We welcomed parents, staff and members of the community to an evening with renowned parenting experts, Dr Justin Coulson on 24 May. Dr Coulson is the co-host and parenting expert on Channel 9’s “Parental Guidance” and is also the founder of happyfamilies.com.au, one of Australia’s trusted sources of guidance on parenting, relationships and families. Over the past decade he has helped many families through his six published books on raising children. A regular guest on television and radio, plus writing for media outlets, Justin is now well known for his practical advice and warm delivery.

The evening focused on anxiety in our children and adolescents, including perfectionism. Justin provided the audience with some helpful definitions, some indicators of anxiety, and some strategies that adults can use when dealing with anxious children and adolescents. It was particularly helpful to consider different types of perfectionism and how that presents in our behaviour. Developing language for talking to children is important for helping to avoid some of the types of perfectionism. His highly-interactive style meant that the audience were engaged in conversations with each other, and with Justin throughout the evening. He spent time chatting with individuals as the evening concluded, and the audience had an opportunity to purchase one of his books as well.

Emily FitzSimons, Director - CLRI