Elmien Britz

The holiday season in Australia is more than barbecues, cricket in the backyard, and trips to the beach. It’s also a chance to nurture family wellbeing and support children’s mental health through meaningful activities. With school out and routines shifting, parents can use this time to strengthen bonds and create experiences that foster resilience, joy, and calm.

For many children, stepping into a new year level at school brings a mix of excitement and worry. A different classroom, new routines, and especially a new teacher can feel overwhelming. As a parent or carer, you play a vital role in helping your child manage these feelings and build confidence for the year ahead.

For children growing up in a new country, the journey of identity can be both enriching and overwhelming. Immigrant children often find themselves balancing two worlds—the culture of their family’s heritage and the culture of the society they now live in. While this duality can foster resilience and adaptability, it can also lead to confusion, isolation, or a sense of not fully belonging anywhere. Honouring roots through cultural connection matters for immigrant children's mental health.