At Parklands School, nurturing throughtful, capable young people who understand themselves and their world is just as important as academic achievement. That's why we offer Aussie Optimism - a nationally recognised, evidence-based program designed to support emotional wellbeing and build resilience in children from Kindergarten to Year 6. Developed by leading Australian psychologists, the program equips students with practical, age-appropriate tools to manage their thoughts, feelings and relationships - focusing on building inner strength from an early age.

Led by their classroom teachers, students take part in engaging sessions that explore real-world themes through storytelling, disucssion, role play and guided reflection. The program centres on four key areas of social-emotional learning:

• Emotional Competence: Learning to name, understand and regulate emotions so students can respond to challenges with calm and clarity.

• Thinking Skills: Developing positive thinking habits, building self-awareness, and understanding how thoughts shape feelings and behaviour.

• Social Skills: Practicing empathy, kindness, communication and connection - skills thatsupport healthy friendships and inclusive communities.

• Coping Strategies: Building resilience through practical tools for managing stress, disappointment and change, both now and into the future.

Throughout these sessions, students are encouraged to speak openly about mental health in a safe, supportive environment - creating a culture of trust and care that enhances both their schooling and everyday life.