In this episode, Emma discusses a topic that has becoming increasingly common – children’s food anxiety. She helpfully highlights some key signs to look out for and some tips for parents on how to facilitate open conversation to address their child’s food anxiety.
Social media and its trends can change so quickly and often parents feel unable to keep up or to protect their child from harm online. It’s important to encourage open communication with your child around their internet usage. Try to create a foundation of open conversation so that they feel that they can talk to you without fear of judgement or punishment.
Listen without overacting. If they disclose cyberbullying, try not to act straight away. Instead, remain calm and listen to your child attentively. While it can be tempting for a parent to immediately remove their child’s devices as a means of protecting them, it will likely discourage your child/ teenager from being open in the future because they feel like they are being punished.
Additionally, gather information. Ask your child to describe what has happened, who is involved, and how often the bullying occurs. Understanding the full scope will help you determine the best course of action. Encourage your child to save or screenshot any abusive messages, posts, or comments. This documentation can be crucial if you need to report the bullying.
Review your child’s privacy settings on social media platforms to ensure they are secure. Teach them how to block or mute bullies and how to report abusive behaviour on each platform. Advise your child not to respond to the bully, as engaging can escalate the situation. Instead, encourage them to report the behaviour and seek help.
Report the Cyberbullying: Help your child report the bullying to the social media platform, app, or game where it occurred. Most platforms have procedures for reporting harassment and can remove harmful content. If the bully is a fellow student, inform the school so they can address the issue. Many schools have policies for dealing with cyberbullying, even when it occurs outside of school time. If the bullying is severe or involves threats of harm, consider contacting the authorities. In some cases, cyberbullying may violate laws, and legal action might be necessary to protect your child.
Remind your child that they are not alone and that you are there to support them. Reassure them that the bullying is not their fault.
Keep up to date with the latest social media trends and the platforms your child uses. This knowledge will help you guide and protect them more effectively. Regularly check in with your child to see how they are feeling and if the situation has improved and adjust support as needed. Depending on the severity and persistence of the cyberbullying, you may need to adjust your approach. Stay flexible and responsive to your child’s needs. By taking these steps, you can help your child navigate the challenges of cyberbullying and build a stronger, more resilient digital presence.
Technology is now deeply integrated into our society and evolving rapidly, leaving many parents feeling unprepared to guide their children in using it effectively and age-appropriately. In this episode, Claire Hanna, Family Support Services Manager at Parenting Focus, joins Amy Starritt, Communication and Administration Support Officer at Parenting Focus, to discuss practical strategies for parents to monitor their children’s screen time.
No matter the reason for separation or divorce, there is a huge emotional impact on both parties. In this video, Parenting Focus’ Dad’s Support Services Lead, Cahir shares his own experience both personally and professionally in relation to how men cope with divorce/ separation and provides advice.
Parenting Family (a social enterprise owned by Parenting Focus) have developed a range of programmes designed to suit a wide range of employer needs. The wellbeing seminars cover topics such as lifestyle, raising teenagers and school. Please read our brochure below to understand more about the various initiatives that Parenting Family offers to support parents in the workplace.
Having strong self esteem is essential for children as it allows them to develop resilience, confidence and perseverance. It is therefore extremely valuable for parents to be mindful of how they communicate and interact with their children. Watch the video below to learn more about how to encourage good self esteem.
“What children need most is time, love and attention”. Separation is not an isolated event and the effects of a separation will present themselves over time- both for the individuals involved and their children. The podcast below developed by the Education team at Parenting Focus provides guidance for parents on how to ensure that the wellbeing of both yourself and your children are at the forefront of your decisions regarding separation.
Technology and social media is inescapable. At its best, it can provide opportunities for learning and for the strengthening of relationships with family and friends. However, there is also an unlimited amount of negative, hateful and untrue information and resources on the internet. Parenting Focus’ placement student Missy has developed the following top tips for parents to ensure that the time their children are spending online is as beneficial as possible.
Food anxiety often begins in children as an unhealthy coping mechanism. Food anxiety can stem from a need to feel control. This is particularly prevalent if there are situations in their life that are beyond their control.
Parenting Focus’ placement student Missy has put together helpful tips for parents to recognise food anxiety in their children and tips for supporting children to have a better relationship with food.
http://parentingportal.pageturners.studio/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Food-Anxiety-Top-Tip.pdf
The use of screens in the evening can have a detrimental impact on both children and adults. It can cause distraction, broken sleep and an increase in anxiety and depression. It is important to form healthy habits around social media and screen time from a young age. Read below for Parenting Focus’ tips on helping your children establish a good routine and relationship with social media.
These tips were written by Parenting Focus’ placement student Missy.