‘My Main Worries’ sheet
A parent has kindly informed me that the sheet below, available free on Twinkl, was really helpful in identifying what is on her children’s minds. Although the ‘instructions’ on it refer to an anxiety rating sheet, the more generic worry questions on that particular sheet may not relate to the children’s worries at this time, as things are so different at the moment. You can just use this sheet equally effectively on its own.
More Advice for Homeschooling
Whilst I am very aware that parents are being bombarded with more ‘things to use at home’ than they can possibly use, I am nonetheless attaching the most recent advice I have been sent.
There are useful tips in here for many children, but there is specific advice on SENSORY REGULATION which I feel will be really helpful to some children.
EP Contactline
In these challenging times, the Educational Psychology (EP) Service is trying to ensure that people are getting the support they need.
The ‘contact line’ is a dedicated telephone number, manned by the EP service who will, if necessary, be able to signpost you to someone who can offer more specific advice and support.
This contact line is available Monday-Friday between 2:00-4:30pm via 01992 588574.
Transition to homeschooling
Please see below some useful advice that has been sent out to support parents with managing the transition to homeschooling.
Of course, not all points will be relevant to all learners, but it is worth scrolling through to see if there are any ideas that would be useful to you.
Autism Advice Line
Please see the message below, received from the Communication and Autism Team. This will be a difficult time for many children with ASD, or suspected ASD.
“To support children with communication and autism needs and their families during this unsettled period, the Specialist Advisory Teachers will be extending the hours of our telephone advice line from Monday 23rd March until the schools reopen.
It will be open daily between 10am and 2pm (term time) to provide advice and guidance for parents and carers. If you wish to speak to a Specialist Advisory Teacher please call 01442 453920 during these times.”
Coronavirus social stories and advice
Please find here a couple of social stories that have been written to help children understand a little about the Coronavirus and to ease their worries. The first one is for younger children and the second one for slightly older children. Although we are looking at these stories in school, please consider reading them with your child/ren if they are concerned. The ‘Worry Monster’ in school has been very busy with lots of children worrying about coronavirus-related issues, as a result of the current uncertainty and things they may have heard from various sources. Attached here is also a simple sheet about how to talk to children about the virus.
https://www.learningandwellbeing.org/social-stories
Autism and Anxiety: Supporting your child
Please see below for details of a course offered by Nessie, exploring the links between Autism and Anxiety, providing an opportunity to share experiences and discuss effective support strategies.
Please note that this course is suitable for parents of children aged 9-14 years, pre- or post- diagnosis of Autism.
Anxiety in Children and Young People Course
Please follow the link below to see details of a NESSie training event in collaboration with The Letchworth Centre for Healthy Living. You will need to scroll down to the right course to see the details!
Parent Forum – Anxiety in Children and Young People Wednesday, 25 March 2020 7:30pm to 9:30pm
The Letchworth Centre for Healthy Living, Hitchin Road, Letchworth SG6 3NA
Cost: £10 per person
Booking: https://www.letchworthcentre.org/classes/lunchtime-talks-and-workshops/
Emotional Wellbeing Masterclass
Please see below details of an Emotional Wellbeing course being held for parents of primary aged children on 18th March 2020.