THE POPPET CENTRE

Raising children who can live with technology, rather than live through it... Screens should have a place in childhood. They just shouldn't take the place of childhood.

There was a time when a difficult day in the playground could, at least in theory, finish at the school gate. A child might come home bruised by a cruel comment, a friendship rupture or the humiliation of being left out, but home offered some physical distance from it. The bedroom door could close. Dinner happened. Tomorrow was another day. The online world has changed that geography.

When I think about what truly makes a family thrive, it’s not just about the big milestones or celebrations. It’s the everyday moments, the small habits, and the intentional choices that build a foundation of well-being. Family life can be wonderfully rewarding, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. So, how do we navigate these ups and downs while keeping our family’s mental and emotional health intact? Let’s explore some essential family mental health strategi

As Mother’s Day approaches I have been reflecting on how grief keeps changing shape long after the flowers stop arriving.

As Mother’s Day approaches I’ve been reflecting on miscarriage, invisible grief, and loving someone mostly through hope.

As Mother’s Day approaches I have been thinking a lot of men who wanted for something but life had other plans, so this one is for the fathers who never got to arrive there…

When life throws challenges your way, especially those involving family dynamics and parenting, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. I’ve often found that reaching out for support is the first step toward clarity and calm. That’s why I want to share everything you need to know about how to contact The Poppet Centre, a trusted resource dedicated to helping families navigate modern challenges with warmth and expertise.

Some weeks, it’s hard to look away. A headline. A siren. A press conference. A shaken community. And suddenly, the world feels like it’s tipped on its axis.

It’s official. Australia is moving forward with a minimum age requirement of 16 for social media access. It’s being framed as a bold step toward protecting our kids from the harms of the digital world. And look as parents and carers, we get it. When your child is glued to a screen, skipping dinner to scroll, or crying over something that happened in an app you’ve never even used… the urge to pull the plug is strong.

Are you parenting a child or teen who loves jumping into online chats, gaming chats, or group conversations? It can be exciting for them – instant friends, shared interests, and a sense of belonging.