Young kids’ and tweens’ emotional health seldom gets the attention it deserves. Actress Milan Murray, collaborating with mental health experts, has created journals for 6-to-13-year-olds prompting reflection and self-understanding. Exploring their identity in an age-appropriate way – and being part of The My Story Tribe - helps them stand stronger, set healthy boundaries, overcome challenges, and have fun!

If you are new to podcasts, simply click on the arrow to listen to Milan and Mariette, or on the download button to download the conversation onto your device.

Tip: Use earphones to listen in private.

In ep. 96 of the weekly podcast series Calm, Clear and Helpful, Milan clarifies

• the story behind The My Story Tribe

• the role psychologists, occupational therapists, teachers and fellow parents play in the resources Milan creates

•  how reflecting on their individual life stories, including the “villains,” “heroes” and plot twists, can help primary school children discover their identity

• the function and benefits of journalling 

• a look at The Green Journal, The Yellow Journal and The Art Journal 

• how journalling activities have been tailored to incorporate different needs, e.g. dyslexia 

• a focus on specific challenges these age groups face, including friendship and belonging

• respecting your child’s “safe space,” privacy and autonomy – with one possible exception 

• coming attraction: a joint activity book for parents and children, the keyword being fun!

• helpful products, including a social-emotional learning curriculum and videos incorporating breathing techniques well suited to children with anxiety

• how The My Story Tribe platforms provide practical help for parents and answer their questions, also when their children withdraw or are in a dark space

• tools teachers can use in the classroom

• Milan’s best tips for parents regarding their children’s vulnerability.

 In this episode, Milan mentions the quote: “Parenting is not a role, it’s relationship” - Dr. Gabor Maté.

Feel free to click on Home and browse this website for articles and podcasts on more fulfilling love relationships, easier parenting, and upping your emotional well-being.

Contact details

Milan Murray is an actress, children’s book author and mental health advocate from Cape Town. She is the founder of The My Story Tribe. Her podcast series, InBetween Things, is available on her website - scroll down on the Home page.

Website: https://themystorytribe.com/

Email address: hello@themystorytribe.com

Facebook: The My Story Tribe

Instagram: @themystorytribe

Dr. Melodie de Jager explains how gravity influences your child’s physical, emotional, social and intellectual development.

Lees ook hoe jy die angel uit jou laerskoolkind se huiswerk kan haal.

Three grandmothers offer practical tips that can make moms’ lives easier.

The free podcast series Calm, Clear & Helpful is available on iTunes, Spotify, Player FM, Pocket Casts and Iono.fm.

Music by Mart-Marie Snyman

Thumbnail image: Unsplash. Model used.

Photograph of Milan Murray: supplied

Please note:

These podcasts are intended purely for educational purposes and should never replace professional evaluation or discussion.

If a member of your family - it may be you - has suicidal thoughts, phone the free SADAG helpline at 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393 (both available 24/7) or contact a qualified medical professional.