Resources for Families

Evidence-based articles, community resources, and practical tools to support your child's mental health journey and strengthen family connections.

Evidence-Based Articles

In-depth articles covering key topics in child mental health, development, and family support strategies.

The Science Behind Nature-Based Therapy: Why Outdoor Settings Heal

Exploring recent research on how natural environments impact stress hormones, attention, and emotional regulation in children. Includes practical applications for families.

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Supporting Children Through Family Changes: Divorce, Moving, and Major Life Transitions

Evidence-based strategies for helping children cope with major life changes while maintaining emotional security and family connection.

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Understanding Anxiety in Children: Signs, Symptoms, and Support Strategies

Comprehensive overview of childhood anxiety disorders, including how they present differently across age groups and effective intervention approaches.

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Building Emotional Intelligence: Teaching Children to Understand and Express Feelings

Practical strategies for developing emotional vocabulary, recognition, and healthy expression in children of different ages and developmental stages.

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The Role of Play in Child Development: More Than Just Fun

Educational article explaining how play supports cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development, and why play therapy is so effective for children.

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NDIS and Mental Health: Understanding Your Child's Rights and Options

Current information about accessing mental health services through NDIS, including recent policy changes and advocacy strategies for families.

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Cultural Sensitivity in Child Therapy: Honoring Diverse Family Values

Discussion of how therapy can be adapted to respect and incorporate diverse cultural backgrounds, values, and family structures.

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Screen Time and Mental Health: Finding Balance in the Digital Age

Evidence-based guidance on managing technology use, social media impact, and digital wellness for children and adolescents.

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Community Resources and Support

Local support networks and organizations that can provide additional assistance for families navigating childhood mental health challenges.

Nature Play Australia - Victorian Chapter

Information about local nature play groups, outdoor education programs, and community events supporting children's connection with nature.

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Australian Play Therapists Association (APTA)

Professional organization resources for families seeking additional play therapy services or information about play therapy training and standards.

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Crisis Support Resources

For immediate safety concerns, please contact emergency services (000) or present to your nearest hospital emergency department.

24/7 Crisis Support

Kids Helpline

1800 55 1800

24/7 counseling support for children and young people aged 5-25

Lifeline

13 11 14

24/7 crisis support for anyone experiencing emotional distress

Beyond Blue

1300 22 4636

24/7 support for anxiety, depression, and mental health concerns

Melbourne Crisis Services

Royal Children's Hospital Emergency

(03) 9345 5522

Orygen Emergency Response

(03) 9966 9100

CAMHS Crisis Line

1300 765 573

Child Protection Crisis

13 12 78

Family Violence and Child Safety

Safe Steps Family Violence Response

1800 015 188

Child Protection Crisis Line

13 12 78

Recommended Reading

Carefully selected books and resources to support both parents and children in understanding emotions, building resilience, and strengthening family connections.

For Parents

"The Whole-Brain Child"

by Daniel Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson

Understanding how a child's brain develops and practical strategies for nurturing healthy development.

"How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk"

by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish

Practical communication strategies for building stronger parent-child relationships.

"The Power of Play: Learning What Comes Naturally"

by David Elkind

Understanding the importance of play in child development and learning.

"Raising Resilient Children"

by Brooks & Goldstein

Strategies for building resilience and emotional strength in children.

"The Connected Child"

by Karyn Purvis

Especially helpful for adopted/foster families, focusing on trust-based relational intervention.

For Children (Age-Appropriate)

"In My Heart: A Book of Feelings"

by Jo Witek (Ages 3-7)

Interactive book helping young children identify and understand different emotions.

"The Way I Feel"

by Janan Cain (Ages 4-8)

Colorful exploration of different emotions and how they feel in our bodies.

"When Sophie Gets Angry—Really, Really Angry"

by Molly Bang (Ages 4-8)

Caldecott Medal winner showing how anger feels and healthy ways to cope.

"The Invisible String"

by Patrice Karst (Ages 4-10)

Comforting story about the invisible connections between people who love each other.

"What to Do When You Worry Too Much"

by Dawn Huebner (Ages 6-12)

Interactive guide helping children understand and manage anxiety and worry.

Ready to Start Your Family's Journey?

These resources are here to support you, but every family's journey is unique. Contact us to discuss how our personalized approach can meet your child's specific needs.