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My blog
​...it's a psych life...

Changes in the family

12/3/2017

 
I have spoken a number of times about being BOLD and taking on new challenges.  Well, this week we had a new addition to our family.  Depending on the family member I can see Neil bringing out different strengths in all of us, including zest, teamwork, love of learning, perspective.  curiosity and appreciation of beauty and excellence.

His name is Neil and he is a guide dog.  We have taken on raising him for about the next 12 months before he is handed over (after a bit more intensive training) to his new owner.  

It is interesting to observe the comments and behaviours of my other family members.  I have heard the sentence, "if this is what it's like to have kids, I don't want any" a couple of times.  Sounds like this child may be developing a bit of perspective.

As a 'new mum' I have woken up in the middle of the night thinking - 'I have heard the dog.  I wonder if he's OK'.  Then I remember he is a dog and not a newborn I need to feed, change, console.  However, there is a similarity with the doubts about whether I am doing the right thing, and the different bits of advice you get from everyone.  Also the constant knowledge that even when he is asleep I need to be alert to his next needs.  

As puppy raisers we have someone on the end of the line we can call, we have a manual and there are scheduled training sessions, there is a puppy raiser Facebook page.  There are also five of us in the family to share the responsibility.  I can't help compare this with the limited support I had when bringing home my first baby (thank you to those who were there for me at the time - it was super appreciated).  I wasn't even part of Facebook then!

Having at least one person to support you is so important for your mental health.  It's one of the reasons Positive Young Minds exists, to be a friendly, accessible form of support.  Don't hesitate to contact me at youngminds.psychology@gmail.com if you would like to connect.
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    Author

    Kim Dunn is a Child Psychologist and Founder of Positive Young Minds.  

    She is also a mother of 3 and knows what it feels like to be sleep deprived, confused, full of self doubt one moment and in wonder of children the next.

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We see clients in Narre Warren.  For your convenience after hours, onsite school, and web based appointments are available.


 0408533515


Helping you see the beauty in the everyday."
​
Kim Dunn, Founder and Principal Psychologist at Positive Young Minds.

  • Home
  • About Us
  • Services
    • Assessments
    • Counselling
    • Happiness Habits
    • Cancellation policy
  • My Blog
  • Videos
  • What is Mindfulness?
    • For Children
    • For Teens
    • For Parents
  • FAQ
  • Join our community
  • Weblinks
  • 7 Steps to Change Members Only
  • Introduction to Gratitude
  • 7 Simple Steps to (Guilt-Free) Self-Care
  • Thriving in the Early Primary School Years