“Jessica!”: The TikTok tantrum hack parents are trying — and what it really teaches kids

Parents are trying the viral “Jessica!” tantrum hack to stop meltdowns in seconds. But while experts say it can work short term, they also warn it shouldn’t replace helping kids understand big feelings.

EDITOR’S PICKS

Fix it, don’t ditch it: Why more Aussie families are choosing repair over replace
Before you throw out that broken toaster or wobbly chair, there’s a growing movement encouraging families to stop and fix instead. Across Australia, Repair Cafés and Men’s Sheds are helping people save money, reduce waste and learn practical skills — often for free. The return...
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30 April, 2026
School Apps Are Collecting Kids’ Data — Often Before They Even Start Learning
New Australian research from the UNSW Institute for Cyber Security, has found many school-approved apps begin collecting children’s data within seconds — often without clear consent. Here’s what families and educators need to know, and what can change. The hidden cost of “trusted” school apps...
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23 April, 2026
New baby? Here’s how partners can really support mums
Postpartum is more than recovery — it’s a full-family adjustment. When partners step up with practical, everyday support, mums feel less overwhelmed and those early weeks run more smoothly. It’s not just mum’s job The early weeks with a newborn can feel intense. Alongside physical...
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09 April, 2026
🍂 School Holiday Survival Guide: April 2026 (Easter)
The Easter school holidays bring a welcome change of pace — cooler days, colourful leaves, chocolate treats and long weekends perfect for family time. Whether you’re planning a day trip, looking for local activities, or just trying to keep boredom at bay, here’s your Autumn...
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02 April, 2026
Kids and the news cycle: finding the balance between awareness and anxiety
It’s hard to escape the news right now. From global conflict to political tension, distressing headlines and confronting images are never more than a swipe away — for us, and increasingly, for our children. As parents, we’re walking a delicate line. We want our kids...
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Will behaviour contracts stop school bullying? Educators say the answer isn’t so simple
After a shocking bullying incident at a NSW school, annual behaviour contracts for students and parents are being proposed. But educators say paperwork alone won’t stop bullying — and the reality of monitoring and enforcing them may be more complicated. A disturbing bullying incident at...
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Celebrating Mothers

“Jessica!”: The TikTok tantrum hack parents are trying — and what it really teaches kids
Parents are trying the viral “Jessica!” tantrum hack to stop meltdowns in seconds. But while experts say it can work short term, they also warn it shouldn’t replace helping kids understand big feelings.
Editor
06 May, 2026
The ‘Magic Spray’ That Helped My Child Face His Fears
When logic fails and big emotions take over, Linda Bosnic discovers that a little imagination can go a long way in helping children feel brave again. Bottled Up Fears The life of a four-year-old seems fairly easy and carefree. But every now and again you...
Editor
16 April, 2026
Seeing the same midwife or doctor in pregnancy and labour reduces the risk of birth trauma
New study finds that continuity of care in pregnancy is linked to lower risk of birth trauma, report by Hannah Dahlen, Hazel Keedle and Kingsley Emwinyore Agho Seeing the same midwife or doctor throughout pregnancy and labour may significantly reduce the risk of birth trauma,...
Editor
09 April, 2026
New baby? Here’s how partners can really support mums
Postpartum is more than recovery — it’s a full-family adjustment. When partners step up with practical, everyday support, mums feel less overwhelmed and those early weeks run more smoothly. It’s not just mum’s job The early weeks with a newborn can feel intense. Alongside physical...
Editor
09 April, 2026