Children’s wellbeing is shaped by their health, relationships, learning, sense of identity, and access to everyday essentials. For veterans and families of veterans, children may experience changes such as relocation, family transitions, or the effects of service-related injury or illness.  

Support is available to help children feel safe, connected and supported as they grow.   

Children’s wellbeing  

Children’s wellbeing includes all the things they need to grow, develop and feel supported. This includes:  

• Good physical, emotional and mental health  
• Feeling safe, loved and supported at home, at school and in the community  
• Stable housing, enough food, suitable clothing and access to services  
• Opportunities to learn, play and build skills  
• Being included, listened to and able to take part in daily life  
• A positive sense of identity, culture and belonging  

Children may show stress or worry in different ways depending on their age and stage of development.  

What helps children’s wellbeing  

Children are more likely to do well when they have caring relationships, steady routines, time to learn and play, and a strong sense of belonging. Extra support during times of change can also help children feel more secure.   

Signs a child may need extra support   

A child may need extra support if you notice ongoing changes in sleep, eating, behaviour, learning, mood or relationships. Some children may become quieter, more withdrawn, more worried, or complain more often about headaches, stomach aches or other physical symptoms.  

When children may need extra support  

Children may need extra support during times of change, such as:  

• Transitioning into or out of Defence service  
• Moving home, starting childcare or changing schools  
• Family illness, injury or disability  
• Changes in family roles, routines or caring responsibilities  
• Emotional distress, anxiety or behaviour changes  

Noticing these changes early and getting support can help children adjust and feel safer.   

Children and young people at different stages  

Children and young people need different kinds of support as they grow. This may include support in early childhood, during school years, in adolescence and young adulthood, and during key life changes or periods of uncertainty.  

How parents and carers can help  

Small, everyday actions can help children feel safe and supported.  

• Keep routines as steady as possible, especially during times of change  
• Make time to talk, listen and notice how your child is coping  
• Support regular sleep, meals, play, learning and time with trusted people  
• Help children name and understand their feelings in ways that suit their age  
• Stay in contact with childcare, school or other supports if you have concerns  
• Seek help early if changes in behaviour, mood or wellbeing continue  

Getting support  

If you are concerned about a child’s wellbeing, you can ask for help from trusted people, services and community supports.  

• Talk to a GP, counsellor or other health professional  
• Speak with childcare, school or education supports  
• Use family, parenting or community support services  
• Contact specialist services if more help is needed   

You do not have to wait until concerns become serious. Early support can make it easier to respond to a child’s needs and find the right help.  

Helpful resources  

These services may help children, young people, parents, carers and families find support.  

Reference note: This page is informed by ARACY’s The Nest, a national framework for child and youth wellbeing in Australia.