Short videos to support your understanding
Catholic Schools Maitland‑Newcastle has created a series of short videos in collaboration with leading Australian parenting experts on anxiety and school avoidance. These videos provide parents and carers with practical insights and simple, easy‑to‑use strategies designed to support their child’s wellbeing.
Rethinking anxiety: the perspective shift that changes everything
Watch NowThe story matters: change the story, change the response
Watch NowTwo questions to unlock your child’s brave
Watch NowSo, what is anxiety - really?
Watch NowFeeling anxious, doing brave: what helps- and what backfires
Watch NowWhen your child’s anxiety triggers yours: build their brave without pushing or panic
Watch NowThe hardest 30 minutes: getting out of bed, the car, or the house
Watch NowSeparation anxiety: from anxious to brave
Watch NowYour belief leads their brave: why you have to go first
Watch NowThe most powerful way to calm anxiety: why it might not be working (and the game‑changer)
Watch NowEveryday foundations: lifestyle factors that buffer anxiety
Watch NowExtra support: how to know when your child or teen needs it
Watch NowWorking together for your child’s wellbeing
We want every student in our schools to learn, achieve, grow and thrive. Our schools are committed to partnering with families to support each child’s learning and wellbeing. To discover more about how Catholic Schools can work alongside you and your family.
Want to know more? Explore our recommended resources
If you’d like to learn more about anxiety and school avoidance but aren’t sure where to begin, take a look at our curated list of credible, high‑quality resources we recommend for families.
Fear-Less Triple P Online – Tripple P
This free, online program gives parents practical tools to understand anxiety and support their child through everyday challenges. It includes short
Fear-Less Triple P Online | Triple P
Cool Kids Program – Macquarie University
This evidence-based program teaches children skills to manage anxiety through structured lessons and practical exercises. Parents receive straightforward guidance on how to support their child’s progress at home. It’s a reliable option if you’re looking for a clear, step-by-step approach
Cool Kids programs | Lifespan Health and Wellbeing centre | Macquarie University
Self-Help Program – BRAVE
BRAVE is a free, online, self-paced program for children, teenagers, and parents wanting to learn effective anxiety-management skills. It breaks information into manageable modules with interactive tools to help build confidence. Families like it because it’s easy to follow and grounded in proven strategies.
Kids Helpline
Kids Helpline website has a page dedicated to Anxiety in Kids and Teens, which explains what anxiety can look like in children and provides practical advice for both parents and their children. You’ll find clear signs to look for, useful tips and guidance on when extra support might be needed. It’s a straightforward place to learn more and explore next steps and also includes contact information for children to be able to speak to trained professionals.
Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue offers simple explanations of anxiety, common symptoms, and practical ways parents can support their child. The site also outlines when to seek further help and what options are available. It’s a dependable starting point if you want clear, factual information.
ReachOut
ReachOut provides easy-to-read information tailored to parents of teens experiencing anxiety. It includes practical strategies, conversation tips, and examples of what anxiety can look like during adolescence. It’s designed to help you feel prepared and informed.
Ten Things I Wish You Knew About Your Child’s Mental Health
Dr Bill Garvey
This book gives parents clear insights into how children experience emotions and mental health challenges. It provides practical explanations and strategies that help you support your child with confidence.
Overcoming School Refusal
Joanne Garfi
This guide explains the causes of school refusal and offers structured steps to help children return to school. It includes practical strategies, real-world examples, and clear guidance for families. It’s especially helpful if you’re unsure where to start.
Anxious Kids: How Children Can Turn Their Anxiety into Resilience
Michael Grose & Dr Jodi Richardson
This book outlines what anxiety looks like in children and offers evidence‑based strategies to build resilience. It provides straightforward advice for parents and practical tools you can use at home. It’s designed to help families feel informed and supported.
Understanding your child experience of anxiety
Emerging Minds
This podcast episode breaks down how children experience anxiety and what parents can do to support them. It includes expert explanations and practical tips you can apply straight away. It’s a clear, accessible option if you prefer learning through audio.
The Anxiety of School Avoidance
Sheilah Gauch
This article explains why some children avoid school and outlines the role anxiety can play. It provides practical suggestions for parents and guidance on how to respond calmly and consistently. It’s a helpful read if you’re navigating school-related challenges.
The Anxiety of School Avoidance | Psychology Today
Anxiety: the stepladder approach for children and teenagers
Raising Children Network
This article explains a practical, step‑by‑step method to help children and teenagers gradually face situations that make them anxious. It outlines how to start with the least challenging tasks and build up, giving parents a clear structure they can use at home. The resource also includes examples across different ages, helping families understand exactly how to apply this approach in real life.
Stepladder approach: child & teen anxiety | Raising Children Network
School refusal: children and teenagers
Raising Children Network
This article describes what school refusal looks like, why it happens, and the signs parents might notice at home. It breaks down the common causes – such as anxiety, learning challenges, or social worries – and offers clear guidance on how to work with the school and support your child’s return. The information helps parents understand the behaviour and take confident, practical steps forward.
School refusal: children & teenagers | Raising Children Network
