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What is trauma? This webinar is presented by Roni who is a Strategic Interventionist/Relationship Educator and works within a trauma-informed practice. Her expertise covers such topics as attachment, addiction, trauma, emotional intelligence, and raising emotionally healthy children in today's stressful society. You might also be interested in: Grief 101 for Parents Counselling... what is it all about?

Ageing As people age, they commonly face many changes and losses. Grieving for these, and adjusting to new circumstances, can be hard. As people age, they commonly face many changes and losses. Grieving for these, and adjusting to new circumstances, can be hard. Aging is a normal stage of life, with many gains and things to enjoy. However, it brings challenges too. We know that older people face gradual physical changes, but the challenges of aging aren’t only physical. Aging involves a succession of changes and losses, big and small, which can be gradual or sudden. Consequently, older people continually need to adjust. It can feel like they have less and less control over how they want things to be. What’s been lost, can be hard to come to terms with. Such losses naturally affect how people see themselves and their lives, as well as their levels of self-confidence, mood and outlook, overall well-being, and sense of future. Common losses include: The end of employed work after retirement or job loss. This can also mean a changed daily routine, not seeing workmates as before, and needing a new sense of purpose. Financial changes . For most, income levels will decrease when work finishes. Financial worries may increase, with limited dollars to fund current and future needs. Changes in one’s physical body and health . Health challenges typically increase with age. As the physical body ages, people commonly begin to encounter changes in abilities such as eyesight, hearing, balance, continence, or mobility. Loss of memory . It becomes harder to remember things, even if the information is important. This can be very frustrating. Dementia can complicate this further. Loss of independence . A new reliance on others to assist with daily life, and not always being able to do what they want, when they want, how they want. People may need to stop driving. They may need others for the most personal care and hygiene routines. Loss of familiar surroundings. People might need to move away from a home they have lived in for a long time, or from one they do not want to leave. They may also need to give away personal possessions they’re unable to keep. Loss of friends and family . There can be changes in the circle of friends and family. Others may now live at a distance and visit less, or older friends may become ill themselves and unable to keep in touch, and perhaps loved ones may die. Also, older people can become socially isolated if they are less able to join in with life as before. Loss of respect . After years of contributing to family, whānau, and community, as well as being employers or employees, older people can feel side-lined, without status, and less respected. What can help? People respond in individual ways to life challenges. To be in a good position to deal with whatever comes with aging, it can help to: draw on your internal resilience (what attitudes and coping strategies have worked well for you before?) be willing to try new ways of doing things and problem-solve as positively as possible honestly acknowledge challenges and losses, so they can be faced make time to grieve losses in your own way – grief is a normal healing process that can help you gradually adjust to changes communicate how you’re thinking and feeling, and what you’re needing – find someone you trust to talk to when things feel hard or overwhelming, such as your GP, a good friend, a caregiver, a Counsellor, or perhaps call a helpline express and release what’s building up inside (e.g. talk, cry, share memory stories, write down troubling thoughts and feelings, or play music that reflects your mood, walk it out) look after yourself well every day, paying attention to getting some exercise, good rest, and having a nutritious diet keep connected with others – make time to be social and keep in touch with friends and family often use your sense of humour and spend time with those who laugh and have fun do enjoyable things and go to enjoyable places that lift your spirit ask a friend to support you at events or appointments that are stressful for you use your abilities and strengths, whatever age you are, to contribute to things and give you a sense of achievement do things that are meaningful for you or have a sense of purpose find some ways to support others who are finding things challenging too remember the good things life has taught you and brought you ask for help when you need it see a GP about any health or mental health concerns. You might also be interested in: How to build resilience Delayed grief Subscribe to our newsletter Looking for more support? Get insights, tools, and stories from Skylight — and a free guide to help you get started. You can unsubscribe at any time. First name Email address* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Subscribe By submitting this form, you consent and agree to Skylight Trust collecting and handling your personal information in accordance with our privacy policy . If you have any questions or wish to view or amend your information, please email us at [email protected]

Help your child navigate ADHD. Get Skylight’s free “Change and Loss” guide with tools, activities, and resources for parents and caregivers. ADHD support for parents & whānau Free guide to help you support your child through big emotions and everyday challenges Get the free guide Supporting a child with ADHD can bring incredible joy and connection — and it can also bring moments of overwhelm, frustration, and rapid shifts in mood or routine. Parents often tell us things like: “My child feels things so intensely.” “Small changes set them off.” “Transitions are really hard.” “I want to support them better, but sometimes I feel out of my depth.” ADHD is a neurodevelopmental difference, not a behavioural problem. But the emotional world around ADHD can be big and unpredictable — for your child, and for you. To support whānau navigating these ups and downs, we’re offering a free guide designed to help parents support young people through change, strong feelings, and challenging moments. Download now — it’s free Understand feelings Learn what children need most during grief and change Creative activities 22 ideas to help tamariki express and release emotions Find strength Build resilience, hope, and connection as a whānau Understanding ADHD ADHD looks different for every child. You may notice things like: Attention Notices many things happening at once Strong focus on tasks that spark interest (“hyperfocus”) May find repetitive or less engaging tasks difficult to sustain Can be imaginative and daydream often Activity Has high energy that thrives in active, hands-on tasks Enjoys movement and can find sitting still for long periods challenging Often enthusiastic and expressive in conversations Impulsivity Acts quickly and is often willing to take risks or try new things Eager to share ideas and participate May find waiting difficult, especially when excited At the same time, many children with ADHD shine with: High energy that can be channelled into sports, play, and learning Spontaneity and flexibility Creativity and imagination which can help with problem-solving Strong focus on things they are passionate about Resilience - ability to keep going after challenges. These strengths are real and powerful — they just need the right support around them. I want the free guide What's inside the guide? Tips for talking about difficult topics — gentle ways to start conversations, what words to use (and avoid), and how to answer tricky questions honestly Common reactions in children and teens — from emotional outbursts to withdrawal, and how to respond with patience and aroha Tools for calming anxiety — including deep belly breathing, grounding exercises, and other simple practices that make a real difference Creative activities for support — 22 ideas for helping children express themselves through art, storytelling, movement, and rituals When to seek more support — signs that your child may need extra help from a counsellor or professional This booklet is designed to be practical, easy to use, and something you can return to again and again. I want the free guide About Skylight Skylight Trust is a national not-for-profit that specialises in helping tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau navigate tough times. We provide counselling (in person and online), group programmes, resources, and training for professionals. We believe no one should face grief, loss, or change alone . This guide is just one way we share that support. 24k+ Hours of therapy each year 400+ Families supported per month 130+ Schools running our programmes What support do children with ADHD need most? Every child experiences ADHD differently – their emotions, energy and reactions can ebb and flow throughout the day. Still, there are a few things that almost all neurodiverse children benefit from in the adults around them. Here are a few of the essentials: Reassurance – Children need to know they are loved, safe, and not to blame for what has happened. Honesty – Clear, age-appropriate explanations help reduce confusion and fear. Listening ears – Space to share feelings and ask questions without judgement. Routine and stability – Keeping familiar patterns helps children feel grounded when everything else feels uncertain. Patience and understanding – Reactions like anger, tears, or withdrawal are normal. They need time and gentle guidance. The full guide explains these needs in more detail and offers practical tools and language you can use to support tamariki and rangatahi through emotional ups and downs, change, and challenging moments. Help me support my child Jacob School Counsellor "Through counselling [the child] has been able to acknowledge their fear and connect with joy, family and the other protective elements in life." Glenda Facilitator "Creative activities gave the girls space to express themselves in ways that felt safe and empowering, often opening conversations that may not have happened otherwise." Noel Student "It’s different now. Before I went to Travellers I didn’t really get along with my friends. N ow I speak up to them and I’m not invisible anymore." Practical activities to support your child The Change and Loss guide includes 22 creative activity ideas that parents and whānau can use at home to help tamariki and rangatahi express their feelings and build resilience. These activities are simple, meaningful, and easy to adapt for different ages. Here are a few examples: My Wall of Hearts – Draw or cut out hearts and write the names of people who love and care for your child. Display them on the wall as a daily reminder of support. Make Whānau Handprints – Trace each person’s hand or fingerprint and display them together. A powerful reminder that everyone grieves differently, but you’re all in it together. Storytelling – Share whānau stories, both old and new. Encourage children to add their own tales, helping them see strength and connection through difficult times. Music for Comfort – Help your child create a playlist of songs that soothe or uplift them. Singing and music can sometimes express what words can’t. The full guide contains all 22 activities, along with tips for when and how to use them. Send me the guide Here’s how we’ll support you after you sign up Your free guide, instantly The Change and Loss booklet will arrive straight to your inbox — ready to use whenever you need it. Helpful emails, step by step Over the next few weeks, we’ll send you short, practical emails with tips, stories, and resources to support you and your whānau. Webinars and more resources You’ll also get invitations to free webinars and updates on new tools as they become available. You’re free to unsubscribe any time — but we hope you’ll find value in staying connected with us. Get my free guide Our funders and supporters Support your child — download the free guide We’ll send you the Change and Loss guide straight away, and follow up with more short, helpful emails. You can unsubscribe any time. First name* Email address* Yes, I want the free guide and email support series * Get my free guide By submitting this form, you consent and agree to Skylight Trust collecting and handling your personal information in accordance with our privacy policy . If you have any questions or wish to view or amend your information, please email us at [email protected]

Help your child navigate ADHD. Get Skylight’s free “Change and Loss” guide with tools, activities, and resources for parents and caregivers. ADHD support for parents & whānau Free guide to help you support your child through big emotions and everyday challenges Get the free guide Supporting a child with ADHD can bring incredible joy and connection — and it can also bring moments of overwhelm, frustration, and rapid shifts in mood or routine. Parents often tell us things like: “My child feels things so intensely.” “Small changes set them off.” “Transitions are really hard.” “I want to support them better, but sometimes I feel out of my depth.” ADHD is a neurodevelopmental difference, not a behavioural problem. But the emotional world around ADHD can be big and unpredictable — for your child, and for you. To support whānau navigating these ups and downs, we’re offering a free guide designed to help parents support young people through change, strong feelings, and challenging moments. Download now — it’s free Understand feelings Learn what children need most during grief and change Creative activities 22 ideas to help tamariki express and release emotions Find strength Build resilience, hope, and connection as a whānau Understanding ADHD ADHD looks different for every child. You may notice things like: Attention Notices many things happening at once Strong focus on tasks that spark interest (“hyperfocus”) May find repetitive or less engaging tasks difficult to sustain Can be imaginative and daydream often Activity Has high energy that thrives in active, hands-on tasks Enjoys movement and can find sitting still for long periods challenging Often enthusiastic and expressive in conversations Impulsivity Acts quickly and is often willing to take risks or try new things Eager to share ideas and participate May find waiting difficult, especially when excited At the same time, many children with ADHD shine with: High energy that can be channelled into sports, play, and learning Spontaneity and flexibility Creativity and imagination which can help with problem-solving Strong focus on things they are passionate about Resilience - ability to keep going after challenges. These strengths are real and powerful — they just need the right support around them. I want the free guide What's inside the guide? Tips for talking about difficult topics — gentle ways to start conversations, what words to use (and avoid), and how to answer tricky questions honestly Common reactions in children and teens — from emotional outbursts to withdrawal, and how to respond with patience and aroha Tools for calming anxiety — including deep belly breathing, grounding exercises, and other simple practices that make a real difference Creative activities for support — 22 ideas for helping children express themselves through art, storytelling, movement, and rituals When to seek more support — signs that your child may need extra help from a counsellor or professional This booklet is designed to be practical, easy to use, and something you can return to again and again. I want the free guide About Skylight Skylight Trust is a national not-for-profit that specialises in helping tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau navigate tough times. We provide counselling (in person and online), group programmes, resources, and training for professionals. We believe no one should face grief, loss, or change alone . This guide is just one way we share that support. 24k+ Hours of therapy each year 400+ Families supported per month 130+ Schools running our programmes What support do children with ADHD need most? Every child experiences ADHD differently – their emotions, energy and reactions can ebb and flow throughout the day. Still, there are a few things that almost all neurodiverse children benefit from in the adults around them. Here are a few of the essentials: Reassurance – Children need to know they are loved, safe, and not to blame for what has happened. Honesty – Clear, age-appropriate explanations help reduce confusion and fear. Listening ears – Space to share feelings and ask questions without judgement. Routine and stability – Keeping familiar patterns helps children feel grounded when everything else feels uncertain. Patience and understanding – Reactions like anger, tears, or withdrawal are normal. They need time and gentle guidance. The full guide explains these needs in more detail and offers practical tools and language you can use to support tamariki and rangatahi through emotional ups and downs, change, and challenging moments. Help me support my child Jacob School Counsellor "Through counselling [the child] has been able to acknowledge their fear and connect with joy, family and the other protective elements in life." Glenda Facilitator "Creative activities gave the girls space to express themselves in ways that felt safe and empowering, often opening conversations that may not have happened otherwise." Noel Student "It’s different now. Before I went to Travellers I didn’t really get along with my friends. N ow I speak up to them and I’m not invisible anymore." Practical activities to support your child The Change and Loss guide includes 22 creative activity ideas that parents and whānau can use at home to help tamariki and rangatahi express their feelings and build resilience. These activities are simple, meaningful, and easy to adapt for different ages. Here are a few examples: My Wall of Hearts – Draw or cut out hearts and write the names of people who love and care for your child. Display them on the wall as a daily reminder of support. Make Whānau Handprints – Trace each person’s hand or fingerprint and display them together. A powerful reminder that everyone grieves differently, but you’re all in it together. Storytelling – Share whānau stories, both old and new. Encourage children to add their own tales, helping them see strength and connection through difficult times. Music for Comfort – Help your child create a playlist of songs that soothe or uplift them. Singing and music can sometimes express what words can’t. The full guide contains all 22 activities, along with tips for when and how to use them. Send me the guide Here’s how we’ll support you after you sign up Your free guide, instantly The Change and Loss booklet will arrive straight to your inbox — ready to use whenever you need it. Helpful emails, step by step Over the next few weeks, we’ll send you short, practical emails with tips, stories, and resources to support you and your whānau. Webinars and more resources You’ll also get invitations to free webinars and updates on new tools as they become available. You’re free to unsubscribe any time — but we hope you’ll find value in staying connected with us. Get my free guide Our funders and supporters Support your child — download the free guide We’ll send you the Change and Loss guide straight away, and follow up with more short, helpful emails. You can unsubscribe any time. First name* Email address* Yes, I want the free guide and email support series * Get my free guide By submitting this form, you consent and agree to Skylight Trust collecting and handling your personal information in accordance with our privacy policy . If you have any questions or wish to view or amend your information, please email us at [email protected]

Help your child navigate grief and change. Get Skylight’s free “Change and Loss” guide with tools, activities, and resources for parents and caregivers. Help your child through grief and loss A free guide for parents and whānau supporting tamariki and rangatahi through grief, loss, and life’s big changes. Get the free guide When life shifts — a family separation, moving schools, the loss of a loved one, or sudden illness — tamariki and rangatahi can feel overwhelmed. As a parent or caregiver, you might wonder: What should I say? How do I help them cope? What if I say the wrong thing? You don’t have to figure it out alone. For over 25 years, Skylight Trust has been supporting whānau through life’s toughest changes. That’s why we created this free eBook: Change and Loss – practical guidance to support your child when life feels uncertain. Download now — it’s free Understand feelings Learn what children need most during grief and change Creative activities 22 ideas to help tamariki express and release emotions Find strength Build resilience, hope, and connection as a whānau What's inside the guide? Tips for talking about difficult topics — gentle ways to start conversations, what words to use (and avoid), and how to answer tricky questions honestly Common reactions in children and teens — from emotional outbursts to withdrawal, and how to respond with patience and aroha Tools for calming anxiety — including deep belly breathing, grounding exercises, and other simple practices that make a real difference Creative activities for support — 22 ideas for helping children express themselves through art, storytelling, movement, and rituals When to seek more support — signs that your child may need extra help from a counsellor or professional This booklet is designed to be practical, easy to use, and something you can return to again and again. I want the free guide About Skylight Skylight Trust is a national not-for-profit that specialises in helping tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau navigate tough times. We provide counselling (in person and online), group programmes, resources, and training for professionals. We believe no one should face grief, loss, or change alone . This guide is just one way we share that support. 24k+ Hours of therapy each year 400+ Families supported per month 130+ Schools running our programmes What support do children need most? Every child responds to change and loss in their own way, but there are some things they almost always need from the adults around them. Here are a few of the essentials: Reassurance – Children need to know they are loved, safe, and not to blame for what has happened. Honesty – Clear, age-appropriate explanations help reduce confusion and fear. Listening ears – Space to share feelings and ask questions without judgement. Routine and stability – Keeping familiar patterns helps children feel grounded when everything else feels uncertain. Patience and understanding – Reactions like anger, tears, or withdrawal are normal. They need time and gentle guidance. The full guide explains these needs in more detail and offers practical tools and language you can use to support tamariki and rangatahi through tough times. Help me support my child Jacob School Counsellor "Through counselling [the child] has been able to acknowledge their fear and connect with joy, family and the other protective elements in life." Glenda Facilitator "Creative activities gave the girls space to express themselves in ways that felt safe and empowering, often opening conversations that may not have happened otherwise." Noel Student "It’s different now. Before I went to Travellers I didn’t really get along with my friends. N ow I speak up to them and I’m not invisible anymore." Practical activities to support your child The Change and Loss guide includes 22 creative activity ideas that parents and whānau can use at home to help tamariki and rangatahi express their feelings and build resilience. These activities are simple, meaningful, and easy to adapt for different ages. Here are a few examples: My Wall of Hearts – Draw or cut out hearts and write the names of people who love and care for your child. Display them on the wall as a daily reminder of support. Make Whānau Handprints – Trace each person’s hand or fingerprint and display them together. A powerful reminder that everyone grieves differently, but you’re all in it together. Storytelling – Share whānau stories, both old and new. Encourage children to add their own tales, helping them see strength and connection through difficult times. Music for Comfort – Help your child create a playlist of songs that soothe or uplift them. Singing and music can sometimes express what words can’t. The full guide contains all 22 activities, along with tips for when and how to use them. Send me the guide Here’s how we’ll support you after you sign up Your free guide, instantly The Change and Loss booklet will arrive straight to your inbox — ready to use whenever you need it. Helpful emails, step by step Over the next few weeks, we’ll send you short, practical emails with tips, stories, and resources to support you and your whānau. Webinars and more resources You’ll also get invitations to free webinars and updates on new tools as they become available. You’re free to unsubscribe any time — but we hope you’ll find value in staying connected with us. Get my free guide Our funders and supporters Support your child — download the free guide We’ll send you the Change and Loss guide straight away, and follow up with more short, helpful emails. You can unsubscribe any time. First name* Email address* Yes, I want the free guide and email support series * Get my free guide By submitting this form, you consent and agree to Skylight Trust collecting and handling your personal information in accordance with our privacy policy . If you have any questions or wish to view or amend your information, please email us at [email protected]

Di Duncan Finance Officer | Kaitari Pūtea About me Di Duncan, Skylight Finance Officer. I am from the UK but relocated to New Zealand a few years ago. I have had a diverse global background working in both public and private sector. From banking and marketing to education and even as a Coroner's Support Officer. When I’m not crunching numbers, you might find me in the kitchen whipping up a treat for my colleagues or building the rather impressive Lego collection I have. Colleagues would probably say I am up for a challenge (within reason!) and ready with a laugh. Next Previous

Elliot Freeman Programme Coordinator | Kaituitui Hōtaka Matua About me Kia ora, my name is Elliot. I am the programme coordinator for Travellers, Skylight's wellbeing programme which supports young people to build resilience and navigate life’s ups and downs. I joined Skylight because I care deeply about helping people feel more connected: to themselves, to each other, and to what matters most. It’s rare to find a team doing that in such a thoughtful, human way. Outside of Skylight, I'm a coach, facilitator, and product manager with a background in mental health, mindfulness, and building digital tools that support personal growth. I coach people going through life transitions, run meditation events, and love anything that involves creativity, deep conversation, or getting out into the bush. You’ll usually find me with a cup of tea in hand, listening to music or staring out into space Next Previous

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