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You’re probably viewing this because your child scored high on the externalising domain of My Mind Check. 

Many children have trouble staying focused for extended periods of time. Also, when children are busy or cannot do something they wish to do, they might become upset, angry or not listen. This is common as children develop skills in managing their attention, emotions and behaviour. However, for some children, difficulties with managing their emotions and behaviour may start to have a significant impact on their learning and daily life, at school and at home.  

There may be several reasons why a child may experience externalising problems. As a caregiver, you may also like to consider the following in the context of your child’s difficulties:   

  • adjusting to change (for example, moving house; parent separation; changing schools, teachers or academic year)  
  • ADHD or a specific learning disorder   
  • medical issue requiring a review with your child’s GP  
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Fact Sheets

Helping children to calm down

 

5 steps to support children to calm down

3-8 years

Encouraging positive behaviours in children

Stratgies to encourage positive behaviours in children

1-8 years

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Children and teenagers

Information on the characteristics of ADHD and ways to get a diagnosis in children and young people

5-18 years

Programs

ParentWorks 

An online program for parents and caregivers which teaches them skills to manage challenging child behaviours. 

Referral required
No

Costs
Free

2 – 17 years

Triple P | Positive Parenting Program  

An online program which provides parents and caregivers with a toolkit of strategies, skills and knowledge to create a closer bond with their child and support their learning, development and emotional wellbeing. 

Referral required
No

Costs
Free

0-12 years

ADHD for Parents (Short Course – 5 hours) 

Short course which aims to support parents and carers of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder 

Referral required
No

Costs
Free

3-17 years

Service Finders

Head to Health

Provides resources to help your child understand and manage what they’re feeling and connect them to mental health support

Find a GP (General Practitioner)

Find a GP suitable for your child’s needs, with options to search for bulk billing practices, opening hours, access needs, and location

Find a Psychologist

Find a psychologist suitable for your child’s needs, with options to search by issue and location. Your child may wish to see a GP prior to making an appointment with a psychologist, to gain a referral or Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) from the GP