21. Helping children (under 10) through transition and change

Course overview

This course is designed for carers and childcare professionals who work directly with children and their families/carers through times of transition and change. It is of particular use to those involved in assessing, preparing and assisting children moving to and from birth families, foster and adoptive families and residential care. It explores effective ways to support and undertake direct work with children through this process, taking into account the child's experience of trauma, loss, separation and development. The course will involve a mixture of teaching and experiential learning, including exercises, demonstrations and opportunities to practice direct work skills. It will primarily focus upon communication skills and techniques.

Course aims

• To provide a basic understanding of the dynamics of trauma, separation & loss
  
  
• To identify the main impact issues of transition and placement change upon children
  
  
• To consider the needs of children before, during and after placement change
  
  
• To identify factors which can minimise the trauma of transition and placement change
  
  
• To help participants gather information and prepare children and young people for transition and placement change and minimise the impact of this
  
  
• To offer a range of practical ideas for direct work with children facing transition
  
  
• To consider barriers to communication
  
  
• To consider the role of carers
  
  
• To explore the feelings, values and personal issues which arise in this area and the impact of these upon communication and direct work

For further information and to discuss your individual needs please contact the Training Co-ordinator on 01527 591922 or email: training@lucyfaithfull.org.uk