Wild. Defiant. Intense. LOUD. Spirited kids are called lots of things and when you meet one, you know it. Their superhuman levels of perseverance and need to win every argument means parenting them can be exhausting.

But handled the right way, these kids could well be tomorrow's leaders and change the world. Psychologist Angela Pruess has two spirited kids and she joins Maggie Dent to guide us through the intensity of these children, and how to parent these constantly challenging kids.

How to parent spirited kids without losing your mind

Hormones. Anxiety. Angst. Raising teens is tough.

Parental As Anything: Teens gives you practical tips on how to navigate your teen-sized problems, from porn to partying, body issues to bullying.

Rebecca Sparrow, teen educator and author talks to parents and experts to unpack the biggest challenges of parenting teens.

Learn how to support your teenager while staying (mostly) sane.

Kids & Family

Parenting

From fancy drink bottles to the latest tech, teenagers want lots of stuff they (and you) can’t afford and don’t need.

So how can you push back from the constant barrage of demands? 

In this bite-sized Dear Bec episode, Bec Sparrow explains why giving teens what they want isn’t always good for them and that what they really crave, money can’t buy.

Dear Bec—my teen's entitled!

OMG. You catch your teen hassling for nude pics. What the hell do you do?  

How to have those awkward conversations with your teenagers about sexting, consent and protecting yourself online.

My teen is hassling for nudes

Teenage sex. Anxiety. Underage drinking. Porn. Phone addiction.

INTRODUCING — Parental As Anything: Teens

Is your teenager stressed at school?  

Have they got a worrying porn habit?  

Are you having dramas with another parent who has different rules to you?  

In the new season of Parental As Anything: Teens, teen educator Bec Sparrow finds practical solutions for your teenage-sized problems and we want your questions!  

Parents of teen boys, we’re looking at you especially.  

Send an email to teens@abc.net.au  

Brand new episodes coming soon, make sure you follow us on ABC Listen or your favourite podcast app.

Parents of teens, we want to hear from you!

Nothing truly prepares you for becoming a parent, but some of the best advice comes from other mums or dads – even famous ones like Hamish Blake.

In this special episode, Maggie Dent hands the reins over to the Parental As Anything community for you to share your best parenting hacks. Even comedian Hamish Blake shares his top tip for keeping kids entertained.

The advice provided in this podcast is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. If you require further advice specific to your needs, please consult a professional.

How to parent spirited kids without losing your mind

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