Happy kids, smarter futures: Childhood happiness could be Australia’s best investment

By Priscilla Roberts

What if the secret to Australia’s future success – from classrooms to workplaces – was as simple as raising happier children?

Neuroscience shows that childhood happiness is far more than a ‘feel-good bonus’.  

A growing body of Australian and international research proves that children who feel safe, connected and valued develop stronger brains, learn more easily, and overcome life’s challenges with greater grit.

According to CQUniversity Education Neuroscience expert, Professor Ken Purnell, happiness is the biological foundation for learning, resilience and lifelong wellbeing.

“When children feel safe, connected and valued, their brains release dopamine, a powerful chemical that strengthens pathways linked to memory, motivation and learning,” explained Professor Purnell.

“On the other hand, ongoing stress and unhappiness raise cortisol levels and hinder a child’s ability to thrive. Brains under stress are busy surviving, not learning.”

Australian studies confirm that friendships and supportive school environments – not family wealth – are among the strongest predictors of children’s happiness and academic success. 

In other words, the best investment for Australia’s future isn’t necessarily in more resources, but in building environments where every child feels they belong.

Professor Purnell believes happiness doesn’t mean constant smiles or a carefree childhood.

“It means giving children stable relationships, opportunities to learn from mistakes, and the space to form meaningful friendships,” Professor Purnell said.

“It also means teaching them to manage setbacks, so they grow into resilient, adaptable adults.”

Five simple steps to raise happier, more successful kids

• Build positive, stable relationships and a sense of belonging for every child
• Celebrate effort and progress – not just top test scores
• Create supportive environments where mistakes are seen as opportunities to learn
• Give time for play and friendships, especially during school transitions
• Encourage open conversations about feelings and teach skills for handling setbacks

Professor Purnell says that by prioritising wellbeing, parents and educators can give children the tools they need to flourish in school, careers and relationships.

“Childhood happiness is the fuel for building smarter, more resilient adults – and a stronger Australia,” he said.

CQUniversity’s pioneering discipline of Educational Neuroscience continues to explore how brain science can support learning and health and wellbeing across all stages of life.