Parenting in Uncertain Times: An Evening with Child Psychologist Dr Emma Woodward

The development of resilient children has consistently been the result of a synergistic blend of attentive and specialised environments both at school and at home. Realising the importance to equip our parents with tools that go beyond the classroom, Parents and Friends invited renowned child psychologist Dr Emma Woodward to talk about parenting challenges in uncertain times. The event catered to both parents and teachers who eagerly sought valuable insights from Dr Woodward's expertise.

The interactive session centred around the difficulties of parenting in a rapidly changing world and provided practical tips for navigating these challenges. Parents in attendance expressed their concerns, including managing screen time and enhancing their parenting skills. Dr Woodward, being a parent herself, empathised with the need for innovative approaches to support children in an evolving world, recognising that traditional methods may no longer be sufficient.

Both parents and Dr Woodward agreed that the future children face will be influenced by automation, algorithm dominance, environmental crises, and the necessity for different social skills. While technology has brought convenience, it has not necessarily contributed to human wellbeing.

To cultivate a sense of safety, Dr Woodward emphasised the significance of stability and genuine connection. She also discussed indicators that suggest when a child is beyond their capacity to cope, including shame, unmet validation needs, exclusion, exposure to unwanted situations, and disappointed expectations. Compassion emerged as the antidote to these challenges, as research demonstrates its ability to counteract shame. Parents were encouraged to nurture resilience, hope, and curiosity to support their children during challenging times.

The event concluded with those in attendance feeling better-equipped and gaining additional tools to navigate the ever-evolving journey of parenting. A special thank you to Dr Emma Woodward for coming in and sharing her expertise with our Boys’ School parents and teachers.