Quick Reads

Evidence-based articles on children's psychology, parenting, neurodiversity, and mental wellbeing.

December well-being: Supporting children through Christmas

Christmas is often painted as the most magical time of year, especially for children. Twinkling lights, festive films, piles of presents, and joyful family gatherings dominate our cultural picture of December. Yet beneath the sparkle lies a far more complicated reality for many families. December brings a perfect storm of challenges for young people’s well-being: end-of-term exhaustion, flu season, disrupted routines, and intense pressure to meet festive expectations. Underst

SUPPORT

zara-obrien

Dec 22, 20255 min read

Sharing stories: Helping children navigate grief

Written for Counselling Directory by Zara O'Brien "Tell me about Grandad again." "What was Mummy like when she was little?" "Do you think Nanny would be proud of me?" When children ask these questions, they're not just seeking information. They're doing something profoundly important: they're keeping their loved one alive through story. For too long, grief support focused on "letting go," "moving on," or "closure." But contemporary grief theory recognises something children i

zara-obrien

Nov 20, 20256 min read

A Rallying Cry for Our Children's Rights and Mental Wellbeing.

The image is both powerful and heartbreaking: a group of families, many holding placards and some with their children by their side,...

zara-obrien

Sep 18, 20255 min read

Building Resilience in Children: A Guide for Parents

Every child faces setbacks, big or small. They may struggle with schoolwork, navigate friendships, or manage emotions they don’t fully understand. Resilience, the ability to cope with and recover from these challenges, is a vital skill that can set children up for long-term wellbeing. The good news is that resilience isn’t something children are simply born with. It is nurtured over time through supportive relationships, reflection, and practical strategies. These tools help

FLOURISH

zara-obrien

Sep 2, 20254 min read