About

Who Am I?

I am a researcher, educator, author and speaker who has helped over 25,000 parents, educators and other people who care for kids develop the skills and confidence to promote mental fitness habits in both their homes, schools, early childhood facilities and workplaces. I have been a teacher, Deputy Principal, Guidance Counsellor and Consultant for families for over 30 years. One of the things I am most proud of is my 25 year involvement with Camp Quality, a support program for children aged 0 – 13 living with cancer.

Read Kari's Full Bio

Why Mental Fitness?

Just like we can help our kids improve their physical fitness I believe we can also help them improve their mental fitness. Mental fitness is the foundation for resilience, it’s the skills, attitudes and mindsets that allow children and young people to flexibly adapt to both challenges and opportunities.

 

Developing children’s mental fitness in their early childhood years is a proactive approach that sets the stage for positive mental health into adolescence and beyond. When we provide children with the opportunity to develop these skills and habits of mind, we are building strong fences at the top of the cliff, so we don’t have to be the ambulances at the bottom.

How I do this?

I blend cutting edge science with practical tools and strategies to provide parents, and other adults who care for kids, with the education, tools and support they need to proactively build their kids mental fitness.

 

I’ve written two books, Raising Generation XXL, and Raising a Mentally Fit Generation which is coming out in late 2020.

 

I love to spread the word about mental fitness and how it can address the rising mental health crisis that is occurring for children around the world through powerful and engaging speaking events. Some of my current favourite topics are mental fitness, building resilient kids, 21st century skills the keys to future success, and the top 10 things kids really want from their parents.

 

My articles have appeared in different print media and you can see my blogs here. My quick videos and webinars will help you make positive and sustainable improvements to your wellbeing.

“Kari on behalf of the organising committee I would like to thank you for presenting at the QASEL State Conference. Your keynote presentation to delegates was greatly appreciated. I heard many positive comments from delegates and knew that we had a great speaker. Working with you was an absolute pleasure and we would love to have you back at other QASEL conferences.”

Chesleigh Hargreaves, President – Qld Association for Special Education Leaders