Chances are that your favourite memory of school is of going to Camp. No uniform, loads of challenging and fun activities, and uninterrupted time with friends was the perfect way to spend a few days. What you didn’t realise was that the activities were all helping you build your resilience. The skills you learned on Camp would serve you through your teenage and adult years.

The New Year is upon us and is often used as fresh start for anyone wanting to change something about his or her life. This could be anything from starting a new business to finally getting a 6-pack to be proud of. Regardless of the nature of the goal, the process for setting goals you will actually stick with is the same and can be simplified into 3 easy steps.

Today, the YMCA are proud supporters of Child Protection Week 2018. Head to https://childprotectionweek.org.au/ and check out the amazing resources available to support organisations and the community dedicated to keeping children safe.

Research shows that consistent positive or consistent negative experiences create neural pathways in developing brains that teach children how to feel about themselves, and what to expect from those around them. Here's how positive reframes and validating statements can change the way your children think. 

You may recognise this face as an educator at our OSHC, but did you know she also volunteers as a Research and Evaluation Officer on our Social Impact team? Brisbane, meet Elena – a Psychology and Public Policy Major, and a young person making a difference.