Practical Advice for Parents and Carers

Children experience a wide range of emotions as they grow and develop. Feeling worried, frustrated, sad or overwhelmed is a normal part of childhood, but sometimes children need a little extra help to understand and manage their feelings.

At Winford Church of England Primary School, we believe that children's emotional wellbeing is just as important as their physical health.

Our Christian vision, Together we Flourish, reminds us of the importance of caring for ourselves and one another. By working together, we can help children feel safe, understood and supported.

Recognising When Your Child May Need Support

Children do not always have the words to explain how they are feeling. Sometimes their emotions are communicated through changes in behaviour.

You might notice that your child:

• Seems more worried, tearful, angry or irritable than usual.

• Becomes quieter, withdrawn or less interested in activities they normally enjoy.

• Has difficulty sleeping or experiences changes in appetite.

• Complains regularly of headaches, stomach aches or feeling unwell.

• Finds it difficult to separate from parents or becomes reluctant to attend school.

• Experiences changes in friendships or struggles with social situations.

• Needs more reassurance or becomes upset more easily.

These changes do not necessarily mean that your child has a mental health difficulty. However, if they persist, become more intense or begin to affect everyday life, it may be helpful to explore what is happening.

You know your child best. If something doesn't seem right, it is always worth having a conversation.

How Can I Support My Child at Home?

Small, everyday actions can make a significant difference to children's emotional wellbeing.

Make Time to Talk

Create regular opportunities for conversation without pressure.

Some children find it easier to talk while walking, playing, drawing or travelling in the car rather than sitting face-to-face.

Try asking open questions such as:

• "What was the best part of your day?"

• "Was anything tricky today?"

• "Is there anything you've been thinking or worrying about?"

Let your child know that they can talk to you about anything, even when it feels difficult.

Listen and Acknowledge Their Feelings

Children need to know that their feelings are taken seriously.

Rather than immediately trying to solve a problem, acknowledge how they feel.

You might say:

• "That sounds really difficult."

• "I can see why that made you upset."

• "It's okay to feel worried. Let's think about what might help."

Children are more likely to share their worries when they feel heard and understood.

Keep Routines Predictable

Familiar routines can help children feel secure, particularly during times of change or uncertainty.

Regular mealtimes, bedtime routines and opportunities for rest can provide reassurance and stability.

If something is going to change, try to explain what will happen in advance.

Help Children Manage Big Feelings

Children are still learning how to recognise and regulate their emotions.

You can support them by helping them name their feelings and practise calming strategies.

These might include:

• Taking slow, gentle breaths.

• Spending time in a quiet, comfortable space.

• Drawing, colouring or listening to music.

• Going outside for fresh air and movement.

• Talking to a trusted adult.

• Using familiar strategies from the Zones of Regulation.

Different strategies work for different children. The important thing is finding what helps your child feel calmer and more in control.

Make Time for Connection and Enjoyment

Playing, laughing and spending time together are important for emotional wellbeing.

Shared activities do not need to be expensive or complicated. Reading together, cooking, playing a game, gardening or going for a walk can all provide valuable opportunities to connect.

Build Confidence and Resilience

Encourage children to try new things, solve manageable problems and recognise their achievements.

Praise effort, perseverance and progress rather than focusing only on outcomes.

Help children understand that mistakes, disappointments and challenges are part of learning and growing.

When Worries Affect School

Sometimes emotional difficulties can affect how children feel about coming to school.

You might notice increased anxiety on school mornings, reluctance to attend, physical complaints or worries about friendships and learning.

If this happens, please talk to us as early as possible.

We will work with you to understand what may be contributing to your child's worries and agree appropriate ways to support them.

We recognise that difficulties attending school can be complex. Our approach is to listen, understand the barriers and work collaboratively with families, rather than simply focusing on attendance figures.

Early conversations often help prevent worries from becoming bigger problems.

When Should I Seek Additional Help?

Many childhood worries improve with reassurance, understanding and consistent support.

However, it may be helpful to seek further advice if:

• Your child's difficulties continue for several weeks or are getting worse.

• Their emotions are significantly affecting sleep, eating, friendships or everyday activities.

• They are regularly distressed or finding it difficult to attend school.

• They seem persistently unhappy, anxious or withdrawn.

• Their behaviour changes suddenly or you are concerned about their safety.

• Your child's GP can offer advice and help you explore whether specialist support may be appropriate.

  You can also contact school to discuss your concerns. We may be able to offer additional support or help you identify other services.

  You do not need to wait for a crisis before asking for help.

  Working Together with School

  We know that families sometimes face challenging circumstances, including bereavement, separation, illness, changes at home or other pressures.

  These experiences can affect children's feelings and behaviour, even when they do not talk openly about them.

  Sharing relevant information with school can help us understand your child's needs and respond sensitively.

  If you have concerns, please speak to your child's class teacher in the first instance. You can also contact our SENCO, Ms Pauline Adams, or Headteacher, Mrs Campbell.

  We will listen, respect your concerns and work with you to identify helpful next steps.

  School Office: 01275 472730

  Email: office@winfordprimary.com

  Further Advice and Support

  We have brought together a range of trusted organisations, local services and helpful resources for families who would like additional information or support.

  These include advice about children's anxiety, emotional wellbeing, parenting challenges and accessing specialist services.

  Advice, Support and Resources for Wellbeing

  You can also explore our Five Ways to Wellbeing page for simple activities that children and families can enjoy together.

  Remember

  Every child is different, and there is no single approach that works for everyone.

  Children do not need to feel happy all the time. Learning to understand and manage a range of emotions is an important part of growing up.

  What matters most is that children know they are loved, listened to and supported, and that help is available when they need it.

  At Winford, we are committed to working in partnership with families so that every child feels safe, valued and able to flourish.

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  Together we Flourish

  Aspire • Belong • Care