Parent Mental Health and Wellbeing Support
Supporting a child's mental health and wellbeing is one of the most important things we can do together. At Wren Academy Enfield, we believe that strong partnerships between home and school help children feel safe, valued and able to thrive.
Every child experiences worries, setbacks and challenges as they grow. Most of the time, having trusted adults who listen, understand and provide reassurance can make a significant difference. If you are ever concerned about your child's emotional wellbeing, we encourage you to speak to us. We are here to work alongside families and help identify the most appropriate support.
Talking to Your Child
Having regular conversations about feelings helps children develop emotional resilience and know that they can come to you when they need support.
Some helpful ways to start conversations include:
- Choose a quiet time when your child feels relaxed.
- Listen without interrupting or trying to immediately solve the problem.
- Stay calm and avoid judgement.
- Let your child know that all emotions are normal and that it is okay to ask for help.
- Ask open-ended questions such as:
- How has your day been?
- What has been making you smile recently?
- Is there anything that has been worrying you?
- How can I help?
- Reassure your child that they are not alone.
- Encourage healthy routines including sleep, exercise, balanced nutrition and time away from screens.
If you notice ongoing changes in your child's mood, behaviour, attendance, friendships or confidence, please contact your child's Form Tutor or Head of House so that we can support them together.
Trusted Sources of Advice for Parents
The organisations below provide excellent advice, practical guidance and support for parents and carers. We recommend these as reliable, evidence-based sources of information.
NSPCC – Advice for Families
The NSPCC provides comprehensive guidance for parents on supporting children's mental health, behaviour, online safety, bullying, self-harm, bereavement, relationships and many other aspects of growing up.
Visit: https://www.nspcc.org.uk/advice-for-families/
Place2Be – Parenting Smart
Parenting Smart offers short videos and practical advice from child mental health professionals on common parenting challenges, including anxiety, friendships, sleep, behaviour, confidence and emotional wellbeing.
Visit: https://parentingsmart.place2be.org.uk/
YoungMinds – Parents
YoungMinds offers practical advice to help parents understand and support their child's mental health, with information on anxiety, low mood, eating difficulties, self-harm, exam stress and more.
Visit: https://www.youngminds.org.uk/parent/
NHS Every Mind Matters
The NHS provides trusted advice, wellbeing tips and practical tools to help families support positive mental health and build healthy habits.
Visit: https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/
Mind
Mind offers information about mental health conditions, wellbeing and where to access further support for young people and families.
Visit: https://www.mind.org.uk/for-young-people/
Support for Young People
If your child would like to access support themselves, these services are free, confidential and trusted by schools across the UK.
Kooth
Free, anonymous online counselling and emotional wellbeing support for young people, including live chat with qualified counsellors, self-help resources and peer support.
Website: https://www.kooth.com
Childline
Free and confidential support for anyone under 19. Children and young people can speak to a trained counsellor online or by calling 0800 1111.
Website: https://www.childline.org.uk
Shout
A free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging service for anyone who is struggling to cope.
Text: SHOUT to 85258
Website: https://giveusashout.org
The Mix
Support for young people aged 13–25 covering mental health, relationships, education, money, housing and wellbeing.
Website: https://www.themix.org.uk
Crisis Support
If you are concerned that a child or young person is at immediate risk of harm, call 999.
If urgent mental health support is needed but it is not an emergency, contact NHS 111 and select the mental health option where available.
Working Together
At Wren Academy Enfield, we are committed to ensuring every child feels safe, included and supported. Our relational approach, strong pastoral care and network of Trusted Adults help ensure that every student knows there is someone they can turn to.
If you have any concerns about your child's wellbeing, please contact their Form Tutor, Head of House or a member of the pastoral team. We are always happy to listen and work with families to ensure every young person receives the support they need.