A lot of kids that come into care have emotional and psychological baggage, even those entering the system as newborns. There may be trauma, attachment issues, neurodiversity , anxiety, and other issues that may present challenging, frustrating and confusing behaviours. As carers, we can learn to help our children with these difficulties, and learn how to respond to them, but there are also some useful courses, workshops and groups designed especially for children and teens.
Cool Kids
Cool Kids is a program designed for kids experiencing anxiety. It was developed by Macquarie University and is based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). The kids learn strategies to manage their anxious thoughts, fears and phobias. There is also a parent/carer component to this course, which aims to educate parents and carers in ways to support their anxious child. While Cool Kids caters for children between seven and twelve years, there is also the Cool Little Kids program designed for younger children.
Cool Kids is offered by Canberra Region Community Services through their Bungee Program, the Catholic Care Next Step Program, as well as a range of private providers. You can find a list of accredited providers through Macquarie University.
Secret Agent Society
The Secret Agent Society (SAS) provides neurodiverse children aged 8 to 12 with the necessary skills for positive and successful social interactions. It is a small group program aimed at improving recognition, expression and regulation of emotions, and improving the social skills required to form and maintain friendships, problem solve and work as a team.
The SAS is offered privately through Northside Psychology in Belconnen, Dickson Psychology in Dickson and Amazing Skills for autism in Kaleen. For more information and to find other providers, visit the Secret Agent Society online.
kinshipcircle.com.au 