Hello wonderful families of Boronia Heights Primary School!
As the year is starting to wind up, we know parenting can feel like a juggling act between school lunch boxes, sporting commitments, bedtime routines and trying to find a moment catch your breath. So I thought I’d share a light and helpful round-up of some podcasts, books/reads, and watch-list content you might enjoy to support your parenting journey. Pick and choose what fits, trial bits that resonate, and know you’re not alone in the “figuring it out” club.
Podcasts worth checking out:
- Pop Culture Parenting – A fun and friendly podcast exploring how the pop-culture we consume (TV, movies, social media) influences our kids and our parenting. Great for a laugh and some “hmm, didn’t think of that” moments. One of the hosts, Dr Billy Garvey is a developmental paediatrician with over 20 years’ experience working with children in a number of settings.
- Hamish Blake – “How Other Dads Dad” – In this one Hamish chats with other dads about their parenting, wins and mess-ups, and how they show up for their kids. A good listen if you’d like a relaxed perspective on parenting.
- Dr Becky Kennedy – Good Inside with Dr Becky – Dr Becky takes a compassionate, research-informed view of parenting. If you enjoy hearing “science + heart” in one package, this is gold.
- Maggie Dent – Parental As Anything – Maggie brings her “no-nonsense but kind” voice to real parenting issues. Great for when you want practical ideas rather than theory. For example, in one episode she talks about helping children make friends and navigate the ups-and-downs of peer relationships.
Reads & Watch-lists:
- On the “watch” front, there’s a great piece by Maggie Dent: “Navigating Child Friendships: What to Do When Your Kid Has Been Rejected”. She explores what happens when children feel excluded, and how parents can help them build resilience and social skills. (Maggie Dent)
- If you prefer a reading format, check out articles like “What to Do When Kids Face Friendship Problems” (by Dr Becky) which remind us that our role is to support, not always to solve, when children struggle with peers. (Good Inside)
- For book-style or short-read sources: Maggie’s “Social Skills & Friendship Issues” page gives helpful background on why friendships matter and how we can guide our children. (Maggie Dent)
- Play: How It Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul — Dr Stuart Brown: A joyful reminder that play isn’t just for kids. Dr Brown explores why play is essential to creativity, learning, and emotional health — for adults and children.
Please remember:
- You don’t have to digest all of these at once. Pick one podcast episode, one article, one book excerpt to start with. Slowly weaving in ideas often has more impact than trying to absorb absolutely everything in one sitting.
- If something doesn’t resonate, let it go. What works for one family may feel off for another. You get to choose what fits your family dynamic.
- Be kind to yourself. You’re doing a huge job. These resources are here to support you, not to make you feel like you’re falling behind.
I hope this little selection adds some inspiration (and maybe a chuckle or two) to your parenting toolbox. If you have any other suggestions for podcasts, books, TV shows etc. that you love, please send them my way!
Have a great week!
Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader
Sarah Weichert
Sarah.weichert@education.vic.gov.au