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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 have the lowest 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.

(Kolves, 2010, citing Mishara, 1998; Fortune & Hawton, 2007).

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 Guide

Our 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.

  • 3,600

    students were reached by us in 2022 through our School Partnership Program.

  • 521

    teachers and school counsellors were supported through our education and training services in 2022.

  • 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)

KidsXpress is like a hospital for birds with injured wings. You leave when you can fly again.

10-year-old girl, former client

You didn’t just help my child but my whole family. You were our safe harbour during a period of storm.

Mother of former client

My son is still in my life today because of KidsXpress.

Mother of former client

We’d been screaming out, ‘what else can we do for our students?’ and this is it. This partnership with KidsXpress.

BPS Principal

KidsXpress isn’t a program. It’s a relationship that we build together based on the needs of our students.

HPPS Principal
KidsXpress
KidsXpress
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Emily's Story

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

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Media Release

Media Release

KidsXpress calls for more government support to increase access to mental health services for children aged 12 and under.

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High School Transition

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.

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Our work in the Snowy Valleys, NSW

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.

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Manny’s Story

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.

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Kiah's Story

Kiah's Story

When 9-year-old Kiah came to KidsXpress, she was a bright-eyed girl with a love for dancing. No one would have guessed that her early life was plagued by the kind of trauma you read about in the news.

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Instagram Feed

@kidsxpressmentalhealth
'Hide & Seek' or 'Peekaboo' are more than games,  they're mini psychological adventures!  For our tiniest humans, these games serve as a fun exploration of attachment and trust. When a young child sees us 'disappear' and then magically reappear, it's like a reassuring reminder that we always come back. These simple games help build a sense of security and trust in our bond with our child. Plus, they're a clever way for them to practice the concept of 'object permanence' – the understanding that even when something is out of sight, it still exists. So, next time you're hiding behind the couch only to quickly resurface with a 'boo' know that it's not just playtime; it's a little adventure in building trust and understanding.  #HideAndSeekMagic #attachmentplay #parenting #parentingtips #mentalhealth #peekaboo #childdevelopment
Some children (and many adults) feel embarrassed when caught crying in public. But we need to allow ourselves to cry and teach our children that it’s simply the body’s attempt at self-regulation.  Crying activates the parasympathetic nervous system and lowers cortisol levels. Often it’s the fastest and most effective coping mechanism we have. Educating our children about this can stop the shame they might feel.  Explain it to them like this:
Tears are like magical messengers that signal the brain to release special chemicals. One of these chemicals, oxytocin, is like a superhero hug that calms the nervous system. At the same time, crying helps reduce another chemical called cortisol, which is like a stress monster. So, when we shed some  tears, it’s a sign that our body is working its magic to restore calm and balance. It's a natural, built-in way to help us feel better!  #mentalhealth #childmentalhealth #parenting #parentingtips
Our stress responses, often referred to as "fight, flight, or freeze," are ingrained survival mechanisms that have evolved over time to help us deal with threats in our environment. Here's a breakdown:  1. Fight Response: This response prepares us to confront a threat. It increases adrenaline and readies the body for physical action, enabling us to stand our ground and defend ourselves.  2. Flight Response: This response is geared towards avoiding threats. It triggers the release of stress hormones, energising the body to flee from or evade danger.  3. Freeze Response: When a threat seems overwhelming or escape is impossible, the freeze response comes into play. It can help in situations where remaining still and unnoticed increases chances of survival.  These responses are hardwired into our biology and served our ancestors well in dealing with physical dangers. In modern times, these responses can be activated by various stressors, not just physical threats. Understanding these mechanisms helps us manage stress and support our children in navigating challenging situations.  Here are examples of what it might look like for a child:  🏡 Flight: Your child avoids bedtime, claiming they're not tired, or refuses to participate in a family game night.  🏡 Fight: During a disagreement, your child raises their voice, becomes argumentative, or exhibits defiance by refusing to follow instructions.  🏡 Freeze: In a challenging academic task, your child might stare blankly at the homework or withdraw, feeling overwhelmed.  Recognising these responses helps you tailor your support to meet your child's emotional needs.  #ParentingInsights #StressResponses #ChildDevelopment #parentingtips #mentalhealth #childmentalhealth
Oh..... this made us cry. ❤😥  Thanks to Dr Katherine Schofield - via Happy You Happy Family
Positive affirmation cards help kick off our therapy sessions with intention! Which one represents how you’re feeling today?  #childmentalhealth #therapy #expressivetherapy #childpsychology #creativeartstherapy
It’s that time of year again when many schools will be embarking on the exciting journey of student leadership elections. Student Representative Councils (SRCs) are said to empower students to influence and change their school and community, providing students with a sense of ownership and agency. The value of SRCs in schools is supported by a large bank of research showing the benefits of student voice and engagement, in everything from student wellbeing to learning outcomes. However opponents argue that SRC’s are largely popularity contests or tokenistic initiatives without any meritocratic processes involved.  Regardless of which side you sit on, it's essential to remember that these moments can be emotionally charged for our young leaders-in-the-making. While it's fantastic to witness those elected enthusiastically stepping into their roles, it's equally important to support those who may not have clinched the title this time.  💙 Tips for Nurturing Resilience:  1. Acknowledge Feelings: Let your child express their emotions openly. Acknowledging disappointment is the first step in healing.
2. Encourage Reflection: Help them see beyond the title. Discuss the skills and qualities they showcased during the process. Growth is an ongoing journey!
3. Highlight Other Opportunities: Remind them that leadership isn't confined to a specific role or title. There are numerous ways to contribute positively to their school community. There are numerous organisations who seek the input of primary school students as part of an advisory committee or junior board.
4. Express Gratitude: Encourage gratitude for the experience of running as a candidate and the lessons learned. Every opportunity is a building block for their future success.
5. Future Planning: Discuss their interests and other areas they might want to explore. The journey of self-discovery is vast and exciting.  Every child has unique talents and strengths waiting to be discovered. Onwards and upwards we say!  #parenting #parentingtips #SRC #studentleadership #childmentalhealth #resilience