9-year-old Olivia* has already faced some difficult realities in her young life. Her dad became very poorly, which left Olivia feeling incredibly anxious and angry. Her teachers noticed how it was difficult for her to control her emotions at school, where she would often lash out at those around her.
Olivia’s teacher decided it was the right time for her to return to Go Beyond knowing her first break provided true respite. She arrived at the Centre full of anxiety and clutching her toy monkey that she relies on for emotional support. However her break at Go Beyond proved to be just what she needed.
There were several defining moments for Olivia where she opened up to adults in a way that she struggled to in the past. With one special moment happening on a trip to the beach. Olivia felt free, running across the shore and creating sandcastles with her new friends. After splashing in the waves, Olivia sat with a Break Leader to enjoy a delicious ice cream, when something remarkable happened. Olivia opened up:
“No one understands what I have to go through at home”
This simple, powerful moment marked a huge breakthrough. It showed that all Olivia needed was a safe space, a caring adult, and a little time to feel ready to open up about the things weighing so heavily on her.
Moments like these, what we call ice cream moments, are at the heart of what makes a Go Beyond break so special. They are the turning points, often wrapped in joy and connection, that help children begin to process difficult emotions and feel seen, supported, and valued.
Olivia’s break helped her see that she didn’t have to face everything alone. She began expressing her emotions in a healthier way and, for the first time in a long while, let someone in. Her mum was amazed when Olivia spoke openly about her dad, something she rarely does at home or school.
Hearing from Olivia’s mum just how much of an impact the break had made was incredibly moving. It reminded us why these moments matter so much. When children find the courage to share how they’re feeling, and realise they are not alone, it creates a powerful sense of hope that stays with them long after they return home.
We hope Olivia’s ice cream moment, where she felt safe, seen, and heard, stays with her as she grows, reminding her that she is never alone, her feelings matter, and that she can be proud of how brave she was to share her story.
*Names and some details have been changed to protect the children
