It is crucial that we look after our mental health, in the same way that we take care of our physical health.
Top tips from the NHS to support children and young people
- Be there to listen: Regularly ask how they’re doing so they get used to talking about their feelings and know there’s always someone to listen if they want it. Find out how to create a space where they will open up. How to start a conversation with your child
- Support them through difficulties: Pay attention to their emotions and behaviour, and try to help them work through difficulties. It’s not always easy when faced with challenging behaviour, but try to help them understand what they’re feeling and why. Help with difficult behaviour and emotions
- Stay involved in their life: Show interest in their life and the things important to them. It not only helps them value who they are but also makes it easier for you to spot problems and support them.
- Encourage their interests: Being active or creative, learning new things and being a part of a team help connect us with others and are important ways we can all help our mental health. Support and encourage them to explore their interests, whatever they are.
- Take what they say seriously: Listening to and valuing what they say, without judging their feelings, in turn makes them feel valued. Consider how to help them process and work through their emotions in a more constructive way. The Anna Freud Centre support guide
- Build positive routines: We know it is not easy but try to have structure around regular routines, healthy eating and exercise. A good night’s sleep is also really important – try to get them back into routines that fit with school.
ELSA
Mrs Hope is our school ELSA and supports children by giving them practical strategies. There is more information in this leaflet. Please speak to your class teacher to find out how to refer your child to this service.
MIND
Our school is very fortunate to be working with MIND. A Wellbeing Support Team is working with our school to promote the emotional wellbeing of children. Please speak to Miss Coleman or Miss Carruthers if you would like to be referred.
Previous editions of the newsletter can be found below and here.
Playtherapy
We are very fortunate to have Tim, our play therapist, who works with a few children. If you have concerns about your child and would like to explore the option of play therapy, please speak to Miss Coleman. Please note that places are limited.
Ollee
Ollee is a helpful digital friend who can give you advice on lots of different things.
Created by Parent Zone with funding from BBC Children in Need’s A Million & Me initiative, Ollee is there to help children reflect on their feelings and to process their experiences with the support and help from their families. Ollee offers lots of advice and support on some difficult topics.
Pick from a range of areas, say how you are feeling and then Ollee will give you some advice to help you feel more happy about the situation again. Click here to visit the website and talk to Ollee.
