental burnout.

I have written a course to help parents recover and restore from parental burnout. In this course you will learn how our expectations of out children, ourselves and partners contribute to burnout. You will find how to identify your triggers and how to manage them. Then we go through how to restore and use self-care at every stage of parenting.

This course includes 3 videos that are approx. 30 min each. Plus worksheets and handouts with tools you can use at home.

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com

Link in bio

#parenting #burnout ##parentalburnout #psychology

It can be so hard to stay calm when your child is anxious. We want to quickly stop the anxiety and save them. It triggers us to rescue, when what we need to do is stay calm and help them feel safe that is an incredibly powerful tool to manage anxiety.

More information in my book

Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

#anxiety #parenting #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #consciousparenting

:

🎉 MY SESSION IS LIVE NOW!

If you're ready to help your anxious child [specific transformation], this session is for you!

In "Resilienceand emotional regulation" I'm sharing:

✨ "Simple ways to turn anxious moments into confidence-building opportunities"

✨ "Practical tools that work when worry feels overwhelming"

✨️ "Easy-to-implement strategies that builds connection"

🎬 Watch Free Today Only! Part of the "Worry Less, Play More" Speaker Series

Remember:

• Free for next 24 hours

• Simple registration required

• Practical tools you can use today

• Part of 20+ expert sessions

🎟️ Watch Now: https://krysten.krtra.com/t/WPICOR9DuSlF

Drop a ❤️ below if you're joining me!

#ParentingSupport #ChildhoodAnxiety #AnxiousKids

Do you have a child that people call "sensitive soul"? Or worse, are they labeled as weak, a sook, or wimp? Our culture has presented these children in a negative light as if feeling deeply is a negative attribute to have. When we try to "toughen kids up", we are actually damaging a character trait that that sees, feels and understands things that most people don't. If we nurture and guide these children to understand and develop their sensitive side, what incredible adults they will be.

Sensitive kids aren't weak, they actually are far more aware of what is happening around them than most. They notice changes in their environment, they seem to notice the moods of others more quickly and will be running through every possible scenario in their head before making a decision. Yes these children are more prone to anxiety, but their sensitive nature doesn't have to be a negative trait, they just need help to develop it.

More information in my book

Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

https://www.thetherapistparent.com/post/raising-a-sensitive-soul

Link in bio

#sensitivesoul #parenting #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #respectfulparenting #resilience #Psychologist #parentingtips #resilience #family #children #kids #anxiety #parentingtips #play #playtherapy #life #adhd #asd #neurodivergent #mumlife #momlife #dad #teacher

Self-regulation is hard, even for adults. We have to practice it regularly. But recognising emotions and managing them well is not just a job for children. It is our responsibility as adults to recognise when we are feeling like we are no longer calm and do what we need to to stay in control. It is also our responsibility to teach our children how to do this. If we are all taking responsibility for our own emotions and openly using strategies to calm, we will create a home where emotions are acknowledged and managed, creating a self-regulated family.

More information in my book 📖

Guidance from The Therapist Parent

Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

#parenting #parentingtips #playtherapy #psychologist #childtherapy #life #play #positiveparenting #gentleparenting #parentingtips #play #parentingwithintention #family #kids #resilience #respectfulparenting #asd #ADHD #teacher #mumlife #momlife #dad #connection

Tomorrow's the day! 💫

The "Worry Less, Play More" Speaker Series begins, and I couldn't be more excited to share these transformational tools with you!

Starting tomorrow, 20+ childhood anxiety experts will show you simple, proven ways to:

• Help your child move through anxiety

• Build lasting confidence

• Create calmer daily routines

• Support emotional wellbeing

• Strengthen your connection

I'm honored to be sharing about resilience and emotional regulation.

What You'll Get:

✦ Access to all expert sessions (free for 24 hours each)

✦ Practical tools you can use immediately

✦ Supportive community of understanding parents

✦ Live Q&A opportunities

✦ Real solutions that work

Don't miss this chance to help your child worry less and play more!

🎟️ Register Free
https://krysten.krtra.com/t/WPICOR9DuSlF

P.S. Join now to access our supportive community before sessions begin!

#ChildhoodAnxiety #ParentingSupport #AnxiousKids

Kids will trigger us—it’s part of parenting. But those triggers? They come from our past, not their behavior. It’s not their job to tiptoe around our pain. It’s our job to notice it, name it, and work through it. Healing happens when we take responsibility for what’s ours.

Want to go deeper?
More information in my book Guidance from The Therapist Parent, available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and on Amazon.

#ConsciousParenting #HealingParent #ParentingTriggers #TheTherapistParent #GentleParenting

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