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National data shows around one in seven children experience mental health difficulties, a concerning reality for many families at a time when cost-of-living pressures and global uncertainty are placing added strain on household wellbeing.
Emeritus Professor Matt Sanders, Triple P Founder and Clinical Psychologist, said this is a time to pause and reflect on how families are feeling and behaving, and on the importance of equipping parents and carers with the tools to build strong connections and help their children thrive. The 2026 theme, ‘Every Family, Everywhere’, acknowledges the diversity of family life in Australia and the different challenges families face.
“Constant stress can affect parents’ capacity to cope with everyday family life - from managing routines to being confident in responding to their children’s needs — and that pressure doesn’t stop with adults,” he said.
“Children can be deeply affected by how the adults around them are feeling. Supporting parental wellbeing is therefore essential to children’s mental health.”
“The good news is that family mental health is strengthened through everyday ‘workouts’ that are simple and achievable,” Sanders said. “Sharing the mental load, and where possible leaning on others and feeling supported by partners, family, friends or community networks can make a meaningful difference for both parents and children.”
Families Australia CEO, Jamie Crosby, said National Families Week is a once‑a‑year celebration, marked by more than 200 events across the country, but supporting families happens every day.
“Families Australia acknowledges the family and children's service organisations that work year‑round to support parents by helping them feel confident, connected, and understood. By creating welcoming spaces that honour the diversity of all families, everywhere, we help families grow stronger, and children thrive, long after Families Week has ended,” Mr Crosby said.
Triple P’s everyday ways that families can support positive mental health include:
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Creating spaces where children feel heard, with their emotions acknowledged and validated.
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Making time for small moments of connection, such as shared meals, play or everyday conversations.
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Encouraging age-appropriate decision-making and responsibility, from choosing activities to having a say in family routines.
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Keeping expectations realistic and showing kindness to yourself as a parent or carer, especially during busy or stressful times.
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Talking openly about feelings and recognising when support is needed, including reaching out to friends, family or community supports.
Sanders added, “If anxiety or stress is affecting daily life, it's good to remember that help is available. This could be via a GP, a health professional, or through an evidence-based parenting program like Fear-Less Triple P Online.”
“National Families Week celebrates families and reminds us just how important everyday support and connection are for children’s long-term wellbeing,” he said. “We know from research that strong family relationships can protect children’s mental health and help them cope with life’s challenges.”
Families looking for more ideas can explore: Everyday habits for children’s mental health fitness start at home
Delivery of the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program to parents and carers of children in Australia is supported by funding from the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing under the Parenting Education and Support Program. Parents and carers can access free, online parenting support 24/7 at triplep-parenting.net.au
