Mini Minds Child & Adolescent Health

As we observe Dyslexia Awareness Month this September, let’s embrace the wisdom of Richard Branson.

Let’s celebrate the unique strengths and talents of dyslexic individuals, recognising that diversity in learning styles enriches our world 🌏

Together, let’s create inclusive environments where every child can thrive and reach their full potential 💡📚

This Useful Tip Tuesday, let’s focus on fostering healthy digital habits for our children 🌐📱

This Week’s Tip: Encourage Healthy Digital Habits

In today’s technology-centric world, fostering a healthy relationship with technology is vital. If the balance seems to be unhealthy with your child, try to implement these tips:

🟣 Assess Digital Use: Understand what they’re doing online & connect with them on its appeal i.e. games, or websites they frequent.
🟣 Set Boundaries Together: Involve your child in setting healthy limits for screen time. If they feel a sense of ownership, they are more likely to adhere to them. Discuss the reasons behind the boundaries to foster understanding and cooperation.
🟣 Engage Beyond The Screen: Connect with your child over a particular interest of their choice (not related to screen-time). This will help to build a healthy & trustworthy relationship with your child, so that they feel understood & secure e.g. “I heard your favourite song on the radio today & it made me think of you”.
🟣 Encourage Offline Activities: Promote engagement in hobbies & outdoor activities. Suggest alternatives that align with their interests (i.e. sports, reading, arts, crafts, or exploring nature). This helps diversify their experiences & ensures a well-rounded lifestyle.

Quick Win: Have a tech-free family night with board games or outdoor fun. Celebrate the enjoyment of offline activities by highlighting the fun & connection these moments bring. Use this time to bond & create lasting memories together.

Why It Works: Setting boundaries & promoting a variety of activities help prevent screen time from overshadowing other important aspects of life. A balanced approach to digital use fosters healthier habits, supports emotional & physical well-being, & strengthens family bonds.

By encouraging healthy digital habits, we can help our children develop a positive relationship with technology.

Stay tuned for more empowering advice on the next Parenting Tip Tuesday! Together, we can create a harmonious and enriching environment for our kids’ growth & well-being 💖📱

This Month, let’s reflect on the importance of early intervention and support in shaping resilient, thriving individuals with this quote from Frederick Douglass.

Investing in the well-being and development of children today lays the foundation for a brighter and more compassionate future. Let’s prioritise nurturing environments, supportive relationships, and opportunities for growth, empowering children to overcome challenges they will face 💜⛰️🌅

Together, we can build a world where every child has the foundations to thrive 🌍 🌟

This Useful Tip Tuesday, let’s focus on the compassionate strategies to support children facing ‘School Can’t Behaviour’ commonly known as school refusal 🏫 💜

This Week’s Tip: Understanding and Support

School Can’t Behaviour can stem from various underlying issues, but with empathy and a strategic approach, we can help ease the transition back to school:

🟣 Understand the Why: Begin by identifying the specific fears or concerns your child has about school.
🟣 Build a Support Network: Collaborate with teachers and school counsellors to create a plan that makes your child feel supported.
🟣 Gradual Reintroduction: Start with short, positive visits to the school and gradually increase the time spent there.
🟣 Model Confidence: Share your own stories of overcoming school-related challenges.

Quick Win: Celebrate each successful step towards reintegration, no matter how small. This could be as simple as having a positive conversation about school or spending a short time on campus without distress.

Why It Works: Addressing the root causes of School Can’t Behaviour and creating a step-by-step plan with the support of educators can help your child feel more secure. Celebrating progress reinforces their confidence, making the school a less intimidating place.

Let’s keep building on our knowledge and compassion as we discover new strategies to support our children.

Stay tuned for more empowering advice on the next Parenting Tip Tuesday! Together, we can create a nurturing and supportive environment for our kids’ well-being 💜🏠💜🏫

🌟 Navigating Childhood Challenges: Understanding ‘School Can't Behaviour' 🌟

Does your child struggle with what's often called 'school refusal'? You're not alone. Our latest blog delves into 'Can't Behaviour', exploring how deep-seated emotional distress can lead children to resist school. We share empathetic strategies to help parents and educators support children effectively, fostering a safe emotional environment.

🔗 https://www.minimindshealth.com.au/post/parenting-strategies-anxiety-school-refusal-perth

👀 Stay tuned! Next week, we dive into the common parental challenges in navigating school refusal and practical tips for managing these situations. Whether you're balancing work or handling emotional stress, we're here to help!

Meet Bec. She is one of our Psychologists at Mini Minds!⁠

Bec is a Provisional Psychologist currently completing her Masters in Clinical Psychology, with over 13 years of experience working as a school counsellor.

She enjoys working with children, teens and their families to empower them to utilise their strengths. As a mother of three teenagers, Bec understands the challenges that modern families face. She has a special interest in supporting neurodivergent children and adolescents, and believes that developing a greater understanding of self is essential for maintaining mental health.
 
Trained in play therapy, Bec brings a fun and playful approach to her practice to engage clients and achieve the best outcomes.

In her downtime, Bec enjoys spending time with her family 🏠 and her dog, Coco 🐶, particularly enjoying the nature of the beach or bushwalking 🏝️🥾

If your child needs any help in the areas of Anxiety, Depression, Neurodivergence (ASD & ADHD) or family therapy, or if you you would like to know anything more about Bec & our Mini Minds services, then head to our website at www.minimindshealth.com.au
Alternatively you can call Mini Minds directly on 0452 566 463! Bec would love to help your child realise their true potential 😊⁠⁠⁠⁠

🌟 Exciting News 🌟

We are delighted to announce that our talented therapists, Jess Chrystal and Georgia Bennett have now received advanced training in EMDR therapy!

What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a highly effective psychotherapy approach designed to help individuals heal from trauma and distressing life experiences. This method uses guided eye movements to assist the brain in processing and integrating traumatic memories, thereby reducing their emotional impact.

Why is EMDR Beneficial?
🟣 Reduces Symptoms of PTSD: EMDR has been extensively researched and is proven to significantly reduce symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions.
🟣 Treats Anxiety Disorders: EMDR is beneficial for various anxiety disorders, including:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Helps manage excessive worry and anxiety.
- Panic Disorder: Reduces the frequency and intensity of panic attacks.
- Phobias: Alleviates fears and desensitises emotional responses to phobic triggers.
- Social Anxiety/Phobia: Assists in overcoming intense fear and anxiety in social situations.
🟣 Improves Emotional Well-being: By addressing and processing distressing memories, EMDR helps individuals find relief from anxiety, depression, and other emotional distress.
🟣 Enhances Coping Skills: EMDR equips individuals with better coping mechanisms, enabling them to manage stress and emotional challenges more effectively.
🟣 Promotes Faster Recovery: Many clients report significant improvements in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional therapy methods.

We are proud to offer this evidence-based therapy to our clients, providing another valuable tool on their journey toward healing and well-being.

If you or someone you know could benefit from EMDR therapy, we invite you to reach out to learn more about how it can make a difference. Together, we can pave the way for brighter and healthier futures 🌟🔮
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🌟 Understanding the Science of Emotions Workshop 🌟

For children aged 8-12 years 🧠✨

Mini Minds is excited to offer a unique 6-part workshop, created and delivered by Dr. Louise Mansell (UK Psychologist and child author). Each week, children will embark on a journey to discover the wonders of our amazing brains, exploring its evolution and the fascinating science behind our emotions.

Through fun and engaging activities inspired by Theraplay practices, your child will learn to build emotional regulation and expand their ability to manage distress 🌈💪

At Mini Minds, we believe in the power of parents working alongside their children. That’s why we also offer a parallel 2-session Parenting course, “Parenting Children with Anxiety,” which runs parallel to the children’s workshop. This course helps parents understand the strategies and language used in the children’s sessions, fostering a stronger bond and boosting resilience, self-confidence, and emotional intelligence for both you and your child 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦❤️

📅 Workshop Details:
* Children’s Workshop: 6 weekly sessions at 4-5pm Tuesdays
* Parenting Workshop: 2 x 90-minute sessions on consecutive Tuesday nights during the school term

For more information and to book your spot, please contact our friendly reception staff. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to support your child’s emotional growth and strengthen your relationship!

📞 Contact us today to learn more about our group programs, including course dates and times. We would love the opportunity to help your child realise their true potential 😊

This month, let’s contemplate the legacy we’re leaving for future generations with this quote from Billy Graham.

Our actions, values, and beliefs shape the foundation upon which our children build their lives. Let’s strive to model integrity, compassion, and resilience, instilling in them the principles that will guide them towards a fulfilling and purposeful future. 🌟💖

This Useful Tip Tuesday, let’s celebrate the unique perspectives and strengths of children with autism 🌟🧩

This Week’s Tip: Celebrate the Spectrum

Autism brings a unique perspective to how a child sees the world. This week, we encourage deepening connections through understanding and acceptance:

🟣 Understand Interests: Dive into what fascinates your child, even if it’s different from typical interests. Whether it’s trains, dinosaurs, or a specific hobby, showing genuine interest can bridge the gap and open lines of communication.
🟣 Establish Routine Comfort: Consistency can be calming and reassuring. Develop a daily routine that incorporates their interests and provides a sense of stability, making transitions smoother and reducing anxiety.
🟣 Showcase Success Stories: Highlight accomplishments of individuals with autism. Sharing stories of successful adults on the spectrum can inspire your child and show them that their potential is limitless.

Quick Win: Create a shared activity based on their interests, focusing on enjoying the process together. Whether it’s building a Lego set, drawing, or exploring nature, acknowledge their perspective and contributions. Celebrate these moments of connection, no matter how small.

Why It Works: Emphasising acceptance and understanding promotes a positive self-image and strengthens your bond with your child. Recognising and valuing their unique way of seeing the world fosters self-esteem and helps them feel cherished and understood.

By celebrating the spectrum and connecting deeply with your child, you can create a nurturing environment where they can thrive.

Stay tuned for more empowering advice on the next Parenting Tip Tuesday! Together, we can foster a loving and supportive atmosphere for our children’s growth and well-being. 💖🧩

New Blog: 'Inside Out 2' - A Cinematic Tool for Emotional Growth! 🌟

Find our latest blog exploration of 'Inside Out 2', a film we recently enjoyed that brilliantly fosters emotional awareness in children and adolescents. Not just entertaining, this sequel is a great educational resource that highlights the importance of understanding and managing emotions like anxiety, depression, fear, and anger.

👉 Dive into Jess Chrystal’s (Our Principle Psychologist) review and find out how this captivating movie can be a perfect conversation starter for your family, helping everyone better understand and articulate their emotions (Ideal for parents and educators!)

🔗 https://www.minimindshealth.com.au/post/emotional-awareness-children-adolescents-inside-out-2

Let’s prioritize emotional understanding for our young ones. Keep exploring and connecting! 🌟💬

This Useful Tip Tuesday, let’s celebrate the incredible strengths and vibrant energy of children with ADHD 🧠🦸🏽‍♀️🦸

This Week’s Tip: Embrace the Energy

ADHD comes with unique challenges but also extraordinary strengths. This week’s focus is on harnessing this vibrant energy:

🟣 Spot the Strengths: Identify areas where your child’s ADHD adds value, like creativity or problem-solving.
🟣 Create Structure: Implement a flexible yet structured routine that accommodates their energy.
🟣 Be the Role Model: Share stories of successful individuals with ADHD (https://adhdembrace.org/famous-people-with-adhd/ #).

Quick Win: Engage in a fast-paced, interactive activity that matches their energy level. Celebrate their focus and creativity in the moment.

Why It Works: Leveraging the positive aspects of ADHD helps foster self-esteem and shows your child that they can achieve greatness in their own unique way.

Let’s keep building on our knowledge and compassion as we discover new strategies to support our children. Stay tuned for more empowering advice on the next Parenting Tip Tuesday! Together, we can foster a loving and supportive environment for our kids’ well-being. 💖🧠

As we step into June, let’s embrace the magic of childhood with this quote from Christopher Moore.

In the hustle and bustle of adult life, it’s easy to overlook the wonders that surround us.
Let’s take a cue from children and approach each day with curiosity and wonder.

Whether it’s marveling at nature’s beauty, finding joy in simple pleasures, or cultivating a sense of awe, let’s rediscover the magic in the world around us. ✨👀

Meet Kate. She is one of our Psychologists at Mini Minds!⁠

Kate completed her Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) and Clinical Masters at Curtin University. She has experience working with clients across the lifespan in multiple settings including schools, the disability sector and private practice. 

Kate is warm, friendly and bubbly. She places high importance on building strong relationships with clients, in order to establish trust to bring about effective change. 

Kate has a deep understanding of the many challenges children and adolescents face. She works from a client-centred approach, delivering evidenced-based interventions such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Play Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). 

Kate has extensive experience working with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families during her employment in the disability sector, and her current role as school psychologist. Her assessment and identification skills are a unique strength. 

Outside of work, Kate enjoys spending time with her husband and 3 beautiful children 😍, boxing sessions 🥊, running🏃🏽‍♀️and outdoor activities 🚵🏽‍♀️

If your child needs any help in the Assessment for Autism Spectrum Disorder, or if you you would like to know anything more about Kate & our Mini Minds services, then head to our website at www.minimindshealth.com.au
Alternatively you can call Mini Minds directly on 0452 566 463! Kate would love to help your child realise their true potential 😊⁠⁠⁠⁠

📣 Immediate availability for Autism Assessments by our experienced Psychologists 📣

With increased capacity and more staff equipped to undertake assessments, we are pleased to be able to offer shorter wait times at present 😊

Our assessments are grounded in a deep understanding and celebration of neurodiversity. We honor and respect the diverse ways individuals experience autism, and take pride in providing personalised and compassionate support.

If you are looking to better understand your child’s unique brain and are seeking advice on how best to support them, or if you would like to know more about our Mini Minds services, then head to our website at www.minimindshealth.com.au
Alternatively you can call Mini Minds directly on 0452 566 463! We would love to help your child realise their true potential 😊⁠⁠⁠⁠

This Useful Tip Tuesday, let's empower healing from childhood trauma through understanding 🤗

Tip: Create a Safe Emotional Space

Trauma can deeply affect a child's emotional well-being. Today, we emphasise emotional safety and understanding:
🟣 Recognize the Signs: Be aware of changes in behaviour or mood that may signal distress.
🟣 Offer Unconditional Support: Let them know you're there for them, no matter what.
🟣 Model Healthy Coping: Demonstrate ways to manage stress and emotions.

Quick Win: Start a "feelings journal" together, where you both can express thoughts and emotions through words or art. Validate their feelings, reinforcing that it's okay to express them.

Why It Works: Providing a stable, supportive environment helps children feel secure, promoting healing and emotional resilience.

Let's continue our commitment to healing and understanding as we explore more ways to support our children. Tune in for more empowering tips on the next Useful Tip Tuesday! Together, we can create a nurturing environment for growth ❤️‍🩹🤗✨


Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Individual circumstances vary, so we recommend consulting with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

As we celebrate Mother's Day this weekend, let's reflect on the profound impact of our words on our children's inner worlds 🧠🌏

This month's quote, from Peggy O'Mara, reminds us that every interaction shapes our child’s self-esteem, resilience, and perception of the world. 

Let's choose our words with love and kindness, nurturing a positive inner dialogue that empowers them to thrive. 

Happy Mother's Day to all the incredible moms shaping their children's inner voices with love! 💖🌼 

Meet Lydia. She is one of our Psychologists at Mini Minds!⁠

Lydia is a provisional psychologist who completed both her Bachelor and Honours degrees at Murdoch University. She is experienced in working with children, teenagers, young adults, parents and schools. Lydia's goal is to provide the necessary support and guidance to foster positive change and growth in the lives of her clients.

Lydia aims to create a nurturing and empowering environment where children and teenagers can feel comfortable and supported. She has a deep understanding of the unique challenges and issues that children and teenagers face, and is committed to helping them navigate through these difficult times. Lydia incorporates a client-centred approach in her practice, as she believes that each individual is unique and requires a personalized approach.

Lydia is trained in play therapy and art therapy, which allows children to engage in a developmentally appropriate and therapeutic manner. Through play, children can express themselves in a safe, non-threatening way, allowing for deeper exploration and understanding of their thoughts and emotions.

Furthermore, Lydia is well-versed in evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). These modalities have proven to be effective in addressing a wide range of mental health issues, and Lydia is experienced in implementing these approaches to help clients achieve therapeutic goals.

Outside of work, Lydia has a keen interest in yoga 🧘‍♀️, arts and crafts 🎨, live music 🎸🥁🎹 and cuddles with her cat Ringo 🐈

If your child needs any help in the areas of anxiety, depression, emotion regulation challenges, trauma, neurodiversity, or if you you would like to know anything more about Lydia & our Mini Minds services, then head to our website at www.minimindshealth.com.au
Alternatively you can call Mini Minds directly on 0452 566 463! Lydia would love to help your child realise their true potential 😊⁠⁠⁠⁠

Our principal Psychologist, Jess Chrystal, sat down with Owen Raymond from the West Australian to chat on how to best prepare your child for boarding school.

As a child adapts to a new environment such as boarding school, there will naturally be adjustment difficulties. An important strategy during this time is for parents to maintain honest and open communication with their children.

If you are facing the challenges of your child attending boarding school, or adjusting to a new environment, grab a copy of today’s for the full story!

This Useful Tip Tuesday, let's aim to embrace Learning Differences and unlock Individual Potential 🔓

Tip: Celebrate Every Learning Style

Learning differences aren't obstacles; they're opportunities to discover how your child best absorbs information. 

This week, focus on these strategies:
🟣 Identify Learning Preferences: Notice if your child prefers visuals, hands-on activities, or listening.
🟣 Tailor the Approach: Adapt to their learning style with personalized materials or methods.
🟣 Lead by Example: Share how you overcome your own learning challenges.

Quick Win: Introduce educational games or activities aligned with their interests. Praise their effort and engagement, not just the correctness.

Why It Works: Customizing learning strategies to fit your child's preferences encourages engagement and boosts confidence, making education a positive, fulfilling experience.

Embrace the journey of discovering your child's unique path to learning. Stay tuned for more bite-sized insights on the next Useful Tip Tuesday! Together, let's transform learning differences into stepping stones for success 🌈📚✨


Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Individual circumstances vary, so we recommend consulting with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

April's quote of the month, courtesy of Denis Waitley, highlights the essential gifts we can offer our children: 'The greatest gifts you can give your children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence.' 

As parents, it's natural to want to protect and guide our children, but it's equally important to empower them with the skills to navigate the world on their own.

Let's cultivate a balance between providing support and fostering independence, allowing our children to grow into confident and capable individuals 🌱🦋 

🌟 Discover the Path to Empowered Parenting at Our Upcoming Workshop 🌟

‘Navigating Parenthood: Understanding Diverse Needs & Emotional Well-being’

🔍 Workshop Highlights:
Immerse yourself in our comprehensive two-part, 90-minute journey tailored for parents of children grappling with anxiety, social, attention, and attachment difficulties, or navigating through challenging early life experiences.

🧠 Guidance by Experts: With the wisdom of Dr. Louise Mansell, a renowned UK Psychologist and Child Author, along with insights from our Principal Psychologist Jess Chrystal, this neuro-affirming workshop will provide you with the tools and understanding to foster your child’s emotional and behavioural wellbeing.

📚 What Will You Gain?:
🟣 Deepen your understanding of your child’s unique needs.
🟣 Learn actionable, neuro-affirming techniques for day-to-day challenges.
🟣 Build connections with experts and fellow parents on similar journeys.

📅 When/Where? 6-7.30pm on 14th and 21st of May at @ Mini Minds Child & Adolescent Health

☎️ Ready to Enhance Your Parenting Skills?:
Find out more about how you can positively impact your family's journey by contacting us at [email protected] or calling 0452566463.

💬 Got Questions? We're here to answer them. Feel free to reach out.
Let’s build a nurturing community for our children together. ✨

🌟 Exciting News: Expanded Parental Support Services! 🌟

We are thrilled to announce that our dedicated psychologist, Georgia, is extending her hours to focus on an essential aspect of child psychology: the empowerment and well-being of parents.

Because parenting is a journey filled with unique challenges and joys, we're here to support you every step of the way.

🌱 How We Can Help 🌱

🟣 Postnatal Depression/Anxiety: Expert support for navigating complex emotions after welcoming your new family member.
🟣 Adjustment to Parenthood: Tailored strategies for a smooth transition into your new role.
🟣 Bonding and Attachment: Evidence-based approaches to strengthen your child's development.
🟣 Parental Burnout: Strategies for balance and rejuvenation.
🟣 Coping with a Child's Diagnosis: Compassionate support and guidance for you and your child.
🟣 Parenting a Neurodiverse Child: Celebrate your child's uniqueness with empowering strategies.
🟣 Relational Conflict: Techniques to nurture connection and foster constructive communication, addressing conflicts within family dynamics.
🟣 Work-Life Balance: Strategies to balance work demands with family life.
🟣 Self-Care for Parents: Learn the importance of self-care to best care for your loved ones.
🟣 Parenting Strategies & Communication Skills: Enhance your toolkit with effective strategies and communication skills.
🟣 Parenting through Divorce: Sensitivity and strength to support your child through life's transitions.

We believe in supporting the entire family unit, recognizing that the well-being of parents is just as important as that of children. Our expanded services are designed to provide targeted support, whether you're navigating new parenthood, seeking balance, or fostering a harmonious family life.

To learn more about our expanded services, visit www.minimindshealth.com.au, or contact us directly at 0452566463. Let's embark on this journey together, creating stronger, happier families 💖

This post kicks off our monthly ‘Useful Tip Tuesday’ series, where we share small, impactful tips that may help in guiding our children through the complexities of their emotions and behaviours 😊

Today, we're focusing on transforming anxiety into courage through manageable acts of bravery 🌧️ > 🌈 Let's empower our kids to face anxiety with courage! 🌟

Tip: Foster Small Acts of Bravery
- Spot the Comfort Zones: Notice where your child hesitates due to fear or anxiety.
- Introduce Gentle Challenges: Encourage tiny steps outside their comfort bubble, treating each step as a win.
- Be the Courage Example: Share your bravery stories, showing it's okay to feel scared as you face fears.

Quick Win: If your child is nervous about new activities, start by being their cheerleader from the sidelines. Let them know you are on their team! A little nudge to join in, even briefly, can spark a big leap in confidence!

Why This Matters: Small acts of bravery lay the foundation for resilience and a positive mindset, teaching our kids that growth often lies just beyond what feels comfortable.

Stay tuned for more bite-sized insights on the next Useful Tip Tuesday! Let's turn parenting challenges into opportunities for growth 👊👊🏼👊🏾


Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Individual circumstances vary, so we recommend consulting with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

Child Psychology | Mini Minds Child & Adolescent Health | Fremantle Child Psychology | Educational & developmental Psychologist providing therapy / assessments for children & adolescents with learning difficulties, behavioural problems, attention / concentration issues, a range of developmental difficulties including ADHD & Autism, and family / parent support.