Psychologist Kim Cullen understands exactly why mums around Australia have been so invested in Cleo’s disappearance over the past few weeks.

“Because it involved a vulnerable child. We feel a connected to a victim when there are similarities. We as mums have a lot of empathy, and we imagine what it would be like if it was our child,” she told 9Honey Parenting.

Cullen, who is a mum herself, has been following the search for Cleo closely and was hoping for a positive outcome.

“The loss of a child or someone taking your child – there is really just nothing worse,” she said.

“If you feel inclined to be more attentive to your child this morning, it’s certainly understandable”.

This morning I did just that. I gave my little boy – the one that kept me up all night – the biggest, longest hug I could. I told him he could call out for me at any time during the night, and I will be there.

I reminded myself how lucky I was to have him with me at home, safe and well.

Take the time to do this with your own kids today mums. I can only imagine Ellie is doing the same right now with her little Cleo.