A frequent conversation I have with my therapist hat on, is surrounding emotionally based school avoidance and return to school plans. Having worked as a teacher, as well as therapist, in addition to supporting many children with return to school plans, the focus is always on: Creating a sense of safety for the brain Rebuilding […]
Phased Returns and School Avoidance Read More »
Whilst the understanding of the concept of mental health has increased, especially since the lockdowns, there is a gap between awareness and understanding. For some, their awareness is coupled with effective strategies, whilst for others their awareness is yet to be supported with understanding of the ‘how’. We can often, also get lost in looking
7 ways that we can support children in the classroom Read More »
Starting school can be a scary time, not just for children, but also for parents and teachers. After all, as much as we want them to have fun, I meet many parents who are terrified of the thought of their children going off to school, and some teachers who question themselves and the strategies that
Preparing Children for School Transitions Read More »
Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA) refers to a child or adolescent who has difficulty attending school. The attendance at school creates uncomfortable emotions such as stress and anxiety and this can cause both physical and emotional symptoms. The difficulty with Emotionally Based School Avoidance is that avoiding school escalates the feelings of anxiety, and this
What is Emotionally Based School Avoidance? Read More »
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a disorder which is categorised into two parts: Inattention (concentration and focus) Hyperactivity and impulsivity Whilst most people with ADHD have difficulties in both areas, some only fall into one category. Where challenges do not demonstrate in hyperactivity, a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is given. It is
6 Strategies to Support Children with ADHD Read More »
The mere utterance of the word ‘Exams’, can often cause people to break out in a cold sweat. Whether it’s now or 10years ago, the concept of exams is often associated with a fight – flight – freeze response of some sorts. The pressure which is exerted, whether verbally or through association can often cause
5 Things to Consider for Exams Read More »
The word of the moment is ‘mock exams’. For those sitting their exams this summer there is frustration and conflict whilst we wait to hear of the format of GCSEs and A-Levels. In my therapy office, I have already noticed the shift in worries and anxiety surrounding exam outcomes, perhaps higher than usual. Being the
Top Tips for Starting Exam Revision Read More »
As the world prepares for the return to school, parents up and down the country are getting the uniforms ready, purchasing new school shoes and packing lunch boxes…. But what else do we need to consider to prepare our children for a successful return to school? Get organised Double check school lists and requirements Make
Top Tips for Supporting the Return to School Read More »
With assessments underway for this years GCSEs and A-Levels, are there additional considerations that we need to make for young people’s well-being and mental health after a year of disruptions? Whilst every year’s assessments can cause stress and anxiety to young people sitting exams, following the disruptions to education from the pandemic, taking into consideration
Supporting Teen Mental Health Post Exams Read More »
Exams and assessments frequently bring with them stress and anxiety. Whether it is about the exam itself, finding motivation or the fear of failure, many young people struggle with the impending timetable. Whilst some stress is motivational (it shows us that our exams matter to us) we can reduce the unnecessary stress by taking control
10 Revision Tips for Children’s Exams Read More »
