The Youth Mind Collective - Child and Adolescent Psychology

30/10/2025

💙 Want to help your child build confidence and resilience? Celebrate their effort, not just the result! 🏆

Research shows children praised for effort stay motivated, develop confidence, and bounce back from challenges. Focus on trying, learning, and persistence—and encourage them every step of the way.

How do you celebrate effort in your home? Share below!

28/10/2025

Here are 5 practical ways to help your child understand and express emotions! 💙

From naming feelings and validating them, to modelling calm behaviour, practicing empathy, and encouraging reflection - these tips help children build confidence, resilience, and stronger relationships.

Which tip will you try first? Comment below!

23/10/2025

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to screen time, but some guidelines can help! 📺🧑‍💻

👶 Ages 2–5: ~1 hour per day of high-quality content
👧 Ages 6–12: Balance homework, activity & sleep; take breaks
🧑 Teens 13–18: Focus on quality; prioritise sleep, offline time & physical activity

✨ Tips: Co-watch when possible, monitor the content being watched/engaged with, set device-free meals and bedtime, and model healthy habits yourself!

Which age group do you find the trickiest to manage screen time with? Comment below - we’d love to hear!

21/10/2025

✨ Words matter ✨
The things we say to our children don’t just guide them - they live inside them. Every kind word, every moment of patience, every gentle correction shapes their inner voice. 💛

20/10/2025

✨ We’re on the search for another amazing Psychologist! ✨

The Youth Mind Collective in Geelong is looking for a compassionate Child and Adolescent Psychologist to join our supportive, values-driven team. If you’re passionate about working with children, adolescents, and families in a neurodiversity-affirming, collaborative environment, we’d love to hear from you!

Flexible work options, professional development support, and a competitive salary await.

📩 Apply here:

Join our supportive, collaborative clinic to deliver meaningful child-focused care. Flexible work options. $90–110K + super, PD, and benefits.

20/10/2025

Children can show changes in emotions, behaviour, or wellbeing in many ways - like difficulties at school, physical symptoms (headaches, stomach aches, or sleep changes), or challenges adjusting to life transitions.

Therapy isn’t about something being “wrong.” It’s about giving children a safe, supportive space to explore their feelings, build confidence, and develop coping skills.

It also provides parents with guidance and strategies to understand and support their child, helping the whole family feel more equipped and connected.

✨ Reaching out early can make a real difference - supporting emotional growth, resilience, and wellbeing before challenges become overwhelming.

13/10/2025

We’ve introduced Brick Club LEGO® groups for Term 4 and are now taking expressions of interest for 2026! 🧩

Brick Club is a LEGO®-based therapy program designed to support social development in school-aged children. In small groups, children work on shared building projects, learning to:

• Negotiate and problem-solve
• Take on different roles
• Communicate effectively

The goal is to create a fun, supportive, child-led environment where children can build friendships, confidence, and a sense of belonging while developing crucial skills for social and emotional wellbeing.

✨ Expressions of interest are open for 2026 - secure your child’s spot today!

08/10/2025

Friendships are an important part of children’s emotional wellbeing, but some kids need extra support navigating social relationships. 💛

Ways to help:
• Role-play common social situations to practice skills
• Talk about feelings - how to express themselves and respond to others
• Plan playdates or group activities to foster connection
• Celebrate small social successes to build confidence

Supporting your child in developing friendships helps them feel connected, confident, and understood. 🌱

08/10/2025

Recommended Resource: The Brain Forest by Sandhya Menon () 💛

This insightful book is perfect for parents who want to understand their child’s neurodivergent brain and support them in thriving. It offers practical strategies, empowering insights, and a compassionate perspective to help children navigate challenges while celebrating their unique strengths.

Reading it alongside your child or reflecting on the ideas yourself can spark meaningful conversations and guide supportive approaches at home and school.

Have you read this one yet? What tips from it have helped your family?

06/10/2025

Feeling nervous about returning to school is completely normal for children, even those who usually manage well.

Changes in routine, new teachers, or upcoming assignments can all trigger worry.

Ways to support your child:
• Talk about what to expect and validate their feelings
• Re-establish gentle routines (bedtime, mornings, meals)
• Encourage small, manageable steps to build confidence at school
• Check in daily and celebrate small wins

If anxiety feels intense or ongoing, our team can provide guidance and strategies to help your child feel calm, supported, and ready for the term ahead.

02/10/2025

The shift from holidays back to school can feel big for children (and parents too!). A few gentle strategies can make the transition smoother:

• Ease back into routines a few days early (bedtime, wake-up, meals)
• Talk positively about school - friends, teachers, and favourite subjects
• Prepare together - pack bags, choose outfits, set up homework spaces

Small steps help children feel calm, confident, and ready for the new term. 💛

30/09/2025

Even during school holidays, keeping a few routines helps children feel safe, calm, and supported. 🌙

Try maintaining:
• Morning and bedtime routines
• Mealtimes
• Outdoor or movement time
• Quiet moments like reading or mindfulness
• Screen boundaries
• Small chores or responsibilities
• Daily check-ins about feelings

A little structure goes a long way. It doesn’t have to be strict, just enough to give kids a sense of security and predictability.