Beyond the Bell

Description: Connection has looked very different this past year. While we have been forced to find new ways to connect with friends and families over the course of the pandemic this episode reminds us of how accessible and important our connection to spirituality is. Together, Dr. Pat Carney and Chantelle Quesnelle discuss how parents can lean into conversations about spirituality by using mindfulness, gratitude, and curiosity. They explore the concept of an internal compass and ways that parents can help their children tap into that natural guidance. Dr. Carney touches on the research that links spirituality to mental health outcomes and reminds us of how our Catholic Education system naturally encourages this spiritual development. Fostering hope and connection has never been more important. This episode provides parents with practical tips on how to bring spirituality into everyday life in order to strengthen this important protective factor for mental wellbeing in our children. 

Together host Chantelle Quesnelle and Lisa Hickling-Miller explore the topic of mood challenges in the context of the pandemic. We discuss what's expected and when more support might be needed, the impact of screen time on mood, and the importance of creating a safe space for our children to talk about their feelings. Simcoe Muskoka's parents will hear some important information and tips and likely will relate to the experiences that Chantelle and Lisa share as parents themselves. 

Please be aware that we briefly discuss suicide in this episode and it may not be appropriate for some listeners.

Together Host Chantelle Quesnelle and Dr. Marian Boer explore anxiety across the ages and stages of development - they talk about what is normal worry and when parents should be concerned that anxiety is becoming a problem. You won't want to miss the practical tips and strategies they provide on how to cope with anxiety, which is the most common mental health concern for both adults and children.  

Host Chantelle Quesnelle has a conversation with Beth McCague from the Board's Psychology Department - they explore the dramatically different landscape that our children are faced with as a result of the pandemic and how parents can support their children with the stress they may be dealing with as we continue to navigate these uncertain times. 

Meet your host, Chantelle Quesnelle, and hear where we're headed with the OnPoint Parenting Podcast.

Brought to you by the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board and our Catholic Parent Involvement Committee.