See the Signs. Heal the HurtLearn More
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).
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 GuideMental 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.
students were reached by us in 2023 through our School Partnership Program.
teachers were supported through our School Partnership Program in 2023.
of children who attended KidsXpress identified positive change in themselves.
(CORS, 2023 Term 2)
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)
KidsXpress is entering an exciting new chapter as Co-Founder Paul Hines steps into the role of Board Chair. With our 20th anniversary on the horizon, Paul shares his bold vision for growth, impact, and reaching more children in need.
During one session, 8 year old Ava* who’d been referred to our Macquarie Park centre, was invited to choose an instrument to play. She gravitated toward the drums, and as she began to play, her movements were loud, erratic and forceful.
In the wake of the devastating 2022 Northern Rivers floods, a dedicated Learning Support team at a small Northern Rivers public primary school embarked on a mission to better support their trauma-impacted students.
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.
Nine year-old Nadia, has been grappling with anxiety ever since the COVID lockdowns.
At just ten years old, Emily* faced a distressing situation, common to many schoolchildren but one that none should have to endure
KidsXpress calls for more government support to increase access to mental health services for children aged 12 and under.
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.
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.
Samuel Behan, is an incredible KidsXpress supporter racing in Production Sports with his trusty MX5 to raise funds for vulnerable children.
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.
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.
One year on at Merrylands East Public School and the results speak for themselves. 💛
Families who once hesitated to seek support are now coming forward. Teachers are noticing calmer classrooms, better attendance and stronger parent engagement — all through the trusted relationships built with KidsXpress through our School Partnership Program.
This is what real change looks like, and it starts with trust.
#KidsXpress #TraumaInformed #StudentWellbeing #CommunitySupport #EmotionalHealth #SchoolPartnerships #SchoolBasedPrograms #MentalHealth #ExpressiveTherapy
🎉 Youth Week 2025 kicks off today! At KidsXpress, we’re proud to support young people as they celebrate their strengths, speak up, and shape a brighter future. 💬✨
This year’s theme: I am… We are the future, and the future is now.
🔗 Find events near you: nsw.gov.au/youthweek
#YouthWeek2025 #IAm #KidsXpress
Today, KidsXpress proudly joined the Ryde Hunters Hill Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Committee in a walk against abuse, advocating for change and healing. This solemn yet powerful event reminds us of the devastating impact of gendered violence, which has already claimed the lives of more than 80 Australian women and children this year alone, including the tragic victims of the Bondi Westfield stabbing.
At KidsXpress, we see the ripple effects of domestic and family violence every day. Many of the children we support carry the heavy burden of trauma stemming from DFV. Our work provides these children with a safe space to process their experiences, build resilience, and move toward healing. Through creative therapies and education, we aim to break the cycle of violence and empower children to reclaim their sense of safety and hope.
Today’s walk reinforces the urgent need for collective action, not just in addressing the immediate impacts of DFV but also in supporting preventative measures and long-term recovery for survivors. At KidsXpress, we stand united with our community, advocating for a future where every child and family can thrive free from violence.
During pregnancy, fetal cells enter the mother’s bloodstream and may influence her health long after birth. This incredible phenomenon, known as fetal-maternal microchimerism, signifies a deep, lifelong connection between mother and child.
Benefits for Mums
Wound Healing: Fetal cells aid in tissue repair, including cesarean incisions.
Breast Health: These cells support breast development and lactation.
Potential Brain Benefits
Brain Repair: Although it`s still under study, fetal cells might cross the blood-brain barrier to repair maternal brain damage, opening potential new treatments for strokes and neural diseases.
Health Challenges:
Autoimmune Diseases: The maternal immune system might attack fetal cells, contributing to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid disorders.
Cancer: Fetal cells can play complex roles in breast cancer, offering both protective effects and potential risks.
Future Implications:
Diagnostics & Treatments: Researchers are exploring how fetal cells can diagnose and treat conditions like poor lactation, tumor reduction, and pregnancy-linked psychological disorders.
#MaternalHealth #PregnancyScience #FetalMicrochimerism #ForeverConnected
As parents, we often strive to provide the best for our children, guiding them through the complexities of life with love and care. In the journey of raising confident and resilient kids, it`s crucial to understand the profound impact of empowering them through giving them control over certain aspects of their lives.
When J. Milburn says, "Letting children have control does not make them feel entitled. It makes them feel empowered," it highlights an essential principle of child development. Empowering children by allowing them to make choices and take responsibility within reason fosters a sense of ownership and self-efficacy. This approach doesn`t lead to entitlement; rather, it builds their confidence, encourages independence, and teaches them valuable decision-making skills.
Imagine a child who is allowed to choose their after-school activities or who participates in setting their study schedule. These opportunities for control, when given within reasonable boundaries, help them learn to weigh options, consider consequences, and understand the importance of their decisions. They become more self-assured and capable of handling challenges, both big and small.
As parents, it`s our role to create an environment where our children feel safe to express their opinions and make choices, while also providing the necessary guidance and limits. By doing so, we nurture their inner strength and prepare them for the responsibilities of adulthood.
#childdevelopment #childmentalhealth #parenting #empowerment
We often place significant emphasis on a child`s IQ celebrating academic achievements and cognitive prowess. However, there`s another crucial aspect of development that deserves equal, if not more, attention: Emotional Intelligence (EQ).
EQ, refers to the ability to recognise, understand, and manage our own emotions, as well as those of others. It encompasses skills such as emotional awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills. High EQ is linked to better relationships, improved mental health, and success in various life domains.
Signs Your Child Has High EQ:
1. Empathy: Your child shows a deep understanding of others` feelings and can relate to them. They might offer comfort to friends who are upset or demonstrate compassion in challenging situations.
2. Self-Awareness: They are in tune with their own emotions, can name what they are feeling, and understand how these emotions affect their behaviour.
3. Self-Regulation: Your child can manage their emotions effectively, demonstrating patience and control, even in frustrating or stressful situations.
4. Social Skills: They build strong, healthy relationships with peers and adults, communicate effectively, and navigate social complexities with ease.
5. Motivation: They are driven by internal goals rather than external rewards, showing perseverance and a positive attitude towards challenges.
While IQ is often associated with academic and professional success, EQ is equally, if not more, vital for overall well-being and happiness. Children with high EQ are better equipped to handle stress, resolve conflicts, and build meaningful relationships. These skills are crucial for navigating life`s ups and downs and achieving long-term success and satisfaction.
#EmotionalIntelligence #ChildDevelopment #MentalHealth #EQvsIQ #ParentingTips #KidsXpress
