The past few years have brought unique pressures for families, including the COVID-19 pandemic, social changes, and academic expectations. These challenges can impact children and young people in different ways, such as:

• Feeling anxious or upset about school, friendships, or family situations.
• Struggling to cope with change, loss, or uncertainty.
• Experiencing low self-esteem, withdrawal, or changes in behaviour.

It is important to acknowledge that while many children manage with the support of family and friends, some may need additional help to address persistent difficulties affecting their daily lives.

Supporting a child or young person with their emotional wellbeing can be challenging, but small, meaningful steps can make a big difference. Here are ten practical tips to help:

• Accept and understand their feelings: acknowledge their emotions without judgement. Take the time to educate yourself about their struggles and validate their feelings with phrases like, “It’s okay to feel this way.”
• Create a safe space to talk: encourage open conversations by providing a calm, non-judgemental environment. Listen without interrupting or dismissing their concerns to help them feel heard and valued.
• Establish structure and routine: consistent routines around sleep, meals, and activities provide stability and a sense of security, especially during uncertain times.
• Incorporate positive activities: engage in activities that promote mental wellbeing, such as walks, creative arts, or hobbies your child enjoys. These can serve as healthy distractions and opportunities to connect.
• Encourage healthy voping mechanisms: support your child in finding positive ways to manage stress, such as practising mindfulness, talking to friends, or exploring hobbies. Encourage these practices regularly.
• Watch for warning signs: stay alert to changes in behaviour, such as withdrawal, mood swings, or frequent physical complaints like headaches. These could indicate a deeper issue that needs attention.
• Seek professional support when needed: if symptoms persist or become severe, consult your child's GP or health visitor, and the school's pastoral support team: school pastoral leads (Senior Assistant Headteacher – Care, Guidance & Support, and Assistant Headteacher – Behaviour, Attendance & Enrichment); SENCO; Heads of Learning and Assistant Heads of Learning for each year group; the Sixth Form Emotional Wellbeing Officer; form tutors; two school counsellors; and pastoral support officers for KS3/KS4, and KS5. Local mental health services like CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services).
• Create opportunities to connect: spend quality time with your child doing things they enjoy. Shared activities like playing games, walking, or cooking together can build trust and encourage communication.
• Look after yourself: prioritise your mental health and wellbeing. When you’re well-supported and balanced, you’ll be better equipped to help your child navigate their challenges.
• Hold on to hope: stay optimistic, even during tough times. Remind your child that things can improve and that they’re not alone. Your belief in a brighter future can provide stability and reassurance.

These practical steps, rooted in the experiences of parents, carers, and experts, serve as a helpful guide. Remember, every child is unique, and it’s okay to take time to find what works best. Seek professional help if needed and approach the journey one step at a time.

• If your child’s life is in immediate danger, call 999 or visit A&E.
• For urgent mental health advice, contact your local 24-hour mental health helpline or the NHS at 111.

It can be difficult when your child doesn’t feel ready to open up, but there are ways to gently encourage communication:

• Reassure them: let your child know it’s okay if they don’t want to talk right now. Remind them that you’re always available when they’re ready. You could say things like “You can talk to me; I’m here for you.”; “It’s okay to talk to someone else if that feels easier.”
• Explore alternative communication: if talking feels too daunting for your child, suggest writing a letter, sending a text, or drawing how they feel. Sometimes expressing emotions in non-verbal ways can feel less overwhelming.
• Choose the right moment: observe their mood and pick a time when they seem calm and more open to interaction. Sometimes, forcing a conversation can cause them to withdraw further.
• Engage in shared activities: many children find it easier to talk when their focus is on a shared activity, such as going for a walk, cooking, or doing a creative task. These settings can create a more relaxed atmosphere for conversation.
• Be patient and observant: even if your child isn’t talking, pay attention to their behaviour and emotions. Look out for signs of distress, and gently remind them that you’re there to support them when they’re ready.

If your child opens up about their struggles, it’s essential to respond with care and compassion:

• Validate their feelings: let them know their emotions are understandable and that it’s okay to feel the way they do. For example, say, “It makes sense that you’re feeling this way.”
• Thank them for sharing: acknowledge the courage it took for them to open up. Phrases like, “Thank you for telling me. I’m here for you,” can be reassuring.
• Offer reassurance: let your child know they are not alone and that you will work through this together. Emphasise that their feelings are temporary, and that support is available.
• Ask how you can help: rather than assuming what they need, ask questions like, “What would help you feel better?” or “Is there something I can do to support you right now?”
• Explore the cause: talk about what might be triggering their struggles. It could be related to school, friendships, or other changes in their life. Working together to identify causes can guide you in finding solutions.
• Provide access to support: share information about helplines, text services, or trusted adults they can turn to if they feel uncomfortable sharing with you.
• Focus on listening, not fixing: avoid trying to solve everything immediately. Sometimes, just being there and listening without judgement can be the most valuable form of support.
• Know when to seek professional help: if their struggles seem severe or persistent, reach out to a GP or the school pastoral team: the school pastoral leads (Senior Assistant Headteacher – Care, Guidance & Support, and Assistant Headteacher – Behaviour, Attendance & Enrichment); SENCO; Heads of Learning and Assistant Heads of Learning for each year group; the Sixth Form Emotional Wellbeing Officer; form tutors; two school counsellors; and pastoral support officers for KS3 & KS4, and KS5). Early intervention can make a significant difference.
• Follow up: after the initial conversation, check in regularly to show that you care and are thinking about them.
• Avoid high-stress moments for serious discussions: wait until your child is calm to address deeper concerns or seek solutions. Heightened emotions can make problem-solving more challenging.

Listening and responding with empathy can make a profound impact. Always remember that professional support is available if your child’s needs go beyond what you can manage at home.

Looking after your own wellbeing enables you to better support your child. Take time to recharge and reach out for help if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Parenting through emotional challenges can be difficult, but help is always available. By fostering open communication, creating a supportive environment, and seeking appropriate help when needed, you’re already making a positive difference in your child’s life.

For more advice or to access our school’s pastoral support services, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Together, we can help ensure the emotional wellbeing of every child in our school community.