Free online workshop gives parents practical tools to help children cope with school changes and transitions
Parents and carers can access a free online workshop designed to help children and young people navigate the changes and transitions that often come with a new school year.
The workshop, which has been pre-recorded and can be accessed at any time, is delivered by Dr Lucy Hunn and Oliwia Kujawa from Norfolk and Suffolk Foundation Trust’s Psychology in Schools Team. It provides practical advice, guidance and resources to help families support children who may be feeling anxious or uncertain about upcoming changes.
For many children and young people, the summer holidays can mark the beginning of significant transitions, including moving to a new year group, changing classes, meeting a new teacher or starting at a new school. While some children embrace change, others can find it overwhelming.
Dr Lucy Hunn said: “Children and young people often take comfort from routine and familiarity because that helps them feel safe. Changes such as moving class, getting a new teacher or starting a new school can create uncertainty and anxiety because they don't know what to expect.
“They also have very little control over many of these changes, which can leave them feeling powerless. On top of that, transitions can involve changes to important relationships, whether that's a trusted teacher or established friendship groups.
“It's important for parents and carers to understand that it is completely normal for children to find change difficult, even when it's a positive change.”
The workshop will also help parents recognise signs that a child may be struggling with transition. Some children may become withdrawn, while others may express their worries through anger or frustration. Environmental changes, such as a different school layout, unfamiliar smells or new surroundings, can also have an impact on emotional wellbeing.
A key focus of the session is building resilience, helping children develop the skills they need to cope with challenges and adapt to change over time.
Dr Hunn added: “Children are often far more resilient than we give them credit for. While some young people adapt quickly, others need more support and a little longer to adjust. The good news is there are lots of simple things families can do to help build resilience and confidence.”
The workshop explores the Five Ways to Wellbeing, practical approaches that can help children manage stress and build emotional resilience:
- Connect - developing positive relationships and spending time with others can reduce stress and strengthen support networks.
- Be active - meaningful movement and physical activity can help relieve stress and boost mood.
- Take notice - encouraging children to focus on the present moment through activities such as arts and crafts, baking, Lego or puzzles can help calm busy minds and create a sense of achievement.
- Keep learning - providing opportunities to learn and develop new skills can build confidence and self-esteem.
- Give - acts of kindness towards others and ourselves can promote positive emotions and strengthen relationships.
The session also offers practical advice on supporting children through transitions, including creating space for them to talk about their feelings, validating their worries and reassuring them that it is okay to find change challenging.
Parents and carers will learn how to support children at their own pace, helping them develop the important life skill of managing and tolerating change.
The workshop includes a range of useful resources and guidance, including information to support children moving from primary to secondary school, such as a Year 6 to Year 7 transition booklet.
You can view the workshop on the NSFT’s YouTube channel here or via the NSFT website: www.nsft.nhs.uk
Parents can also sign-up to free future workshops here: Psychology in Schools Team - NSFT
Upcoming workshops include:
- Supporting your child/adolescent with anxiety
- Childhood Neurodivergence: What you need to know as a parent/carer
- Supporting your child/young person to manage their big feelings
- Understanding and supporting sleep difficulties