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THRIVING MINDS PODCAST — Arts
THRIVING MINDS PODCAST

Do you want to learn how to build resilience, boost your cognitive performance, and achieve mental agility? Then it’s time to discover the exciting world of brain health and fitness with Thriving Minds. Hosted by renowned neuroscientist Professor Selena Bartlett, Thriving Minds is a podcast dedicated to exploring the latest advances in brain science education.

With decades of experience studying addiction, stress, and mental health, Professor Bartlett is a true expert in her field. And she’s on a mission to empower people to take control of their mental and physical well-being. So what makes Thriving Minds so unique?

It’s not just about theory – it’s about practical tips and simple tools that you can use to improve your brain health and fitness right now. From understanding how stress wires the brain, the power of cold exposure, nutrition and exercise and connection.

Thriving Minds is also a deep dive into cutting-edge brain science and digital technology. From neuroplasticity to brain imaging, Professor Bartlett and her team are at the forefront of this rapidly evolving field. They’re exploring the latest research and innovations and sharing their insights with listeners around the world.And the best part?

Let’s make brain health everyone’s business. They’re inspiring people to take action and create a culture of mental fitness, where people prioritise their brain health as much as their physical health.

Tune in to the podcast and discover the secrets of brain health and fitness. Whether you’re looking to boost your cognitive performance, reduce stress, or improve your overall well-being, Selena and her team are here to help you thrive.

The opinions expressed in the podcast are Selena Bartlett’s personal opinion and her guests. They are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, psychology or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The opinions in the podcast do not reflect the opinion of Queensland University of Technology.

Copyright: © 2022 THRIVING MINDS

Latest Episodes:

Episode #153 Linking Lost Kids with Family: Talking about justice, but we rarely do it. Solutions to Get Children Out Of Being In Care with Kevin Campbell and Elizabeth Wendel, Founders Pale Blue and Family Finding Nov 06, 2023

Show notes

Are you Building Bridges, Bars, or Barriers: We constantly talk about justice, but we rarely do it. Solutions for Children in Residential Care and Detention, Kevin Campbell and Elizabeth Wendell, Founders Pale Blue and Family Finding

"Family Finding" is a methodology in child safety and welfare, developed by Kevin A. Campbell, which prioritizes reconnecting children in the foster care system with their extended family members and other significant connections. The main goal is to establish a lifelong network of support, ensuring the child's well-being, safety, and permanency.
Here's why "Family Finding" is vital in child safety:

Lifelong Connections: It operates on the understanding that every child deserves a family and the benefits of lifelong, meaningful relationships.
Safety and Support: By reconnecting children with their families, they can have a broader support system. This can increase the chances of success once they transition out of the foster care system and enter adulthood.
Enhanced Well-being: A sense of belonging and connection can have profound effects on a child's mental and emotional well-being.
Reduction in Time in Foster Care: Reconnecting children with their families can potentially lead to quicker reunification or other permanency solutions, reducing the time spent in foster care.
Shared Decision-making: The approach values the input and involvement of the child's family in planning and decision-making processes.
Holistic Understanding: The process of "Family Finding" also provides caseworkers with a more comprehensive understanding of the child's history, potential risks, and protective factors within their extended family.

The approach typically involves a structured search for relatives and others with a significant connection to the child, followed by engagement and planning sessions to ensure the child's safety and well-being. The ultimate goal is to provide each child with a network of committed adults who can offer enduring emotional and physical support.
Are you doing social work or being a social worker. Social work is personal. We are asking people to bring their whole self to the table. Pale Blue encouragement about acts of resistance, don’t make it personal, systems solutions, solutions lie in people not systems. Coaching yourself. What are my acts of resistance?
We delve into the transformative practice of 'Family Finding', a method that meticulously searches for relatives and significant figures in a child's life, culminating in strategic sessions to ensure a child's safety and well-being. Our journey doesn't just focus on the technicalities of social work, but on the essence of being a social worker - bringing one's whole self to the table, acknowledging personal acts of resistance, and leveraging systems for human-centric solutions.
In this space, we discuss the courage required to challenge entrenched systems and the influences that shape our perspectives. We explore stories of resilience, like that of children in Rwanda post-genocide, and how a community’s commitment to family reintegration can defy the norms of institutional care. Our dialogues often lead to revelations about power dynamics and the profound impact of having at least one person who believes in a child.
Join us as we engage with thought leaders from Pale Blue, drawing inspiration from the symbolism of our planet - a pale blue dot in the vast universe, as described by Carl Sagan. It's a reminder of our shared humanity and the need to cherish our home and relationships.
Together, we embark on a learning journey defined by action and reflection, fueled by the

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Learn more at www.profselenabartlett.com

Episode #152 The Great Separation: Making of a documentary, a Behind-the-Scenes Look with film maker and producer Shannon Swan and Georgia Fillmore. Oct 28, 2023

Show notes

At the tender age of 23, Joey faced the abyss of loneliness so deeply, he tragically attempted to end the pain once and for all. Waking up six days later in the ICU, he discovered the physical cost of his anguish: his right leg. But what led this young soul to such despair? More alarmingly, Joey’s story isn’t an isolated incident.
An astounding 1 in 3 Australians grapple with this gut-wrenching feeling of desolation and disconnection. Documentary filmmaking is a journey of discovery, exploration, and storytelling. Unlike fiction films, which are primarily driven by imagination and creativity, documentaries aim to depict reality, shed light on the truths of our world, or convey a particular viewpoint. The process can be both rewarding and challenging.

In this special episode, Shannon Swan and Georgia Fillmore delve into Joey's harrowing journey from that fateful day to his present search for understanding. Through candid conversations, they shed light on the endemic issue of loneliness in our society, its devastating aftermath, and the imperative need for solutions.

Join us as we welcome experts featured in the documentary "The Great Separation" who provide insights into the physiological, psychological, and societal aspects of loneliness. Learn about the challenges our modern world poses and discover practical ways to bridge the ever-widening gap of human connection.

Please join me for a community event of connection and belonging. I am hosting a private event at the Palace Cinema, Brisbane with a screening of the documentary film The Great Separation: Ambition for a better life together by Shannon Swan, an award winning filmmaker. The star of the film is Joseph Fry. He is making a special trip to meet everyone. The film helps to show ways to end loneliness and is incredibly uplifting.
Come to the event on Nov 2nd 6 pm. To find out more about the location and secure a seat please register for a ticket by clicking on the link. There are very limited seats.
https://events.humanitix.com/gather-for-good-or-an-ambition-for-a-better-life-together
Listen to Joey's amazing story and journey to become the star of the film on episode #151 of the Thriving Minds podcast here.
Outside meeting new people and connecting, we are going to be empowering and sending off Joey to begin the next step toward his Australian Paralympics Dream: Train with the Winter Ski Training Camp in USA November 9th 2023.
Otherwise please send him off with your kind and generous support. Every dollar is like a million to him, no matter how small. This will mean the world to him. As he said, if you can't, please give him a shout out as he makes his dreams come true.
Link here to his GoFundme page.
https://gofund.me/aeecbec5
If you can't make the event, the film is currently streaming free on-line on SBS ON Demand.

With heartwarming stories of resilience and community, coupled with actionable advice, this episode is more than just a recounting of a tale. It’s a call to action – a plea to recognize, confront, and combat the epidemic of loneliness. How can we design our lives, communities, and societies to foster connection and togetherness?

Listen in and let’s find a way back to each other.

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Learn more at www.profselenabartlett.com

Episode #151. Join us for an unforgettable evening of community, connection, and compassion! In a year that's tested our strength, let's come together to make 2023 end on a heartwarming note. 🌟 Together, we can make a difference in Brisbane, November 2nd Oct 23, 2023

Show notes

🌟 Together, we can make a difference in Brisbane, November 2nd 6pm. Register for tickets in the link, limited seats.
Link here:
https://events.humanitix.com/gather-for-good-or-an-ambition-for-a-better-life-together
🎥 Be part of a conversation about the inspiring documentary film, The Great Separation: An Ambition for a better life together.
In honour of the film and its star it asks us to come together as a community. We are hosting an event that brings us together.
🌟 Meet the star of the film and yours truly
🌟 Share stories that celebrate the good and resilience in our community.
Limited seats in Brisbane. Free ticket and popcorn. Ask that you donate to Joey directly on his GoFundMe page, link below.
💫 Don't miss this chance to support Joseph Fry attempts to and dream of joining the Australian Performance team in 2024 and then the Paralympics team.
We bid him farewell as he heads to the USA on November 9th to start training with the Winter ski training team in Colorado USA.
Mark your calendars and register today to be a part of this meaningful gathering. Let's show the world the power of connection and kindness!
If you can't make the event and would like to support Joey, please do at his
Go Fund Me Page:
Link here.
https://gofund.me/aeecbec5
Kind regards
Selena and Joey.
💙 #CommunityStrong #EndLoneliness #SupportJoey

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Subscribe and support the podcast at
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Learn more at www.profselenabartlett.com

Episode #150. Back to Basics To Build a Healthier Tomorrow Together. Dr Robyn Littlewood, CEO Health and WellBeing Queensland. Oct 15, 2023

Show notes

Simple Ways to Make Healthy Happen

Think of the impact we can make if we unite our efforts. By emphasizing prevention, engaging the community, and fostering partnerships, we can break the cycle of obesity and overweight in our daily environments.
Fibre, Baked Beans, and the Role of Frozen Foods

When discussing health and nutrition, one cannot overstate the importance of dietary fibre. Fibre is an essential component that aids in digestive health, can help lower cholesterol levels, and supports healthy blood sugar levels. It’s found in various foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Among these, baked beans, particularly when made from navy beans or haricot beans, emerge as an excellent source of dietary fibre.
Baked Beans: Not Just Comfort Food
Baked beans, a staple in many households, aren't just a comfort food; they're a nutritional powerhouse. Apart from being rich in fibre, they're a great source of plant-based protein and essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc. The tomato sauce they are often baked in also adds to their nutrient content, particularly the antioxidant lycopene which is good for heart health. However, one must be cautious about the sugar and salt content in some commercially prepared baked beans. Opting for a low-sodium and low-sugar variety or making them at home can be a healthier choice.
Frozen Foods and Fibre:
The mention of frozen foods often conjures images of unhealthy, processed meals. However, freezing is a preservation method that can lock in the nutrients of fresh produce. For instance, frozen green beans or peas can retain much of their fibre content, making them as beneficial as their fresh counterparts, if not more so in some cases, especially if the fresh versions have been stored for extended periods or transported long distances. The key is to select frozen foods that have no added salts, sugars, or preservatives.
Incorporating fibre into our diet doesn’t have to be a complex task. Simple, everyday foods like baked beans, whether from a can or homemade, and a mix of fresh and frozen veggies can help us achieve our daily fibre intake. So, the next time you're at the grocery store, consider stocking up on both baked beans and some fibre-rich frozen foods. Your digestive system will thank you.
Pick of the Crop
In today's fast-paced world, where convenience often trumps quality, the age-old practice of sourcing food directly from gardens has become a lost art for many. However, introducing children to the joys of gardening and the pleasure of consuming fresh, home-grown produce can pave the way for healthier eating habits and a deeper appreciation for nature. Here's how to bridge the gap and reintroduce gardens to our children's tables:

Start Small: Begin with easy-to-grow plants like herbs (basil, mint), lettuce, or radishes. These quick-growing plants offer children rapid gratification, encouraging them to remain invested in the gardening process.
Get Hands-On: Allow kids to get their hands dirty! Digging, planting seeds, watering, and eventually harvesting allows children to connect with the food source physically and emotionally.
Educational Opportunities: Use the garden as a living classroom. Discuss where different foods come from, the importance of seasons, and the role of pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Cook Together: Once your produce is ready to be harvested, involve children in the cooking process. Let them wash the veggies, snap the beans, or stir the pot. When kids participate in making their meals, they're more likely to eat and enjoy them.
Visit Local Farms: Enhance the gardening

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Subscribe and support the podcast at
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Learn more at www.profselenabartlett.com

Episode #149. What makes us tick? Restoring hope, rebuilding trust, and inspiring optimism forged by Human Kindness. Hugh Mackay AO psychologist, social researcher and writer Oct 09, 2023

Show notes

In today's thought-provoking episode, we're delighted to have Hugh Mackay, a renowned Australian social researcher and author of "The Kindness Revolution," as our guest. We dive deep into pressing societal issues such as the rising division and mistrust among communities. Hugh shares how kindness and community are not only essential to our human nature but are also keys to societal well-being.
Hugh and I are both appearing the documentary film "The Great Separation" Airing on SBS ON DEMAND starting October 10th, 2023.

🔍 What You'll Learn:

Why kindness and community are vital in today's increasingly divided world.
The role of technology in serving human needs and how it can be a force for collective good.
Hugh's insights into how crises like the 2020 bushfires and the global pandemic have reshaped our perspectives on community cooperation.
Practical tips for contributing to the kindness revolution at an individual and community level.

🌐 Key Takeaways:

Technology can be designed to be a servant to human needs, enhancing our cognitive and physical abilities.
Every individual has the power to contribute to the kindness revolution through self-awareness and meaningful interactions.

🎧 Tune in for a rich dialogue that highlights how the future isn't a place we're going to, but one we're creating—so let's make it one of kindness. If this episode resonates with you, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review.

Until next time, keep spreading kindness. 🌱💖

Link to the Great Separation here
https://www.thegreatseparation.com.au/
https://youtu.be/RVqW894lhkw?si=ZwQVq545zotEwx0D
Link to Hugh Mackay information
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hugh_Mackay_(social_researcher)

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https://www.buzzsprout.com/367319/supporters/new
Learn more at www.profselenabartlett.com

Episode #148 Moving Beyond Fear: Digging Deep into Anxiety's Origins, Nature, Nurture, and Navigating the Mind, Ken Loftus, Founder, Clinical Director, Counsellor, The Sunlight Centre Oct 01, 2023

Show notes

"What are you afraid of? Is it innate, or did someone introduce that fear and anxiety to you?"
Join us on an enlightening, diving deep into anxiety disorders with Ken Loftus.

"We've all experienced it," Ken began, "That sudden jolt of fear when you see a spider, or a puppy, or someone different from you. But where does it come from?

Evolutionary psychology tells us it's all about survival. Our brains have been wired over millions of years to detect threats - but how accurately?" He delved into the butterfly effect and how our early experiences might shape specific phobias. "Our irrational fears, like believing something's too hot without touching or fearing someone from a different culture, stem from our primal need to survive," he explained.

"Our senses are our primary tools. Yet, while we rely on them to navigate our world, they also shape our worldviews, sometimes inaccurately."

Ken painted a vivid picture. "Imagine seeing a spider. For some, it triggers childhood memories, core beliefs, and even revives age-old evolutionary fears. But is this nature or nurture?
Are we echoing sentiments from 2.5 million years ago?" He continued, "imagine an adult freaking out about a puppy. The immediate reaction is embarrassment. That spirals into thoughts like, 'I shouldn't feel this way,' which cascades into 'I'm worthless.' Such spirals are dangerous." With clarity, he described the mind's complex operations. "Your brain," he began, sketching a big circle on a whiteboard, "is continuously calculating. A smaller circle within represents our consciousness. When the optic nerve perceives a threat, like a dog, the brain reacts in nanoseconds."

Using socratic questioning, he encouraged the audience to challenge their fears. "When was the last time someone you knew was harmed by a dog? Or by a spider?" He concluded, "Our fears, no matter how irrational they seem, have a basis. Understanding that basis, whether it's evolutionary or learned, is the key to addressing it." The episode will leave you with a newfound understanding of fears and a toolkit to navigate them, emphasizing awareness, questioning, and self-compassion.

Socratic questioning is a method used to encourage deep thinking and self-reflection. Here are some Socratic questions you can use to understand a fear or anxiety you might be facing:
1.Defining the Fear/Anxiety
•What exactly am I afraid of or anxious about?
•Can I describe the specific situations or triggers that bring on this fear or anxiety?
•When did I first notice this fear or anxiety?
2.Understanding the Basis
•Why do I feel this way?
•Are there past experiences that might have contributed to this feeling?
•What beliefs or thoughts are underpinning this fear or anxiety?
3.Testing Reality
•What evidence do I have that supports this fear or anxiety?
•Conversely, what evidence do I have that contradicts or challenges it?
•Has there ever been a time when I faced this fear or anxiety and it didn't come to fruition?
4.Understanding Impact
•How does this fear or anxiety affect my daily life, decisions, or relationships?
•What might happen if I didn't have this fear or anxiety?
•Are there benefits to holding onto this fear or anxiety? If so, what are they?
5.Assessing Coping Mechanisms
•How have I coped with this fear or anxiety in the past?
•Which coping strategies have been effective, and which haven't?
•Are there healthier ways I could manage or confront this fear or anxiety?
6.Looking at Alternative Perspectives
•How would someone else view this situation?
•What would I tell a friend who had this same fear or anxiety?
•Are there other ways to interpret the situations that trigger my fear or anxiety?
7.Exploring Next Steps

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Learn more at www.profselenabartlett.com

Episode #147. Uplifting People Through Talking Stories, Navin Sam Regi, a multi-disciplinary artist. Sep 26, 2023

Show notes

We often hear that life is a journey, one where we pack bags filled with experiences, accomplishments, and material gains. But what if the most profound journey is not about packing, but unpacking? This sentiment captures the essence of the storytelling project we will discuss in today's episode.

Our guest, who has travelled both literally and metaphorically through diverse life paths, found himself at a moment where he was floored by the idea of "unpacking." After achieving various accolades and milestones, he realized that the journey of life often leads to an accumulation of things that may not serve our true essence. The realization that "you come with nothing and leave with nothing" prompted him to reconsider what he was carrying in his metaphorical luggage.

This episode delves into the idea of storytelling as a form of unpacking. It's about giving people the opportunity to sift through their experiences, make sense of them, and then give them back in a coherent narrative. For our guest, this process serves as a permanent record, an archival quality that allows him to leave behind something more meaningful than material accumulation. It’s a way for him, and for others who participate in this project, to unravel the layers of their lives, leaving a legacy of wisdom and insight rather than a closet full of unneeded baggage.

Join us for an enriching discussion about the power of narrative to help us both understand and liberate ourselves. It's about finding what's essential, and having the courage to let go of what isn’t.

Life is often described as a series of events, but to call it a "sequence" suggests a certain order, a predictability that many find is seldom the case. In reality, life is an uncertain sequence of events, each leading to further complexity. Just when we think we've figured out the pattern, the variables change, introducing new layers of intricacy into our existence.

This uncertainty and complexity are not to be feared but embraced. They are the elements that add depth, color, and texture to the tapestry of our lives. They introduce us to new challenges that stretch our abilities, new people who enrich our perspectives, and new situations that compel us to adapt and grow.

While the unpredictability of life can be daunting, it also offers us the opportunity to develop resilience, empathy, and wisdom. It teaches us that control is often an illusion, and that surrendering to the natural complexity of existence can bring its own form of peace.

Furthermore, the uncertain sequences that comprise our lives offer countless opportunities for transformation. They allow us to redefine success, to recalibrate our values, and to reorient our aspirations. In a world that is increasingly complex, the ability to adapt and find meaning amid uncertainty is not just a valuable skill; it's a necessary one.

So, as you navigate the intricate and unpredictable journey that is life, remember to embrace the complexity, to find beauty in the chaos, and to search for understanding within the enigma. After all, it is often in the labyrinthine corridors of uncertainty that we find the most profound answers.

Don't miss this episode; it promises a journey of its own—a mental and emotional expedition that helps us understand the value of unpacking our lives to discover what truly matters. 🎧

Not just an artist but a storyteller, Sam leverages his skills to instigate social change, and his accolades from Arts Queensland and Meta-The Walkley Foundation are a testament to his impact. Our discussion will expand your understanding of how art and storytelling can be potent tools for shaping society and human experience. Get ready for an eye-opening conversation that promises to redefine your perspectives on art, storytelling, and the complexities of human emotions. You don't want to miss this immersive narrative journey. 🎧

https://www.navins

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Episode #146. Busting Mental Health Myths and Take a Four-Second Pause when you feel Angry, with Beth Tyson, Trauma Expert, Consultant and Therapist, Philadelphia, United States Sep 16, 2023

Show notes

In this enlightening episode, we're joined by Beth Tyson, an expert trauma therapist, to demystify some common myths about mental health and child psychology.
Taking a four-second pause when you start to feel angry is a simple but effective strategy to create emotional distance from a triggering situation. It allows you a brief moment to gain better control over your emotions, providing a break for your brain to shift from a reactive state to a more reasoned one. This pause can be the first step in engaging the frontal lobe—the part of the brain responsible for rational thinking—enabling you to assess the situation more calmly and make a more informed choice about how to respond. It can also help you avoid saying or doing something in the heat of the moment that you might later regret. The practice aligns well with various cognitive behavioral techniques and mindfulness practices that aim to improve emotional regulation.

Myth #1: Neglecting the Emotional Lives of Infants and Toddlers
The critical role that early life experiences play in long-term mental health. She sheds light on the significance of implicit and emotional memories stored during these formative years and the importance of proactive care over reactive treatment.
Myth #2: Labeling Natural Reactions to Trauma as 'Disorders'
The pros and cons of psychiatric diagnoses, particularly their role in facilitating insurance coverage versus their potential to stigmatize and limit people. She advocates for a more nuanced understanding of the human experience, especially when it comes to survivors of childhood trauma.

Myth #3: The Burden of Individual Responsibility for Systemic Problems
The limitations of self-care and skill development in the face of systemic and intergenerational trauma. She calls for an approach that addresses societal root causes rather than solely focusing on the individual.

Myth #4: Expecting High Achievement in Psychologically Unsafe Environments
Touching on the intersection of basic neuroscience and human potential, Beth argues that the expectation for children to excel in unsafe environments is both unrealistic and damaging to their mental well-being.

Myth #5: Associating Shame with Anxiety and Panic Attacks
The common misconception that experiencing anxiety or panic attacks is somehow a sign of weakness or moral failing. She emphasizes their role as natural responses to stress and how, surprisingly, they can also serve positive functions.

Myth #6: The Overlooked Importance of Caregiver Support in Childhood Therapy
The vital need for holistic approaches that involve caregivers in a child's therapy journey, arguing that without this support, sustainable progress is unlikely.

Conclusion
Beth Tyson helps us unravel these myths, empowering us to make informed and compassionate decisions for our mental well-being and that of our children.

Join the Conversation
For an ongoing discussion on children’s mental health and childhood trauma, Beth invites you to join her private Facebook group, Emotiminds, a growing community of over 4,600 parents and mental health professionals.

Beth Tyson, MA, is a childhood trauma consultant, a 3x best-selling author, and a tireless advocate for the mental health of children and families. She founded Beth Tyson Trauma Consulting to provide trauma-responsive training and resources to organizations committed to supporting the emotional well-being of families.
https://www.bethtyson.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethtyson/
Here’s the Emotiminds link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/emotiminds
Link to the animated videos I co-created for teens with a

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Learn more at www.profselenabartlett.com

Episode #145. Struggling with children's screentime, social media, and devices? Parents we want to help you with tech age skills. Sam Jockel, CEO and Founder of Parent TV. Sep 12, 2023

Show notes

Are you struggling with your children screentime, messaging apps and devices? You are not alone, there is help, and expertise to help you navigate parenting in the tech age. Enter Parent TV.

I recently heard a rather striking story from a teacher who was engaging her primary school students in a discussion about ‘what they would like to be when they grow up?’, she received an unexpected response from one of the children. She raised her hand and replied, 'An iPhone.' 'Why do you want to become an iPhone?' ‘Mum and Dad love their iPhone.'

Fortunately, platforms like ParentTV are here to bridge the gap between what parents know and what they need to know. With a wide range of expert-led content on subjects ranging from cyberbullying to screen time management. ParentTV's mission is its emphasis on "getting on the kids' team." Listen to Sam Jockel on episode #145 of the Thriving Minds podcast who discusses the most important solution is your ATTENTION. She talks about how tech is the smoking and asbestos of 2023.

ParentTV serves as a centralized resource for parents who want to become proficient in raising children in the tech age. No brands or advertising that will contaminate the knowledge to help parents. We encourage all parents to take advantage of these wonderful resources. Let's work together to ensure that our children are not just surviving but thriving in the digital world.

While it's easy to assume that today's digital-native children are inherently savvy and resilient in navigating the complexities of technology, research and experience tell a different story. In this eye-opening episode, we explore the surprising risks and challenges that children face in our hyper-connected world.

As a parent, you may find yourself questioning, "Who's really looking after my children in this tech age?" The message and boundaries have become blurred between home and school. Parents are working and have become isolated from the community, and this is why we need an approach in the tech age.

To navigate this brave new world, upskilling has emerged as an essential part of modern parenting. Gone are the days when a parent could afford to be uninformed about the latest trends in technology, social media platforms, or online safety protocols. Understanding the nuances of the digital age is vital for safeguarding children's well-being, fostering positive development, and equipping them with the life skills they'll need in a 21st-century landscape.

Get involved, stay informed, and become the tech-savvy parent your kids need you to be.

Sam Jockel Founder at ParentTV, Former EIR at UQ, Author, Speaker, Influencer at School Mum and ALDI Mum.

#Upskilling #ParentingInTheTechAge #ParentTV #ThrivingMinds #DigitalLiteracy #ChildDevelopment

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Learn more at www.profselenabartlett.com

Episode #144. THE STRUGGLE IS REAL. Parenting Children in the Tech Age: Develop Skills for Conversations about Tech and Sex with Young Children, Conrad Townson, Project Paradigm, Expert in Child Safety and Exploitation Sep 05, 2023

Show notes

Call to Action

We live in an era where 18-month-old infants can now navigate YouTube, and the digital landscape has become a playground as well as perilous for our children. In 2023, children as young as 6 years old are now viewing adult material, are being asked to share inappropriate material with each other and to strangers. Australia is a leading country in child exploitation because we think children are safe on-line, that it is happening overseas or to other people’s children. We need to arm ourselves with the knowledge and strategies to navigate this complex landscape. The stakes have never been higher, and the struggle is indeed real.

Conrad Townson, an expert in online child exploitation once said that it’s more likely your child has encountered inappropriate content than not. The best defence, then, is a good offense. Operate under the assumption that exposure is inevitable and take proactive steps to educate and safeguard. He emphasized that our understanding of child maltreatment needs to be updated to the current digital context. We discuss family tech plans, digital literacy bootcamps and tech zones to support parents. Exploitation is not just physical; it often occurs in the very devices we hand to our children.

The Unpleasant Reality: Online Child Exploitation

The topic of online child exploitation is undeniably unsettling, and we want to turn away. Unfortunately, we can’t as its urgency cannot be swept under the rug any longer. We're at a historical juncture where the risks for our children have been exponentially escalated. Digital platforms provide exploiters with unprecedented access to children, while parents are not aware. Being on-line is as dangerous as being off-line for young children. Conrad says: would you let your 8 yr old child walk in the city without a map? Become aware that smart phones, apps, games, all have messaging apps and children now know how to change timezones and passcodes.

The Stakes: Your Child's Brain and Well-being

Remember, the brain is malleable and is significantly shaped by experiences, particularly between the ages of 0-3 and 10-14. Excessive screen and inappropriate adult material during this time of brain development is changing the hormones in the brain and affecting their behaviour. Smoking cigarettes is safer for children. If the threat to emotional and cognitive development isn't alarming enough, consider the dark underbelly of the internet, filled with sextortion, pornography, and grooming, often unbeknownst to parents.

Time for Collective Action

So why are we, as a society, handing this Pandora's box to our children who are not yet equipped to deal with its ramifications? It's time for collective action. Childhood is fleeting; why are we so eager to accelerate it rather than savor its innocence and joys?
Ancient Wisdom
Let's look back to the wisdom of the ages for timeless advice that applies even in this digital world. Many ancient philosophies and cultural proverbs speak to the essence of guardianship—concepts that are incredibly relevant as we navigate the challenges of modern parenting. "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now." If you feel like you've been late in setting digital boundaries, remember that it's never too late to start. Take control now, establish the rules, and be consistent in enforcing them.

"It takes a village to raise a child. Don't underestimate the power of community. Connect with other parents, educators, and experts to share advice and strategies. There's strength in numbers, and collective wisdom can be your strongest ally.

In the wise words of Maya Angelou, "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better." Our children are our future.

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