Wellbeing and Inclusion
Sometimes I Need to Talk
Sometimes things happen that I don't know how to handle. I might feel worried, embarrassed, confused, angry or upset. Sometimes I want to tell you, but I don't know how to start.
Sometimes I don't tell you because I'm worried you might:
- get angry or disappointed in me
- tell me off or punish me
- think I've done something wrong
- tell me that it's "not a big deal"
- give me a big lecture when I just need you to listen
- become worried or upset, and then I feel like I need to look after you.
Sometimes I keep things to myself because I'm embarrassed or because I think I should be able to sort things out on my own.
What helps me talk to you?
Listen first. Sometimes I don't need you to fix the problem straight away. I just need you to listen and understand.
Stay calm. Even if what I tell you surprises you, staying calm helps me feel safe enough to keep talking.
Take my feelings seriously. Something that seems small to you might feel really big to me. You don't have to agree with how I feel. Just letting me know you understand can help.
Ask me questions, but give me time. I might not have all the words straight away. Give me time to think and tell you what happened in my own way.
Help me work it out. I don't always need you to solve everything for me. Sometimes I need you to help me think about what I could do next.
Remind me that mistakes are okay. I need to know that I can tell you when I've made a mistake, or something hasn't gone to plan. I am still learning.
Let me know I don't have to handle everything alone. Sometimes asking for help is the bravest thing I can do.
Most of all...
I need to know that I can come to you, even when something is difficult, embarrassing or uncomfortable.
You don't have to have all the answers.
Sometimes, the best thing you can say is:
“Thank you for telling me. I'm listening. We can work this out together.”
Because when I know you will listen, understand and help me, I'm more likely to come back and talk to you when I really need you.