Checking in with parents/families telephonically during lockdown using the 6 principles of nurture:
- The Classroom offers a safe base
- Is everyone safe and well in the household?
- Has anyone been ill?
- How are you in terms of having the basic things that you need – food, wifi, etc.
- How are finding your home environment?
- Do you have a garden?
- Is there anything you need to keep you safe and well?
- Language is a vital means of communication
- Have you been you able to connect with friends and loved ones during lockdown? – how?
- How are you finding communicating with teachers/school during lockdown?
- Is your child able to communicate with their teachers?
- Do you have any news to share about what your child has been doing?
- The importance of transition in children’s lives
- How have you found the transition from school to home learning?
- How is your child coping with the transition – what are they finding easy and difficult?
- Is there a good daily routine in place?
- All behaviour is communication
- Are you seeing any kinds of behaviour that is causing you concern – what do you think is behind it?
- Are you noticing any positive changes of behaviour in your child since they have been learning from home?
- The importance of nurture for the development of wellbeing
Some ways you can nurture yourself and your family:
- Have at least 1 meal a day together
- Set aside time for play and creative pursuits
- Try to spend some time outdoors every day
- Go on walks and move your body
- Connect with people you love and who make you happy
- Children’s learning is understood developmentally
Remember that you and your child/family are going through a period of huge change, where things can feel confusing, scary, and uncertain. Remind yourself that you are not alone. You belong to a school that cares about you and your family. This time of difficulty will not last forever.