Key Takeaways:

• Teens distancing from parents is a normal developmental phase as they seek independence.
• Parents should provide a "steady presence" and adapt to their teen's communication preferences.
• Emotional regulation and repair after conflicts are vital to maintaining trust.
• Giving teens some control over their choices within healthy boundaries can foster connection.
• Family connection, though on the teen's terms, remains crucial for their overall life satisfaction.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Pulling back is often part of building independence, and it's how teens practice being separate, capable people."
2. "Very often, the closeness returns once the emotional storm has passed."
3. "Connection still matters. It's often more on our teens' terms, but connection is what we need to be fighting for as parents."
4. "You will know your teen best. You will know what works well."
5. "Even well-intentioned advice can land as criticism when emotions are high."

Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team.

Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.

Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.

Support the show: https://hope1032.com.au/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PURCHASE the book for $1.39AUD here at Amazon

Join the book launch THIS FRIDAY (20th March 2026) at Pacific Hills, Dural. Click on the link to RSVP and for more info

Raewyn Elsegood is a seasoned author and chaplain renowned for her empathetic writing and expertise in grief counseling. With over ten years of experience as a trained writer, Raewyn has channeled her profound personal experience of losing her daughter into her work, penning "21 Gifts" as a testament to her healing journey. Her professional history includes extensive work as a chaplain, where she has supported countless individuals in times of grief with her compassionate presence and insightful guidance.

Key Takeaways:

• Grief is Messy and Individual: Raewyn underscores that grief is not a linear process but unique to each person and can evolve over time.
• Writing as Healing: "21 Gifts" harnesses the power of writing as a therapeutic outlet, documenting a mother's journey through loss by reflecting on life's gifts.
• The Power of Presence: Offering support to those grieving involves simply "being there," as a witness to their experience without needing to fix it.
• Faith's Role in Grief: Raewyn candidly shares her struggle and reconciliation with faith amidst her grief, revealing the comfort and complexity it brings.
• Lessons in Legacy: Through her book and public speaking, Raewyn continues to honor Amy's legacy, teaching that healing often involves transforming personal pain into purposeful action.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Grief is very messy, and even trained professionals need to surrender to it."
2. "Losing Amy didn't mean losing my purpose as her mother. Writing 21 Gifts, establishing her scholarship, speaking to others; this is mothering her legacy."
3. "What I want people to feel as they read this book is they're walking with a companion, and I want them to have hope in their hurting heart."
4. "In our fear, we stay away, not knowing what to do. But there's no perfect words. Please just show up."
5. "Worry is normal, but it is a waste of time."

Resources:

• Raewyn Elsegood's Website
• Book: 21 Gifts

Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team.

Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.

Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.

Support the show: https://hope1032.com.au/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Points:

• Understanding legal responsibilities is crucial when teens commence driving alone.
• Assessing a teen driver's experience and confidence helps gauge their readiness.
• Safety must be a priority, especially when younger siblings are passengers.
• The approach to driving should be gradual, with trust-building measures.
• Continuous communication about safe practices reinforces learning and responsibility.

Notable Quotes:

• "Letting our teens drive their younger siblings is another huge step."
• "It's crucial to look at the legal side of things with our children, with our teens."
• "Does your teen understand that they're not just a taxi for their sibling?"
• "I think it's okay to consider easing into this whole new arrangement."

Resources:

• Follow Collett Smart on Instagram and Facebook.
• Learn more on Collett Smart’s website: www.collettsmart.com

Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team.

Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.

Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.

Support the show: https://hope1032.com.au/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.