Free Parenting Workshop: Finding Balance in the Middle Years
Published on 09 October 2025
Parenting in the digital age can be challenging, especially for families navigating the tricky years between late primary and early high school.
To support local parents, Singleton Library is hosting a free workshop, Finding Balance: The Middle Years, led by Sydney-based psychologist, teacher, speaker and internationally published author Collett Smart.
The workshop, to be held on Thursday 16 October from 5.30 – 7pm, will provide practical strategies for setting boundaries at home, enhancing wellbeing, and strengthening parent-child connections.
Dwight Graham, Singleton Council’s Director Corporate and Community Services, said the idea for the workshop came from conversations at the Library about the pressures young people face online.
He said the workshop not only aligned with the Library’s mission to provide programs that support community members at every stage of life, but also reflected Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting families in the community.
“Parenting can be one of life’s greatest joys, but it’s also one of its biggest challenges,” Mr Graham said.
“We’re extremely proud to host Collett Smart at our Library this October and give parents access to expert advice, practical strategies, and a chance to connect with other local families.”
The event has been made possible thanks to sponsorship from Hunter Valley Operations, highlighting the benefits of community partnerships in supporting local programs.
“Library programs expand the reach of the resources we offer,” Mr Graham said.
“Instead of just reading a book on parenting, our residents can engage directly with an expert and take away actionable tips for daily life.
“We’re extremely grateful to Hunter Valley Operations for their support to help local families gain practical strategies for setting healthy boundaries and building resilience at home.”
Finding Balance: The Middle Years Workshop will be held at Singleton Public Library on Thursday 16 October from 5.30-7pm. Bookings are free but essential via Eventbrite.
Book free here
Collett Smart is an experienced psychologist with over 25 years’ experience working in schools and private practice. She is the author of several parenting books, including They’ll Be Okay, Raising Resilient Kids and Nurturing Young Minds, and is known for her media appearances as a teen and family wellbeing expert, including on Channel 9’s Helping Hands and her podcast Raising Teens.