Counsel on Social and Emotional Wellbeing-Child

Counsel on Social and Emotional Wellbeing-Child

Counsel on Social and Emotional Wellbeing

Summary of Recommendation and Evidence

Population

Recommendation

Grade
(What's This?)

Screening of both Genders

This screening is recommended for children.

B

Overview

Social and emotional wellbeing creates the foundations for healthy behaviours and educational attainment. It also helps prevent behavioural problems (including substance misuse) and mental health problems. That's why it is important to focus on the social and emotional wellbeing of children and young people.

How Can You Promote Wellbeing?

To support children’s social and emotional development and wellbeing, and promote mental health and wellbeing later in life, early childhood educators need to:

C-        Create safe and supportive environments for optimal wellbeing and development 

H-        Help children to learn social and emotional skills and manage their own behaviour 

I-          Identify babies, children and families who may be in need of additional support

L-         Link families with support and information services for mental health and wellbeing

D-        Develop broader organisational and community strategies that support wellbeing.

What Should You Look Out For?

Identify children and families who may be in need of additional support.

Some babies and young children need additional support in relation to their development or wellbeing. You might see a difference in a child’s capacity when compared with their peers, or you might notice changes in feelings or behaviour. A minor or short-term change, or an isolated incident, may not be a problem. A children’s services educator should be more concerned if the behaviour or issue seems to be severe, persists over time, or if there are several problems occurring together.

Early Childhood

  • Attachment problems with parents or caregivers such as persistent difficulty in separating.
  •  Not reaching developmental milestones.
  •  Poor quality play that seems limited and repetitive.
  •  Being anxious, withdrawn, fearful or upset much of the time.
  •  Not talking or communicating appropriately (consider culture and language at home).
  •  Difficulty with social interactions.
  •  Significant changes in feelings and behaviour.
  •  Behaviour that is out of step with peers at a similar age and stage.
  •  Difficulty in paying attention, following instructions and completing tasks.
  •  Difficulty managing anger and frustration, persistent temper tantrums or aggression.

 

Family and Community Context

  • Parenting styles that are overly controlling, harsh or critical.
  •  Parenting styles or family situations involving inconsistent supervision.
  •  Lack of involvement in children’s health, activities or development.
  •  Experiences of physical, sexual or emotional abuse or neglect.
  •  Experiences of trauma, or unresolved loss and grief.
  •  Mental illness in a carer.
  •  Substance abuse by a carer.
  •  Serious physical illness or disability in a carer.
  •  Conflict, violence or criminal behaviour in the family or community.
  •  Unemployment and socioeconomic disadvantage.

What Can You Do to Help?

Link families with support and information services for mental health and wellbeing.

Health professionals and early intervention services can assist with the assessment and management of emotional, behavioural or mental health difficulties in babies and young children. Some professionals and agencies also provide information and support for early childhood services about working with those who have additional needs. When you join a new service find out about support options and referral pathways in your area and refresh this information regularly.

If you become concerned about a possible emotional, behavioural or mental health problem in a child, use the GRIP framework.

For Educators: Looking After Yourself and Others

Promoting mental health and wellbeing in your service means not only caring for babies, young children and families, but also looking after yourself and your colleagues. Mental health problems and difficult life events can affect anyone, including children, parents, educators, directors, or community members. 

Here are some tips to help maintain wellbeing:

  • Look after yourself physically, through a healthy diet, regular exercise and adequate sleep.
  •  Foster and maintain your personal relationships, such as your connections with friends and family.  Develop interests and friendships outside of your work environment.
  •  Make time for positive activities for yourself that will help you to relax and have fun.
  •  Strive for balance between your professional role and your personal life; try to leave work issues at work.
  •  Limit the use of alcohol and other substances; don’t rely on these for relaxation.
  •  Learn how to monitor and manage your stress in positive ways, eg through exercise, relaxation, breathing, etc.
  •  Find a mentor through your workplace or professional networks and use that person’s support to help you grow professionally and personally.
  •  Provide support and encouragement for colleagues, give constructive feedback and be a role model.
  •  If you have spiritual beliefs, make time for regular spiritual practice, or relationships with others who share your philosophy.
  •  Reach out for support when you need it – from colleagues, friends, family, your GP, a psychologist, or an employee assistance program through your workplace.