Adolescence is everywhere. The new Netflix series has sparked a much-needed national conversation around misogyny, toxic masculinity, social media and smartphone use, and how teachers, parents and carers can better connect with young people.
The reaction to Adolescence from educators
The reaction to the series and views on what the next steps should be have been wide-ranging. There are calls for secondary schools to show the series to students, calls for better role models for young boys, calls for Big Tech firms to be held accountable. Articles and social media posts from international commentators questioned whether it was an accurate reflection of schools or young people.
Whilst the show is dramatised, it is the reality facing children and young people across the UK. Educators in our own networks have confirmed this.
It’s a difficult but important watch. And as educators, it can leave you feeling overwhelmed.
The reaction to Adolescence from young people
For young people who have already watched the programme, it may have brought up intense feelings that they’re trying to process. For schools looking to show the series to their pupils, we highly recommend using healthy relationship experts Tender’s guides to support your conversations. Tender and nurtureuk are delivering the Inclusive and Nurturing Schools Programme, commissioned by the London VRU, which aims to keep children safe, supported, and succeeding in school, tackle exclusions, and ensure children and young people have healthy relationship behaviours and attitudes.
The series is likely to provoke complex and heated conversations for young people, so it’s crucial these are handled in a safe way. It is also important that it is not a one-off conversation, but an ongoing dialogue in a supportive environment.
The Six Principles of Nurture applied to young people
Better role models are also a positive step, but does it go far enough? We should never underestimate the power of a key safe adult and relational approaches for pupils. A key adult who understands the Six Principles of Nurture - particularly that all behaviour is communication - could provide the early intervention needed to prevent extreme views and escalation of behaviour.
The significance of the Six Principles of Nurture does not diminish as children enter adolescence. In fact, this period of rapid physical, emotional, and cognitive change makes a nurturing approach just as, if not more, crucial.
Young people are navigating complex social landscapes, forming their identities, and facing increasing academic and societal pressures. The consistent application of these Principles can provide the safe and supportive foundation they need to flourish.
All behaviour is communication
Young people may express their needs, frustrations, or distress through their behaviour. A nurturing approach seeks to understand the underlying message - what are they trying to communicate? Are they feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or struggling with something? By looking beyond the surface behaviour, adults can address the root causes and provide appropriate support and guidance, helping teenagers develop healthier coping mechanisms.
The importance of nurture for the development of wellbeing
Adolescence is a period where challenges can emerge or be exacerbated. Consistent nurturing relationships with trusted adults – teachers, parents, mentors – provide vital emotional support. Feeling valued, listened to, and cared for helps build resilience, promotes positive self-esteem, and offers a buffer against stress and anxiety. Nurture during this time contributes significantly to their overall wellbeing and their ability to cope with the challenges they face.
In episode two, we see a glimpse of what a trusted adult and safe base looks like for pupil Jade, in the form of Mrs Bailey, following Jade’s fight with Ryan on the playground. The scene suggests a strong bond between the two, as Mrs Bailey attempts to help Jade process her feelings following the murder of her best friend.
The classroom offers a safe base
A safe base, whether it's a classroom, a youth group, or the home environment, provides a predictable and supportive space where young people feel accepted and understood. This security allows them to express their vulnerabilities and develop a sense of belonging, which is crucial for their emotional wellbeing.
Language as a vital means of communication
As young people develop, they need to develop their communication skills to articulate complex thoughts and feelings. Adults play a crucial role in modelling clear, respectful communication and actively listening to young people. Creating opportunities for open dialogue, understanding their perspectives, and helping them find the language to express themselves effectively empowers them, strengthens relationships, and reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings and conflict.
The series also highlights the importance of adults understanding the language young people are currently communicating through. In episode two, DI Bascombe’s son explains the meaning behind the emojis the young people were using on Instagram - something the police had misunderstood until that point.
Children’s learning is understood developmentally
Applying this principle means recognising these individual differences. Young people mature at different rates – emotionally, socially, and intellectually. Understanding their developmental stage, rather than just their age, allows educators and parents to tailor support and challenges appropriately, fostering engagement and preventing feelings of being overwhelmed or held back.
The importance of transitions in children’s lives
Adolescence is a period marked by numerous significant transitions. Each transition brings its own set of challenges and anxieties. A nurturing environment acknowledges the significance of these changes and provides proactive support. This might involve open communication about what to expect, opportunities to ask questions, and emotional reassurance to help young people navigate these shifts with greater confidence and less stress.
Adolescence and The Six Principles of Nurture
The Six Principles of Nurture are a vital framework for supporting the healthy development and wellbeing of young people. By fostering effective communication and recognising behaviour as communication, providing a safe base, prioritising their wellbeing, supporting them through transitions, and understanding their developmental stage, we can empower young people to navigate the complexities of adolescence, build resilience, and flourish into well-adjusted adults.
Embracing these Principles in our interactions with children and young people is an investment in their future and the creation of a more supportive and understanding society.
Marketing & Campaigns Manager | nurtureuk
Product Development Manager | nurtureuk