Where You Are

When we look at the mental health and well-being of children and youth, protective factors can help buffer against negative life experiences and support student wellbeing. When it comes to supporting protective factors, schools play an important role. In this episode we are joined by Silas, (a grade 12 student), Nathan (School District Deputy Superintendent) and Hasina (Associate Professor and researcher) to:

• Learn more about what we mean by ‘protective factors’ 

•  Offer strategies for school professionals on how to support students’ sense of belonging and build supportive relationships with students at their schools

• And share resources that schools can look to.

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Expectations for parents and caregivers today are overwhelmingly high, with endless advice on the internet and bombardment of ‘perfect’ families on social media telling them they can do better. Parents may often feel like they are failing, even if they are not. Join us as we discuss with Dr. Angela Low and Sarah, mom of 2: 

• The concept of shame as an emotion that can be experienced by parents and caregivers
• The difference between parent guilt vs. shame, and
• Ways to build resilience to shame so it doesn’t get in the way of us finding connection with the ones we love. 

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In this minisode we are joined by Dr. Chris Willard, Harvard Psychologist, dad and author of ‘How To Grow Through What We Go Through.’ Together we talk about:

• The concept of post-traumatic growth, what it is and the supporting science, and
• Techniques and practices to encourage post-traumatic growth so that we can not just survive the challenges in our lives, but come through them stronger than before.

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In this minisode we talk about ways to adapt mindfulness for kids, rather than a one size fits all approach. Our hosts Bryn & Char connect with Dr. Chris Willard, 2 time TEDx presenter and Harvard Psychologist to discuss tailoring mindfulness techniques to a range of mental health challenges. Hear great examples of different practices through arts, games, music and more that you can use with your child.

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We are sharing this great episode on growth mindset from Growing Up Game Plan: The Podcast, hosted by Saleema Noon. In this episode, Saleema and her guest Ginny, share four fundamental principles for nurturing a positive learning mindset and introduce a simple yet effective way to boost children's confidence in their learning and abilities. Ginny also tells listeners about a tool she’s created for parents to help their kids get off the screen and have more balance in their lives.

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Gender is an important part of your child’s development and overall identity. In this episode our hosts come together with Carrie & Wayne from TransParent Okanagan and Kendall, a Social Worker from BC Children’s Hospital to share with parents & caregivers of younger kids:

• A starting place to learn about concepts and terms related to gender 
• Tips on how to talk about gender identity with your child, their siblings and extended family
• Approaches that can help you to support your child as they discover their gender and express it in ways that feel right to them.

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As parents and caregivers, it can be easy to continuously push taking care of ourselves to the bottom of our list. But, when we prioritize our mental health and wellness, it also has a positive ripple effect on those around us. How can parents and caregivers take care of ourselves amidst full schedules and busy days? In this episode, Taryn, a parent of two, and Dr. Sukpreet Tamana, offer ideas and evidence to:

• Unpack misconceptions and common challenges that can come up for parents as we try to prioritize our own needs, and
• Discuss how strategies like recognizing emotions, setting boundaries and building support networks might offer small, practical ways to recharge and take care of our mental health and well-being.

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Our external senses— smell, sight, touch, and taste—along with lesser-known internal ones like balance and location— are constantly working to help us make sense of our world around us. This intricate process, often known as ‘sensory processing,’ is the foundation of many daily tasks. For some children, navigating this sensory processing can be more challenging. 

In today’s episode, our hosts chat with Tammie, a parent who shares her personal story of supporting her child with sensory processing challenges, and Courtney Hall, BCCH Occupational Therapist. Together they:

• Talk about different types of sensory preferences - like hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity 

• Look at other conditions that can go along with sensory processing issues and

• Offer tips and resources for parents and caregivers to support a child with sensory processing challenges 

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With four seasons of the podcast under their belts, our hosts reflect on episodes that have resonated with them.  Bryn, Char and special guest Michelle Horn look back at topics including sleep, feeding and eating, concurrent disorders, when parenting gets tough, and more. Together, they discuss some of the gems shared by our many amazing guests including:

• How to focus on your child’s strengths to help them manage their difficulties in life
• Things parents and caregivers can do when their child is struggling with mental health challenges 
• Connection and why showing up can be meaningful to your child
• And much more!

Note: A sincere and heartfelt thank you to all of our wonderful guests who have joined us over the last four seasons.  We could not have done this without you.

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When it comes to supporting children and youth through trauma there are things that parents can do to help. In this episode our hosts are joined by Lynne, a parent and grandparent who shares her personal story of navigating trauma within her family and Dr. Linda Uyeda, family physician with expertise in neuroscience, trauma and attachment. Together they discuss:

· What trauma is, how it can show up for kids and it’s impact on mental health

· The impact of trauma across generations

· How parents and caregivers can talk to their child about these experiences; and

· What parents and caregivers can do to support their child at home.  

Note:  For some of us the topic of trauma can be challenging and heavy. As you listen to this episode, please take stock of how you're feeling.  If you need to take a break, come back a little later, or reach out to your supports please do so. As we discuss with this topic, taking care of yourself is extremely important. 

Listeners, help us improve our podcast. Take this short feedback survey: https://bit.ly/WYAfeedback Completed surveys will be entered in a draw for a $100 Chapter's/Indigo gift card.

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