Supporting Early Learning wellbeing through Mind Bubbles
The Mind Bubbles Early Learning wellbeing program supports children to build emotional resilience, self-regulation, and confidence during their early years. At Y Northern Territory Early Learning centres, this evidence-based approach is helping educators and families create calm, connected, and supportive environments where children can thrive.
Why emotional wellbeing matters in the Early Learning
Our commitment to wellbeing aligns with the Early Childhood and Care National Quality Standard 2 – “Children have the right to experience quality education and care in an environment that safeguards and promotes their health, safety and wellbeing.”
Our Early Learning educators have taken an important step in strengthening that commitment by introducing Mind Bubbles—an evidence-based program designed to build emotional and mental resilience in pre-schoolers.
Mind Bubbles equips educators and families with playful, practical strategies to support children’s self-regulation, mindfulness, and wellbeing. Through affirmations, movement, and creative activities, children learn tools to navigate big feelings, transitions, and everyday challenges—all while having fun.
Our journey with Mind Bubbles
In January 2025, Early Learning educators at the Y completed specialised Mind Bubbles training. The program has since been woven into daily routines to support moments like drop-offs, pick-ups, and transitions between activities. These strategies have been especially effective for children experiencing separation anxiety or struggling with emotional regulation.
Educators have access to an online portal filled with resources, which families can also use at home. Parents have already shared positive feedback, noting that the techniques are making a difference well beyond the classroom.
Supporting children through transitions and big feelings playfully
Simple, engaging activities are at the heart of Mind Bubbles Early Learning Wellbeing. The “bear crawl” is used before mealtimes to help children transition to calm. Babies love the “peanut cuddle ball,” which creates moments of comfort and joy while supporting sensory needs.
These playful approaches not only reduce meltdowns but also teach children how to recognise and recover from fight-or-flight responses—important skills for lifelong wellbeing.
What our educators are seeing in practice
Izzy, Pre-School Room Leader, shared how the training has transformed daily practice:
“Mind Bubbles has been really beneficial for educators across the centre. We’ve seen huge improvements in children’s ability to regulate their emotions and move through the day with more confidence.”
Mind Bubbles Early Learning wellbeing at the YNT
By embedding Mind Bubbles into everyday routines, the Y is helping children build the foundations of resilience and emotional strength. It’s one more way we are working to create healthy, connected communities where children and young people can truly thrive.
