Is my child selfish?

Listener Q and A

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 [www.breannajayne.com] 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: * Lifeline Australia [https://www.lifeline.org.au?utm_source=chatgpt.com] — 13 11 14 * Kids Helpline [https://kidshelpline.com.au?utm_source=chatgpt.com] — 1800 55 1800 * Speak with your GP or a registered mental health professional * www.breannajayne.com [www.breannajayne.com ]- to book in with Breanna 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. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Should we be posting our kids online?

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 EPISODE * Why parents naturally want to share photos and milestones online * The psychological need for connection and validation through social media * How children are developing digital footprints before they can consent * The impact of AI and facial recognition technology on children’s privacy * Why posting online in 2026 is different to even five years ago * The rise of family influencers and children being monetised online * Concerns around consent, dignity and children’s autonomy * The psychological impact of growing up constantly photographed and observed * Why schools, sporting clubs and organisations also need to rethink online posting * Practical reflective questions every parent should ask before posting a child online KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED CHILDREN & DIGITAL FOOTPRINTS Today’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 RISKS Breanna 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 PRIVACY This 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 ONLINE What 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 CHILDHOOD Breanna 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 ON * Would 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 & SUPPORT If this episode brought up concerns for you or someone you care about, support is available: * Lifeline Australia [https://www.lifeline.org.au?utm_source=chatgpt.com] — 13 11 14 * Kids Helpline [https://kidshelpline.com.au?utm_source=chatgpt.com] — 1800 55 1800 * In an emergency, call 000 ABOUT THE PODCAST Let’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. 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. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Is my child selfish?

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 means * Why egocentrism is not the same as narcissism or selfishness * Why children and teens struggle with perspective-taking * The adolescent brain and emotional development * Why teens often feel like “everyone is watching them” * How unrealistic parental expectations can create conflict * The impact of repeatedly calling children “selfish” * How empathy develops over time * Why connection is more effective than lecturing * Practical ways parents can encourage empathy naturally * How reminiscing, curiosity and conversation build emotional connection * Why modelling empathy matters more than demanding it Breanna 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 maturity * Teen brain development * Parenting strategies for connection * Emotional intelligence in children * Perspective-taking skills * Empathy development * Conflict between parents and children * Healthy parent-child relationships * Psychology of adolescence * Developmentally appropriate behaviour For 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. 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. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

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

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, [https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-01-24/homeschooling-numbers-reflect-changing-attitudes-of-parents/104845314] school refusal, and “school can’t” among children and teenagers across Australia. Joined by Alecia Hancock, owner of ND Perspectives in Perth, [https://www.ndperspective.com.au/] 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 DISCUSS * The rise in homeschooling registrations across Australia * Why more children and teens are disengaging from mainstream school * The difference between “school refusal” and “school can’t” * How autism, ADHD, anxiety, and sensory overwhelm can impact schooling * The hidden challenges neurodivergent children face in classrooms * Autism burnout and its impact on mental health and attendance * Transitioning from primary school to high school * The emotional impact on parents navigating these decisions * What homeschooling can actually look like in Australia * Socialisation myths around homeschooling * The role of allied health professionals in supporting families KEY TAKEAWAYS * Many families do not feel they are “choosing” homeschooling, but responding to a child in distress * School environments are often designed for neurotypical learners, which can create ongoing overwhelm for some children * Burnout in autistic children and teens is real and can significantly affect functioning and wellbeing * Homeschooling and alternative education pathways are becoming increasingly common in Australia * There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to education and wellbeing * Protecting a child’s mental health and sense of self may require flexibility and individualised approaches TOPICS COVERED WHAT 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 SCHOOL This episode explores how sensory sensitivities, transitions, social expectations, classroom environments, uniforms, noise, and lack of flexibility can impact autistic and ADHD children. AUTISM BURNOUT Alecia 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 processes * Curriculum requirements * Flexible learning approaches * Interest-based learning * Social opportunities for homeschooled children * The realities of balancing work and homeschooling HELPFUL RESOURCES * ND Perspectives – https://www.ndperspective.com.au/ [https://www.ndperspective.com.au/] * Let’s Reconnect Podcast Instagram – @letsreconnect_pod [https://www.instagram.com/letsreconnect_pod/] * Breanna Jayne Sada – @breanna.jayne_psychologist [https://www.instagram.com/breanna.jayne_psychologist/] * Raising Children's Network - School Refusal Guide [https://raisingchildren.net.au/school-age/school-learning/school-refusal/school-refusal] * Understanding School Can't - Headspace [https://headspace.org.au/explore-topics/supporting-a-young-person/school-cant/] This episode may be helpful for: * Parents concerned about school refusal or school can’t * Families navigating neurodiversity and education * Teachers and school wellbeing staff * Allied health professionals * Parents considering homeschooling or alternative schooling pathways * Anyone wanting to better understand the emotional realities behind school disengagement If 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. 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. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Are we expecting more of our kids than we do of ourselves?

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 EPISODE * Why unrealistic expectations are a major source of conflict in families * How children’s brain development impacts behaviour and emotional regulation * The role of dopamine, motivation, and “in-the-moment” thinking in kids and teens * How comparison, social media, and fear-based parenting shape expectations * Why we often justify our own behaviour but criticise the same behaviour in our children * Practical ways to model behaviour instead of demanding it * How empathy and timing can improve cooperation (especially with screen time and homework) * Why “good enough parenting” is more than enough KEY TAKEAWAYS * Children are not mini adults—they have different neurological capacity and need support, not just expectations * Many behaviours we label as “problematic” in children are actually developmentally normal * If an adult would struggle to meet an expectation, it’s worth questioning whether it’s realistic for a child * Behaviour change happens through modelling, consistency, and connection—not lectures or punishment * Small shifts in awareness can significantly reduce conflict and strengthen relationships COMMON PARENTING MOMENTS THIS EPISODE EXPLORES * Asking your child to stop gaming or screen time immediately * Frustration around homework and motivation * Toddlers not finishing meals * Babies not sleeping through the night * Emotional outbursts and “tantrums” * Family conflict driven by mismatched expectations PRACTICAL PARENTING STRATEGIES * Give transitions and warnings before ending preferred activities * Use 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 them * Repair after conflict—own your part and reset expectations * Reflect: Could I meet this expectation myself? What support would I need? * Instagram: @breanna.jayne_psychologist [https://www.instagram.com/breanna.jayne_psychologist/] * Podcast Instagram: @letsreconnect_pod [https://www.instagram.com/letsreconnect_pod/] * Website: https://www.breannajayne.com/ [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. 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. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.