Discover more resources
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Video
Children in the immediate aftermath of a disaster or traumatic event
Emerging MindsThis video discusses some of the ways children might feel and behave in the immediate time period after a disaster. -
Video
Children in the long term after a disaster or traumatic event
Emerging MindsThis video discusses some of the ways disaster can affect children’s long-term development and behaviours. -
Video
Children in the short term after a disaster or traumatic event
Emerging MindsThis video discusses some of the ways children might feel and behave in the short-term after a disaster. -
Fact sheet
How parents and caregivers can prepare for a natural disaster
Emerging MindsAustralia is affected by many different types of disaster, including floods, bushfires and cyclones. Preparing yourself and your family ahead of time can really make a big difference to how you and your family respond and cope if there is a disaster. This information will take you through some practical and psychological strategies to help you and your family get prepared. -
Short article
How parents and caregivers can support children immediately after a disaster or community trauma
Emerging MindsIn the immediate aftermath of disaster or community trauma event there are some key principles you can follow to support your children. These principles are based on the best evidence of what helps children to recover after a frightening or overwhelming event. They are collectively known as ‘psychological first aid’ (PFA). -
Research summary
Highlights in child mental health research: October 2024
Prepared by AIFSThis October 2024 research summary provides a selection of recently released papers, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses related to infant and child mental health. Each summary includes an introductory overview of the content for the month, followed by a list of selected articles. Each article is accompanied by a brief synopsis which presents the key messages and highlights. Links to abstracts, full-text articles and related resources, where available, are provided. -
Research summary
Highlights in child mental health research: September 2024
Prepared by AIFSThis September 2024 research summary provides a selection of recently released papers, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses related to infant and child mental health. Each summary includes an introductory overview of the content for the month, followed by a list of selected articles. Each article is accompanied by a brief synopsis which presents the key messages and highlights. Links to abstracts, full-text articles and related resources, where available, are provided. -
Practice paper
Play and creative expression
Emerging MindsThis resource demonstrates the importance of encouraging play and creative expression to help children unpack, explore and process difficult experiences like disaster. Creative expression is encouraged as a way for children to communicate about complex emotions and feelings, especially when they might be difficult to articulate verbally -
Practice paper
Support networks
Emerging MindsIn addition to the support of extended family, friends and the learning community, responses from governments and specialist mental health services plus digital resources are important to the successful recovery of children and families after a disaster. -
Practice paper
Routines and predictability
Emerging MindsRe-establishing routines and setting boundaries and expectations are important for restoring children's sense of stability and safety after a disaster, especially when they have to spend time away from their parents or home. -
Practice paper
Emotional regulation
Emerging MindsThis resource explains the importance of connection, emotional literacy and environment in helping children feel safe, and how regulation can be achieved through the body using sensory- and movement-based exercises, along with fun, relaxing and mindfulness activities. -
Practice paper
Communication and meaning-making
Emerging MindsThis resource offers strategies to support children in making sense of their experiences and process their feelings to help reduce distress, and prevent trauma and mental health difficulties.