JumpStart Therapy Bathurst

07/09/2026

When we’re not sure how to show empathy for someone, maybe we’re scared that we’ll say the wrong thing and make things worse, this can mean that we avoid topics are even talking to someone. Maybe you take the stairs instead of the lift, change when you get a cuppa so you don’t cross paths with someone, or decide not to call them. But have you ever thought about that just reaching out to someone who might be struggling may be the best thing that happens in their day? When you check in with someone (an adult, teenager or child) your showing that you’re interested in them & that you care about how things are going for them. You don’t have to have the answers or solutions to problems, just having someone to share their concerns or worries with may be the start that person needs to know that there is help available. And remember it can be the question RUOK? But you can also show interest & compassion in lots of different ways. Empathy can show up differently & that’s OK too

05/09/2026

Do you ever wonder whether your child is ever going to develop empathy? They don’t seem to show that they care if their sibling falls over or if their friend hurts themselves. But did you know that neurodivergent empathy shows up differently, with things like info dumping. “I’m want to tell you everything there is to know about my favourite topic”, or just sitting next to you, being close if a way of showing connection. So next time you’re wondering if your child is ever going to have empathy, look for some other ways that they can be showing it. You might be surprised!

03/09/2026

Empathy is understanding and caring about how someone else feels, even if their experience is different from yours. It’s sometimes described as jumping into their shoes so you can imagine how they feel. But of course no one can truly know & experience how someone else feels because it’s their own unique experience. How each of experiences the world is determined by multiple factors, such as our previous experiences, how our sensory system processes information & whether we slept well the night before! Empathy doesn’t always look like eye contact and a hug. For a neurodivergent child, it might look like quiet company, a favourite object handed over, or simply not asking “what’s wrong?” right away.
This month we’re exploring what empathy really looks like when a child’s brain processes the world differently, and how parents and educators can meet kids exactly where they are.

01/09/2026

Let’s reframe how we see big emotions. They’re not something to fear but an opportunity to connect and grow. 💕

30/08/2026

Is it a Will Gap or a Skill Gap?

26/08/2026

The brain has an “upstairs” and “downstairs.” The upstairs brain (prefrontal cortex) is responsible for thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving. The downstairs brain (limbic system and brainstem) handles survival instincts like fight, flight, or freeze. During big feelings, the downstairs brain takes over, making it hard for your child to think or communicate.
Understanding this can help you respond with empathy and guide your child back to calm.

19/08/2026

13/08/2026

Hurry! Join my Free Parenting Webinar for practical strategies to help your child listen and cooperate.

11/08/2026

Last Chance to Join! Join my Free Parenting Webinar for practical strategies to help your child listen and cooperate.

09/08/2026

Why Do Kids Ignore Instructions? Join my Free Parenting Webinar for practical strategies to help your child listen and cooperate