Social and emotional wellbeing
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted almost every area of our lives – our health, family and school life and ability to engage in cultural practices. It is normal for children to feel things like anxiety, distress and fear. Some children and young people may feel grief and loss for how things used to be, particularly as they are unsure when things will go back to ‘normal’.
While COVID-19 has changed ways of being and doing, it has not changed ways of knowing. It is important that through this time, we help keep their cultural knowledge strong. While physically distancing, it is more important than ever that we help our kids to remain socially, emotionally and culturally connected.
Watch: How do I look after me and my family’s wellbeing during COVID-19?
Supporting children and young people (parents and carers)
Resources for little ones and young people

Birdie and the Virus has been designed to support the health and wellbeing of young children, their parents and families, during the COVID-19 pandemic. View flipbook.
One way to look after yourself when you’re sad, angry, worried or upset, is by doing something calm and cheerful like colouring in. Download colouring book.
Fun with Birdie is an activity book for young children who have been affected by a natural disaster or disruptive event.
Download book.
For more games and activities, visit the Birdie’s Tree website.
Where to get help
24-hour helpline services
Child and Youth Mental Health Service Acute Response Team
07 3068 2555
Lifeline (131 114)
Crisis support and suicide prevention
13 HEALTH (13 432 584)
Ask for the Child Health Nurse.
Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800)
Counselling for young people aged 5 to 25
Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636)
Support about anxiety, depression and suicide.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Family Wellbeing Services
Resources
Strong Spirit, Safe Mob
Tips and resources to help you keep your spirit strong so you can keep your family safe.
Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Australia
Staying healthy and strong during coronavirus.
Deadly Health Warriors app
App for children to support their oral, nutrition, physical and mental health.