Kids First Children's Services

In the digital age, it’s all too easy for children and teens to turn to the internet for advice. Unfortunately, not all online sources are trustworthy or reliable, and this can lead to misinformation or even harmful advice. Make sure your child understands that while the internet can be useful, it’s not always the best place to find solutions for serious emotional issues.

Here are some of the best Australian websites and organisations that provide support for children and young people dealing with mental health challenges, bullying, or crisis situations:

⭐Kids Helpline (kidshelpline.com.au)
A free, confidential counselling service available 24/7 for young people aged 5-25. Kids Helpline offers phone, email, and online chat support on a wide range of issues, including mental health, bullying, and family concerns.

⭐Headspace (headspace.org.au)
Focused on mental health support for young Australians aged 12-25, Headspace offers online and face-to-face services for mental health, physical health, work and study support, and alcohol and other drug issues.

⭐ReachOut (www.reachout.com)
A leading online mental health organisation for young people. ReachOut provides resources and forums to support teenagers through tough times, including bullying, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.

⭐Bullying. No Way! (bullyingnoway.gov.au)
This government-backed site provides advice, information, and resources for students, parents, and teachers on recognising, preventing, and addressing bullying in schools.

⭐Beyond Blue (beyondblue.org.au)
Beyond Blue offers a wealth of resources for young people, parents, and educators on mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Their Youth Program is particularly focused on supporting those under 25.

It's natural for children to want to help when a friend is struggling, but some primary and high schoolers take on much bigger burdens than they should because they believe that's what a good friend does. How can we help our kids to understand that friendship doesn’t mean fixing someone else’s problems alone? In our latest blog, 𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙤 𝙏𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙝 𝙆𝙞𝙙𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙃𝙚𝙡𝙥 𝙁𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙒𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝘽𝙪𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙨, we explore how to guide children to be supportive without taking on too much.

Read it here,

How to Teach Kids to Help Friends Without Carrying Their Burdens - Kids First Children's Services Child psychologists share tips for R U OK? Week on teaching children and teens to set boundaries in friendships while supporting friends and protecting their emotional wellbeing.

Occupational Therapist Morgan is a much loved member of the Kids First team and has been with for more than 14 years! In her spare time, she plays an active role in her local surf club and is a busy mum to 2 daughters. Fun fact: Morgan hates having her photo taken, so we were lucky to catch her for this one!

Learn more about Morgan here, https://kids-first.com.au/teams/morgan-webster/

It can be tough to know if a child is facing bullying or just dealing with a normal conflict with peers. Understanding the difference is key. Learn more about what bullying really means and what you can do to support your child if you suspect they're being bullied here.

What Bullying Is (and Isn't): Understanding the Difference - Kids First Children's Services Discover the signs of bullying in children and learn what parents and teachers can do to support them. Find out how to identify bullying and take action to protect your child's well-being.

Research tells us that up to 27% of Australian primary or high schoolers experience bullying every year. Signs of distress in children can be subtle and easy to miss, especially if they’re trying to keep their worries to themselves. That’s why it’s crucial for parents and teachers to be aware of these signs and know how to offer support.

Early Intervention Specialist Kirsty Pollard is a busy lady!

Kirsty has a Master’s Degree in Special and Inclusive Education and more than 20 years of experience. She not only supports Kids First’s children in their preschools and schools, but also extends her professional expertise and care to the Kids First team in her role as our Clinical Operations Manager. An active mum to two teenagers, Kirsty keeps her work and life in balance by doing pilates and going for walks with her two dogs, Max and Molly.

⭐Learn more about Kirsty here: https://kids-first.com.au/teams/kirsty-pollard/

𝗣𝗿𝗮𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗦𝗖𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗟 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗𝗬

Dr Kristy Goodwin, one of Australia’s foremost experts on child development and digital well-being, has praised “School Ready”, the best-selling book written by Kids First founder, Sonja Walker. Get your copy of SCHOOL READY here, https://kids-first.com.au/product/school-ready/

Today we thank the 'good men' in our lives. Our world is a better place because you are a part of it.

On Orientation Day, everyone is putting their best foot forward, and there are limits on what teachers can and can’t discuss with you in a group setting.

If you need to chat about your child’s individual needs, make an appointment to meet with teachers at a time when you can speak privately.

It's Speech Pathology Week!
This week we're celebrating the wonderful work that 'speechies' do to help children communicate, socialise, learn and play! A special shout out to Kids First's amazing team members Natalie, abbey and Hannah! Love your work, ladies!

School Orientation Days are just around the corner, and they offer the perfect chance to make a great first impression at your child's new school! But what should you focus on, and what should you avoid? 🤔

Our latest blog shares some fantastic do’s and don’ts to help you and your child navigate this important milestone with confidence. Think of it as a “first date” with the school - You definitely want to get it right! 💖

👉 Check out our commonsense guide to making the most of Orientation Day and set your child up for a smooth transition to school life.

Read the blog here ➜ https://kids-first.com.au/how-to-make-the-most-of-school-orientation-days/

What to Do (and Not Do) on Your Child’s School Orientation Day - Kids First Children's Services Top questions to ask plus practical tips for new school orientation days from school readiness experts, child psychologists and teachers.

Meet Abbey Murray, our fabulous speech pathologist!🤩 Abbey went to school in the Northern Beaches and has been working with children for several years.

⭐Fun Fact: Abbey loves watching horror movies.

Find out more about Abbey here, https://kids-first.com.au/teams/abbey-murray-speech-pathologist/

𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝘁𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀

Before your child starts school, getting specific answers to specific questions is the best way for parents to make informed decisions. Kids First founder, Sonja Walker, shares the questions you should ask teachers and principals in her best-selling book “School Ready” Get your copy here, https://kids-first.com.au/product/school-ready/

Thank you to the wonderful community at Explore & Develop Brookvale!

Fuelling up for a big day of parent support meetings, barefoot bowls with the Kids First team and a Community Service Seminar to deliver tonight

⭐The Power of Play⭐

As a parent or educator, you already know that play is vital for children’s development. But did you know that when children take the lead during play, it can have an even greater impact? Child-led play not only sparks creativity but also promotes problem-solving skills, enhances language development, and encourages social cooperation. By allowing children to direct their own play, you help them build confidence, develop critical thinking, and strengthen their connections with trusted adults - laying a solid foundation for their future growth. Over on the Kids First blog, we’ve shared some practical tips and insights specifically designed to support you in guiding and enhancing these child-led play experiences.

The Power of Child-Led Play: Why Following Their Lead Matters - Kids First Children's Services Child-led play can strengthen your bond with your child, ignite their creativity, and support their growth in ways that feel natural and joyful. Get great ideas from the Kids First team here.

Does this lovely lady’s face look familiar?

We’re excited to introduce Jess Argent, the newest member of Kids First’s multi-disciplinary family!🌟 Jess is a highly qualified teacher who has taught in several local schools (so YES you may have met her before!) Jess has joined our gifted Early Intervention Specialist team and can’t wait to visit children in their preschools and schools to provide the one-to-one support they need to thrive and not just cope.
Meet Jess here, https://kids-first.com.au/teams/jess-argent-early-intervention-specialist-teacher/

𝗜𝘀 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗪𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀?

Making decisions about life after school is one of the most significant moments in a young person's journey and having the right support can make all the difference. While parents and teachers play crucial roles, the guidance of independent experts who work in this field every day can provide an invaluable perspective. They can offer insights and advice that are grounded in real-world experience and tailored to each individual’s unique strengths and aspirations.

At Kids First Children's Services, our 𝙒𝙞𝙨𝙚 𝘾𝙝𝙤𝙞𝙘𝙚𝙨 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝘼𝙙𝙫𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙢 is designed to give your teen that extra advantage.

Through personalised assessments, we help young people discover the careers and education pathways that align with their skills and interests.

Our interview skills training ensures they have the confidence and preparation to shine in competitive selection processes.

For students in Years 9 and 10, our subject selection support helps set them on the right path to achieve their goals.

If your family is navigating these important decisions, we’re here to help guide you through it with expert advice and practical support tailored to your child’s future.

Contact us now to chat about your child’s needs on (02) 9938 5419, or follow the link below for more information about the 𝙒𝙞𝙨𝙚 𝘾𝙝𝙤𝙞𝙘𝙚𝙨 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝘼𝙙𝙫𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙢 at Kids First.

Wise Choices Careers & Further education advice for teens - Kids First Children's Services Help your teen make informed decisions about life beyond school. Personalised Careers Advice that explores career options, study & training pathways in detail ...

𝗣𝗿𝗮𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗦𝗖𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗟 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗𝗬

Australia’s leading parenting author has praised the book written by Kids First founder, Sonja Walker. Find out why Maggie Dent was so impressed when you get your copy of SCHOOL READY here, https://kids-first.com.au/product/school-ready/

Kids First’s Wise Choices Careers Advisors help Australian teens make good decisions about future work, study & life🌟

Contact us on (02) 9938 5419 or visit our website here, https://kids-first.com.au/careers-further-education-advice-for-teens/

🌟 What’s Next for Your Teen? 🌟

Year 12 is coming to an end, and the future is full of possibilities! Whether your teen is considering university, vocational training, or jumping straight into the workforce, our latest blog is here to guide them through the many pathways available for young Australians today. 🎓🚀

Exploring Post-School Pathways - What Are the Options for Your Teen? - Kids First Children's Services Is your child ready for life after school? Kids First’s Wise Choices Careers Advisors share some of the new options for study, jobs and life beyond the school gate

After 18 years supporting local kids and families, the one thing we know at Kids First is that little kids quickly become BIG kids… and that’s why Careers Advisor Annika Williams, is such an important member of our multi-disciplinary team.

A busy mum to 2 teens of her own, Annika leads our 𝙒𝙞𝙨𝙚 𝘾𝙝𝙤𝙞𝙘𝙚𝙨 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝘼𝙙𝙫𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙢, offering personalised support to teens from all over Australia as they find study and work pathways that match their skills and dreams.

Learn more about Annika here, https://kids-first.com.au/teams/annika-williams/

With one of Kids First’s experienced Early Intervention Specialists by their side at preschool or school, children learn how to make friends more easily, participate in play and learning activities, improve their communication, and build independent functional skills. Know a child who needs help to thrive in their preschool or school environment?

Find out more about Kids First’s Early Intervention Specialists here, https://kids-first.com.au/early-intervention-support/