Learning for wellbeing and success
Children and teens learn best when they feel safe, supported and understood. Learning, wellbeing and engagement are closely connected, and challenges with focus, motivation or confidence often reflect emotional or developmental needs rather than a lack of ability or effort.
This topic provides parents and carers with insight into how wellbeing supports learning across childhood and adolescence. It explores practical ways to support study habits, encourage motivation and persistence, and nurture curiosity and confidence, while keeping the wellbeing of children and teens at the centre.
Why curiosity is one of the most important skills for learning
In a world where information is available at our fingertips, curiosity is becoming more important than ever. The ability to ask questions, think deeply and explore new ideas helps children become confident learners who are ready to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller explains why curiosity is a powerful driver of learning, creativity and success. He shares practical ways parents can foster curiosity at home by encouraging questions, exploring ideas together and helping children develop an interest in both the world around them and their own strengths and abilities.
Understanding your child’s unique learning and focus strengths
Not all children learn or concentrate in the same way. What may look like inattention or distraction can sometimes be a sign that a child is processing information differently.
Understanding how your child learns and focuses can help them build confidence and experience greater success at home and at school.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller explains why children have different learning and focus strengths, and how recognising these differences can transform the way parents support their learning. He shares practical insights into identifying what helps children engage, concentrate and thrive, while encouraging parents to stay curious as their child's strengths and needs continue to evolve.
The science of wellbeing and learning
Children learn best when they are well rested, well nourished and emotionally supported. Learning and wellbeing are closely connected, with each influencing the other. When children feel physically and emotionally well, they are better able to focus, engage and succeed in their learning.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller explains the important relationship between wellbeing and learning. He shares practical advice on supporting healthy habits such as sleep, movement and nutrition, and explains why physical activity can be one of the most effective ways to help children manage anxiety and return to a state where they are ready to learn.
Why focused learning beats longer learning
When it comes to learning, working longer doesn't always mean learning more. In fact, children learn best when they are focused, energised and given opportunities to take regular breaks.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller shares practical, research-informed strategies to help children improve their focus, concentration and learning at home. He explains how short bursts of focused work, movement breaks, routines and understanding your child's natural rhythms can help them learn more effectively while protecting their wellbeing and family time.
The study habits that help learning stick
Effective studying is about much more than rereading notes or highlighting pages of information. The most successful learners actively organise knowledge, make connections between ideas and regularly practise retrieving information from memory.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller shares practical, evidence-informed study strategies that can help children strengthen their understanding and improve long-term recall. He explains why comparing similarities and differences, regularly self-testing and reviewing learning throughout the year can be far more effective than last-minute cramming. Parents will also learn simple ways to support study at home, even when they don't know the subject content themselves.
How to help your child learn beyond the classroom
Children spend only a small portion of their lives in the classroom, which means some of their most valuable learning opportunities happen at home and in the wider world. When children are encouraged to pursue projects and interests they are passionate about, they develop skills that support both their learning and their future success.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller explains how parents can make the most of learning opportunities outside of school. He shares why passion projects, problem-solving and following interests over time can help children develop confidence, resilience, creativity and a lifelong love of learning.
How to support your child through the teenage motivation dip
Many parents are surprised when a child who once seemed enthusiastic and engaged suddenly becomes withdrawn, unmotivated or uninterested in school during the teenage years. While this can be frustrating and worrying, it is also a common part of adolescent development.
In this video, psychologist Andrew Fuller explains why some young people experience a temporary dip in motivation and engagement during adolescence. He shares reassuring insights from his research on resilience, highlighting the importance of maintaining a strong relationship, believing in your child and continuing to offer connection, support and encouragement, even when they seem to be pushing you away.