Share

cover art for Listener Q and A

Let's Reconnect with Breanna Jayne Sada

Listener Q and A

Season 1, Ep. 26
•

Parenting rarely comes with a manual, which is why listener questions are such valuable conversations. In this special Q&A episode of Let’s Reconnect, psychologist Breanna Jayne Sada answers three common parenting concerns: staying connected with a tween daughter, navigating a teenager accessing mental health support, and preparing young children for the arrival of a new baby.

Drawing on psychological theory, child development and years of experience working with families, Breanna offers practical, compassionate advice to help parents strengthen connection, build trust and support their children through life's transitions.


How Do I Stay Connected to My Tween Daughter?

A father worries that he is losing connection with his tween daughter as she spends more time with friends and seems closer to her mother. Breanna explains why this shift is a normal part of development and shares practical ways fathers can strengthen their relationship without forcing conversations or competing for attention.

Topics include:

  • Why eye rolls don't mean rejection
  • Understanding tween and adolescent development
  • The importance of quality over quantity when spending time together
  • How dads can immerse themselves in their child's world
  • Building connection through curiosity and shared interests
  • Why fathers shouldn't shy away from difficult conversations
My Teen Is Seeing the School Psychologist. Should I Be Worried?

A parent discovers their 16-year-old son has been seeing the school psychologist and feels hurt, confused and concerned. Breanna explains how confidentiality works for teenagers in Australia and why seeking support is actually a positive sign.

Topics include:

  • Teen confidentiality and privacy rights in Australia
  • Understanding Gillick Competence
  • When psychologists must inform parents
  • Why teenagers sometimes talk more openly to trusted adults outside the family
  • Creating emotional safety so teenagers feel comfortable opening up
  • How parents can respond without pushing their child away
Preparing Children for the Arrival of a New Baby

A listener asks how to help their five-year-old and two-year-old adjust to a new sibling. Breanna discusses sibling jealousy, emotional adjustment and practical strategies to help children feel secure, loved and included.

Topics include:

  • Why jealousy is normal when a new baby arrives
  • Understanding egocentrism in young children
  • Helping children feel safe through predictability and routine
  • Validating difficult emotions rather than dismissing them
  • Preparing siblings before the baby's arrival
  • Maintaining strong individual connections with each child
Key Takeaways
  • Connection with tweens and teens often changes, but it doesn't disappear.
  • Children need parents who are curious about their interests rather than expecting children to enter the parent's world.
  • A teenager seeking support from a psychologist is often a sign of strength, not crisis.
  • Confidentiality helps young people access support safely while still maintaining safeguards around risk.
  • Young children need reassurance, predictability and validation when adjusting to a new sibling.
  • Quality moments of connection are often more powerful than quantity.
Memorable Quotes From This Episode

"Eye rolling is not an indicator that they don't need you in their life."

"Connection doesn't come from lots and lots of interactions. It comes from quality interactions."

"Your teenager talking to another trusted adult is not a competition."

"Children cope better with change when their environment and caregivers are predictable."


Resources & Support

If you are concerned about your child's mental health or wellbeing, support is available:


Let’s Reconnect with Breanna Jayne Sada is a parenting and mental health podcast helping parents better understand their children, strengthen relationships and navigate the challenges of raising young people in a rapidly changing world.

Let's Reconnect next episode. In the meantime, subscribe and follow our podcast and socials @breanna.jayne_psych @letsreconnect_pod. If you or your child would like to write in with a question or story, or you’d like to be a guest advocating for the needs of children and young people, please reach out.

Disclaimer:

The information in this podcast is general and not a substitute for individual clinical advice or treatment. While I am a registered psychologist, I am not providing personalised guidance here. Every child and family is different, and what’s discussed may not suit your situation.

If you have concerns, please seek support from a qualified mental health professional. For immediate help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, or call 000 in an emergency.

Views expressed are my own and not those of any organisations I am associated with.

More episodes

View all episodes

  • 25. Should we be posting our kids online?

    35:39||Season 1, Ep. 25
    In this thought-provoking episode of Let’s Reconnect, psychologist and parent Breanna Jayne Sada explores one of the biggest modern parenting dilemmas: should we be posting photos and videos of our children online?From birth announcements and first-day-of-school photos to viral family content and AI-generated risks, this episode dives into the hidden impact of growing up online. Breanna unpacks how social media, technology and rapidly advancing artificial intelligence are changing childhood, privacy and parenting forever.This episode is not about shaming parents. It’s about helping families, schools, sporting organisations and communities become more intentional and informed about what we share online and why.In This EpisodeWhy parents naturally want to share photos and milestones onlineThe psychological need for connection and validation through social mediaHow children are developing digital footprints before they can consentThe impact of AI and facial recognition technology on children’s privacyWhy posting online in 2026 is different to even five years agoThe rise of family influencers and children being monetised onlineConcerns around consent, dignity and children’s autonomyThe psychological impact of growing up constantly photographed and observedWhy schools, sporting clubs and organisations also need to rethink online postingPractical reflective questions every parent should ask before posting a child onlineKey Topics DiscussedChildren & Digital FootprintsToday’s children are the first generation growing up with an online identity created before they can fully understand privacy, consent or long-term consequences.AI & Online Safety RisksBreanna discusses how AI technology can now manipulate images, use facial recognition and even extract personal information from online photos, significantly changing the risks of sharing children’s images online.Consent & Respecting PrivacyThis episode explores how parents can begin age-appropriate conversations about consent, privacy and social media with children and teens.The Psychological Impact of Growing Up OnlineWhat happens when children realise their vulnerable or embarrassing moments have been shared publicly online? Breanna reflects on how social media may influence identity formation, self-worth and validation.Family Influencers & Monetising ChildhoodBreanna discusses themes explored in Like, Follow, Subscribe by Fortesa Latifi, including concerns raised by children who grew up in family vlogging and influencer environments.Questions for Parents to Reflect OnWould my child be comfortable with this photo being online as an adult?Am I sharing this for connection or external validation?Have I considered my child’s dignity and privacy?Could this moment stay within family or close friends instead?Have I asked for my child’s consent where appropriate?Am I teaching my child that every moment needs to be documented?Resources & SupportIf this episode brought up concerns for you or someone you care about, support is available:Lifeline Australia — 13 11 14Kids Helpline — 1800 55 1800In an emergency, call 000About the PodcastLet’s Reconnect with Breanna Jayne Sada is a parenting and mental health podcast helping adults better understand children, teenagers and family relationships through practical, evidence-based conversations.Hosted by Breanna Jayne Sada, episodes explore youth mental health, parenting, technology, relationships, emotional wellbeing and modern family life.

  • 24. Is my child selfish?

    19:17||Season 1, Ep. 24
    In this episode of Let's Reconnect with Breanna Jayne Sada, we explore one of the most common worries parents have about their children and teenagers:“Is my child selfish?”If you’ve ever felt frustrated that your child only talks about themselves, struggles to consider other people’s feelings, or seems unaware of the emotional needs of those around them, this episode will reassure you that what you’re seeing is often not selfishness at all, it’s a normal developmental stage called egocentrism.Drawing on developmental psychology and the work of Jean Piaget, Breanna explains why children and adolescents naturally see the world through their own perspective and how parents can stop fighting against this stage and instead use it to build stronger connection, trust and emotional understanding.This episode explores:What egocentrism in child development actually meansWhy egocentrism is not the same as narcissism or selfishnessWhy children and teens struggle with perspective-takingThe adolescent brain and emotional developmentWhy teens often feel like “everyone is watching them”How unrealistic parental expectations can create conflictThe impact of repeatedly calling children “selfish”How empathy develops over timeWhy connection is more effective than lecturingPractical ways parents can encourage empathy naturallyHow reminiscing, curiosity and conversation build emotional connectionWhy modelling empathy matters more than demanding itBreanna also shares practical parenting strategies to help parents respond differently to behaviours that can otherwise become major sources of conflict in families. Rather than seeing egocentrism as a flaw, this episode encourages parents to view it as an opportunity for connection and emotional growth.If you’re parenting a primary school-aged child, pre-teen or teenager and have ever wondered:“Why does my child only think about themselves?”“Does my teen care about anyone else?”“How do I teach empathy?”“Is this normal child development?”…this episode is for you.In this episode, we discuss:Child development and emotional maturityTeen brain developmentParenting strategies for connectionEmotional intelligence in childrenPerspective-taking skillsEmpathy developmentConflict between parents and childrenHealthy parent-child relationshipsPsychology of adolescenceDevelopmentally appropriate behaviourFor more conversations about parenting, child development, youth mental health and strengthening family relationships, follow Let's Reconnect with Breanna Jayne Sada and share this episode with another parent who may need the reminder:Your child is not selfish. They are still developing.

  • 23. Homeschooling is on the rise in Australia- a deep dive with Alecia Hancock

    44:45||Season 1, Ep. 23
    Why are more Australian families choosing homeschooling and alternative education pathways?In this episode of Let’s Reconnect, psychologist Breanna Jayne Sada explores the rise in homeschooling, school refusal, and “school can’t” among children and teenagers across Australia. Joined by Alecia Hancock, owner of ND Perspectives in Perth, this conversation dives into the emotional and practical realities families face when mainstream school no longer feels safe, sustainable, or appropriate for their child. Together, they discuss neurodiversity, anxiety, school disengagement, sensory overwhelm, and the difficult decisions parents are increasingly making in order to protect their child’s wellbeing. This episode is not about whether mainstream school is “good” or “bad.” It’s about understanding why more families are reconsidering traditional education and what support children may need when school becomes overwhelming.In This Episode We DiscussThe rise in homeschooling registrations across AustraliaWhy more children and teens are disengaging from mainstream schoolThe difference between “school refusal” and “school can’t”How autism, ADHD, anxiety, and sensory overwhelm can impact schoolingThe hidden challenges neurodivergent children face in classroomsAutism burnout and its impact on mental health and attendanceTransitioning from primary school to high schoolThe emotional impact on parents navigating these decisionsWhat homeschooling can actually look like in AustraliaSocialisation myths around homeschoolingThe role of allied health professionals in supporting familiesKey TakeawaysMany families do not feel they are “choosing” homeschooling, but responding to a child in distressSchool environments are often designed for neurotypical learners, which can create ongoing overwhelm for some childrenBurnout in autistic children and teens is real and can significantly affect functioning and wellbeingHomeschooling and alternative education pathways are becoming increasingly common in AustraliaThere is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to education and wellbeingProtecting a child’s mental health and sense of self may require flexibility and individualised approachesTopics CoveredWhat is “School Can’t”?A growing term used to describe children who are not simply refusing school, but who genuinely cannot cope with the demands of the environment due to overwhelm, burnout, anxiety, or neurodivergent needs.Neurodiversity and Mainstream SchoolThis episode explores how sensory sensitivities, transitions, social expectations, classroom environments, uniforms, noise, and lack of flexibility can impact autistic and ADHD children.Autism BurnoutAlecia shares how burnout gradually built over time for her son and how stepping away from mainstream schooling helped him reconnect with his personality, humour, and wellbeing.The conversation covers:Registration processesCurriculum requirementsFlexible learning approachesInterest-based learningSocial opportunities for homeschooled childrenThe realities of balancing work and homeschoolingHelpful ResourcesND Perspectives – https://www.ndperspective.com.au/Let’s Reconnect Podcast Instagram – @letsreconnect_podBreanna Jayne Sada – @breanna.jayne_psychologistRaising Children's Network - School Refusal GuideUnderstanding School Can't - Headspace This episode may be helpful for:Parents concerned about school refusal or school can’tFamilies navigating neurodiversity and educationTeachers and school wellbeing staffAllied health professionalsParents considering homeschooling or alternative schooling pathwaysAnyone wanting to better understand the emotional realities behind school disengagementIf this conversation resonated with you, share this episode with another parent, teacher, or professional who may benefit from hearing it.And if your family has experienced homeschooling, school refusal, alternative education, or transitioning back into mainstream school, Breanna would love to hear your story.

  • 22. Are we expecting more of our kids than we do of ourselves?

    27:44||Season 1, Ep. 22
    Are we holding our kids to a higher standard than we do ourselves?In this episode of Let’s Reconnect, psychologist Breanna Jayne Sada explores one of the most common (and often hidden) causes of family conflict: unrealistic expectations.From screen time battles to homework struggles, emotional outbursts to bedtime routines, many parents unknowingly hold their children to standards they wouldn’t meet themselves. This episode breaks down why that happens, what’s going on in a child’s developing brain, and how shifting your expectations can transform your relationship with your child.If you’ve ever felt frustrated, overwhelmed, or stuck in the same arguments with your child or teen, this episode will help you step back, reflect, and reconnect—with more empathy, understanding, and realistic expectations.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy unrealistic expectations are a major source of conflict in familiesHow children’s brain development impacts behaviour and emotional regulationThe role of dopamine, motivation, and “in-the-moment” thinking in kids and teensHow comparison, social media, and fear-based parenting shape expectationsWhy we often justify our own behaviour but criticise the same behaviour in our childrenPractical ways to model behaviour instead of demanding itHow empathy and timing can improve cooperation (especially with screen time and homework)Why “good enough parenting” is more than enoughKey TakeawaysChildren are not mini adults—they have different neurological capacity and need support, not just expectationsMany behaviours we label as “problematic” in children are actually developmentally normalIf an adult would struggle to meet an expectation, it’s worth questioning whether it’s realistic for a childBehaviour change happens through modelling, consistency, and connection—not lectures or punishmentSmall shifts in awareness can significantly reduce conflict and strengthen relationshipsCommon Parenting Moments This Episode ExploresAsking your child to stop gaming or screen time immediatelyFrustration around homework and motivationToddlers not finishing mealsBabies not sleeping through the nightEmotional outbursts and “tantrums”Family conflict driven by mismatched expectationsPractical Parenting StrategiesGive transitions and warnings before ending preferred activitiesUse empathy before instruction (“I know this is hard to stop…”)Model the behaviour you want to see (screen time, emotional regulation, routines)Narrate your own challenges and how you manage themRepair after conflict—own your part and reset expectationsReflect: Could I meet this expectation myself? What support would I need?Instagram: @breanna.jayne_psychologistPodcast Instagram: @letsreconnect_podWebsite: https://www.breannajayne.com/If you found this episode helpful, follow Let’s Reconnect, leave a rating, and share it with another parent who might need this reminder.Got a question for a future episode? Send it through via Instagram DMs.

  • 21. What is Safe Love? with Lauren Armstrong

    49:34||Season 1, Ep. 21
    How do we teach children what healthy love, self-worth, boundaries and emotional safety look like before harmful relationship patterns begin?In this powerful and deeply important episode of Let’s Reconnect, Breanna Jayne Sada speaks with educator, advocate and founder of the Self Love Safe Love Collective, Lauren Armstrong.Lauren shares her lived experience of domestic violence in both childhood and adulthood, and how that inspired her mission to help children build an internal compass strong enough to guide them toward safe, respectful relationships and away from harm.Together, Breanna and Lauren explore how parents, teachers and trusted adults can start age-appropriate conversations with children about safe love, unhealthy behaviours, self-esteem, boundaries, coercion, emotional safety and family violence prevention.They also discuss why these conversations cannot wait until the teen years, and how teaching children to value themselves may be one of the strongest protective factors we can offer.This episode also includes an important discussion on the rise of teen gambling in Australia, new government restrictions on gambling advertising, and what parents need to know.In This Episode We DiscussWhat “safe love” means for children and teenagersWhy self-love helps protect young people from unhealthy relationshipsHow childhood experiences can shape adult relationship patternsSigns of controlling, coercive or emotionally unsafe relationshipsHow parents and teachers can respond if a child discloses abuseWhy believing children mattersHow to repair after yelling or conflict at homeTeaching children confidence without arroganceAge-appropriate relationship education for tweens and teensThe rise of teenage gambling in AustraliaWhy betting ads during sport matter for childrenKey TakeawaysChildren learn what love looks like early.The relationships they witness and experience can shape what feels normal later in life.Self-worth is protective.Children who value themselves are more likely to notice disrespect, coercion and unhealthy treatment.You don’t need all the answers.Parents, teachers and coaches do not need to “fix” everything. Often being a safe adult who listens is the first step.Repair matters.No parent is perfect. Apologising, owning mistakes and reconnecting after conflict builds trust.It is never too late.Whether your child is 5 or 15, healthy relationship conversations can start now.Resources Mentioned1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800Lauren Armstrong - Self Love Safe Love CollectiveSelf Love Safe Love Collective Self Love Safe Love on Instagram Purchase the books hereBreanna runs a short 4 hour course for adults called Conversations about Gambling. If you'd like her to run this for your organisation you can get some more information here If you like this episode or see it importance, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another parent, teacher or caregiver. These conversations help protect children.

  • 20. What our boys are saying on the Manosphere & more with Daniel Principe

    41:33||Season 1, Ep. 20
    How do we raise kind, emotionally healthy boys in today’s world? Breanna Jayne Sada speaks with Daniel Principe about masculinity, body image, pornography, the manosphere and parenting boys in todays world. In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of Let’s Reconnect, Breanna Jayne Sada speaks with educator and advocate Daniel Principe about the pressures facing boys and young men today.From body image concerns and social media algorithms to pornography exposure, emotional suppression and the rise of harmful online masculinity content, this episode explores how modern influences are shaping boys’ identity, confidence and relationships.Most importantly, this conversation focuses on what parents, schools and trusted adults can do to help boys become emotionally aware, respectful and resilient young men.If you are parenting boys, working with young people, or simply trying to understand the challenges boys face today, this is an important episode.In This Episode We DiscussWhy boys today may feel more pressure than previous generationsBoys and body image concerns in AustraliaWhat the “manosphere” is and why it mattersHow social media algorithms influence young boysExposure to pornography and healthy conversations about consentWhy emotional literacy matters for boys’ mental healthHow shame and peer culture silence boysWhat parents can do if they feel they’ve made mistakesHow to start conversations with boys about masculinity, respect and relationshipsWhy role modelling matters more than lecturesKey Takeaways for ParentsBoys need connection more than correction.Many boys are craving guidance, emotional safety and trusted adults who will listen without shame or panic.Parents do not need to be perfect. What matters most is staying engaged, being curious and continuing the conversation.Healthy masculinity is not about dominance or emotional shutdown. It is about courage, kindness, respect, trust and accountability.Resources & LinksGuest: Daniel PrincipeWebsite: danielprincipe.comSupport Services (Australia)Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800Emergency: 000Call to ActionIf you found this episode interesting, please subscribe/follow the podcast, leave a review and share it with another parent, teacher or professional supporting boys today.

  • 19. Anxiety Deep Dive with Nancy Sokarno

    01:00:22||Season 1, Ep. 19
    Anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges facing both adults and children today — and if you’re a parent, chances are you’ve seen it show up at home.In this episode of Let’s Reconnect, I sit down with psychologist and mum Nancy Sokarno to have an honest, practical conversation about anxiety. Together, we unpack what anxiety actually is, why it shows up, and how parents can better support both themselves and their children through it.With anxiety affecting around 17% of Australians each year, this is a conversation that so many families need .We also answer listener questions and share simple, evidence-based strategies you can start using straight away.What you'll hear about;What anxiety actually is and why it’s a normal human experienceWhy no one is immune to anxiety — including parents and psychologistsThe difference between helpful anxiety and when it becomes overwhelmingHow anxiety can show up differently in children, teens, and adultsWhy understanding your child’s anxiety is more powerful than trying to “fix” itHow generational patterns can shape how we respond to anxietyWhat to say (and not say) when your child is anxiousPractical ways to support your child without reinforcing anxietyKey Takeaways; Anxiety is common and part of being human — it’s not something to eliminate, but something to understandYour child’s anxiety may not look the same as yoursCuriosity builds connection — asking “what does this feel like for you?” can open powerful conversationsParents often carry their own anxiety, which can influence how they respond to their childSupport starts with connection, not controlWe answer listener questions including;“I’ve always been an anxious person — how do I stop passing this onto my children?”“What do I do when my child’s anxiety seems to be getting worse?”“How can I support my child when I don’t fully understand what they’re feeling?”We discussed practical strategies including;Using open, non-judgmental questions to understand your child’s experienceSupporting your child without immediately trying to remove discomfortRecognising your own anxiety triggers as a parentBuilding emotional safety so your child feels comfortable opening upSmall ways to respond in the moment when anxiety shows upIf this conversation helped you better understand anxiety, either in yourself or your child please share it with someone who might need it too.And if you haven’t already, make sure you follow Let’s Reconnect so you don’t miss future episodes. You can also follow Nancy on Instagram @psychwithsokz

  • 18. Q&A supporting kids during divorce, trauma informed teaching and supporting a child who is self harming

    26:00||Season 1, Ep. 18
    In today's episode Breanna answers listeners questions. You can send Breanna a question you'd like answer on the podcast but remember all advice in general in nature and does not substitute personalised professional mental health advice. In todays episode we discuss separation and how to seperate from your parent while making decisions that keep your children at the heart of your decisions. I've linked some resources if you'd like some more information; Emerging Minds have some useful information here The Anchor - a safe space for children and young people We also discuss how teachers can help make their classroom Trauma informed Here is a great PL from ACF - Making Space for Learning. DM me and I can send you some more stuff if you are interested to. If you like our listener you sent in a question are supporting a child or young person who is engaging in self-harm you can check out the ChatSafe resource for parents here rand listen to our episode with Dr Louise La Sala who created these guidelines. You can also look at the Orygen Guidelines for Parents here and watch a helpful video from headsapce here