Are you using an app to keep tabs on your teenager’s whereabouts? This episode we unpack why Ginni and Jo don’t think tracking your child’s location is the best approach for their safety. And, as our kids grow older, their bodies naturally go through changes. But what should you do if you notice signs of your teen developing an unhealthy relationship with food? We offer advice to a parent who’s worried their child is overeating. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question v...
Oct 05, 2023•18 min
Is your teenager acting a bit down? Staying in bed all day and not really hanging out with friends? Well, it could be signs of depression, or maybe it's just a phase. We'll help you figure out what's what. Plus, Ginni and Jo chat about a parent's dilemma when it comes to charging their teens rent. Is there a right time to drop that on them? THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8...
Sep 28, 2023•13 min
Is your teenager in the midst of studying for their final exams? We know how stressful that time can be, but we have some tips for how to ease your child’s anxieties. Plus, is using Chat GPT for an assignment smart or dishonest? Ginni and Jo offer advice to a parent who has caught their son in a web of lies. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at podcast@m...
Sep 21, 2023•16 min
Are you worried about your teen using TikTok? Yes, there's some not-so-great stuff on there, but it’s no different to Instagram or Snapchat. Ginni and Jo have some thoughts that might put your mind at ease about TikTok and some tips to make sure your teen is using the app safely. Plus, when your teen breaks a promise, do you let them off? Ginni and Jo have some advice for a mum whose kid didn't quite stick to their word. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our n...
Sep 14, 2023•15 min
What's more dangerous: a teenager who's anxious about driving or one who's overly confident behind the wheel? This week, Ginni and Jo are sharing their wisdom for parents of learners as they unpack the road rage, the risky behaviour and advise how to deflate the ego. And, if your kid's going through some serious growing pains, be sure to consult a trusted doctor. Ginni and Jo debunk some sketchy health advice a mum received, so you can be sure your child is getting the right care. THE END BITS S...
Sep 07, 2023•14 min
Ever feel like your teenagers’ constant complaints of boredom shatter your plans for a peaceful day at home? Well, groundbreaking research has just spilled the beans – being bored isn’t all that bad. This week, Ginni and Jo explain why boredom is a gateway to unlocking creativity and discovering fulfilment. And, if your older kid's still giving you the helmet cold shoulder when hopping on their bike, fear not! We've got some smart lines to help steer your teen towards safety. THE END BITS Read t...
Aug 31, 2023•12 min
When the school lunches aren’t made, it’s tempting to hand your teen some cash for the canteen or ‘tuck shop.’ But be warned… they might just be buying unhealthy energy drinks. In this episode, Ginni and Jo discuss why this energy drink craze is more dangerous than you think. Plus, what would you do if you caught your 12 year old smoking? We give advice on how to best approach this with your teen. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here G...
Aug 24, 2023•14 min
Turning 18 is a huge milestone for our teens, and with it comes the classic 18th birthday party. But parties can be tricky when some friends aren't of the legal drinking age. Ginni and Jo offer advice to a parent wanting to keep things in check at their daughter's event, with tips to ensure rules are respected and underage drinking is avoided. Plus, we dive into some advice for a parent who has a confession to make about their teen…they find their son incredibly irritating! THE END BITS Subscrib...
Aug 17, 2023•15 min
Subscribe to Mamamia Job interviews can really rattle our nerves, whether we're teens or all grown up – that's just how it goes. This week, Ginni and Jo, who both support a firm handshake, delve into ways you can get your child all set for their first-ever job interview. Plus, Ginni and Jo lay down some cold hard facts for a parent who doesn’t believe that their child has ADHD and is against medicating them. They suggest strategies to cope with hyperactivity and impulsiveness. THE END BITS Liste...
Aug 10, 2023•14 min
As parents, sometimes we stumble upon things in our teens' rooms that we really wish we hadn't seen. Well, this week, Ginni and Jo hear from a mum who found a box of condoms in her daughter's room and wants to initiate…THE SEX TALK! Plus, Jo opens up about her experiences as a "low talker" and offers valuable advice to a worried parent who believes their daughter’s quietness is a toxic trait. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a ...
Aug 03, 2023•14 min
Do you get along with your teen’s significant other? This week, Ginni and Jo hear from a mum who feels she is overstepping with her (for lack of a better word) daughter-in-law. Plus, we give advice to a parent regarding the best time to start talking to their teen about saving their hard-earned minimum wages. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at podcast@...
Jul 27, 2023•13 min
As parents we need to protect our kids, but when do our actions enter overprotective territory? This week, Ginni and Jo hear from a 16-year-old who is getting FOMO because her mum's favourite answer is "no". Plus, we hear from a very sweet dad who wants to reconnect with his son, who is going through an “anywhere but home” phase. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or...
Jul 20, 2023•12 min
Having trouble scheduling time for your kids to stay at both parents' houses? Navigating the ins and outs of split families can be tough. Ginni and Jo share their tips on how to make it work. Plus, we answer a question from a parent who is eager to blend their new family. Ginni draws from her own experience of blending two families and offers some relatable advice. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! C...
Jul 13, 2023•13 min
High school can be a total nightmare for our teens. But if they're practically begging to leave school, how can we be their voice of reason? Ginni and Jo have been in the same boat with their own kids, and they've got advice to share. Oh, and thanks to the Covid lockdowns, kids think they can be on their devices whenever they like. We hear from a parent who is looking to give their kids a reality check. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form ...
Jul 06, 2023•14 min
There’s some questions you hope your teen will never ask. But when they do, how should you answer? Is honesty the best policy? This week Ginni and Jo explain exactly what to do when they ask you about drugs. Plus, we hear from a parent who is worried that their child is a “doormat” who is letting their peers walk all over them. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or e...
Jun 29, 2023•14 min
As our kids grow into teens they’re bound to test their limits. It’s normal! But how far do we let them go before we draw the line? This week Ginni and Jo hear from a parent who thinks their teen may have pushed their boundaries too far. Plus, we give advice to a parent who is concerned that their child is too shy to talk to other adults, including their own grandparents. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re liste...
Jun 22, 2023•13 min
The cost of living crisis is hitting hard and unfortunately that means most of us are having to make tough decisions about what is and isn’t affordable for our families moving forward. This week Ginni and Jo have advice on how to talk to your kids about cutting back the extracurricular activities. Plus, they’ve tips on dealing with angry outbursts and what to say when other parents chime in with their advice. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous...
Jun 15, 2023•14 min
As parents we know our kids won’t always have the same views as us, but what if their opinions really don’t sit right with you? Even border on offensive and misogynistic? This week Ginni and Jo hear from a listener whose son is starting to show signs of being an Andrew Tate follower. Plus, we hear from a parent who’s struggling to connect with their passive-aggressive teen. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re lis...
Jun 08, 2023•12 min
Have you heard of creatine before? It's the supplement widely used in sport that many teens are starting to use, but is it actually safe? Plus, what happens if your teen starts hanging out with a 'bad crowd'. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au CREDITS: Hosts: Dr Ginni Mansberg & Jo Lamble Find a copy of The New Teen Age here:...
Jun 01, 2023•12 min
"Both my teens have told me they want to be a bit less sensible and start taking some risks (eg getting drunk, trying vaping, sky-diving etc). How can I help them explore these urges without their health and safety being compromised?" This is the dilemma a listener emailed us about this week, and Ginni and Jo have some sage advice for nurturing your teen's risk taking behaviour, while keeping them safe. Plus, should parents be worried if their teen doesn't have many friends outside their partner...
May 25, 2023•11 min
Dealing with your teens first relationships are an almost inevitable part of parenting, but what if even the idea of it makes you uncomfortable? This week Ginni and Jo hear from a listener who's husband refuses to talk to their daughter about dating, and she's not sure what to do. Plus, is a lock on a teen's bedroom door a good idea? THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 938...
May 18, 2023•12 min
Co-parenting is not easy at the best of times, so how do you move forward if your ex-partner was abusive? Ginni and Jo address this heartbreaking and sensitive topic on today episode. Plus, has a fellow parent ever offered your teen alcohol? That's what a listener is dealing with and they are not happy. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at podcast@mamami...
May 11, 2023•18 min
Has your teen ever cheated on a test? This week we hear from a parent who is concerned after her teen was caught cheating, but Ginni and Jo aren't sure it's something to be too worried about. Plus, we hear from a parent who is concerned with how many nights her daughter is out socialising a week. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.a...
May 04, 2023•10 min
We hate to break it to you, but the teen-age can last a lot longer than up to age eighteen. That's what a listener has found with their 20-year-old, and wants to know how to manage their mess, backchat and lack of direction, without them necessarily moving out. Plus, Ginni and Jo have some advice for a parent who is concerned that her son doesn't have any close friends, and explains the benefits of being a 'floater'. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new a...
Apr 27, 2023•13 min
Does your teen trust you? And if not, how can you regain that trust? That's the dilemma Ginni and Jo are discussing this week after getting a question from a listener who says her son said he won’t tell her things as he thinks they'll be used against him. Plus, we hear from a parent who has a list of rules around phone use for their teen, but wants to know if they're appropriate for a 16 year old. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here G...
Apr 20, 2023•14 min
Bullying is such a huge issue among teens, and Ginni and Jo have spoken at length on this podcast about how to handle your teen being bullied. But what if your child is on the other side, and might be bullying someone else? Today, they answer a question from a listener who needs some advice on cyber-bullying. Plus, if you suspect your child might have ADHD, what are the next steps? And how can you make sure your teen is getting the support they need? THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUC...
Apr 13, 2023•14 min
Panic attacks can be scary - especially if you're not sure what they are. But the good news is that they're totally manageable, and Ginni and Jo have some practical advice for helping your teen through them. Plus, we hear from a listener who's teen daughter's motto is 'life's for living and having fun to the fullest', so how can they encourage her daughter to be herself, while also making sure she's safe? THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous for...
Apr 06, 2023•15 min
If your teen has ever struggled to make (or keep) friends, you'll know how distressing this can be. Ginni and Jo have some sage advice for a parent who is concerned their son's behaviour has ostracised him amongst his peers. Plus, they discuss a dilemma from a listener who wants to know if a local club is an appropriate first job for their daughter. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phon...
Mar 30, 2023•12 min
Have you ever seen small silver canisters discarded on the street, and wondered why someone was consuming so much whipped cream at night? Well, they're actually nitrous oxide, and teens are using them as a cheap and easy way to feel high. So how worried should parents be? Plus, Ginni and Jo have some advice for a parent who is sick of their daughter's backchat. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call ...
Mar 23, 2023•19 min
So the time has come that your teen has brought home a special someone, but there's only one problem - you don't like them. But of course, your teen really really does. This is the relatable problem a parent is dealing with on today's episode, and Ginni and Jo have some advice to help get through this period, without damaging their relationship with their son. Plus, has your child ever faked being sick to get our of school? Here's some tips on how deal with your teen chucking a sickie. THE END B...
Mar 16, 2023•16 min
