Sip the Tea

Send us a Message Trust is at the heart of every parent-child relationship, but in today’s digital world, it’s more fragile—and more important—than ever. What happens when trust is tied to unrealistic expectations, like "I trust you not to see anything bad online"? And what do kids do when they feel they’ve broken that trust—without meaning to? In this final episode of Season 2 of Sip the Tea, we dive into what trust really means to children, how misplaced trust can close the door to honesty, and how parents can create safe spaces for real, open conversations—even when things go wrong. We explore how to build trust without fear, how to repair it when it’s broken, and why allowing space for mistakes might be the greatest trust-builder of all. Thank you for joining us for this season of conversations, connection, and growth. Let's keep raising kids who feel safe, heard, and deeply trusted. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message With social media amplifying every highlight of every day, it’s no wonder kids today feel like they’re always missing out. FOMO—the fear of missing out—can impact their mental health, friendships, and even their self-esteem. In this episode of Sip the Tea, we explore how FOMO affects children emotionally and socially, why it feels so overwhelming in the digital world, and practical strategies parents can use to help their kids shift from comparison to confidence. We share real-world tips for building gratitude, teaching self-awareness, and encouraging healthier digital habits at home. Join us for an insightful conversation about how to help our kids find joy in their own journey—and stop measuring themselves against everyone else’s highlight reels. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message What does privacy really mean to kids growing up in a world of oversharing? From personal data to online footprints, children are constantly giving away information—sometimes without realizing the consequences. But privacy isn’t just about protecting data—it’s also about teaching kids the importance of personal boundaries, consent, and digital self-awareness. In this episode, we discuss how to help children understand what should and shouldn’t be shared, why privacy settings aren’t enough, and how to instill habits that will protect them for years to come. Because in an era where everything is public, helping kids reclaim their right to privacy is more important than ever. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message Graphic violence isn’t just in movies anymore—it’s on social media, in video games, and even on newsfeeds kids stumble upon daily. With shocking content being shared at lightning speed, children are being exposed to more than they’re emotionally equipped to handle. So, how do we talk to them about it? In this episode, we explore the psychological effects of exposure to violent and disturbing content, how kids process what they see, and what we can do as parents to help them cope. We also discuss the fine line between desensitization and awareness—because while we can’t shield them from everything, we can teach them how to process, understand, and set boundaries with what they consume online. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message The internet is full of information, but how do kids know what to trust? Digital literacy is about more than just knowing how to use a device—it’s about understanding how online content is created, how algorithms influence what we see, and how to verify facts in a sea of misinformation. In this episode, we discuss why digital literacy is essential for kids today, the risks of growing up in an information-saturated world, and practical ways parents can help their children become smarter digital consumers. From decoding clickbait headlines to questioning viral trends, we break down the key skills kids need to stay informed, safe, and aware in the digital age. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message With information overload at their fingertips, how do we teach kids to think critically? From spotting fake news to questioning influencers and understanding bias in online content, critical thinking has never been more important. In this episode, we explore why children need strong critical thinking skills to navigate today’s digital world and how parents can foster independent thought at home. We’ll unpack real-world examples, simple ways to encourage curiosity, and how to help kids develop the confidence to ask why—even when it challenges what they see online. Because in a world of endless information, knowing how to think is more important than knowing what to think. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message AI isn’t just ChatGPT—it’s everywhere, shaping the content our kids see, the way they learn, and even how they think. From AI-driven social media feeds to deepfake technology, our children are growing up in a world where artificial intelligence influences their daily lives in ways we never experienced. In this episode, we break down what AI really is, how it’s affecting kids today, and the challenges and opportunities it presents for the future. How do we talk to our children about AI in a way that makes them more informed and critical users of technology? And how can parents help kids develop a healthy relationship with AI tools—whether in school, social spaces, or entertainment? Join us for this fascinating discussion on how AI is shaping the next generation. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message With so much of their lives playing out online, social media can have a major impact on children’s self-esteem. In this episode, we dive into the pressures children face in the digital world—comparison culture, the chase for likes and followers, and the unrealistic images they’re bombarded with daily. We explore how parents can help their children build a healthy self-image, recognize the influence of social media on their emotions, and navigate online spaces with confidence and resilience. Join us for practical advice on guiding your child toward a balanced relationship with social media. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message Talking to your child about alcohol and drugs can be daunting, but it’s one of the most important conversations you’ll have. In this episode, we explore how to approach the topic in a way that fosters openness and trust. We discuss the signs of substance use, the influence of peer pressure, and how to create clear boundaries around alcohol and drug use while maintaining a supportive relationship. This episode provides practical tips for starting the conversation early, setting the foundation for safe and informed decisions that will shape your child’s future relationship with these substances. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message Bullying, both in person and online, is a serious issue that impacts children’s well-being in profound ways. In this episode, we explore the different forms of bullying—physical, verbal, social, and cyberbullying—and discuss how to recognize the signs that your child might be experiencing it. We provide guidance on how to start open, supportive conversations with your child, offering them tools to navigate bullying with resilience. From building self-esteem to knowing when to involve the school, this episode equips you with practical strategies to help your child handle and overcome the challenges of bullying. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message Peer pressure is something every child will encounter, whether it’s about fitting in with friends, trying new things, or feeling the need to conform. In this episode, we dive into the dynamics of peer pressure and how it affects our children’s choices. We explore ways to equip them with the confidence and critical thinking skills they need to stand strong in their values and make their own decisions. Join us as we discuss practical tools for helping your child recognize positive vs. negative peer pressure, respond confidently, and develop a healthy sense of independence. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message Mental health is just as important as physical health, but it’s not always easy to talk about. In Episode 10 of Sip the Tea, we’re opening up about mental health awareness. We’ll discuss common mental health challenges like anxiety and depression, how to recognize the signs in our kids, and why it’s so important to seek help when needed. This episode is about breaking the stigma, understanding mental health better, and making sure we all know how to take care of our minds just as much as our bodies. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message The internet can be a great place for kids to learn and connect, but it also comes with risks. In Episode 9 of Sip the Tea, we’re shining a light on grooming and online predators. We’ll explain what grooming is, how predators use the internet to exploit kids, and what signs to look out for as a parent. This episode is packed with practical tips on how to talk to your children about in-person and online grooming, their online activities and how to keep them safe both in the physical and in the digital world. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message Relationships are at the heart of everything we do, but what makes a relationship healthy? In Episode 8 of Sip the Tea, we’re breaking down the basics of healthy relationships. Whether it’s friendships, family bonds, or romantic connections, we explore what it means to have respect, trust, and open communication. This episode offers practical advice for parents on how to teach their kids about building positive, supportive relationships that last. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message Let’s be real—parenting is one of the hardest jobs in the world. In Episode 7 of Sip the Tea, we’re having an honest conversation about just how tough it can be to raise kids. From juggling work and family to dealing with the constant pressure to do everything perfectly, we’re talking about why parenting feels so overwhelming at times. This episode is all about sharing the struggles, finding support, and remembering that it’s okay not to have all the answers. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message Understanding gender can be confusing, not just for kids, but for parents too. In Episode 6 of Sip the Tea, we’re diving into the topic of gender and gender identity. How do we explain these concepts to our children in a way that’s simple yet meaningful? And how can we help them understand and respect others who might be different? This episode is all about fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, both at home and in our communities, where every child feels seen and understood. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message Talking to kids about sex can feel awkward and uncomfortable, but it’s one of the most important conversations we can have as parents. In Episode 5 of Sip the Tea, we dive into the topic of sex education. We break down why it’s so crucial to have these conversations early and often, and how to do it in a way that’s open, honest, and age-appropriate. This episode is all about helping parents feel confident and prepared to tackle the topic of sex education, making sure our kids get the information they need from the people who care about them most—us. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message Welcome to Episode 4 of "Sip the Tea"! Today, we're tackling the important issue of body positivity. In a world filled with mixed messages about appearance, it's crucial to help our children develop a healthy and positive body image. We discuss how to encourage body positivity at home, avoid negative comments about looks, and promote self-acceptance. Listen in as we share practical advice and expert insights on fostering a supportive environment where children can thrive. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message Welcome to Episode 3 of "Sip the Tea"! In this episode, we explore the crucial topic of consent. Often associated only with sexual situations, consent is actually a fundamental concept that applies to all areas of life. We break down what consent means, why it's important, and how to teach children to understand and respect it. Join us as we delve into the broader implications of consent and provide practical tips for discussing it with your children. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.

Send us a Message Welcome to Episode 2 of "Sip the Tea"! This week, we dive into the essential topic of boundaries. Whether it's setting personal limits or respecting others', understanding boundaries is key to healthy relationships. We discuss how to communicate these boundaries with your children and why it's important for them to learn this skill early on. Tune in as we explore practical strategies and real-life examples to help parents guide their children in establishing and maintaining boundaries. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this possible and to Elliott Kotze for sharing his invaluable insights. You can reach him at www.muizenbergpsychology.co.za Stay connected with us! You can reach me, Rachelle, at rachelle@fyiplayitsafe.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @fyiplayitsafe for more insights and conversations.