Kanda Psychology

07/11/2025

Hoping all our schools colleagues have had a wonderful day! Thank you for all you do. Happy School Counsellor and School Psychologist Recognition Day!

04/11/2025

A MANTRA for kids: “I can cope, if I need to.”

A mantra is a short phrase we repeat to guide the brain and body—like a tiny compass for tricky moments. Repeating a simple line can help steady breathing, lowers tension, and keeps the “doing” part of the brain online when big feelings make thinking and reasoning dip.

Why this mantra helps...?
☀️Short + memorable - easy to grab when emotions are high
☀️ Empowering - “I can…” builds a sense of agency
☀️Validating - “if I need to” acknowledges the fear that it might be hard—without predicting or agreeing it will be
☀️ Coping focused - points to the next brave step, not perfection
☀️Keeps adults calm too - gives us a steady phrase so we can stay on point and avoid becoming too talkative, too reassuring, or too frustrated

Try it!
1️⃣ Name it: “Looks like worry is loud right now.”
2️⃣ Breathe: In for 4, out for 4 (twice)
3️⃣ Say it together: “I can cope, if I need to.” (soft, steady pace)
4️⃣ Anchor it: Touch thumb to finger for each word: I (index), can (middle), cope (ring), if I need to (pinky)
5️⃣ Cue it: Pop a sticky note in the backpack or on the fridge

Make it fun!
🤭 Whisper it, robot-voice it, or sing it
🤭 “Pass the mantra” in the car—each person says it once
🤭 Draw a tiny secret symbol (⭐ or ❤️) that reminds them of their mantra

Use mantras to support transitions, homework wobbles, sport nerves, morning goodbyes...or whenever they may need it!

And remember, if anxiety builds quickly and they’re beyond words, start with calm presence, comfort and breathing; add the mantra later ⏰

03/11/2025

02/11/2025

❤️ Loving the roses in bloom! And all those patient little buds, taking their sweet time—just like kids developing at their own pace🌹✨😉

01/11/2025

30/10/2025

Today (in Australia) we celebrate the teachers who educate, inspire, and stand beside our young people every day.

Hats off to teachers this World Teachers’ Day!

You might not always see or feel your enduring impact on little hearts and growing minds, but we do!!! Thank you for all you do—day in, day out—for our children, families, and communities.

If a teacher has made a difference for your child, tell them today!

30/10/2025

As the school year stretches on, it feels the longest for children, teens, and families living with School Can’t.

It helps when families, schools, and clinicians share the same language. It's paramount that everyone can recognise the signs of fight, flight, or shutdown, and responds with what helps a student feel safe and regulated.

Prioritise well-being over attendance. Distressed kids don’t have the capacity to learn. If a young person’s health or mental health is being seriously affected, well-being comes first.

Seek support - for your child and yourself. Reach out to your school team, your GP, a Paediatrician, and trusted clinicians. Explore online resources too such as the amazing

29/10/2025

As Mental Health Month draws to an end, check out these quick facts on Generalised Anxiety Disorder!

27/10/2025

Assessment feedback appointments. Always a mix of feelings for families—uncertainty, worry, and more. But with a focus on greater understanding, accomodations and supports, harnessing strengths, and clear next steps, these appointments bring relief, hope, and empowerment!