Big Feelings in Early Learning: Mental Health Month

October is Mental Health Month, and in an early learning room, understanding feelings often starts with something small.

A child who begins to say “I’m cross” instead of throwing a block is learning to put their feelings into words. So is a child who walks over to an educator when they need some help settling down.

At our early learning centres in North Sydney and Mascot, these moments happen in different ways every day. Educators help children put words to their feelings, gently acknowledging what they might be experiencing. “You look disappointed. Your tower fell down.”

Over time, these conversations can help children recognise their emotions and begin to understand what they’re feeling. Having a familiar educator nearby gives them someone they can turn to when things feel difficult.

Big feelings are a normal part of growing up. Our role isn’t to make them disappear, but to help children feel heard, supported and understood as they learn to navigate them.

Caring for families in the Lower North Shore including North Sydney, Kirribilli, Milsons Point, Artarmon, Waverton, Neutral Bay and Crows Nest.

Serving families in the Inner South including Mascot, Rosebery, Alexandria, Eastlakes, Botany, Zetland, Pagewood and Kingsford