Student Wellbeing

From the Co-ordinator of Counselling and Student Health

Finding information on parenting can be a minefield. We are bombarded with books, TV shows, podcasts, articles, social media posts, and websites all dedicated to parenting. With so much information out there, it can be difficult to know where to find the information you need. As the internet tends to be the most convenient source to obtain information, it is usually the starting point for most parents. 

The counselling team is often asked for recommendations on parenting websites and online programs. The following is a list of our top sites. All sites listed are developed by reputable organisations within Australia. Information is research-based and regularly updated. 

ONLINE PROGRAMS

Triple P:  www.triplep-parenting.net.au/au/triple-p/ 

Developed by the University of Queensland, Triple P provides parents with simple and practical strategies to help them build strong, healthy relationships with their child and help them manage and prevent problems developing. There are a number of programs available, many of which are government funded and free of charge. Programs include 

• Triple P for Baby – for expectant parents and new parents of babies up to 12 months old
• Triple P Online – for parents and guardians of children under 12 years 
• Fear Less – supports parents and guardians manage their child’s anxiety and develop emotional resilience. Program is designed for ages 6 and over.  
• Teen Triple P – for parents and guardians with children between the ages of 12 and 16 years

Smiling Mind:  www.smilingmind.com.au

Smiling mind is a free web and app-based meditation program developed by psychologists and educators. The program offers a variety of online meditation sessions and other daily activities suitable for children, adolescents, and adults. It teaches skills that promote resilience, body and thought awareness, relaxation, and sleep. 

Family Man: www.familyman.movember.com/en-au/ 

Family Man is an evidence-based parenting program developed by the University of Sydney and provided free of change by Movember. Family man is an interactive program targeting fathers, but mothers and other caregivers can also access the program. The program focuses addressing behaviour concerns and encouraging positive behaviours.     

WEBSITES 

The Raising Children’s Network: www.raisingchildren.net.au 

The Raising Children’s Network is comprehensive online resource for parents and guardians. It provides trusted and reliable information on everyday issues from pregnancy through to adolescent years.

eSafety Commissioner: www.esafety.gov.au/parents 

eSafety Commissioner provides webinars and resources on online safety for all Australians. This includes providing information and tools to parents and guardians to help them to assist their child to navigate the online world safety and have positive experiences. 

Reach Out: www.parents.au.reachout.com 

Reach Out’s website provides support and information to adolescents and their parents and guardians. Different types of support options are available, depending on individual needs. Options include tip sheets, articles, moderated community forums, and confidential one-on-one support from a family and parenting coach. 

The Parents Website: www.theparentswebsite.com.au

The Parents Website is an initiative of Independent Schools Victoria which provides a selection of articles and resources for parents and guardians on raising and educating children and adolescents.

Hey Sigmond: www.heysigmund.com 

Developed by psychologist and author, Karen Young, Hey Sigmond aims to provide parents and guardians with information and videos on how to strengthen the mental wellness of children and adolescents.