Northern Centre for Child Development

Amanda Abel – Director & Psychologist

The last couple of years have been a bit tricky for me as I care for two of the elderly members of my family (my dad with dementia and my aunt with alzheimers) who both live in different directions multiple hours from Melbourne. I’m very familiar with the Hume Highway as I slowly settle into the groove of this new role of ‘carer’. I don’t think anything can prepare you for this phase of life as a parent when you also become a carer of parents (and parent figures). But it has got me thinking about the massive load we all carry as parents – often unique in their composition. Many parents are working incredibly hard to support the mental health of their kids, others have the added component of parenting neurodivergent kids, while a lot of parents are neurodivergent themselves, bringing it’s own challenges. And then theres the aspect of managing marriages, relationships and friendships, and often trying to balance all of this with a career while simultaneously holding it all together. It reminds me of the glass balls analogy

We all have our struggles as parents and it’s important to acknowledge and validate this regularly. There’s only so much we can manage at any point in time, so sometimes something’s got to give just so we can keep our head above water.

It’s the same for our kids. As we move through the school term, many families are noticing emotional ups and downs as children adjust to new academic demands, friendship changes, and the return of busy routines. These fluctuations are a normal part of development, particularly for children who are sensitive, anxious, or neurodivergent. And sometimes we (and our kids!) have to make compromises to ensure everyone keeps swimming instead of sinking. Remember, if you have to lower the homework standard for your child, navigate shorter days at school, or tolerate the frustration of a messy house yourself, it won’t be forever. This is just about doing what’s best in this moment as a parent.

Juggling all the balls is frustrating, and sometimes we have to push ourselves to keep being the sensitive and responsive parent when all we want to do is the complete opposite. Or at the very least, we’d love a break! I can’t recommend enough the importance of pausing before responding to your child or teen’s big feelings – particularly when you’re under extra stress. The pause allows you to ask yourself how you are feeling, before shifting to how you think your child feels and finally what you think they might need from you in this particular moment. Identifying how we feel first can stop us from responding to our child from a place of our own frustration, exhaustion, anger etc. This way there’s a better chance of meeting their emotional needs more accurately in that moment.

If you are feeling unsure about how to support your child, please remember you are not alone. We are here to support your family.

Amanda Abel is a mum, psychologist and founding director of NCCD. With more than two decades of experience supporting families — including almost 20 years in clinical practice — Amanda is committed to helping families thrive. She is highly experienced in Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnostic assessments and is passionate about making what can feel like an overwhelming process clear, supportive, and empowering for families.

Before establishing NCCD, Amanda worked across public and private settings, gaining broad experience supporting children and adolescents with diverse developmental, emotional, and behavioural needs. She is a registered Circle of Security Parenting® facilitator and SOS Feeding Therapist, supporting children with feeding challenges and helping parents build secure, responsive relationships.

Beyond her clinical work, Amanda is co-founder of Toddler Toolkit, an online parenting program developed alongside paediatrician Dr Daniel Golshevsky (Dr Golly) to provide practical, evidence-based guidance for parents of young children. She has also consulted to global child-focused organisations including LEGO, Roblox and Mattel, advocating for environments and digital spaces that support children’s wellbeing and development.

Li Yuan Sip – Psychologist

Besides being the month of love, February is also when the Lunar New Year is celebrated.

This year, we usher in the Year of the Horse, a symbol of strength, resilience, and vigour.

Traditionally, the Lunar New Year is a time of reunion with family and a celebration of kinship, where traditions are honoured and blessings are offered and shared for the new year ahead.

For many, this is a joyous period of time where they get to rejoice in the company of family and friends, rekindle connections through shared meals, and recharge and reset before the new year ahead. However, this is not the same for everyone. There are individuals who live away from family, are cooped up with work, or feel out of touch with their culture.

Growing up in multicultural Malaysia, the Lunar New Year is a period of time that I look upon fondly. As a child, the Lunar New Year meant having traditional cookies to my heart’s desire, having a hearty reunion dinner, receiving red packets (that signify good blessings) from family members, taking part in traditional rituals, and gathering with family for a good time.

Having moved across the world to Australia, celebrating the Lunar New Year has since looked very different for me. Most of the time, festive meals are prepared and shared with friends, and reuniting and catching up with family members come in the form of long video calls.

There is no one right way to celebrate the Lunar New Year, and this period of time can look different for everyone.

Nevertheless, regardless of whether you celebrate the Lunar New Year, the key values that underlie this celebration can be embodied in various ways.

At the centre of it all, we can adopt the themes of the Lunar New Year regardless of culture or country!

Celebrate Culture

The core of the Lunar New Year lies in fostering cultural connection, which can look very different for every individual. For some, this can be sending family members a check-in text or giving them a quick call. For others, this can be attending a community event. It can even look like taking some time out to learn about your own culture and tradition, or sharing it with your children.

These are all valid ways of staying connected with one’s culture.

Research¹⁻³ shows that cultural connection is associated with enhanced mental wellbeing among individuals of various age ranges and cultures. Engaging in activities that foster this connection or honour important cultural values can then be seen as a form of self-care. Regardless of whether you celebrate the Lunar New Year, taking the time to understand and practice your unique culture and traditions, no matter what that looks like for you, can be meaningful.

Reflect and Reset

The Lunar New Year also signifies the fresh start of a year, and is a time of honouring new beginnings.

While not everyone has brand new goals or endeavours they would like to work towards, this can be a time where you look back on the previous year, reflecting on the good, the not-so-good, the in-betweens, celebrate small wins, and get a quick reset before the year ahead.

Individuals who engage in self-reflection have been found to report higher levels of life satisfaction and wellbeing⁴⁻⁵. Looking back on the year, you might realise that you have learned and grown in ways you were not previously aware of, and all of that deserves acknowledgement.

Spend Time With Your Tribe

Lastly, the Lunar New Year is traditionally a time spent reuniting with family.

The concept of “family” is constantly evolving. Beyond one’s biological family members, “family” can expand to all individuals or beings that we care for, and those who care for us. This includes pets, close friends, partners, and even ourselves. Spending quality time with your chosen family or tribe can foster stronger social connections, which contributes to improved mental health and wellbeing.⁶

Happy Lunar New Year to All!

As the Lunar New Year approaches, keep in mind to show yourself some grace and give yourself some respite before the year ahead.

Regardless of whether you’re close to family and friends, take some time out to celebrate your culture and honour important values in a way that is unique to you.

Finally, as we would say, Gong Xi Fa Cai (wishing you the best of blessings and prosperity) to everyone in the Year of the Horse!

Li is a psychologist with a Master’s in Educational and Developmental Psychology from the University of Melbourne and is currently completing her registrar program toward endorsement in this area.
Li is passionate about creating a space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported. She works from a warm, culturally informed, and person-centred approach, meeting clients where they are and drawing on their strengths within the broader systems that shape their lives. Her practice is neurodiversity-affirming and grounded in collaboration and respect.
Li has experience working with clients across the lifespan, from early childhood through to adulthood, in school settings, parent coaching programs for families of neurodivergent children, and private practice. She conducts neurodevelopmental (ADHD, autism) and psychoeducational assessments, as well as counselling to support emotional wellbeing, relationships, and adjustment to medical conditions. Her therapeutic work integrates CBT, ACT, and play-based approaches tailored to each client’s needs.
Li is multilingual, speaking Mandarin, Cantonese, Malay, and conversational Korean in addition to English. She is deeply committed to supporting culturally and linguistically diverse individuals and families, helping each person feel understood and valued for who they are.

References

1. Angelino, A. C., Bell, J., Bell, R., & Perry, M. F. (2024). Cultural Connection and Well-being for American Indian Adolescents. American Indian & Alaska Native Mental Health Research: The Journal of the National Center, 31(1).
2. Webber, M., & Waru-Benson, S. (2022). The role of cultural connectedness and ethnic group belonging to the social-emotional wellbeing of diverse students. In Indigenising education and citizenship: Perspectives on policies and practices from Sápmi and beyond (pp. 294-312).
3. Grossi, E., Tavano Blessi, G., Sacco, P. L., & Buscema, M. (2012). The interaction between culture, health and psychological well-being: Data mining from the Italian culture and well-being project. Journal of Happiness Studies, 13(1), 129-148.
4. Harrington, R., & Loffredo, D. A. (2010). Insight, rumination, and self-reflection as predictors of well-being. The Journal of psychology, 145(1), 39-57.
5. Fan, E., Flood, A., Williams, C. E., & McLean, C. Self-Reflection and Well-Being. In The Strategic Guide to Shaping Your Student Affairs Career (pp. 157-176). Routledge.
6. Kemp, A. H., Arias, J. A., & Fisher, Z. (2017). Social ties, health and wellbeing: a literature review and model. Neuroscience and social science: The missing link, 397-427.

Alexander Almendingen – Psychologist

Parenting comes with a range of challenges, both expected and unexpected, and adding separation, divorce, or contrasting parenting approaches can complicate things even further. But the good news is that coparenting offers an effective way to help support your child develop and minimise interpersonal conflicts, as well as create and maintain stability.

Why is coparenting important?

The research evidence around coparenting is compelling: young people who experience healthy coparenting relationships exhibit better emotional regulation, higher academic achievement, and fewer behavioural problems. They’re also less likely to experience mental health difficulties (e.g., anxiety and depression), and are more likely to develop and maintain healthy relationships themselves during adulthood.

In addition and beyond the benefit to young people, parents who develop and maintain respectful and collaborative coparenting relationships report:

• Less stress and conflict in their lives
• Improved work-life balance
• Overall improvements in their own mental health
• Increased self-confidence within the parenting role
• Increased support during decision-making endeavours

What’s involved in healthy coparenting

Healthy coparenting isn’t about being best friends with your ex, but instead is about creating a and maintaining a partnership that is focused on shared priorities, such as your child’s development and wellbeing.

Key aspect of successful coparenting can involve:

• Regular and consistent communication (e.g., check-ins about weekly schedules, events at school, and other important decisions) that is respectful (e.g., respectful tone and language during all interactions, timely responses to messages)
• Collaborative and unified approach to parenting (e.g., having similar rules and expectations across households, discipline styles that are consistent and coordinated, shared values around key activities such as school/education)
• Practicing compromise and flexibility (e.g., adjusting schedules/routines for special events/occasions or emergencies, keeping an open mind when conversing about parenting approaches/strategies, an emphasis on problem-solving and solutions/plans rather then judging or blaming when difficulties and conflicts arise)
• Respecting boundaries (e.g., refrain from negative or judgemental comments about the other parent in front of children, privacy about new relationships until they become serious, clear agreements about household rules and parenting time)

Practical steps to improve coparenting

Mindset as a starting point:

Before diving into logistics, consider your own attitudes, beliefs, values, and expectations. Ask yourself:

• Is my child’s best interest at heart as I am approaching this partnership?
• Am I bringing ‘baggage’ from our previous relationship into discussion around coparenting?
• Am I able to disconnect my feelings about my ex-partner from their role as a parent to my child?

Establish (and maintain) clear communication protocols:

• Choose communication wisely and come to an agreement around this
• Reserve phone calls for more urgent situations/matters
• Keep communication (e.g., emails, texts) factual, observational, and brief
• Consider neutral locations for in-person discussions around more major situations or decisions
• End heated discussions and revisit them at a later time

Establish (and maintain) consistency around routines/rules:

• Working collaboratively around consistency around key routines/rules across households (e.g., bedtimes, homework expectations, screen time limits, chores, consequences for misbehaviours)

Managing disagreements with a plan:

• Use a 24-hr cooling off period before responding
• Focus on specific issues in the present (rather than bringing up past grievances)
• Collaboratively brainstorm and agree on solutions
• Consider medication for ongoing difficulties/disagreements
• Aim for compromise

Handling unique situations:

• Create plans for unique circumstances (e.g., illness, emergencies, schedule changes, holidays, birthdays) and school events/activities (including sporting events)
• Brainstorm and discuss how to manage introductions of new relationships into the dynamic (e.g., during times of re-partnering)

When coparenting feels very difficult

Not all coparenting endeavours will be simple and smooth-sailing. If you’re dealing with high-conflict situations, consider Parallel Parenting. In the event that collaboration and cooperation is not possible, parallel parenting allows parents to maintain their own parenting approach while minimising contact with the other parent. This approach focuses on:

• Parenting plans that cover various scenarios
• Keeping communication limited and structured
• A relationship dynamic that has clearly laid out boundaries and expectations
• Access to professional support (e.g., family therapists, psychologists), when needed

About the Author
Alex is a registered psychologist with a Master’s degree in Educational and Developmental Psychology. He has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and their families across school and public mental health settings. Alex is passionate about empowering caregivers and creating a safe, supportive environment that fosters resilience, growth, and lasting positive change. Alex is the Clinical Team Leader at the Northern Centre for Child + Adolescent Development

Creativity isn’t just about drawing or making up stories—it’s a critical skill that helps children solve problems, think independently, and express themselves. But in a world full of screens, schedules, and structured learning, imagination often takes a backseat.

So, how do we help kids think outside the box and explore their creativity?

1. Encourage Open-Ended Play (No Instructions Needed!)

Unstructured play is one of the best ways to boost creativity and problem-solving in children. Instead of toys that have one function (like pre-built action figures), give them materials that let them decide what to create.

• Set up a “no-rules” building challenge with LEGOs or blocks.
• Encourage pretend play—playing house, setting up a pretend shop, or making a spaceship out of a box.

2. Let Art Be Messy and Open-Ended

Forget “stay in the lines” or copying a craft tutorial! The best art happens when kids experiment, explore, and make their own creative choices.

• Give them blank pages instead of coloring books and ask, “What do you feel like drawing today?”
• Try finger painting, sidewalk chalk, or painting with unconventional tools (spoons, sponges, leaves).
• Play the “scribble game”—one person makes a random scribble, and the other turns it into a drawing!

3. Storytelling Games to Fire Up the Imagination

Reading is great, but making up stories is even better! When children invent their own stories, they practice problem-solving, emotional expression, and language skills.

• Start a “One Sentence Story” game—each person adds a sentence to build a funny or adventurous tale.
• Use a story jar—write random words (spaceship, monkey, rainbow) on slips of paper, pull out three, and create a story around them.

4. Nature-Based Creativity (The Best Playground is Outside!)

Spending time outdoors fuels imagination, curiosity, and problem-solving skills. When kids engage with nature, they see patterns, colors, and ideas that inspire creativity.

• Cloud watching—ask kids what shapes they see and invent a story around them.
• Collect “nature treasures” (leaves, stones, sticks) and use them for crafts.
• Build a fairy house or tiny village in the backyard using natural materials.

 5. Music and Movement for Creative Thinking

Music activates different areas of the brain linked to creativity and problem-solving. Singing, dancing, and making music help kids express emotions and think in new ways.

• Play different kinds of music and ask, “What story does this song tell?”
• Let kids make up their own silly dance moves and name them!
• Use household objects as instruments (spoons, pots, rubber bands) and form a “kitchen band.”

6. Inventor Challenges: Boost Creativity Through Problem-Solving

Kids love a challenge—especially when they get to invent solutions! Encouraging them to build, create, and experiment helps develop creativity and resilience.

• Build the tallest tower using only spaghetti and marshmallows.

7. Ask Open-Ended Questions & Let Them Lead!

One of the simplest but most powerful ways to boost creativity is to ask open-ended questions that let kids think in new ways. Instead of telling them what to do, give them the freedom to explore their ideas.

• Instead of “Let’s build a castle,” ask, “What can we make with these boxes?”
• Give them leadership roles: “You’re in charge of today’s adventure—where should we go?”

Final Thoughts: Creativity is a Muscle—The More You Use It, The Stronger It Gets!

Every child is naturally creative, but like any skill, imagination grows when we nurture it. The key? More play, less pressure.

Zoe Lazaridis is a dedicated and highly skilled psychologist with a strong background in clinical psychology. She holds a Master of Psychology (Clinical) and a Master of Psychology (Professional).

Zoe’s passion for psychology began during her undergraduate years, where she completed a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) at La Trobe University. Her commitment to excellence is evident in her clinical experience, where she has worked with diverse populations, including children with autism and individuals seeking mental health support.

Zoe’s research expertise includes conducting systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials. She is also an experienced workshop facilitator, helping high school students build resilience and enhance their well-being. With a strong ethical foundation and a commitment to evidence-based practice, Zoe is a valuable asset to the field of psychology.

Ah, homework—the time of day when kids turn into little stress balls, and parents become homework helpers. As the tasks pile up, it’s easy for everyone to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry; you have the power to turn this homework chaos into manageable moments of learning.

1. Foster Open Communication
   Think of your child as a superhero—but instead of fighting villains, they’re facing the challenge of Homework Stress. Make sure there’s a safe space for them to share how they feel about their homework. Are they frustrated, confused, or perhaps proud of a tricky problem they’ve solved? Regular check-ins are important! When they feel comfortable talking, you can provide the right support when it’s needed.
2. Establish a Consistent Routine
   Children thrive on routine. Setting up a regular homework schedule can transform this task into a part of their daily routine. Choose a specific time each day for homework—think of it as a “homework time” where they can focus.

For routine ideas, check out PBS Parents – Routines.

3. Create an Ideal Learning Environment
   Imagine a calm study space that makes your child feel ready to learn. Set up a quiet area in your home, free from distractions like TV or loud noises. Ensure they have all their supplies at hand and good lighting to help them see their work. You might even want to add a motivational poster featuring their favourite character!
4. Break Tasks into Manageable Pieces
   Big projects can feel overwhelming but breaking them down into smaller tasks can make them easier to handle. Help your child set specific goals for each study session. For example, they could aim to finish one part of their project or complete a few maths questions. Remember to celebrate these little wins—every step completed brings them closer to finishing!
5. Encourage Time Management Skills
   Time management might sound complicated, but it’s essential for juggling homework. Teach your child to prioritise their tasks. Show them how to use planners or digital calendars to keep track of deadlines. Before long, they’ll be managing their time like a pro!
6. Promote a Balanced Lifestyle
   Let’s be honest: no one does well on a diet of textbooks alone! Make sure your child has time for sports, play, and relaxation alongside their homework. Encourage short breaks during study sessions to recharge. Maybe play a quick game together or draw—learning can be fun! This balance helps them concentrate better and keeps their spirits up.
7. Be Supportive, Not Overbearing
   Finding the right balance between offering help and letting your child handle challenges themselves can be tricky! Offer guidance when needed but allow them to lead the way in solving homework problems. Celebrate both their successes and struggles. Every step they take builds their confidence!
8. Reach Out to Teachers
   If your child is consistently struggling with homework, don’t hesitate to talk to their teachers. They can provide useful insights and resources tailored to your child’s needs. Teachers are there to help and can work with you to develop strategies to ease the homework load.

By encouraging open communication, establishing routines, and promoting balance, you can help your child manage homework stress effectively. Remember, the aim is to create a caring environment where your child can thrive both academically and emotionally!

Zoe Lazaridis – Psychologist – Northern Centre for Child + Adolescent Development

Zoe Lazaridis is a dedicated and highly skilled psychologist with a strong background in clinical psychology. She holds a Master of Psychology (Clinical) and a Master of Psychology (Professional).

Zoe’s passion for psychology began during her undergraduate years, where she completed a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) at La Trobe University. Her commitment to excellence is evident in her clinical experience, where she has worked with diverse populations, including children with autism and individuals seeking mental health support.

Zoe’s research expertise includes conducting systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials. She is also an experienced workshop facilitator, helping high school students build resilience and enhance their well-being. With a strong ethical foundation and a commitment to evidence-based practice, Zoe is a valuable asset to the field of psychology.

Zoe Lazaridis, Psychologist, Clinical Registrar, Northern Centre for Child Development

Every year on the 30th of March, we recognise World Bipolar Day — a day dedicated to raising awareness and breaking down the stigma surrounding bipolar disorder.

Interestingly, the date wasn’t chosen at random; it’s Vincent Van Gogh’s birthday!!  Back in Van Gogh’s time, there wasn’t a formal diagnosis for mental health conditions like bipolar disorder, but looking back, many believe he may have met criteria.

World Bipolar Day holds a powerful purpose — to help people better understand bipolar disorder and support those who live with it. It’s about bringing people together, sharing stories, and reminding those who are struggling that they’re not alone.

By raising awareness, we can:

·  Encourage kindness and understanding.

·  Help people recognise the signs early.

·  Push for better resources and treatment options

As part of World Bipolar Day, we wanted to share helpful information about bipolar disorder — what it is, how treatment can help, and where to find useful resources and websites.

Definition: Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that brings intense shifts in mood, energy, and behaviour. These changes can happen in cycles, which may include:

·   Manic or hypomanic episodes — Times when a person feels unusually energetic, excitable, or impulsive. Manic episodes can be intense, sometimes leading to risky decisions or poor judgment, while hypomanic episodes are less severe but still noticeable.

·   Depressive episodes — Periods of feeling very low, sad, or hopeless, which can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming and impact motivation.

Understanding these cycles is key to recognising and supporting those living with bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder often begins in adolescence or early adulthood, though it can also affect children. It’s more common than many realise, impacting around 40 million people worldwide — and it can have a big effect on relationships, school, and work.

Learning Helps

Understanding bipolar disorder is one of the most powerful ways we can support those affected by it.

Research shows that effective treatment is built on three key factors:

• Early diagnosis — Identifying the signs early makes it easier for people to access the right support.
• Sticking with treatment — Following a treatment plan consistently improves long-term stability.
• Personalised care — Tailored approaches that meet individual needs lead to better outcomes. (Vedanarayanan et al., 2019)

Bipolar disorder can be hard to understand, and many people go through life not knowing they have it or where to turn for help. This can leave them feeling overwhelmed, confused, and/or feeling very alone.

But with the right support, individuals with bipolar disorder can build strong relationships, achieve their goals, and find stability in their lives.

By learning about bipolar disorder, we can break down stigma, encourage compassion, and provide better support to those living with it.

So, thank you for reading this far and helping to spread awareness this World Bipolar Day.

For those who want to know more…here are some really great resources available online.

Understanding bipolar disorder

https://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resources/looking-after-yourself/bipolar

Zoe Lazaridis is a dedicated and highly skilled psychologist with a strong background in clinical psychology. She holds a Master of Psychology (Clinical) and a Master of Psychology (Professional).

Zoe’s passion for psychology began during her undergraduate years, where she completed a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) at La Trobe University. Her commitment to excellence is evident in her clinical experience, where she has worked with diverse populations, including children with autism and individuals seeking mental health support.

Zoe’s research expertise includes conducting systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials. She is also an experienced workshop facilitator, helping high school students build resilience and enhance their well-being. With a strong ethical foundation and a commitment to evidence-based practice, Zoe is a valuable asset to the field of psychology.