Finding Balance: Transitioning into Term 4 with Care and Intention

Carol Hegan
Oct 15
3 min read

As we step into Term 4, many families begin to feel the shift — the weather warms, school calendars fill up, and our days start to feel a little more hurried. In the Pilbara, this time of year can bring extra layers of fatigue and overstimulation — not only from the heat but also from the sheer number of end-of-year events, transitions, and expectations that start appearing on the calendar.

At Grow Therapy Services, we know that for many neurodivergent children (and their families), Term 4 can be one of the most challenging parts of the year. It’s also an important time to pause, reflect, and make intentional decisions about therapy and supports that feel right for your child and your family’s energy levels.

Reflecting on What Your Child Needs Right Now

Every child’s needs shift across the year — and so do yours. Term 4 is a great opportunity to reflect on:

Energy levels: Is your child showing signs of fatigue or sensory overload from school, after-school commitments, or the changing weather?
Emotional bandwidth: Are they managing transitions and upcoming changes well, or starting to feel unsettled as routines shift?
Your family rhythm: Are you all needing more downtime together, slower weekends, or less structure as the year winds down?

Remember — it’s okay if your child (or you) are not in the space for intensive therapy right now. Growth happens in many ways, and sometimes the most powerful progress comes from rest, regulation, and connection.

Flexible Ways Therapy Can Continue

Therapy doesn’t always need to look like a structured 1:1 session in a clinic. Here are some creative and meaningful ways to maintain support through Term 4 while respecting your family’s bandwidth:

1. Parent or Carer Check-In Sessions

Instead of direct sessions with your child, you might choose to meet with your therapist to reflect on progress, troubleshoot challenges, and prepare for upcoming transitions. These can be held online or after hours to fit your family’s schedule.

2. School Liaison or Planning Sessions

Your therapist can connect with your child’s educators to discuss what supports will help them manage the rest of the term — or prepare for new teachers and classrooms in the year ahead. This ensures consistency across home and school without adding another appointment to your child’s week.

3. Therapy-at-Home Ideas

Ask your therapist for simple, low-pressure activities that align with your child’s current goals — like sensory play routines, emotional regulation visuals, or communication practice embedded into daily life. These can be done in your own time, at your own pace.

4. Short Check-In or Transition Blocks

For some families, shorter or less frequent sessions may feel more achievable. For example, fortnightly appointments or 30-minute sessions that focus on transition support or skill maintenance.

Navigating Term 4 Realities in the Pilbara

We know that living and learning in the Pilbara adds unique factors to consider:

The heat can increase sensory discomfort, fatigue, and emotional regulation challenges. Plan for hydration, cool-down activities, and flexible scheduling when possible.
End-of-year events — concerts, assemblies, and graduations — can be exciting but also overwhelming. It’s okay to pick and choose what your family attends, or to leave early if needed.
Upcoming transitions — moving into new classrooms, teachers, or routines — can bring anxiety. Building predictability and preparation into your weeks can make a big difference.

Empowering Your Decision-Making

There’s no “right” way to continue therapy in Term 4. What matters most is what’s sustainable, supportive, and kind to your family.

You might choose to:

Continue therapy at a consistent pace to maintain progress and stability.
Shift to a coaching model where parents receive guidance instead of direct sessions.
Pause for the term to rest and reset, with a plan to resume in the new year.

Each option is valid — and our team is here to support whichever path feels right for you.

Moving Forward with Intention

Term 4 doesn’t have to feel rushed or overwhelming. It can be a time to slow down, celebrate small wins, and focus on connection — knowing that the most meaningful growth often happens when children feel safe, rested, and understood.

If you’re unsure what the best option looks like for your family, reach out to your Grow Therapy Services clinician. Together, we can find a balance that meets your child’s needs while giving your family space to breathe.

Grow Therapy Services

Empowering neurodivergent children and families to learn, play, and grow — in ways that truly fit them