In response to the current climate, a special edition newsletter has been produced by HeadStart Middlesbrough to provide access to a range of advice, support, and resources for children and young people, and families and professionals working with children and young people. We decided to share exerts from the newsletter in individual blogs as we believe it will help in these uncertain times.

The world is currently a frightening place for everyone, but for children and young people, their everyday life is very different as schools close and access to most leisure activity is no longer possible. We’re also working from home more, which brings its own challenges. In the next series of blogs, we’ll be covering some of the issues highlighted in the newsletter and, where relevant, sharing the contact details of some useful people.

Links within the newsletter have only been provided for reputable sources.

Self-care

During the time you are away from colleagues, school friends or family due to social distancing or should you have to self-isolate as a result of the coronavirus (Covid-19), it is crucial that you look after your mental health and well being. Self-care involves those things we do to look after our own mental health. The resource hub in the link here was developed by Common Room and young people on behalf of Anna Freud.

Relaxation and breathing techniques

It can be normal to feel worried or stressed when you are unsure what will happen, so look after your body and mind by trying some simple relaxation techniques as detailed here:

• Your own breath can be an anchor to help you feel calm and settled.
• You can try lying on your back, knees bent and soles of feet on the floor. Gently close your eyes and place the palms of your hands on your tummy, and watch how the breath moves the hands. Try this for 5 minutes or more to help you feel relaxed and calm.
• If you think some guided meditations will help you, there are plenty to choose from online and cosmic kids is a great resource for younger children.