• I am very grateful for the insight and practical ideas. The human brain fascinates me so I appreciated making links between neuroscience, attachment, and trauma-informed practice, I found the ‘What does this mean in practice’ parts very helpful, translating knowledge into practical application.

    – New Zealand

  • In my 30+ years of attending PD workshops I’ve only ever been to 2 that were better. One was a 2 day workshop with Professor Bruce Perry. The other was Bessel Van der Kolk. Added to that, a home grown Aussie accent and humour and Karen’s ability to link theory to creative, practical ideas for practice made it (Neurodevelopment) an exceptional workshop – very worth the hours of travelling to get there.

    Counsellor – Australia

  • Great seminar. Really useful as a teacher to cover parent/ teacher/ student responses and prompt questions. Really helpful to hear explicit strategies to assist in the classroom and hear real examples and how to apply them.

    Teacher
    – Australia

  • Great seminar! Karen hits the nail on the head on anxiety in all areas – young people, but also myself and understanding it and how I can deal with it personally, as a CEC at high school, and as a parent.

    CEC (High School), Parent
    – Cairns

  • Karen is an effortless and passionate presenter – a world of knowledge on this topic. Felt this [Anxiety in the Classroom] was a great add on to previously attended workshop ‘Hey Warrior!’

    Psychologist
    – Townsville

  • I found her amazing. I found it relatable and accessible. There were lots of good practical strategies and I acquired a much deeper understanding. It gave me tools, tips and hope.

    Teacher/Counsellor
    -Perth, Australia

  • Great session! So much information and knowledge. I could listen to Karen all day.

    Counsellor
    – Perth, Australia

  • I can’t put into words how helpful this seminar has been for me, personally as well as professionally.

    Counsellor
    – Central Coast, Australia

  • Great! I love the deep and wise understanding of what can be an elusive concept, and then Karen’s ability to make that understanding ‘come alive’ with her storytelling. I appreciate the tangible sense of deep understanding and care for children with practical, loving help – also extended to their parents. Warm, authentic, wise, and practical.

    Guidance Officer
    Brisbane, Australia

  • One of the best trainings I have attended. Nice to have a seminar whose facilitator is real, down-to-earth, and doesn’t use a lot of jargon. Fabulous to have had Karen as a presenter, lots of knowledge and brilliant to listen to! Thoroughly useful training to continue using with families. Lots of tools and ideas.

    Social Worker
    – New Zealand

  • The seminar was one of the best I have attended. Karen presents in an easy to understand and engaging manner. Her use of anecdotes made the day interesting and practical. She is one of the best presenters I have had the privilege of listening to.

    Art Therapist
    – Brisbane, Australia

  • Awesome presentation! Great break down of anxiety. I liked how there were lots of practical ideas and separation between working with parents and children. I feel much more equipped to work with children and families with anxiety.

    Occupational Therapist
    – Melbourne, Australia


Upcoming Events

A Developing Brain

Designed specifically for early childhood settings, this workshop explores the recent developments in neuroscience that have given us remarkable insight into the conditions and experiences that can dramatically influence the growth and development of all young children in positive and enduring ways. Early childhood is a particularly critical time for the developing brain, and the early childhood environment is rich with the necessary experiences and relationships to support children in their development, behaviour, learning, and social and emotional well-being. The relationships and experiences children are exposed to in their earliest years, will influence the neural foundations upon which their growth and development is built. This dynamic workshop will explore these conditions, and ways early childhood professionals can translate this knowledge into practice to nurture the holistic development of all children. 

(This program has been approved by the Department of Education and Training Victoria for the School Readiness Funding Menu)

Monday 05 June 2023, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
Commercial Club, Albury, NSW, Aus
Tuesday 06 June 2023, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
The Carrington, Shepparton, Vic, Aus
Thursday 08 June 2023, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
Lakeside Hotel, Bendigo, Vic, Aus
Monday 31 July 2023, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
Mantra Traralgon, Traralgon, Vic
Tuesday 01 August 2023, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
Frankston RSL, Frankston
Wednesday 02 August 2023, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
The Vibe Hotel, Melbourne, Vic, Aus
Thursday 03 August 2023, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
Ballarat Golf Club, Ballarat, Vic, Aus
Thursday 24 August 2023, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
The Vibe Hotel, Melbourne, Vic, Aus

Overcoming Anxiety – Helping Children & Adolescents Find Their Brave (New Zealand)

Anxiety is the most common child and adolescent mental health concern. Anxiety is a very normal human response, but for as many as 1 in 5 young people in New Zealand the symptoms become so intrusive so as to interfere with day to day living. The effects can ripple from children, to their families, to the classroom, and into friendships. Anxiety can potentially undermine the way children see themselves, the world and their important place in it – but it doesn’t have to be this way. With the right support, children can be empowered with the skills and knowledge to manage anxiety and move forward with courage and resilience. 
This dynamic workshop will help participants to recognise and respond to anxiety in children and adolescents. It will delve into the obvious and not so obvious signs of anxiety, discuss where they come from, why they exist and offer a range of practical, powerful interventions to assist participants to respond effectively within their own professional context. It will also explore how to work with parents and carers in ways that strip shame and guilt, and unlock their capacity to move their children through anxiety and towards brave behaviour.

Monday 21 August 2023, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Waipuna Hotel, Auckland, NZ
Tuesday 22 August 2023, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Distinction Hotel, Rotorua, NZ
Thursday 24 August 2023, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Napier Conference Centre, Napier, NZ
Friday 25 August 2023, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Distinction Hotel, Palmerston North
Monday 28 August 2023, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Plymouth International, New Plymouth, NZ
Wednesday 30 August 2023, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor, Wellington, NZ

Navigating Child and Adolescent Anxiety – A Professional Development Seminar (United States)

For as many as one in five young lives, anxiety is an intrusive part of everyday life, with the effects often stealing into families, classrooms and friendships. Anxiety can potentially undermine the way children see themselves, the world and their important place in it – but it doesn’t have to be this way. Anxiety is very manageable when it is recognised and responded to. This dynamic workshop will help participants to recognise anxiety in children and adolescents (5 – 18yrs). It will delve into the obvious and not so obvious signs of anxiety, discuss where they come from and why they exist, and offer a range of practical, powerful, research-driven interventions to assist participants to respond effectively within their own professional context.

Tuesday 26 September 2023, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Dixon Elks Lodge, 1279 Franklin Grove Rd, Il, United States

Strengthening Children & Teens Against Anxiety – A workshop for parents, carers, and professionals. (United States)

What could our children and teens do if they knew in their hearts they were brave enough? All children and teens are capable of their very own versions of greatness. For too many though, anxiety will shut down their capacity to discover their potential – but it doesn’t have to be this way. This transformational session will provide the essential information and strategies to help all parents and carers support children and adolescents to build courage and resilience, uncover their strengths, and take anxiety back to small enough. We will discuss ways to nurture the skills and qualities that will strengthen all children for life.

Tuesday 26 September 2023, 6:00 pm-8:00 pm
Dixon Elks Lodge, 1279 Franklin Grove Rd, IL United States

Hey Warrior (Australia)

For as many as one in five young lives, anxiety is an intrusive part of everyday life, with the effects often stealing into families, classrooms and friendships. Anxiety can potentially undermine the way children see themselves, the world and their important place in it – but it doesn’t have to be this way. Anxiety is very manageable when it is recognised and responded to. This dynamic workshop will help participants to recognise anxiety in children and adolescents (5 – 18yrs). It will delve into the obvious and not so obvious signs of anxiety, discuss where they come from and why they exist, and offer a range of practical, powerful, research-driven interventions to assist participants to respond effectively within their own professional context.

Monday 23 October 2023, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Rydges Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia

Hey Little Warrior

Designed specifically for early childhood settings, this workshop is based on ‘Hey Warrior’ and Hey ‘Awesome’, the best-selling, highly-acclaimed children’s books which turn anxiety into an ally, and explore and explain anxiety through a neuroscientific, child-friendly lens. The workshop will provide early childhood educators with the practical strategies and information to support a class-based approach towards strengthening all children against anxiety, expanding their capacity for brave behaviour, and understanding more about the brain. Upon completion of the workshop, early childhood educators will have the information and practical tools to work with children on a group or individual level to strengthen them against anxiety, build their capacity to calm big feelings (including anxiety and anger) and move towards brave behaviour.

(This program has been approved by the Department of Education and Training Victoria for the School Readiness Funding Menu)

Monday 05 June 2023, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Commercial Club, Albury, NSW, Aus
SOLD OUT Register Now
Tuesday 06 June 2023, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
The Carrington, Shepparton, Vic, Aus
LIMITED SEATS Register Now
Thursday 08 June 2023, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Lakeside Hotel, Bendigo, Vic, Aus
Monday 31 July 2023, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Mantra, Traralgon, Vic, Aus
LIMITED SEATS Register Now
Tuesday 01 August 2023, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Frankston RSL, Frankston, Vic, Aus
Wednesday 02 August 2023, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Vibe Hotel, Melbourne, Vic, Aus
SOLD OUT Register Now
Thursday 03 August 2023, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Ballarat Golf Club, Ballarat, Vic, Aus
Tuesday 24 October 2023, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Vibe Hotel, Melbourne, Vic, Aus
LIMITED SEATS Register Now

Previous Events

Hey Little Warrior

Designed specifically for early childhood settings, this workshop is based on ‘Hey Warrior’ and Hey ‘Awesome’, the best-selling, highly-acclaimed children’s books which turn anxiety into an ally, and explore and explain anxiety through a neuroscientific, child-friendly lens. The workshop will provide early childhood educators with the practical strategies and information to support a class-based approach towards strengthening all children against anxiety, expanding their capacity for brave behaviour, and understanding more about the brain. Upon completion of the workshop, early childhood educators will have the information and practical tools to work with children on a group or individual level to strengthen them against anxiety, build their capacity to calm big feelings (including anxiety and anger) and move towards brave behaviour.

(This program has been approved by the Department of Education and Training Victoria for the School Readiness Funding Menu)

Tuesday 15 February 2022, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Atura Hotel Dandenong, Doveton, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Wednesday 16 February 2022, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Vibe Hotel Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Thursday 17 February 2022, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Leopold Library, Leopold, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Monday 23 May 2022, 1:30 pm-4:30 pm
Commercial Club, Albury, NSW, Aus
Register Now
Tuesday 24 May 2022, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
The Carrington, Shepparton, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Wednesday 25 May 2022, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Lakeside Hotel, Bendigo, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Monday 08 August 2022, 1:30 pm-4:30 pm
Leopold Library, Leopold, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Tuesday 09 August 2022, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Ballarat Golf Club, Ballarat, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Wednesday 10 August 2022, 1:30 pm-4:30 pm
Vibe Hotel Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Thursday 11 August 2022, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
Vibe Hotel Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Wednesday 15 February 2023, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Launceston Conference Centre, Launceston, Tas, Aus
Register Now
Tuesday 28 February 2023, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Vibe Hotel, Melbourne, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Wednesday 01 March 2023, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Atura Hotel Dandenong, Doveton, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Thursday 02 March 2023, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Leopold Library, Leopold, Vic, Aus
Register Now

Hey Warrior (Australia)

For as many as one in five young lives, anxiety is an intrusive part of everyday life, with the effects often stealing into families, classrooms and friendships. Anxiety can potentially undermine the way children see themselves, the world and their important place in it – but it doesn’t have to be this way. Anxiety is very manageable when it is recognised and responded to. This dynamic workshop will help participants to recognise anxiety in children and adolescents (5 – 18yrs). It will delve into the obvious and not so obvious signs of anxiety, discuss where they come from and why they exist, and offer a range of practical, powerful, research-driven interventions to assist participants to respond effectively within their own professional context.

Friday 21 August 2020, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
The Glen Hotel, Eight Mile Plains, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
Register Now
Thursday 03 September 2020, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Rydges Esplanade Resort, Cairns, Qld, Australia
Register Now
Monday 14 September 2020, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
The Function, Glenelg, SA, Australia
Register Now
Friday 06 November 2020, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Mantra Twin Towns, Tweed Heads, NSW, Australia
Register Now
Friday 13 November 2020, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Gosford RSL Club, West Gosford, NSW, Australia
Register Now
Monday 15 February 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Liverpool Catholic Club, Prestons, NSW, Australia
Register Now
Tuesday 16 February 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney, Surry Hills, NSW, Australia
Register Now
Wednesday 17 February 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Vibe Hotel Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
Register Now
Thursday 18 February 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Best Western Hobart, Hobart, Tas, Australia
Register Now
Friday 19 February 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Launceston Conference Centre, 50 Glen Dhu Street, South Launceston, Tas, Australia
Register Now
Tuesday 09 March 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Mantra Parramatta, Cnr Parkes St and Valentine Ave, Parramatta, NSW, Aus
Register Now
Thursday 11 March 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
ANZAC HOUSE, Perth, WA, Australia
Register Now
Friday 23 April 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Commercial Club, Albury, NSW, Australia
Register Now
Monday 03 May 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Vibe Hotel, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
Register Now
Monday 13 September 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Rydges Geelong, Cnr Gheringhap and Myers Streets, Geelong, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Wednesday 09 February 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Wollongong City Diggers, 82 Church Street, Wollongong, NSW, Aus
Register Now
Monday 14 February 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Vibe Hotel Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
Register Now
Friday 18 February 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Rydges, Geelong, Vic, Australia
Register Now
Wednesday 23 February 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Rydges Sydney Central, Surry Hills, NSW, Australia
Register Now
Monday 28 February 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Rydges Esplanade Resort, Cairns, Qld, Australia
Register Now
Friday 04 March 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Best Western Plus North Lakes Hotel, North Lakes, Qld, Australia
Register Now
Tuesday 15 March 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
ANZAC House, Perth, WA, Australia
Register Now
Friday 13 May 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Vibe Hotel Darwin, Darwin, NT, Aus
Register Now
Friday 20 May 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Rydges Esplanade Resort, Cairns, Qld, Aus
Register Now
Thursday 02 June 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Souths Leagues Club, Mackay, Qld, Australia
Register Now
Friday 03 June 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Rydges Southbank Townsville, Townsville, Qld, Australia
Register Now
Thursday 16 June 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
The Glen Hotel, Brisbane, Qld, Aus
Register Now
Thursday 23 February 2023, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
ANZAC House, Perth, WA, Australia
Register Now

Overcoming Anxiety – Helping Children & Adolescents Find Their Brave (New Zealand)

Anxiety is the most common child and adolescent mental health concern. Anxiety is a very normal human response, but for as many as 1 in 5 young people in New Zealand the symptoms become so intrusive so as to interfere with day to day living. The effects can ripple from children, to their families, to the classroom, and into friendships. Anxiety can potentially undermine the way children see themselves, the world and their important place in it – but it doesn’t have to be this way. With the right support, children can be empowered with the skills and knowledge to manage anxiety and move forward with courage and resilience. 
This dynamic workshop will help participants to recognise and respond to anxiety in children and adolescents. It will delve into the obvious and not so obvious signs of anxiety, discuss where they come from, why they exist and offer a range of practical, powerful interventions to assist participants to respond effectively within their own professional context. It will also explore how to work with parents and carers in ways that strip shame and guilt, and unlock their capacity to move their children through anxiety and towards brave behaviour.

Tuesday 26 November 2019, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Invercargill
Register Now
Wednesday 27 November 2019, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Dunedin
Register Now
Thursday 28 November 2019, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Christchurch
Register Now
Friday 29 November 2019, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Nelson
Register Now
Wednesday 02 June 2021, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor, Wellington NZ
Register Now
Tuesday 21 March 2023, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Rydges Latimer, Christchurch
Register Now
Thursday 23 March 2023, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
The Dunedin Centre, Dunedin, NZ
Register Now

A Developing Brain

Designed specifically for early childhood settings, this workshop explores the recent developments in neuroscience that have given us remarkable insight into the conditions and experiences that can dramatically influence the growth and development of all young children in positive and enduring ways. Early childhood is a particularly critical time for the developing brain, and the early childhood environment is rich with the necessary experiences and relationships to support children in their development, behaviour, learning, and social and emotional well-being. The relationships and experiences children are exposed to in their earliest years, will influence the neural foundations upon which their growth and development is built. This dynamic workshop will explore these conditions, and ways early childhood professionals can translate this knowledge into practice to nurture the holistic development of all children. 

(This program has been approved by the Department of Education and Training Victoria for the School Readiness Funding Menu)

Tuesday 15 February 2022, 1:30 pm-4:30 pm
tura Hotel Dandenong, Doveton, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Wednesday 16 February 2022, 1:30 pm-4:30 pm
Vibe Hotel Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Thursday 17 February 2022, 1:30 pm-4:30 pm
Leopold Library, Leopold, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Monday 23 May 2022, 1:30 pm-4:30 pm
Commercial Club, Albury, NSW
Register Now
Tuesday 24 May 2022, 1:30 pm-4:30 pm
The Carrington, Shepparton, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Wednesday 25 May 2022, 1:30 pm-4:30 pm
Lakeside Hotel, Bendigo, VIC,
Register Now
Monday 08 August 2022, 1:30 pm-4:30 pm
Leopold Library, Leopold, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Tuesday 09 August 2022, 1:30 pm-4:30 pm
Ballarat Golf Club, Ballarat, VIC,
Register Now
Wednesday 10 August 2022, 1:30 pm-4:30 pm
Vibe Hotel Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Thursday 11 August 2022, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Vibe Hotel Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Tuesday 28 February 2023, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
Vibe Hotel Melbourne, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Wednesday 01 March 2023, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
Atura Hotel Dandenong, Doveton, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Thursday 02 March 2023, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
Leopold Library, Leopold, Vic, Aus
Register Now

Neurodevelopmental Theory to Practice (Australia)

Recent developments in neuroscience have expanded our capacity to be more effective in all areas of practice in child development. We now have remarkable insight into what the growing brain needs to thrive from infancy through adolescence and beyond. Drawing on neuroscientific insights, we can ‘neuro-nurture’ the developing child and dramatically influence the growth and development of the young brain to provide the foundations for a happy, successful life. As the need for neuroscientific knowledge amongst practitioners increases, its convergence with key approaches to attachment, trauma, and learning have seen watershed changes in how we understand and support optimal development, behaviour and social-emotional wellbeing. This opens the way for us to take a more compassionate, targeted and effective response when working with children and adolescents in any capacity. This dynamic workshop will translate neuroscience into powerful insights and practical strategies to support the holistic development of children and adolescents. 

Monday 22 February 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Rydges Esplanade Resort, Cairns, Qld, Australia
Register Now
Tuesday 23 February 2021, 12:00 am-4:00 pm
Mecure Townsville, Townsville, Qld, Australia
Register Now
Wednesday 24 February 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Souths Leagues Club, Mackay, Qld, Australia
Register Now
Thursday 25 February 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Rockhampton Leagues Club, Qld, Australia
Register Now
Friday 26 February 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Northlakes Hotel, Northlakes, Qld, Australia
Register Now
Wednesday 17 March 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
City Golf Club, Toowoomba, Qld, Australia
Register Now
Friday 19 March 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
The Glen Hotel, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
Register Now
Monday 19 April 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Kingscliff, NSW, Aus
Register Now
Monday 07 June 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
The Function, Glenelg, SA, Australia
Register Now
Tuesday 31 August 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
ANZAC House, Perth, WA, Aus
Register Now
Wednesday 15 September 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Vibe Hotel Hobart, Hobart, Tas, Aus
Register Now
Thursday 16 September 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Launceston Conference Centre, Launceston, Tas, Aus
Register Now
Tuesday 26 October 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Vibe Hotel, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
Register Now
Tuesday 16 November 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Skye Suites Parramatta, Sydney, NSW, Australia
Register Now
Wednesday 17 November 2021, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Rydges Sydney Central, 28 Albion Street, Surry Hills, NSW, Aus
Register Now
Thursday 10 February 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Skye Suites Parramatta, Parramatta, NSW, Aus
Register Now
Friday 11 February 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Rydges Sydney Central, Surry Hills, NSW, Aus
Register Now
Tuesday 22 February 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Fort Scratchley Function Centre, Newcastle East, NSW, Australia
Register Now
Wednesday 16 March 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
ANZAC House, Perth, WA, Aus
Register Now
Monday 21 March 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Vibe Hotel Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
Register Now
Thursday 07 April 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Vibe Hotel, Hobart, Tas, Aus
Register Now
Friday 08 April 2022, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Launceston Conference Centre, Launceston, Tas, Aus
Register Now
Friday 12 May 2023, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Best Western Plus, North Lakes, Qld, Aus
Register Now
Wednesday 22 February 2023, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
ANZAC House, Perth, WA, Aus
Register Now
Monday 27 February 2023, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Vibe Hotel, Melbourne, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Friday 03 March 2023, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Rydges Geelong, Geelong, Vic, Aus
Register Now
Friday 17 March 2023, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Novotel, Cairns, Qld, Aus
Register Now

Neuro-Nurture (New Zealand)

Recent developments in neuroscience have expanded our capacity to be more effective in all areas of practice in child development. We now have remarkable insight into what the growing brain needs to thrive from infancy through adolescence and beyond. Drawing on neuroscientific insights, we can ‘neuro-nurture’ the developing child and dramatically influence the growth and development of the young brain to provide the foundations for a happy, successful life. As the need for neuroscientific knowledge amongst practitioners increases, its convergence with key approaches to attachment, trauma, and learning have seen watershed changes in how we understand and support optimal development, behaviour and social-emotional wellbeing. This opens the way for us to take a more compassionate, targeted and effective response when working with children and adolescents in any capacity. This dynamic workshop will translate neuroscience into powerful insights and practical strategies to support the holistic development of children and adolescents. 

Tuesday 21 September 2021, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Alexandra Park, Auckland, NZ (Interactive Livestream)
Register Now
Thursday 23 September 2021, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Plymouth International, New Plymouth, NZ (Interactive Livestream)
Register Now
Monday 29 November 2021, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Rutherford Hotel, Nelson
Register Now
Wednesday 01 December 2021, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Riccarton Park Function Centre, Christchurch
Register Now
Friday 03 December 2021, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
The Dunedin Centre, Dunedin
Register Now
Thursday 18 August 2022, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Prefab Hall, Wellington
Register Now
Friday 19 August 2022, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Distinction Hotel, Palmerston North
Register Now
Monday 22 August 2022, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Claudelands Event Centre, Hamilton
Register Now
Wednesday 24 August 2022, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Ellerslie Event Centre, Auckland
Register Now
Friday 26 August 2022, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Copthorne Hotel & Resort, Bay of Islands
Register Now

Building Courage and Resilience in Children

Courage and resilience are vital qualities that help children adapt in the face of adversity and challenge, with their hearts, minds, and spirits intact. Both courage and resilience are qualities that can be cultivated in any child, and parents are in the perfect position to do this. This transformational session will explore how you can help build courage and resilience in your child.

Monday 18 October 2021, 6:30 pm-8:00 pm
Bond University (Building 6, Level 3, Theatre 2), Gold Coast, Qld, Australia
Register Now

Thriving in a Stressful World: Practical Ways to Help Ourselves and Our Children Feel Secure and Calm

As we emerge from the pandemic, stressors are heightened, and anxiety is an ever more common experience. We know from research that stress is “contagious” between adults and kids; therefore addressing the impacts of stress on ourselves is intertwined with our capacity to support the young people in our care. How can we help ourselves and our children to develop a foundation of security and calmness to prevail through the effects of this storm? 

I’ll be joining with Dr Marc Brackett and Dr Farah Shroff, as we explore the role of emotion regulation and the function of anxiety in our lives. Participants will learn ways to help express and regulate their own, and their children’s, emotions, even when our world may feel a little scary and stressful. Panelists will also share practical and holistic strategies that can be most effective in fostering well-being for both ourselves and children. 

In this webinar which will be hosted by The Dalai Lama Center for Peace and Education, you will have the opportunity to glean creative, evidence-informed takeaways to help you and the children in your care build resilience and foster a sense of security and calmness. Join us for this 1 ½ hour session, including a dynamic Q&A period.

Thursday 14 October 2021, 1:30 pm-3:00 pm
Online (Dates and times are PST times)
Register Now

Building Relationships That Protect and Heal

The SCCR Online Conference 2021 is a wonderful initiative which will be exploring ’The Power of Reconnection’. More than ever, relationships matter. They heal, provide a buffer against stress, and make the world feel a little softer and safer for our young people. Building meaningful connections can take time, and even the strongest relationships can feel the effects of disconnection from time to time. As part of this free webinar, we will explore the power of attachment relationships, and ways to build relationships the the children and teens in your life that protect, strengthen, and heal. 

The conference will be at:

AEST time: 11 October, 7pm-8pm

Scotland time: 11 October, 10am-11am

Monday 11 October 2021, 7:00 pm-11:00 am
Online (Dates and times are AEST)
Register Now

Anxious to Brave: An online, interactive program for parents of children and teens with anxiety.

Parents don’t cause anxiety, but they can make the most profound difference in moving children from anxious to brave. The move through anxiety isn’t an easy one, for children or the adults who love them, but it is certainly possible. Like so many good things, sometimes the way through is clearer and easier with a little help – enter ‘Anxious to Brave‘, a series of eight weekly live online 60-90 workshops for parents of kids and teens with anxiety. Throughout the course of the program, I’ll be guiding parents through research-backed information and strategies to help strengthen children and teens against anxiety and move them towards brave behaviour. If you can’t make it to every session, not to worry – the workshops will be recorded and available to registered participants for a short while after the event. Groups will be kept small, to keep interaction big.

Thursday 22 July 2021, 7:30 pm-8:30 pm
Online. Every Thurs for 8 weeks from 22 Jul-9 Sep. (Time is AEST Brisbane)
Register Now
Wednesday 21 July 2021, 7:00 pm-8:30 pm
Online. First 7 sessions - every Wed from 21 July + 8th session on Tue 14 Sep.
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When They Push the Boundaries – A Webinar

In this webinar, I’ll be teaming up with Michelle Mitchell to equip parents, carers and professionals with strategies to help stay connected to tweens and teens, and build positive influence during the most challenging of moments. We’ll explore why all tweens and teens will push the boundaries at some point, why they might make risky decisions or break the rules, and how to respond in ways that strengthen them and preserve your connection. With some very specific strategies and solid information, those tricky teen years can be much easier. If you can’t make the date, not to worry – the webinar will be recorded and made available for you to watch any time.

Thursday 08 July 2021, 7:00 pm-8:00 pm
Online (Time is AEST, Brisbane)
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(Not this one – go to page 2) Overcoming Anxiety – Helping Children and Adolescents Find Their Brave (New Zealand)

Anxiety is the most common child and adolescent mental health concern. Anxiety is a very normal human response, but for as many as 1 in 5 young people in New Zealand the symptoms become so intrusive so as to interfere with day to day living. The effects can ripple from children, to their families, to the classroom, and into friendships. Anxiety can potentially undermine the way children see themselves, the world and their important place in it – but it doesn’t have to be this way. When recognised and properly managed, anxiety is very treatable. With the right support, children can be empowered with the skills and knowledge to manage anxiety and move forward with courage and resilience. 
This dynamic workshop will help participants to recognise and respond to anxiety in children and adolescents. It will delve into the obvious and not so obvious signs of anxiety, discuss where they come from, why they exist and offer a range of practical, powerful interventions to assist participants to respond effectively within their own professional context.

Monday 23 November 2020, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Trinity Wharf, Tauranga, New Zealand
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Tuesday 24 November 2020, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Novotel Tainui, Hamilton, New Zealand
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Friday 27 November 2020, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Napier Conference Centre, Napier, New Zealand
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Friday 28 May 2021, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Rydges Latimer Christchurch, Christchurch, NZ
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Wednesday 02 June 2021, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
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Strengthening Children and Teens Against Anxiety at School and Beyond (NZ)

As much as school can nurture, nourish and build children and adolescents, the very nature of school means that it can also be abundant with anxiety triggers that can significantly compromise their growth and development. Anxiety can be fuelled by anything unfamiliar or any situation that comes with the potential for embarrassment, failure, humiliation, shame, or separation – and school is ripe with all of them. School presents many children with some of the greatest challenges to their mental health, but it also presents some of the greatest opportunities to strengthen against anxiety. 

This workshop is for any professional who works with or within the education system, or with children or adolescents struggling with anxiety at school. Participants will learn practical strategies to effectively respond to children and teens with anxiety, as well as ways to capture the powerful buffering role school can play in strengthening all young people against anxiety at school and beyond. 

(At this stage, this event will be live-streamed to the event because of COVID-19 travel restrictions.)

Tuesday 20 October 2020, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Auckland, New Zealand
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Friday 23 October 2020, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Distinction Hotel, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Strengthening the Relationship With Your Teen (Scotland, online)

Scottish Centre for Conflict Resolution International Online Conference.

Cyrenians Scottish Centre for Conflict Resolution are holding an all-digital festival of events in place of their annual conference. This exciting programme includes several internationally-renowned special guests. SCCR have made this available for free, and you are welcome to sign up to as many as you wish. I will be speaking on 15 October from 10:00-10:30am (Brisbane time) about ways parents and other important adults can strengthen the relationship, connection, and influence with their tweens and teens. The 30 minute presentation will be followed by a Q&A with the audience.

Thursday 22 October 2020, 7:00 pm-8:00 pm
Scottish Centre for Conflict Resolution, Online (Time is Brisbane, Aus AEST)
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Superpowered! – Transforming Anxiety into Courage and Resilience, with Renee Jain & Dr Shefali Tsabary

Join me for this Facebook Live event where I’ll be speaking with Renee Jain and Dr Shefali Tsabary about anxiety, courage and resilience.

Tuesday 22 September 2020, 10:00 am-11:00 am
Facebook Live (Time is Brisbane, Aust - AEST)
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Strengthening Children and Teens Against Anxiety at School and Beyond (Aus)

As much as school can nurture, nourish and build children and adolescents, the very nature of school means that it can also be abundant with anxiety triggers that can significantly compromise their growth and development. Anxiety can be fuelled by anything unfamiliar or any situation that comes with the potential for failure, shame, embarrassment, humiliation, or separation from a loved one – and school is ripe with all of them. School presents many children with some of the greatest challenges to their mental health, but it also presents some of the greatest opportunities to strengthen against anxiety. This workshop is for any professional who works with or within the education system, or with children or adolescents struggling with anxiety at school. Participants will learn practical strategies to effectively respond to children and teens with anxiety, as well as ways to capture the powerful buffering role school can play in strengthening all young people against anxiety at school and beyond.

Friday 04 September 2020, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Mercure Townsville Resort, Townsville, Qld, Australia
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Supporting Children in Post-COVID Era (India, online)

Experts from the fields of education, psychology, paediatrics, philosophy and Montessori education will be joining together in a live Q & A to discuss how best to support children in a post-COVID era.
Wednesday 02 September 2020, 6:00 pm-7:30 pm
Vidyanjali Academy, Bangalore - Webinar
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Nurturing Self-Control

Self-control – what every parent/carer needs to know about this essential skill, including why it matters, how it impacts a child’s behaviour and how we can best support our children now and into their future.

Friday 05 June 2020, 7:00 pm-8:30 pm
Mother Duck Childcare & Preschool, Lawnton, Qld, Australia

Building Brave – For anyone who lives with or works with kids or teens.

What could our children do if they truly believed they were brave? In this transformational, heartfelt event, Karen Young and Michelle Mitchell come together to equip parents, carers and professionals with powerful strategies to help children and teens build resilience, thrive through anxiety and reach their potential. We will explore:

  • the powerful role that caring adults play in building brave;
  • a new way of understanding the role of anxiety and resilience in your child’s life;
  • the often unrecognised and different ways anxiety can manifest in children;
  • the impact of anxiety on friendships and school work;
  • proven, practical ways to respond to anxiety and make way for calm and courage;
  • how to build social resilience and equip them for the challenges of life;
  • how to strengthen your connection and influence.

    You know your child is capable of greatness. With some very specific strategies and solid information, we can make sure they know it too.

    If you would like BUILDING BRAVE to come to your school or community, please let us know. We will be touring nationally with this new project.

    Wednesday 11 September 2019, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm
    Wellington Point, Brisbane
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    Thursday 12 September 2019, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm
    Bray Park, Brisbane
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    Tuesday 22 October 2019, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm
    Rochedale, Brisbane
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    Wednesday 23 October 2019, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm
    Toowong, Brisbane
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    Raising Brave Kids

    With anxiety in children (and parents) on the rise, it’s more important than ever to learn what we can do as parents to help children thrive in this chaotic world. Join us for this 4 hour parenting event, with Maggie Dent, Karen Young, and Warren Cann.

    Sunday 13 October 2019, 9:00 am-1:00 pm
    UNSW Roundhouse, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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    Strengthening Kids and Teens Against Anxiety

    This transformational session will provide parents and carers with the essential information and strategies to support their children and teens to build courage and resilience, uncovering their strengths, and take anxiety back to small enough.

    Thursday 11 April 2019, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm
    Whitby School, Greenwich, CT, United States

    The Adolescent Brain

    During adolescence, the brain goes through a massive ‘renovation’. This talk is for anyone who lives or works with adolescents, and will explores changes that happen in the adolescent brain and how these influence relationships, friendships, and behaviour. 

    Tuesday 09 April 2019, 8:15 am-10:15 am
    Whitby School, Greenwich, CT, United States
    , -

    Follow Hey Sigmund on Instagram

    We have to change the way we talk about anxiety. If we talk about it as a disorder, this is how it feels.

Yes anxiety can be so crushing, and yes it can intrude into every part of their everyday. But the more we talk about anxiety as a disorder, the more we drive ‘anxiety about the anxiety’. Even for big anxiety, there is nothing to be served in talking about it as a disorder. 

There is another option. We change the face of it - from an intruder or deficiency, to an ally. We change the story - from ‘There’s something wrong with me’ to, ‘I’m doing something hard.’ I’ve seen the difference this makes, over and over.

This doesn’t mean we ignore anxiety. Actually we do the opposite. We acknowledge it. We explain it for what it is: the healthy, powerful response of a magnificent brain that is doing exactly what brains are meant to do - protect us. This is why I wrote Hey Warrior.

What we focus on is what becomes powerful. If we focus on the anxiety, it will big itself up to unbearable.

What we need to do is focus on both sides - the anxiety and the brave. Anxiety, courage, strength - they all exist together. 

Anxiety isn’t the absence of brave, it’s the calling of brave. It’s there because you’re about to do something hard, brave, meaningful - not because there’s something wrong with you.

First, acknowledge the anxiety. Without this validation, anxiety will continue to do its job and prepare the body for fight or flight, and drive big feelings to recruit the safety of another human.

Then, we speak to the brave. We know it’s there, so we usher it into the light:

‘Yes I know this is big. It’s hard [being away from the people you love] isn’t it. And I know you can do this. We can do hard things can’t we.

You are one of the bravest, strongest people I know. Being brave feels scary and hard sometimes doesn’t it. It feels like brave isn’t there, but it’s always there. Always. And you know what else I know? It gets easier every time. I’ve know this because I’ve seen you do hard things, and because I’ve felt like this too, so many times. I know that you and me, even when we feel anxious, we can do brave. It’s always in you. I know that for certain.’♥️
    Our job as parents isn’t to remove their distress around boundaries, but to give them the experiences to recognise they can handle boundaries - holding theirs and respecting the boundaries others. 

Every time we hold a boundary, we are giving our kids the precious opportunity to learn how to hold their own.

If we don’t have boundaries, the risk is that our children won’t either. We can talk all we want about the importance of boundaries, but if we don’t show them, how can they learn? Inadvertently, by avoiding boundary collisions with them, we are teaching them to avoid conflict at all costs. 

In practice, this might look like learning to put themselves, their needs, and their feelings away for the sake of peace. Alternatively, they might feel the need to control other people and situations even more. If they haven’t had the experience of surviving a collision of needs or wants, and feeling loved and accepted through that, conflicting needs will feel scary and intolerable.

Similarly, if we hold our boundaries too harshly and meet their boundary collisions with shame, yelling, punishment or harsh consequences, this is how we’re teaching them to respond to disagreement, or diverse needs and wants. We’re teaching them to yell, fight dirty, punish, or overbear those who disagree. 

They might also go the other way. If boundaries are associated with feeling shamed, lonely, ‘bad’, they might instead surrender boundaries and again put themselves away to preserve the relationship and the comfort of others. This is because any boundary they hold might feel too much, too cruel, or too rejecting, so ‘no boundary’ will be the safest option. 

If we want our children to hold their boundaries respectfully and kindly, and with strength, we will have to go first.

It’s easy to think there are only two options. Either:
- We focus on the boundary at the expense of the relationship and staying connected to them.
- We focus on the connection at the expense of the boundary. 

But there is a third option, and that is to do both - at the same time. We hold the boundary, while at the same time we attend to the relationship. We hold the boundary, but with warmth.♥️
    Sometimes finding the right words is hard. When their words are angry and out of control, it’s because that’s how they feel. 

Eventually we want to grow them into people who can feel all their feelings and lasso them into words that won’t break people, but this will take time.

In the meantime, they’ll need us to model the words and hold the boundaries firmly and lovingly. This might sound like:

‘It’s okay to be angry, and it’s okay not to like my decision. It’s not okay to speak to me like that. I know you know that. My answer is still no.’

Then, when they’re back to calm, have the conversation: 

‘I wonder if sometimes when you say you don’t like me, what you really mean is that you don’t like what I’ve done. It’s okay to be angry at me. It’s okay to tell me you’re angry at me. It’s not okay to be disrespectful.

What’s important is that you don’t let what someone has done turn you into someone you’re not. You’re such a great kid. You’re fun, funny, kind, honest, respectful. I know you know that yelling mean things isn’t okay. What might be a better way to tell me that you’re angry, or annoyed at what I’ve said?’♥️
    We humans feel safest when we know where the edges are. Without boundaries it can feel like walking along the edge of a mountain without guard rails.

Boundaries must come with two things - love and leadership. They shouldn’t feel hollow, and they don’t need to feel like brick walls. They can be held firmly and lovingly.

Boundaries without the ‘loving’ will feel shaming, lonely, harsh. Understandably children will want to shield from this. This ‘shielding’ looks like keeping their messes from us. We drive them into the secretive and the forbidden because we squander precious opportunities to guide them.

Harsh consequences don’t teach them to avoid bad decisions. They teach them to avoid us.

They need both: boundaries, held lovingly.

First, decide on the boundary. Boundaries aren’t about what we want them to do. We can’t control that. Boundaries are about what we’ll do when the rules are broken.

If the rule is, ‘Be respectful’ - they’re in charge of what they do, you’re in charge of the boundary.

Attend to boundaries AND relationship. ‘It’s okay to be angry at me. (Rel’ship) No, I won’t let you speak to me like that. (Boundary). I want to hear what you have to say. (R). I won’t listen while you’re speaking like that. (B). I’m  going to wait until you can speak in a way I can hear. I’m right here. (R).

If the ‘leadership’ part is hard, think about what boundaries meant for you when you were young. If they felt cruel or shaming, it’s understandable that that’s how boundaries feel for you now. You don’t have to do boundaries the way your parents did. Don’t get rid of the boundary. Add in a loving way to hold them.

If the ‘loving’ part is hard, and if their behaviour enrages you, what was it like for you when you had big feelings as a child? If nobody supported you through feelings or behaviour, it’s understandable that their big feelings and behaviour will drive anger in you.

Anger exists as a shield for other more vulnerable feelings. What might your anger be shielding - loneliness? Anxiety? Feeling unseen? See through the behaviour to the need or feeling behind it: This is a great kid who is struggling right now. Reject the behaviour, support the child.♥️

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