R U OK? Day for Parents: Checking In With Your Village and Caring for Yourself

R U OK? Day is held on the second Thursday of September each year, and it’s all about reminding us to pause, check in with the people we care about, and share a little kindness. Sometimes the simplest ‘How are you going?’ can brighten someone’s whole day.

Parenting preschoolers is equal parts magical and messy. Between snacks, playdates, and meltdowns, it’s easy to forget about your own wellbeing. That’s why R U OK? Day is such an important reminder, not just to check in on yourself, but also to connect with your family and friends, your village.

A simple question “Are you OK?” can make a big difference. It’s not about having all the answers, but about showing up and letting someone know they’re not alone and to remind yourself that you're not either.

 

How to Check In with Friends and Family

• Coffee Catch-Ups
  Invite a friend for a coffee or even a quick playground meet-up while the kids play. Small chats can open the door to bigger conversations.

• Voice Notes Instead of Texts
  Sometimes it’s easier to share feelings when you hear someone’s voice. A short voice message asking “Hey, how are you really doing?” can feel more personal than a quick text.

• Family Phone Calls
  Reach out to parents, siblings, or relatives, even if it’s just for five minutes. Regular check-ins help take the weight off of everyones shoulders, even across distance.

• Dinner Drop-Offs
  If someone in your circle is struggling, cook a double batch and drop off a meal. Practical help speaks volumes when words are hard to find.

Self-Care Ideas for Parents of Little Ones

• Mini Breaks Count
  Take 5 minutes in the sunshine, journal a thought, or breathe deeply. These micro moments matter.

• Creative Outlet
  Colour in with your kids, paint, or craft. Activities that spark joy can refill your emotional cup.

• Digital Pause
  Switch your phone to “do not disturb” for an hour to give your mind a rest from constant pings.

• Walk and Talk
  Invite a friend or neighbour for a pram walk. Gentle exercise + fresh air + company is a mood booster.

• Group Self-Care
  Organise a craft afternoon or movie night with friends, something fun where you can all relax.

• Shared Childcare Swap
  Take turns watching each other’s kids, even for just an hour. It gives everyone precious alone time and builds stronger connections.

Bringing R U OK? Into Family Life with Kids

While R U OK? Day can feel like a big, heavy topic, it’s really a reminder that little check-ins no matter your age can make the day feel lighter and easier.

• Feelings Check-In: At dinner or bedtime, ask everyone, “What was the best part of your day? What was tricky?” This builds emotional sharing as a family habit.

• Kindness Jar: Add notes about kind things each family member did or noticed. Read them together at the end of the week.

• Craft Together: Make emotion faces with paper plates or with My Creative Box Emotions Dough Sensory Craft Box and talk about what each one means. This helping kids learn what they are feeling. 
  
  R U OK day also has some wonderful resources online which are available HERE.

Where to Find Support

If conversations bring up big feelings, remember you don’t have to carry them alone. Support is available:

• Lifeline – 13 11 14

• Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636

• Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800

• Or visit ruok.org.au or more resources and conversation tips.