Mental Wellbeing
Although some children have returned to school already, for many, the new Autumn term will be their first time stepping into a classroom since lockdown began. Understandably, this may be a strange or worrying time for some children and parents. We know that supporting children’s mental wellbeing during the return to school is a key priority. To help you, please find the following resources (compiled by the Anna Freud Centre for Children and Families), all focused on making sure the return to classrooms in the Autumn is a mentally healthy one.
Mindfulness Activities
This is a two-week calendar with daily mindfulness activity suggestions. The simple, short activities encourage children to focus on what's around them to find a sense of calm.
Self Care
Help children create their own self-care plan for the summer holidays with this activity pack.
Back to School
Parents can work through this table with their children to explore the things they may be worried about when going back to school, and ways to calm those worries.
In this eight minute film, Dr Jess Richardson, principle clinical psychologist (National and Specialist CAMHS and Maudsley), provides straightforward, important suggestions for parents to deal with any potential apprehension or anxiety children may experience on returning to school. It is recommended that you also view the accompanying fact sheet.
If you have concerns about your child’s mental health over the summer break, you should seek support. You can find a list of support available in our area via the Youth Wellbeing Directory, or a list of helplines in the Anna Freud resource library.
You could also contact: SHOUT - text ‘Shout’ to 85258 for 24/7 crisis text support
Childline - under 19s can call 0800 1111 for free support
Young Minds Parents’ Helpline - Call 0808 802 5544 for free Mon-Fri from 9.30am to 4pm