Resources

Exams are a time when students of all ages feel more stressed than usual. Stress can also be positive thing as it aids motivation and concentration. However too much stress can make a young person feel overwhelmed, confused, exhausted and edgy and consequently produce a negative impact on study results. Exam anxiety is a natural […]

It is normal for preschoolers and young children to hang back close to their parents when meeting and engaging with someone new and display some for of Social Anxiety. Most children require some  “warm up” time to familiarise themselves with new people, environments and experiences, after which they relax and behave as they usually would. […]

Kimberley O’Brien, our principal child psychologist, discussed smacking and corporal punishment with radio hosts Sarah and Steve St John from New FM in Newcastle. Quirky Kid is strongly advocates  against corporal punishment of children, including smacking. The story this segment was based can be viewed on News Website. You can listen below: Corporal Punishment and […]

As some pre-schoolers may not yet be fully cognisant of their identity being separate to that of their parents, it is quite normal that times of separation, like the ‘drop-off’, can be loaded with separation anxiety and distress. Other pre-schoolers are already little thinkers, able to anticipate future separation thus increasing their anxiety surrounding the […]

Kimberley O’Brien recently compiled the Pilot Pen Creativity report, investigating the development of creative writing in children and the impact of computer-based learning. Fostering creativity is crucial for children to assist the development of independent thought, problem solving and the exploration of fact and fiction.  Creative children have a greater capacity to develop the vital […]

Recently, Kimberley O’Brien discussed ‘transition to school’and the pressures children and teenagers face at school particularly as they head into Year 6, 7 and 12 with MTR 1377 Talk Show Presenter  Colette Mann, from Melbourne This was an interesting conversation and you can listen to the podcast by clicking below: You can further participate on […]