Parents and teachers can learn how to best prepare the young people in their care through their high school years, and life beyond, at a free public talk at Murdoch University’s Open Day on Sunday 28 July.

Psychologist Dr Charlotte Keating will discuss strategies for helping young people manage some of the most stressful years of their life, give practical tips on how to study smarter, not harder, and “sustain a marathon rather than a sprint”.

Dr Keating is a psychologist with a PhD in neuroscience, specialising in adolescents, and has regularly appeared on radio and television programs including ABC Radio National and Channel 10’s The Project.

She will be just one of the industry professionals and academic experts who will present fascinating talks during what has been rated the best open day of all Western Australian universities by three out of four attendees.

Running from 10am to 2pm, the Open Day will be jam-packed with awesome giveaways, career insights, inspiring talks, a Winter wonderland, campus tours, and the chance to experience Sound On with a free glitter bar and silent disco.

Navigating the polarising needs of teens

Dr Keating said, after infancy, a child’s greatest brain growth happened during adolescence.

“The rapid changes in the brain that occur during this developmental period require a different type of adaptability and patience when it comes to responding, than other years,” Dr Keating said.

“Adolescence can be a very confusing time for teenagers and their parents, because teenagers can often appear to have polarising needs.

“One minute they are trying to forge greater independence from their care givers, and at the same time they can also experience an increased sense of insecurity and vulnerability, which often needs greater emotional care.

“The way they think and behave reflects maturity beyond their years, but then the next day they can experience emotional reactivity that doesn’t fit the situation.”

Dr Keating said stress had a big role to play.

“It is helpful to learn about what a child’s brain is doing at critical growth trajectories to help solve the mysteries of the teenage years and enhance communication with them,” she said.

“There are some simple techniques we can use to manage stress and anxiety and deal with both perfectionism and procrastination.”

Dr Keating’s talk will run from 11.15am to 12pm in the Kim E Beazley Lecture Theatre (Building 351). Free tea and coffee will be available.

What's in store on Open Day

Open Day visitors will also be able to witness a mock law trial, visit a film set and green screen studio, practice their nursing skills on a high-fidelity mannequin, take on the role of a teacher in our virtual classroom and much more.

They can also take part in the Open Day Dash to go in the draw to win a $5,000 travel experience thanks to STA travel and Murdoch University. Those who complete the dash before 12 noon will double their entry.

More information on the many activities and experiences on offer at the 2019 Murdoch Open Day website.