Change for Life

26/07/2026

24/07/2026

Regulation tools are materials and strategies that can support children and adults to manage their emotions when feeling dysregulated (e.g., frustrated, stressed, overwhelmed, upset). They may help the individual feel calmer, more focused, and in control when responding to different situations and environments. Regulation tools can provide sensory input to one or more of the 5 senses (something you can feel, hear, taste, see or smell). This can provide a soothing sensory experience that supports the individual to regulate their nervous system.

1. Squishy toys
Squishy toys are a helpful tool that can support regulation. The actions of squishing and pushing on the toys may help relieve frustration, and stress. It can provide a soothing sensory experience when feeling overwhelmed.

2. Pop-its
Using pop-its can help regulate emotions. They can provide tactile sensory input that may support the child to feel more calm or focused when overstimulated. You may show the child some ways to use the pop-it, such as poking the holes to make a “pop” sound, before you offer it to them.

3. Bubbles
Bubbles can be a beneficial tool to use when feeling frustrated, upset, or stressed. They can support the child to follow deep breathing techniques, which can help them to regulate their emotions. Bubbles can also provide soothing visual input as the child can watch the bubbles float. Alternatively, the child may like to run around and chase them which can provide an opportunity for movement.

4. Stretchy string
Regulation tools such as stretchy string can support the child to manage overwhelming emotions. The motion of stretching, pulling and manipulating the strings may help the child to feel more calm, focused and in control in different situations or environments.

5. Oil timers
Oil timers can be a beneficial regulation tool. The child may like to watch the oil droplets float from the top to the bottom of the timer, which may be soothing sensory input. Additionally, the child may like to shake the timer. This action may be helpful in relieving frustration, stress and when feeling upset.

6. Pop-tubes
Using pop-tubes can be beneficial to manage overwhelming emotions. The act of pushing and pulling the pop-tubes may support the child to regulate. Additionally, feeling the bumpy texture of the pop-tubes and listening to the sounds they make when pushing and pulling may provide a soothing sensory experience.

It is beneficial to practise using these regulation tools in play, so the child can learn how to use them. You may demonstrate different actions e.g., “squish” or “stretch”, so the child may copy and learn some useful techniques they can implement when dysregulated. For more detailed information, please see the blog post “How to use regulation tools”.

16/07/2026

https://theautismcentre.com.au/blog/f/strategies-to-support-your-child-at-the-supermarket

16/07/2026

This NAIDOC Week, we celebrate the rich histories, cultures, and achievements of First Nations peoples.

At Change for Life, we recognise the importance of listening, learning, and working together to build stronger, more inclusive communities where every person feels respected, valued, and supported.

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and work, and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We also celebrate the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders who continue to strengthen culture and community.

Happy NAIDOC Week.

05/06/2026

When "I'm Fine" Isn't Fine: The Hidden Signs of Men's Mental Health Struggles

For many men, mental health challenges do not always look the way people expect. While sadness and tearfulness are often associated with depression, men may experience distress in very different ways. Irritability, anger, withdrawing from family, working longer hours, increased alcohol use, difficulty sleeping, or losing interest in activities they once enjoyed can all be signs that something deeper is happening.

Many men grow up receiving messages that they should be strong, independent, and able to handle problems on their own. While resilience is valuable, these beliefs can sometimes make it difficult to ask for help when life becomes overwhelming.

Mental health concerns can affect anyone. Work stress, financial pressures, relationship difficulties, parenting responsibilities, caring for ageing parents, health concerns, and major life changes can all contribute to emotional strain. Often, men continue to function outwardly while struggling internally.

Some warning signs that may indicate additional support is needed include:
Feeling constantly stressed or overwhelmed
Increased irritability or anger
Changes in sleep patterns
Persistent fatigue
Loss of motivation
Avoiding social situations
Increased use of alcohol or other substances
Difficulty concentrating
Feeling disconnected from family and friends

The good news is that support works. Speaking with a trusted friend, family member, GP, or mental health professional can provide practical strategies and relief. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it is a sign of recognising that your wellbeing matters.

Mental health challenges rarely improve through isolation. Often, the first conversation is the hardest, but it can also be the most important.

This Men's Mental Health Month, take a moment to check in with yourself. If things have felt harder than usual, consider talking with someone you trust. If you're concerned about a friend, colleague, brother, father, or partner, reach out and ask how they are really doing. A simple conversation can make a significant difference.

28/05/2026

Sensory play can be a helpful tool to support learning. It can provide meaningful opportunities for children to explore, problem solve and be creative through play. Sensory play may include any activity that incorporates touch, sound, sight, smell or taste. Examples may include feeling different textures using slime or shaving foam, incorporating essential oils into waterplay to smell different scents, listening to nature sounds, and more! Sensory play can be a fun way for children to advance skills across multiple developmental domains.

1. Language Development
Sensory play can provide the opportunity for children to identify different colours, shapes, and label objects. It can encourage children to expand their vocabulary by describing different textures, sounds, smells and what they see. Additionally, it can support children to follow instructions (e.g., “put in bucket”) and request different actions (e.g., “scoop sand”).

Adults can support language development by narrating key words during play. For example, verbally saying the action and whilst doing it (e.g., say “mix” and mix the material), pointing to different objects, colours and shapes and labelling it, and by describing the material (e.g., “this feels sticky”).

2. Cognitive Development and Attentional Skills
Exploration of different objects, textures and ways of playing can promote creativity and problem solving. Children can also begin to learn concepts such as cause and effect by exploring different elements of play. Sensory play can be tailored to each child’s interests and sensory preferences. This may support attentional skills as children may be motivated to engage in the activity for a longer period of time.

3. Motor Skills and Play Skills
Sensory play can support the development of fine motor skills. Children may practise actions such as poking or pinching the mixture, and using tools such as tongs or a paint brush during play. It also allows for opportunities for gross motor skill development, such as stomping or jumping on different textures. Exploring different actions may allow children to extend their play skills. Additionally, sensory play may support visual-motor skills by providing opportunities to practise hand-eye coordination.

4. Emotional Regulation
Sensory play allows children to explore their own sensory preferences and needs. Understanding the child’s sensory interests can provide useful insight into the sensory tools and strategies they may use to regulate their emotions. Offering different sensory input that the child enjoys may provide a soothing experience that allows the child to regulate their nervous system.

Sensory play can be a fun and engaging way for children to practise skills across a range of developmental areas. This may include language development, cognitive and attentional skills, increasing motor skills and extending play skills. It also allows for children to explore sensory regulation tools which may be used to regulate their emotions when needed

19/05/2026

10/05/2026

Happy Mothers Day to all the mums.

07/05/2026

💙 Dolly Day 2026: Kindness Matters More Than Ever 💙

Every child deserves to feel safe, supported, included, and accepted for who they are.

Today, communities across Australia are coming together to raise awareness about bullying and its devastating impact on children, young people, and families. This day reminds us that kindness, compassion, and connection can genuinely change lives.

Bullying is NOT "just kids being kids."

At Change for Life, we see firsthand how bullying affects a child's confidence, emotional wellbeing, friendships, school participation, and mental health. For many children—particularly those who are neurodivergent, experience anxiety, or find social situations challenging—the effects can be long-lasting and deeply distressing.

Watch for the signs:
• Increased irritability or emotional outbursts
• Avoidance of school or social activities
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Loss of confidence
• Frequent physical complaints
• Increased anxiety before school

These signs are important and should never be ignored.

Supporting children starts with listening.

Create a safe space where children feel heard, supported, and believed. Early support can make a meaningful difference in helping children regain confidence, feel emotionally safe, and reconnect socially.

Today, we encourage you to:
💙 Wear blue
💙 Check in with the young people around you
💙 Start meaningful conversations about bullying and mental health

A simple conversation, a supportive relationship, or a moment of kindness can have a lasting impact.

We're here to help.

If your child is experiencing bullying, anxiety, emotional distress, or social challenges, our team at Change for Life offers support for emotional wellbeing, social skills, school-related challenges, and more.

📞 (03) 8742 4302
📧 [email protected]

Together, we can create communities where every child feels seen, valued, and supported. 💙

28/04/2026

https://theautismcentre.com.au/blog/f/using-visual-schedule-at-homeduring-holidays

When a child is away from kindergarten or school, it may be challenging for them during school holidays without a routine or what they will be doing during the day. Using visual schedules can help with communication and ...