Helping Lily beat the brain bully
Anxiety is a brain bully. In its extreme form it lies, it deceives, and it doesn’t give you a moment of peace, even when sleeping.
Creating a lifetime of change
Our Work: A Future all children deserve
Half of all mental health conditions have started by age 14*
Yet children under this age historically had limited access to mental health services in Australia.
KidsXpress exists to ensure that children are getting the help they need, in the way they need it and when they need it.
Childhood mental health issues often arise from experiences of trauma and a stressful home environment. Our trauma-informed Expressive Therapy and Education services combine psychology and the creative process to support primary school-age children and their caregivers.
(*Kessler, R.C., et al., Lifetime prevalence and age-of onset distributions of DSM-IV disorders 2005).
See the signs. Heal the hurt.
Half of all mental health conditions emerge before age 14*, yet signs of a struggling child often go unnoticed. It can sometimes be challenging to distinguish between typical childhood behaviours and signs of underlying mental health concerns. While children naturally go through various emotional and behavioural changes as they grow, there are some signs that suggest there may be a need for closer attention. Early action is key to prevent issues growing with a child into adulthood. Our resource guide is a great starting point.
(*Kessler, R.C., et al., Lifetime prevalence and age-of onset distributions of DSM-IV disorders 2005).
Download Free GuideOur Annual Impact
Mental ill-health affects 1-in-7 Australian children, yet fewer than 25% are accessing care.
Without support, the impact of their condition can grow with them into lifelong challenges. We’re on a mission to change that.
2,577
students were reached by us in 2023 through our School Partnership Program.
183
teachers were supported through our School Partnership Program in 2023.
91.7%
of children who attended KidsXpress identified positive change in themselves.
(CORS, 2023 Term 2)
$1 : $2.76
is our cost benefit ratio, meaning that for every $1 invested in KidsXpress a return of $2.76 is generated in social value.
(DAE, 2015, p.46)
Our News
View Our Latest Updates 
Nadia's Triumph
Nine year-old Nadia, has been grappling with anxiety ever since the COVID lockdowns.
Emily's Story
At just ten years old, Emily* faced a distressing situation, common to many schoolchildren but one that none should have to endure
Media Release
KidsXpress calls for more government support to increase access to mental health services for children aged 12 and under.
High School Transition
Moving to high school is one of the key milestones of a child’s life. In Term 3 of 2023 we conducted a survey for Year 6 students for the purpose of understanding their thoughts and emotions about this transition.
Our work in the Snowy Valleys, NSW
In the aftermath of the Black Summer bushfires of 2019/20, KidsXpress swiftly moved into action to deliver a tailored trauma-focused program for the purpose of community rebuilding and socio-emotional rehabilitation.
Motorsport for Mental Health
Samuel Behan, is an incredible KidsXpress supporter racing in Production Sports with his trusty MX5 to raise funds for vulnerable children.
Manny’s Story
When Manny was 6 years old his father was incarcerated on drug charges. The two years that followed weren’t easy; his mother sometimes struggled to cope with the demands of parenting four children alone.
A safe harbour: How KidsXpress supported one family experiencing domestic violence and homelessness
There’s a well-entrenched stereotype which perpetuates the idea that homeless people are alcohol-dependent middle-aged people roughing it in parks and bus shelters.
A group experience: The story of six boys who were never naughty
With an ICSEA ranking of 824 (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) – well below the national average – Wood’s Public School in Sydney’s Mt Druitt region is punching above its weight in providing quality education and learning experiences for some of our city’s most vulnerable children.
Talia's Safe Space: A KidsXpress Sensory Activity
When 8-yr old Talia was referred to KidsXpress earlier this year, she was in the midst of moving into what would be her sixth home.
The Memory Of Music: How KidsXpress helped shape one child's future career path
Despite being very young at the time, Joel Kassel remembers three things from his participation on the KidsXpress program.
Instagram Feed
@kidsxpressmentalhealth Babies are born with a natural inclination to seek out and respond to social cues from their caregivers. This sensitivity is rooted in their evolutionary history, where the ability to interpret facial expressions and tone of voice played a critical role in survival and social bonding. Smiling at your baby not only conveys positive emotions but also signals safety and security, activating neural pathways associated with feelings of comfort and connection. This early interaction helps to shape the infant`s perception of the world and lays the groundwork for healthy emotional development and secure attachment relationships.
#childdevelopment #parenting #parentingtips #attachmenttheory
Ever wonder why children always say, `Hey mum, dad, watch this!` when trying something new? It`s more than just seeking attention – it`s deeply rooted in their psychological development. When kids utter these words, they`re not just seeking a fleeting glance; they`re craving validation and connection. This act reflects their innate need for approval and affirmation from their caregivers, which plays a crucial role in their emotional development.
From a child psychology perspective, this behaviour stems from the concept of attachment theory. Children naturally seek reassurance and support from their primary caregivers, using moments of accomplishment as opportunities to strengthen their bond. Saying `watch this` is their way of inviting you to share in their joy and success, solidifying the connection between parent and child.
So, the next time your little one calls out, take a moment to watch, cheer them on, and show them that you`re their biggest supporter! Here are some examples of responses you might say:
1. `I love seeing you try new things, you`re so brave!`
2. `You`re really good at that, I can tell you`ve been practicing!`
3. `I`m impressed by your creativity and determination!`
4. `You`re making it look so easy, great job!`
5. `I can see how much fun you`re having, that`s wonderful!`
By acknowledging their efforts and celebrating their achievements, you`re not just witnessing a simple act, you`re nurturing their sense of self-worth and building a foundation of trust and confidence that will serve them well into adulthood.
#childpsychology #emotionaldevelopment #parentingtips #childmentalhealth
This is why it matters!
Understanding the profound impact of parental communication on children`s emotional development is vital. Using guilt-inducing statements such as `it makes me sad when you don`t listen` can inadvertently teach our kids that their behaviour is responsible for our emotions, leading to confusion, anxiety and guilt.
Other examples include: "If you loved me, you would do this for me" or “if you don’t hurry up, you’ll make me late for work and I’ll lose my job” or “I could do that when I was your age, why can’t you?”.
These kind of statements can create feelings of inadequacy and pressure the child to comply. It’s a misuse of power dynamics and can undermine trust which in turn hinders the development of healthy emotional regulation skills.
Instead of using emotional manipulation, we should try to employ positive reinforcement techniques to encourage our children to listen. For example, we can praise our children when they listen attentively or follow instructions promptly. Additionally, setting clear expectations and providing consequences for not listening can help reinforce the importance of active listening skills. By emphasising the positive outcomes of listening and providing consistent reinforcement, we ensure our children listen without resorting to emotional manipulation.
#childdevelopment #emotionalregulation #parenting #parentingtips #childmentalhealth
Childhood trauma doesn`t always mean what we think it does. It means navigating through adverse experiences during formative years that overwhelm a child`s ability to cope. It encompasses a range of events, from neglect and abuse to feeling like our emotional needs weren`t met. Understanding its formal definition and the range of experiences it encompasses is crucial in recognising its lasting effects and paving the way for healing and resilience.
#childhoodtrauma #ACEs #child
