Play is considered so essential to children’s wellbeing, that it is defined as a basic human right by the United Nations. Play is not just for fun. It’s the principle way in which children learn about themselves and discover what they are capable of. Watch Dr Weston’s top tips on how to facilitate high quality play for your children, especially during the current periods of lockdown and Covid disruption.
In this podcast, Dr Weston talks to Professor Helen Dodd about the crucial importance of play in children’s development. They examine the relationship between adventurous play and anxiety, and discuss how parents can facilitate effective play. As a leading expert on children’s mental health, Professor Dodd also describes the main features of anxiety and when parents should worry.
The wellbeing of all school staff is hugely important. Schools can be challenging places and teaching is a difficult job. Returning to school this year may feel more daunting than most. It’s crucial that everyone working in the school environment cultivates their own resilience, find ways to relax and feel proud of their achievements. Our worksheet will help you to reflect on your worries and plan your goals.
In this podcast, Dr Weston talks to Jarlath O’Brien about special schools, school behaviour management strategies and how schools can build successful parent partnerships. They discuss the impact of COVID-19 and lockdown on children’s behaviour as schools prepare to reopen in September.
In this podcast, Professor Blakemore discusses teenage behaviour, brain development during puberty, the impact of technology and the long term consequences of the COVID-19 lockdown on teenagers.
In this podcast, Dr Weston speaks to Professor Shirley Reynolds about depression in young people, especially in the context of COVID-19. They explore the role that parents can play in spotting symptoms of depression, understanding the disorder and supporting recovery.
In this podcast, neuroscientist Professor Paul Howard-Jones discusses the challenges facing parents and teachers during school closures and gives tips on how to motivate and reward learning. He also dispels some unhelpful misconceptions about the brain and learning.
Listen to Dr Weston’s thoughts on maintaining positive family mental health and wellbeing during the COVID-19 Crisis.
In this podcast, Sir Anthony Seldon discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by the Covid-19 pandemic, especially with regards to students, parents, school leaders and the education system.
This article will give you an idea of when to worry and when not to worry, and what you might say to your teen to help support them during this tricky time.
