Kookaburra Kids Connect
Initially developed to support our Kookaburra Kids through the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, our online Kookaburra Kids Connect program is accessible to all our young people, no matter their location.
Our Connect program has been developed with the intention of strengthening bonds between our young people before and between programs, to build safe and positive help-seeking behaviours, and increase their sense of belonging and connectiveness. All materials used throughout our connect program has been developed by our clinical team and are age appropriate.
How are the sessions run?
The sessions are “hosted” by Kookaburra Kids staff and volunteers and are designed to be a fun, safe area where young people can express themselves in a supportive environment. Our connect sessions are interactive and follow a similar format as our activity days and camps; incorporating fun with mental health education, they differ greatly from school online environments.
Materials used throughout our connect program has been developed by our clinical team and are age appropriate.
Types of Connect Programs
We offer a few different Connect sessions to suit different ages and needs.
Connect Core (Bupa Regenerate Program)
Connect Core is our structured wellbeing program. Each week follows a theme and builds important life skills like:
- Understanding emotions
- Building confidence
- Managing stress
- Developing friendships.
- Nurturing the environment to nurture our mental health.
Connect at Night (Defence Kids Program)
Conenct at Night is more relaxed and social. Sessions include:
- Games
- Group activities
- Check-ins
- Peer connection
It’s designed to keep young people connected between camps and activity days and is best for young people who:
✔️ Enjoy casual social sessions
✔️ Want to stay connected with peers
✔️ Like interactive and fun activities
Connect at Night Age-Based Sessions
🎮 Connect Play (Ages 8–10)
Fun, active sessions focused on friendship, confidence and understanding feelings.
🌟 Connect+ (Ages 11–13)
Builds social confidence, communication skills and emotional awareness.
🌙 Connect Teens (Ages 14–18)
A safe space for teens to connect, talk and learn practical wellbeing skills.
🔥 The Riot – Drop-In
Flexible session where young people can log in, play games and hang out in a safe environment.
🎮 Connect Games
Team-based games that build communication, teamwork and confidence.
Date and times of Kookaburra Kids Connect Sessions
Times are in Australian Eastern Daylight Savings Time
- Tuesdays: 6pm Connect Play (8-10); 7pm Connect Games (8-11) occurring weekly
- Wednesdays: 5pm The Riot (8-11); 6pm Bupa Regenerate (Core Connect); 7pm The Riot (12+) occurring once a month
- Thursdays: 6pm Connect+ (11-13); 7pm Connect Games (8-11)
- Fridays and Sundays on alternating weeks: 6pm Connect Teens (14-18); 7pm Connect Games (12-18)
Eligibility
- Young people must be aged 8-18 to participate
- Connect at Night sessions are available to Defence Kids only. (Must have a parent or primary care giver serving in the Defence Forces or a former serving member (Veteran)
- All young people impacted by family mental illness are eligible to participate in Connect Core sessions including Defence Kids.
ONLINE SAFETY
All online connect programs are hosted by a minimum of 2x staff/volunteers to maintain a safe environment free from harm. No recording of connect sessions is allowed.
How to Join?
Click here to refer a young person.
Registered families can book a young person onto a connect session by clicking here.
For more information, email connect@kookaburrakids.org.au or call 1300 566 525.