Each Child Unique. Each Child Talented. All Children Cherished.
Being a parent can be challenging in everyday situations. Now, more than ever, taking care of your well-being is important. Staying at home more or having to work during a difficult situation can put different pressures on everyone. And if you're struggling, it's okay to reach out for support from friends, families and organisations that are here to help. We want to help you.
Changes to our mental health can sometimes affect children and their well-being. They may pick up on your anxiety or low mood. This doesn't mean you should hide or minimise your feelings. You can try to explain them using phrases like, "It's ok to get big feelings, everyone gets big feelings but it's still the grown up's job to look after the children" or "If grown-up's get big feelings it's not your fault - we can ask other grown-ups for help with our feelings."
When things are different to what we're used to and everyone is going through a big change, it's important to give children reassurance and support.
We hope that this bank of resources in our well-being hub helps the families in our school to look after their mental, emotional and physical well-being.
Useful websites for parents
https://youngminds.org.uk/resources/school-resources/parents-wellbeing/
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/make-it-count-guide-for-parents-and-carers
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zrmhscw
https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/childrens-mental-health/
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
We know it still may not be easy, but try to reintroduce 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 or college.