Social Space

Let's Talk

Having Fun with Feelings

EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM | ages 4-6

Understanding Emotions, Building Calm and Confidence

Having Fun with Feelings is a structured, family-focused, evidence-informed program designed to support young children in understanding and managing emotions, particularly anxiety. Developed by clinical psychologists (Tony Atwood and Michelle Garnett, leading psychologists in the ASD space), the program combines cognitive and behavioural strategies with engaging, play-based learning.

Through structured activities, visual supports, and guided practice, children are supported to recognise, express, and regulate emotions, while caregivers are guided with practical strategies to support their child’s emotional development at home. Together, families build a shared language around emotions that can be used across everyday situations, supporting confidence, connection, and emotional growth.

Enquire Now Find Out More
Young children engaged in play and emotional learning
EARLY INTERVENTION
parent-supported SUPPORTED learning
EMOTIONAL development
Calm and confidence

Why This Program Matters

Early emotional development plays a critical role in a child’s long-term wellbeing, confidence, and ability to cope with challenges. Without support, anxiety can impact a child’s participation in learning, play, and social interactions.

By building emotional understanding and regulation skills in the preschool years, children are better equipped to navigate transitions, form relationships, and manage their emotions as they move into school and beyond.

Parent Involvement

Parent involvement is a core component of this program. Caregivers are supported to understand anxiety, learn practical strategies, and build confidence in responding to their child’s emotional needs. This collaborative approach supports consistency within the home environment and reinforces learning across everyday situations.

Programn Details

  • Age Range 4–6 years
  • Eligibility Suitable for children experiencing anxiety and emotional challenges, including neurodivergent children
  • Funding NDIS (Self and Plan-Managed), Medicare and private option available
  • Schedule On demand
  • get started Contact our team to learn more and secure a place in the next group

Who This Program May Be Suitable For

This program may be a good fit if your child:

  • Experiences anxiety, worry, or emotional overwhelm
  • Finds it difficult to recognise or express emotions
  • Struggles with transitions, change, or new situations
  • Has difficulty calming down when upset
  • Would benefit from building emotional understanding in a structured way
  • Is able to engage in supported, play-based activities

Skills Developed

Participants and families build foundational skills across key areas:

Understanding Emotions

  • Recognising core emotions such as happiness, sadness, worry, and anger
  • Developing a shared emotional language
  • Understanding how emotions are experienced

Emotional Regulation

  • Learning calming and relaxation strategies
  • Managing worry and anxiety
  • Developing coping strategies for challenging situations

The Emotional Toolbox

  • Building practical tools for managing big emotions
  • Using gradual steps to face fears
  • Strengthening confidence through supported experiences

Connection and Communication

  • Expressing emotions in appropriate ways
  • Building positive parent-child interactions
  • Strengthening emotional connection within the family

What Makes This Program Different

  • Evidence-based program developed by clinical psychologists
  • Specifically designed for young children and their families
  • Strong focus on parent involvement and coaching
  • Use of visual supports, characters, and structured activities
  • Neuroaffirming approach tailored to individual needs
  • Focus on building lifelong emotional skills from an early age

What You Can Expect

This program is designed to support children and families to:

  • Reduced anxiety and emotional distress
  • Strengthen emotional awareness and expression
  • Support emotional regulation in everyday situations
  • Strengthen parent-child connection and communication
  • Build confidence in managing everyday challenges

Program Structure

  • DURATION 10-week program
  • FORMAT Weekly 60-minute sessions
  • APPROACH Parent-centred intervention with integrated child activities
  • Practice Between Sessions Structured workbook activities and guided strategies to support skill development at home
  • FOCUS Building practical tools for use at home and in everyday life

Research and Evidence

This program draws on research and clinical practice exploring early emotional development and anxiety in young children.

Research in this area has found:

  • Reductions in anxiety symptoms in young children
  • Improvements in emotional regulation and coping skills
  • Increased emotional understanding and expression
  • Strengthened parent–child communication and connection

This body of research highlights the value of a structured, parent-supported approach in supporting emotional development and anxiety management in early childhood. Outcomes may vary depending on individual factors, and participation does not guarantee specific results.

Delivery Options

This program is available through flexible delivery options:

  • FACE-TO-FACE (Mascot Clinic) Delivered in a supportive, structured environment with guided facilitation
  • SCHOOLS & EARLY LEARNING CENTRES Available in selected settings to support real-world application

Finding the Right Support

We understand that supporting your child with big emotions or anxiety can feel challenging at times. Our team is here to guide you through the process, helping you understand your child’s needs and determine whether Fun with Feelings is the right fit, or recommend the most appropriate support option.

Ready to support your child’s emotional development and confidence from an early age?

Contact our team to learn more or secure a place in the next Fun with Feelings program.

Enquire About This Program Speak With Our Team

Feedback & Complaints

We are committed to providing a high standard of care and a positive experience for all individuals and families who access our services.

If something hasn’t met your expectations, we welcome your feedback. Sharing your concerns helps us understand your experience and make improvements where needed.

You are welcome to raise feedback directly with your clinician or contact our team using the form below. All feedback is taken seriously and will be responded to in a respectful and timely manner.

  • Prefer to speak with our team?
Contact Us
Book A

FREE CONSULT

Book a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation with one of our Psychologists. This is a chance to ask questions, discuss your concerns, and get guidance on the most suitable next step - whether that’s therapy, assessment, a group program, or another support option.

There is no pressure to proceed.

LET'S FIND THE RIGHT SUPPORT FOR YOU

Please fill out the form below and our team will be in touch to arrange your free 15-minute consultation with a Psychologist.

Your information is safe and confidential.