Big Feelings, Brave Kids: Helping Grade 1 & 2 Children Build Resilience and Emotional Regulation
For many children, everyday challenges can feel overwhelming. A disagreement with a friend, making a mistake in class, losing a game or being asked to try something new can quickly lead to tears, frustration, worry, or complete shutdown.
While these moments are a normal part of growing up, they're also opportunities to build one of life's most important skills - resilience.
Resilience is more than simply "bouncing back." It's a child's ability to cope with setbacks, manage big emotions, solve problems and keep trying even when things feel hard. These skills help children succeed not only at school, but also in friendships, family life, and with future challenges.
Unfortunately, psychologists and teachers are noticing that many children are finding this increasingly difficult. According to The Resilience Project's 2023 State of the Nation Report, around 1 in 10 Australian primary school students experience low levels of resilience, meaning they are more likely to struggle with setbacks and everyday stress. The encouraging news is that resilience is a skill that can be taught, practised, and strengthened.
That's where early support can make a lasting difference..
Introducing Mighty Minds
At Mind in Mind Psychology, we've developed Mighty Minds - an engaging 8-week resilience and emotional regulation programme designed specifically for Grade 1 and Grade 2 children.
Unlike larger school-based programmes, Mighty Minds is delivered in a small group led by two psychologists, allowing children to receive individual support while learning alongside peers who are developing similar skills.
Through fun, interactive activities, games and evidence-based strategies, children will learn how to:
Name, understand, and express their feelings
Develop a growth mindset and strengthen problem-solving skills
Manage worries, stress and anxious thoughts
Build positive communication and friendship skills
Handle big emotions using practical self-regulation strategies
Grow confidence, resilience, and self-belief
Rather than trying to stop children from experiencing difficult emotions, Mighty Minds teaches them how to respond to those emotions in helpful ways.
Parents Are Part of the Journey
Children make the greatest progress when the important adults in their lives are learning alongside them.
That's why parent sessions are included as part of the Mighty Minds programme. These sessions provide practical, evidence-based tools that help parents understand their child's emotions, respond with confidence, and continue building resilience at home long after the programme has finished.
Families also receive a comprehensive collection of take-home resources to reinforce each week's learning. These activities and strategies are designed to be easily used at home and shared with your child's school, helping create consistency across the environments where children learn and grow.
Giving Children Skills for Life
Every child will face setbacks, worries, and disappointments. What matters most is whether they have the skills to navigate those moments with confidence.
At Mind in Mind Psychology, we're passionate about helping children build those lifelong skills early. Through Mighty Minds, we're giving Grade 1 and Grade 2 students the opportunity to connect with others and develop skills to face life's challenges with courage.
If you'd like to learn more about the Mighty Minds programme or register your child, we'd love to hear from you.
Written by Chloe Cacopardo, Registered Psychologist
