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MENTAL HEALTH
feeling worried is normal and the people around them will always do their best to look after them. While schoolwork is important, what really matters is that children feel safe and secure at all times. If they don’t, they’re unlikely to be able to learn effectively. This means that encouraging families to make time just to enjoy being together has to be a priority. Keeping lines of communication open is also vital. Older children need to feel respected for who they are, rather than being judged; otherwise, they’re less likely to open up. When they do, it’s important to recognise that trusted adults in their lives, such as parents and teachers, are likely to be the target of their anger, confusion and feelings of being lost, without being able to express them clearly.
“Older children need to feel respected for who they are rather than being judged; otherwise they’re less likely to open up”
Talking through other difficult situations where your child found a way of getting through can send a powerful message about coping with adversity. The bottom line is that while no single solution can heal a troubled child, the stronger and better supported a school community, the more likely it is to be able to make a difference and help children in our area come through this extraordinary period in their lives with their dreams and wellbeing intact.
Young children often show how they’re feeling through behaviour, so watching and listening can help indicate clues to what’s going on. Children who feel angry or upset may give their toys a bad time, too. Talking to them about this can make it easier for them to explain what’s making them (and their toys) feel upset. Experts also suggest stepping away from highlighting catastrophe – inevitably such a feature of the pandemic – and trying to create a more positive counter-narrative.
CAMBRIDGE EDUCAT ION GUIDE
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