Wellbeing Matters
Ideas to help children and young people in times of uncertainty, grief or change
In times of uncertainty and change, it is normal and natural for children and young people to respond in different ways. Adults can play a vital role in supporting children and young people through the experience.
How might children and young people respond?
- Worried, clingy and uncooperative
- Sad and angry one minute, okay the next
- Frightening thoughts and nightmares
- Regression to earlier behaviours
- Stomach aches and headaches
Adolescents may react in similar, but different ways:
- Mood changes
- Tired and distracted
- Retreating from social networks
- Sleep problems and headaches
Help your child or young person:
- Offer your attention, patience and love
- Calmly listen to your child’s story and encourage your child to ask questions
- Acknowledge and affirm your child’s feelings and help your child to identify helpful ways to manage the feelings
- Encourage your child to ask for help from trusted adults
- Involve your child in decisions that affect them
- Respond to your child’s questions with clear and factual age appropriate information
- Model positive ways to cope and prioritise quality time together
Other ways to help:
- Maintain daily routines as much as possible
- Stay social – create ways to connect with special people and loved ones
- Get active – go for a walk, listen to music, sing, play with a pet
- Be curious – learn a new skill or research an interesting topic together
- Help others – encourages social connections and an “I Can” attitude* Plan fun activities to look forward to
Helpful Hints:
- Children and young people respond in unique ways, and it is helpful to recognise if your child or young person is behaving differently.
- You can’t pour from an empty cup! Look after yourself so you are better able to help the children and young people in your care.
- It’s always ok to seek help if you are unsure.
Our wellbeing staff member Sarah welcomes emails or calls if families wish to debrief or seek support. Sarah can be contacted via email: slangley@shtatura.catholic.edu.au, at the school phone number on Mondays or at 5820 0444 between Tuesday to Friday.