Children’s Counselling
Our children’s counselling service is specifically designed for children with cancer and their siblings, ranging in age from 5 to 17 years old.
Cancer can be a difficult experience for children and can often lead to a range of complex emotions. Our approach is tailored to each child’s unique needs, interests, and stage of development.
We offer a range of activities to help children explore their emotions in a safe and supportive environment. These activities might include games, puzzles, emotion cards, drawing, playing with toy animals and playdough, meditation, and mindfulness exercises. Through these activities, children can learn to identify their strengths, take care of their emotional wellbeing, and develop tools to cope with change.
Our counselling sessions focus on different aspects of mental health, including feelings, self-esteem, and resilience. We encourage creativity and self-expression, and our social workers are trained to provide age-appropriate support to children of all ages.
We are committed to providing a safe and caring environment where children can express their emotions and learn valuable coping skills.
Your child can also meet others in the same situation through our Events and programs.
Children’s Counselling FAQs
Who is eligible for the Children's Counselling service?
The children’s counselling service is available for children who have been diagnosed with cancer, their siblings, relatives, friends or classmates. The service is available for children between 5 and 17 years of age.
What types of activities are included in the counselling sessions?
The children’s counselling service creates an environment where kids feel safe. They can engage in a range of activities, from using emotion cards, working through anxiety, practice deep breathing with the help of visuals, reading and playing games.
How does the counselling approach cater to different age groups?
The counselling service provides age-appropriate care for young people impacted by cancer. Counselling sessions are personalised to each child and their unique situation. Activities are based upon a range of factors, including age, interest, personality and likes/dislikes.
Are the counselling sessions available online or in person?
Yes, sessions will be available both online and in-person. Online sessions are done via a safe and secure online platform. To book a session, contact our friendly team via our online form or call us on 1800 431 312.
About Redkite
Holding it together when your child’s life is in question can feel impossible. Redkite provides practical, emotional and financial support for families who have a child with cancer aged 17 or under, so you don’t have to face it alone.
Discover Our Other Cancer Services
Online Support Programs
Redkite’s online support programs are available anytime through the myRedkite portal. These programs are designed to support children, teens, and parents, wherever you are in the cancer journey.
Events and Programs
Canteen’s events and programs give young people some much-needed space away from the daily pressures of living with cancer.
Online Support Groups for Parents and Carers
Families often tell us that facing childhood cancer can feel isolating. Redkite’s online support groups offer a safe, relaxed and open space to connect with others who understand. Whether you prefer to listen or share, you’re always welcome.
How to manage both cancer and friendships
Cancer can test friendships, leading to gains and losses. Communicate openly and lean on supportive friends during this time.
Education and Career Support
This service helps young cancer patients aged 15-25 stay connected to study or work both during and after their cancer treatment.
Grief and Bereavement Support
Redkite offers a safe space to talk about grief, overwhelming emotions, other people’s expectations or whatever matters most to you. We are here to support you in the way you need, when you’re ready.
Tips to help families ease financial stress while facing childhood cancer
Childhood cancer can have a large impact on a family’s financial situation. Here are some support services that may be able to help.
Canteen Connect
A secure online community where 12-25 year-olds can connect with other young people impacted by cancer, check out events and chat to a counsellor.
Tips for keeping the family connected during cancer
A child’s cancer diagnosis can disrupt the family in many ways. Here are some ideas to help keep your family connected during these challenging times.
THE NEXT CHAPTER FOR CANCER HUB: EXPANDED OFFERING AND NEW SPECIALISED SERVICES ANNOUNCED, AS DEMAND SURGES
Media release 27 August, 2024 On Tuesday 27th August Minister for Health, the Hon Mark Butler MP