The COVID pandemic was a few years ago now, but its effects are continuing, and so is the cost of living crisis and the squeeze in public spending. Most settings would say they are seeing more children with needs, whether this be lower confidence, more difficulty settling, less ability to manage ups and downs or social challenges, or with gaps in language development or learning. For some, it is like some children seem a year or so “younger” than they are.
Why is this happening still, what exactly is going on, and how can we help? This session draws on key sections of Realising the Ambition, as well as up to date research into adversity and trauma and how these affect young children. The emphasis is practical – what do we see, how do we understand it, what can we do?
Participants will gain:
· Knowledge about the long term effects of adversity and stress on children’s development
· Understanding of individual and family differences in impacts, including positive aspects
· Confidence in identifying impacts and the key issues to focus on
· Ideas for how to help children recover and flourish.