Some children may be happy to talk about their concerns whilst others may find it more difficult and clam up.

Never force a child to talk or ‘interview’ them as this may increase their levels of anxiety Instead create a safe and familiar environment where talking is likely to occur naturally. Examples of such situations may include cooking, reading together or going for a walk.

If a child does share with you it is important that you thank and reassure them. Tell them that you will do your best to find a way to help them with what is on their mind.

Good conversation starters (ask open questions):

• What are you enjoying about today?
• What’s the hardest thing for you at the moment?
• When you are missing your friends from school – what helps?
• How do you feel about things changing?
• When you feel uncertain what is it you do that makes you feel better?
• What worries you the most?

If your child responds, be sure to attune and validate, for example, “I can see that you are really worried about that” or “That must be really hard for you” Don’t try and offer a ‘quick fix’ – instead tell them that it is okay to feel like that and offer reassurance.