Parenting and teaching children are incredibly satisfying. But let’s face it, there are plenty of occasions when children get emotionally upset, or their behaviour gets difficult and we find ourselves sitting in that "uncomfortable space", thinking and worrying about "what should I do?’" and "what shouldn’t I do?"
Science and evidence-based practice forms the foundations of what we do, but I also like to take a very pragmatic approach, to build up the practical skills adults need to support children’s self-regulation and self-control, while also strengthening relationships.
So, I look at it this way: if I can help parents and educators to tolerate their "uncomfortable space" and respond to children’s emotions and behaviour more calmly and effectively, this in turn will teach our children to do the same.
No single approach is the right one for every child, parent, teacher or school. So, I find it very helpful to draw upon both my professional and personal experience to tailor what can be done to help adults to help children.
Professional
8 years spent learning and working in Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services (Nursing), as a member of the highly skilled multi-disciplinary team running the Families at Work Program.
Co-founder & Director of BehaviourTonics (2003) Master Practitioner Trainer & Consultants in the following programs:
Facilitator/Speaker/Educator
I enjoy building awareness and knowledge around parenting, education and mental health. I get to do this all over Australia when invited by organisations, such as Anglicare, Ngala, Save the Children and dozens of schools to give presentations and facilitate workshops.
A bit about me…
I grew up on beef and dairy farms, milking cows and riding horses. I love travelling and when I was a bit younger (and before kids) I ventured around Australia and overseas for several years, working in mining, crayfishing and even as a deckhand on a super yacht to pay my way.
I’m a husband and a father of 2 boys/young men. We all love the ocean – being in it, on it, around it.
Growing up in the country you develop a strong sense of community, so I am actively involved in ours, via volunteering, coaching sport and supporting organisations with our services pro bono.