Hi there,
 

Sana Qadar here from ABC Radio National's mental health podcast All In The Mind.
 

Sometimes, kids are a mystery. Why do they love bananas one day, and hate them the next? Why does it take five years to get out the front door? (Can you tell I have a toddler?)
 

As they get older, the "whys" can get more intense. Why are they behaving aggressively? Why are they refusing to go to school? WHY don't they LISTEN?
 

When it comes to "bad" behaviour, developmental paediatrician Billy Garvey has seen a lot of kids with behavioural issues over the years. He shares 10 things he wishes all parents understood about their kids' mental health on All In The Mind.
 

His biggest mantra?
 

"Connection over correction … or relationship over rules.
 

"I often see that in clinic where parents are really struggling with kids and their behaviour, and they're trying to put more pressure on and become more strict — when actually connection is what those kids need."
 

That can be tricky for stressed and busy parents, but Dr Garvey has plenty of practical tips.
 

So with the school year back in swing, if you're struggling to understand some of your child's more challenging behaviour — take a listen to see if some of his strategies can help.
 

Also this month on All In The Mind we looked at why some topics fill us with rage, and how to have better conversations with people we disagree with.
 

And check out two stories that delve into coping with life changes: one about mourning the passing of childhood stages, and the other about moving from being a partner into the "roommate" zone.
 

Until next time,
 

Sana.
 

PS If you have other topics you'd like to hear more about this year on All In The Mind, send us an email.
 

And if you — or someone you know — find any of the themes we touch on in this newsletter difficult, please reach out to services such as Lifeline 13 11 14, Beyond Blue 1300 22 46 36 or the Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800.
 

All In The Mind is an exploration of the mental: the mind, brain and behaviour. It airs on Sundays at 1pm and is repeated on Mondays at 11am and Fridays at 2.30am on Radio National. Listen for free on the ABC listen app.
 

You can find more mental-health-related content on ABC iview, and head to our dedicated page for articles.

Developmental paediatrician Billy Garvey has seen a lot of kids with behavioural issues over the years. He shares 10 things he wishes all parents understood about their kids' mental health on All In The Mind.

Politics, war, abortion, gun control — why do some topics make us so outraged? All In The Mind examines why we differ in what we consider right and wrong, and how to have better conversations with people we disagree with.

Certain childhood milestones, such as starting school, can be emotionally challenging for parents and carers. Here’s what helps according to the experts.

Yasmina Elmerkaoui can't recall exactly when she first came across the concept of the "roommate phase" online, but she quickly put together the pieces and realised it was something she had experienced. 

Mental health nurse Amanda once felt intense anxiety when driving into work, but after several years of frequent assaults, her dread has morphed into anger.