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What is Developmental Trauma? The term ‘Developmental Trauma’ describes the impact of repeated and pervasive exposure to traumatic events or loss during infancy and childhood. Young people who have experienced developmental trauma have been exposed to an environment marked by multiple and chronic stressors. Frequently, these stressors occur within a care-giving system that is intended […]

Adverse experiences in childhood can have a lasting impact on a child’s cognitive, emotional, social, physical, and psychological development. In the UK, it is estimated that more than 1 in every 3 young people will experience traumatic events or adverse childhood experiences. To support the needs of all learners, it is therefore crucial that schools […]

Harmful sexual behaviour (HSB) is a term used to describe developmentally inappropriate sexual behaviour displayed by children or young people which is harmful or abusive (Hackett, 2014). The term ‘developmentally inappropriate’ highlights the importance of considering the behaviour within the context of the child’s age and stage of development. This is important because behaviours that […]

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE’s) are defined as traumas or significant stressors experienced in childhood that can have a significant impact on later health and development. ACE’s may be a single event, or prolonged exposure to something which threatens a young person’s trust, safety, security, or bodily integrity (Young Minds, 2018). Following early research, it was […]

From the very earliest stages of development, each person’s individual experiences (i.e., their relationships, social and cultural norms, life events, etc) begin to shape the way they view themselves, other people, and the world around them. Psychological formulation is a term used to define the process of making sense of a person’s difficulties/ distress within […]

This week is Children’s Mental Health Week, which is focussed on the theme of ‘My Voice Matters’. The aim of ‘My Voice Matters’ is to highlight the importance of young people and children to use their voices to express what matters to them. Children’s mental health activities to help express feelings By using connection activities […]

My Voice Matters Children’s Mental Health Week will take place from 5th-11th February 2024. The theme for this year is ‘My Voice Matters’. ‘My Voice Matters’ aims to highlight the importance of ensuring that young people feel empowered to use their voices to express what matters to them. It emphasises the key role that caregivers […]

What is P.A.C.E parenting? Fostering Connection, Attunement and Relational Safety through Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, and Empathy. The P.A.C.E parenting model is a trauma-informed approach that was developed by clinical psychologist Dr Dan Hughes. It is an evidence-based way of thinking, feeling, and communicating that helps carers to build safety, security, and trust in the adult-child […]

A child psychologist is a clinical psychologist who is trained to doctorate level, specialises in working with children and young people, and addresses the unique psychological needs of each individual. A clinical psychologist is a legally protected title which means only professionals meeting the criteria set out by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) […]