Coronavirus: Mental health toolkit launched for early years and primary children

The charity, Coram Life Education, has developed the Back to School set of resources for children aged four to 11 as they re-adjust to a new environment when schools reopen. It contains plans for the EYFS by specialist practitioners, and practical resources in line with new Government guidance for smaller class sizes and outdoor learning. 

Harriet Gill, managing director of Coram Life Education, said, ‘The toolkit supports teachers to develop a safe space for children to talk about their worries about Covid-19 and helps to build understanding of the current situation, for example addressing, 'Why has our classroom changed?' and 'How can we keep each other safe'. Its wider role is to keep children safe, physically and emotionally, and it also includes adaptations for parents and carers of children who are home-schooled, in preparation for their return.’

Other features include:

• Teacher guidance and support on how to respond to children’s concerns about Covid-19

• Lesson plans and assembly resources including activities, films, games, songs and stories
  
  
• Suggested book titles provided by the reading charity Coram Beanstalk who know that books can be powerful tools in helping children gain greater insight and empathy

The toolkit is part of the online ‘SCARF’ programme, which promotes the values of Safety, Caring, Achievement, Resilience and Friendship. The programmes are delivered in more than 2,000 schools and reach almost half a million children each year.

Ms Gill added, ‘We know that this is a hugely challenging and anxious time for children, families and teachers, and it is more important than ever that we put children’s mental health and well-being at the forefront of their return to school. Our toolkit saves teachers time and gives children the space to process change, adjust to new routines and re-build relationships.’

The toolkit is suitable for children in the early years, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. It is free for all schools and settings to download, and resources and suggestions can be recommended to parents. To find out more and to access the toolkit, visit coramlifeeducation.org.uk/back-to-school-with-scarf.

Coram Beanstalk is part of the Coram group of charities.