New mental health program at Woy Woy

Woy Woy Public School will be participating in a new school-based mental health early intervention program in Terms 3 and 4.

Principal Ms Ona Buckley said the program aimed to reduce the frequency and severity of conduct problems, including the development of severe behaviour problems such as conduct disorder in young children from Kindergarten to Grade 2 (between the ages of five to eight years).

"The program is established in three locations in NSW: Dubbo, Mt Druitt and Newcastle.

"Reports indicate that the program has been well received in schools and that both parents and teachers are benefiting from the opportunity to learn new information and skills in managing children with identified mental health concerns," Ms Buckley said.

Ms Buckley said the program was a short-term, multilevel program delivered over two consecutive terms.

"Screening and assessment is completed in the first term and specific interventions are provided in the second term," she said.

"Providing mental health services, information and support to both education staff and parents in a familiar and neutral setting helps to overcome some of the barriers (such as stigma, accessibility and availability of suitable local services support) that can discourage vulnerable families from seeking help."

Ms Buckley said: "The program will provide families with an opportunity to be part of a fun and supportive group that can improve social and emotional wellbeing, by fostering positive family relationships and helping parents and teachers to deal with challenging behaviours."

SOURCE:

Newsletter, 3 Aug 2018

Ona Buckley, Woy Woy Public School