Social Futures is proud to announce the return of its unique trauma-informed program, Strong Minds in the Early Years, thanks to new funding from the Waratah Education Foundation Ltd.

Aimed at preschools impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred on the Gold Coast and Northern New South Wales, the program will commence 1 July 2025.

It will also support early learning settings where trauma triggers have been heightened by more recent weather events.

At the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Conference on the Gold Coast in March, Social Futures General Manager, Children Youth and Families, Melissa Gordon; Resilient Kids Counsellor Lisa Wilson; and program favourite Jack the Puppet presented findings from the original program.

“Supporting young children to understand and manage big emotions after a traumatic event is essential — and we’re thrilled to continue this work,” Ms Gordon said.

Strong Minds in the Early Years was initially designed in response to the Northern Rivers 2022 flood disaster and provided young children with practical strategies to understand and manage trauma.

The program’s use of Jack the Puppet gave children a playful, safe and supported way to speak about their worries, nightmares and fears, in addition to their positive experiences.

“Jack offers a comforting presence — for many children, he's a gentle way to share big feelings when they can’t quite find the words,” Ms Gordon said.

“The program uses best-practice therapies such as play-based interventions, storytelling and engaging activities to help children aged zero to five build their natural coping skills.

“We’re also equipping caregivers and early educators with insights into how trauma may be shaping a child’s behaviour — whether at home or in the classroom,” she explained.

Children responded to Jack in meaningful ways, including comments like:

“I love Jack, and I can talk to him about my feelings." 

"My brain feels calmer now." 

"I can take a deep breath when my feelings are mixed up." 

Strong Minds in the Early Years has been designed by qualified and skilled practitioners from diverse backgrounds including social work, early childhood education and parenting.

Social Futures has been providing support services in the Northern Rivers for 49 years and understands the toll severe weather events can take on families with young children.

“We understand that trauma from severe weather events can deeply affect children, unsettling their sense of security and disrupting healthy development,” said Ms Gordon.

“We’re here to help families strengthen their children's natural coping skills and reduce the likelihood of lasting trauma.”

Strong Minds in the Early Years is supported by the Waratah Education Foundation Ltd.

Preschools and early learning centres interested in the program can contact Social Futures on 1800 719 625 or visit www.socialfutures.org.au/strong-minds-in-the-early-years/ for more information.