Mackay Youth Support Service Inc

22/05/2026

22/05/2026

The way we see our children changes everything.
Their “big emotions” become communication. Their behavior becomes a clue instead of a battle. And the moments we once rushed through suddenly feel important. 🤍

Sometimes one simple perspective shift can completely change the way we parent.. with more patience, more empathy, and more connection. 💞

Which quote stayed with you the most? ⬇️

22/05/2026

A child in meltdown is not being “bad”.
Their brain has gone into survival mode.

When children feel overwhelmed, scared, embarrassed, anxious or unheard, the thinking part of the brain can temporarily switch off. That is why shouting, punishments and lectures often make things worse - not better.

What they need most in that moment is a calm adult, safety, connection and time.

Too many children are labelled as naughty when they are actually distressed.

Every parent, teacher, carer and professional needs to understand this. It changes the way we respond to children forever. ❤️

Free WHAT HAPPENS IN A CHILD’S BRAIN DURING A MELTDOWN? POSTER

LIKE the photo and comment "MELTDOWN" and we will send you a message with a link to a free PDF of this resource.

22/05/2026

A child who cannot put shoes on.
A child who explodes over homework.
A child who says “no” to everything.
A child who seems desperate to stay in control.

People often see bad behaviour.

But sometimes there is far more going on underneath.

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a term used to describe children who experience an extreme need to avoid everyday demands and expectations. For many, demands can trigger intense anxiety, overwhelm or distress - especially when they feel pressured, unsafe or out of control.

These children are often labelled manipulative, oppositional, rude, lazy or attention seeking.

But many are struggling far more than people realise.

The heartbreaking part?
The more pressure they feel, the harder things can become.

Too many families are judged.
Too many children are punished instead of understood.

Please note - PDA is not currently recognised as a separate diagnosis in diagnostic manuals such as the DSM-5 or ICD-11. However, organisations including the NHS, the National Autistic Society and PDA Society use the term to describe and support children who show this pattern of behaviours and experiences.

Free UNDERSTANDING PATHOLOGICAL DEMAND AVOIDANCE (PDA) IN CHILDREN POSTERUNDERSTANDING PATHOLOGICAL DEMAND AVOIDANCE (PDA) IN CHILDREN POSTER

LIKE the photo and comment "PDA" and we will send you a message with a link to a free PDF of this resource.

17/05/2026

The Mackay Disability Expo 2026 is a FREE, inclusive community event providing a valuable opportunity for people with disability, carers, families and support networks to explore the latest products, services, technology, aids and equipment available across the region.

Join us on Tuesday June 02, 2026, from 9:00am to 12:00pm at the Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds. The event is designed to be accessible and welcoming, with level entry, accessible toilets and priority parking available onsite. Support people are welcome, and the space allows for mobility aids, wheelchairs and prams.

Come along to connect with service providers, learn about available supports, and discover information to help improve independence, wellbeing and community participation.

Head to https://www.facebook.com/share/1DWoF5ArJJ/ for more details.

08/05/2026

Sometimes a child with ADHD is trying twice as hard just to get through an ordinary day. What looks like distraction, forgetfulness, or impulsivity is often a brain working differently, not a child choosing to be difficult.

This “voice of the child” visual is a gentle reminder of what many young people with combined-type ADHD wish adults understood. When we shift from blame to curiosity, children feel safer, more capable, and more motivated to try.

If this resonates, save it for later and share it with someone who supports a child with ADHD. Which line feels most true for your child right now?

See visual for free download instructions.

08/05/2026

08/05/2026

We are excited to be partnering with Project Pink to bring a Women's Self Defence class later this month.

Led by Charlotte, this class is designed to build confidence, strength and resilience in a safe, friendly and welcoming environment. You will learn basic self-defence techniques while building strength and flexibility, all in an all-women's space.

📅 Thursday 28 May
⏰ 9:30 am to 11:30 am
📍 The Neighbourhood Hub, 4 George Street, Mackay

Please wear comfortable clothing and enclosed shoes, and bring a water bottle. We will take care of morning tea.

Spots are limited, so register now via the link below.

https://events.humanitix.com/women-s-self-defence-with-project-pink

08/05/2026

I’ve been noticing how frequently social drama, relational aggression, and friendship struggles come up in both clinical and school settings lately, especially within girls’ peer dynamics, and I’m curious what others are seeing too. 🤔