Educator's support and Resources

Educators may support students through:

Providing after-school homework support programs
Offering one-to-one or small-group academic help
Supporting task completion
Creating consistent routines and clear expectations

Peer support may include opportunities such as:

Developing friendships with support
Participating confidently in some team sports
Feeling confidence through strengths in music
Engaging positively in group work
Building social connections in informal school settings

School-based approaches and accessible resources

By providing accessible resources and helping families connect with government and community support, schools can help reduce the barriers faced by parents dealing with mental health issues.

Government-funded inclusion and wellbeing programs
Supporting students through national and state-based inclusion and wellbeing initiatives that promote equity, access and mental health support in schools.
🔗 Inclusion Support Program (ISP) – Australian Government
School-developed information booklets for parents
Providing clear, non-stigmatising and culturally appropriate information through school booklets or newsletters to support parents’ understanding of mental health and available services.
🔗 Raising Children Network (Australia)
Trusted online information and self-help resources for parents
Directing families to reliable websites where parents can independently access mental health information, tools and guidance.
🔗 Beyond Blue
🔗 ReachOut Australia (Parents)
Access to free or low-cost mental health support services
Supporting referrals to government-funded counselling and mental health services that provide free or subsidised support for children and families.
🔗 Headspace (youth mental health services)
🔗 Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)

The environment of the classroom

Structured and orderly classroom setting
Warm, predictable and secure learning space
Reduced distractions and visual clutter
Clear transitions between activities
Supportive teacher–student relationships
Encouraging and non-judgemental tone

Parent–school partnership initiatives

Schools can support families by fostering connections and mutual assistance through the creation of parent-led networks. They can establish a parent committee and appoint a proactive parent coordinator, allowing parents to regularly engage in discussions and share their experiences and ideas in an informal setting.

Establishment of a parent committee
Appointment of a parent coordinator
Regular parent gatherings (e.g. afternoon tea sessions)
Informal discussion and experience sharing
Collaborative problem-solving among parents

Conclusion

Although some children face higher risks due to additional vulnerabilities, a supportive school environment, experienced teachers, and inclusive community service agencies are all extremely important. By identifying signs early and making corresponding judgments and providing services for them, educators play a crucial role in supporting inclusiveness, physical and mental health, and academic success.