Search results for 'Mental health?utm_source=dotdigital'

How to help your son with his mental health

How to help your son with his mental health If you are a parent or carer of a boy or young man and you find it difficult to talk to him about mental health, you’re not alone. Often boys and young men find it hard to open up to others about how they are […]

Money and mental health as a parent or carer

If you're struggling to support your family financially, this may affect your mental health. It's important to get support and ways to manage the situation

Looking after your mental health with a new baby

Looking after your mental health with a new baby Pregnancy and birth can be a magical time for a family, but it can also be very tough and difficult to adjust to. Adjusting to a new lifestyle, recovering from a traumatic birth and bonding with your baby can be difficult, so it’s important to look […]

What to do when your child won’t go to school

[…] plan to stay safe gather evidence to report it to the school or police read the school’s bullying policy, this should be on their website talk to your GP or a counsellor if it is affecting their mental health You can also read our advice on what to do if your child is being bullied.

Support for parents with suicidal thoughts

More on parent mental health

How to cope with feeling lonely as a parent or carer

More on parent mental health

Things to do when you have a new baby

Your mental health

Parenting after pregnancy and baby loss

More on parent mental health

Support when you feel like you can’t cope as a parent

More on parent mental health

How to deal with parental burnout

More on parent mental health

Dealing with parental guilt

More on parent mental health

Support if you’re affected by your child’s behaviour

More on parent mental health

How to stay calm with your child

More on parent mental health

Supporting your child with their gender identity

[…] sometimes lead to anxiety or depression. Not all children and young people exploring their gender identity will experience gender dysphoria. Gender identity and gender dysphoria are not mental health conditions, but some children can develop mental health issues if they have difficulties as a result of their gender identity or gender expression. Challenges that […]

Anxiety and anxious feelings in children and teenagers

It’s natural to feel worried, scared or anxious sometimes. Help your child to talk about their mental health.

Self-esteem in children and young people

[…] about their own body speaking to others in your family with kindness and respect being available to talk when they need you If you’re struggling with your mental health, speak to a GP and ask about support in your local area. Make time for talking and being together Try to avoid making assumptions about […]

Support for family and friends carers

More on parent mental health

How to boost your child’s wellbeing and happiness

How to boost your child's wellbeing and happiness Everyone has ups and downs in mood – it’s natural for mental health to fluctuate in this way. As a parent or carer, it's a good idea to let your child know they can talk to you about their emotions when they need to. If your […]

Support for new parents

There are lots of things you can do to support yourself, too. It can help to: talk to people around you, be honest, and ask for support if you need it ask your friends and family to bring food round - it's easy to lose healthy eating habits during this time find time to be […]

The benefits of playing outside

Playing outside can support your child's mental health as well as physical and emotional development.

How having a new baby can change your family

[…] had a baby within the last year, it’s important to recover. It’s a good idea to check in with a GP if there are any concerns. Think about your mental health as well as your physical health. Think about your day-to-day life. What would a new baby change, and how do you feel about that? If you work, are you […]

Financial help and grants for single parents

[…] your family or be unsure about what help you can get. Depending on your situation, you could be entitled to support through benefits or grants. You may also be able to get help to work out your budget if you need it. You can get mental health support if you’re finding it hard to cope.

How we can help

Family relationships and mental health, work and money, healthy living, technology and fun at home

Getting an EHCP or IEP to support your child’s needs

[…] children in the school who need extra support. Schools should assess whether a child needs additional support with: communication and interaction cognition and learning social, emotional and mental health difficulties sensory and physical needs This is set out in the SEND code of practice. A child can be removed from the SEN register if […]

How to help your child if they are self-harming

How to help your child if they are self-harming If you think your child is self-harming or hurting themselves, it’s important to get support for your child and your family. Young people may use self-harm as a way to cope with difficult emotions that they don’t know how to express. As a parent or carer, […]

Bottle feeding your baby

[…] baby. For example, show them the position your baby feeds in, how much milk they have, how long they usually feed for and how you burp them, if needed. If you’re struggling with the demands of being a new parent, you can read our advice on looking after your mental health with a new baby.

Getting an autism assessment for your child

[…] whether you have chosen a service with Right to Choose. You might be referred to: the child development centre at your local hospital CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) a psychologist a neurological paediatrician Right to Choose If you live in England, you can ask for your child to be assessed by a […]

How to support your child at university

Going to university is often exciting but scary. You can support your child’s mental health and wellbeing at university.

How to help your child if they have suicidal thoughts

[…] be activities they enjoy. It might be creating a self-soothe box. Or use techniques for helping with anxious feelings or stress. Let your child’s school know that your child is struggling so they can offer support. It may also be worth looking into support from your local NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS).

Body image in children and teenagers

[…] over time. It’s natural for children and young people to have concerns about their bodies, especially as they go through changes. Sometimes though, this can impact their mental health. As their parent or carer, there are some things you should watch out for and ways you can help them to have a positive body […]

Combining breastfeeding and bottle feeding

If you are breastfeeding or chestfeeding, you might also use a bottle with formula, expressed breastmilk or both.

Baby proofing and making your home safe

‘Baby proofing’ is about making your home as safe as you can.

Who we are

I’ve been an Action for Children Family Support Worker since 2019, and help run a weekly session to support parents’ mental health. Before that, I was a childminder and ran a private nursery. I have a degree in Education and Early Childhood Studies and recently completed my PGCE to become an Early Years Teacher.

Helping your baby or toddler to sleep

[…] apply for Cerebra sleep support apply for a Home-Start volunteer to help you manage parenting challenges search for your local branch of Mind, for information about local mental health support in your area The Basis website from Durham University provides research evidence on biologically normal sleep for babies. You can also read our article […]

Supporting your child’s sensory processing needs

If your child reacts strongly to sound, touch, taste, smell, visuals or movements, they may have sensory needs.

Leaving a relationship when you have a child

[…] know if you should leave your partner. But you might feel it’s time to leave your relationship if: you feel unhappy with your partner it's affecting your mental health you're having a lot of arguments over a long period of time your child is negatively affected by your relationship you feel your relationship is […]

Dealing with violent behaviour from your child or teenager

[…] also ask a friend or family member if you can call them for help if your child is violent again. You can get support from: NHS urgent mental health helplines your GP, who may be able to refer your child for support Capa First Response, for making an action plan Pegs, where parents and […]

Executive functioning difficulties in children and young people

Executive functioning difficulties in children and young people Executive functions are the mental skills people use every day to get things done. These skills help people to plan, prioritise and remember things. Children start developing executive functions from a young age. Some children and young people find executive functioning harder than others. They can […]

Breastfeeding your baby

[…] in your local area and online. You can get advice on: helping your baby to latch increasing your milk supply reasons for physical discomfort, like mastitis your mental wellbeing Even if you are feeling confident with breastfeeding, it can still be helpful to get support or seek information to help you to learn more. […]

Weaning your baby

How to introduce food to your baby. Sings your baby is ready, weaning styles, stages and safety.

Saving money on food bills and getting support

[…] help with decision-making chat to a parenting coach on our online 1:1 chat service use the Shout text service, if you feel you’re struggling to cope – text ‘Shout’ to 85258 contact your local mental health crisis team, available 24/7 call 116 123 to talk to the Samaritans view Mind’s money and mental health support

How to support your teenager through a relationship breakup

[…] seems to slip into a depression, then it may be advisable to seek some extra support from a GP or counselling service. If your child has existing mental health conditions, a breakup can be extra hard for them, so be aware they may need more support. If your child is having suicidal thoughts then […]

How early help services can support your family

[…] behaviour becomes disruptive or anti-social.  Your child is being bullied or bullying others.  Your child has poor attendance at school.  Your child has anxiety, depression or other mental health issues.  Your child is at risk of being exploited or radicalised.  You or your child has an illness, disability or additional needs or your child […]

Help your child deal with exam stress

Prioritise breaks and time away from work. This improves mental wellbeing and helps your child focus and learn.   Speak to the school about any worries your child may have. Discuss how the school could help reduce the impact of stress.  

Help if you’re worried about your child’s eating habits

Help if you're worried about your child's eating habits Everyone has different eating habits. But if you're worried about your child's relationship with food or their body, it might be worth looking for some support. If your child's eating habits negatively affect their everyday life, they may have an eating disorder. This is when someone […]

Understanding and managing your teenager’s behaviour

[…] with your teenager’s behaviour. It can help to talk to: your child’s school or college early help services a GP, if your child is struggling with their mental health one of our parenting coaches Parenting courses can help you to manage your teenager's behaviour. You can find courses in your area on your local […]

Helping your child learn to read

Behavior Mental Health and Wellbeing

Parent Talk privacy policy

At Action for Children, we’re honest, we’re analytical, we’re straightforward – it’s part of our values. We apply these values to everything we do– including how we treat your personal information.

Coping with night-time feeds

[…] baby's night routine might not be the same as other babies the same age. If you need to talk to someone you can also get support from: your midwife, health visitor or GP our parenting coaches via online chat Shout mental health service - text ‘Shout’ to 85258 National Breastfeeding helpline on 0300 100 0212

Child contact arrangements with a co-parent

[…] to  jo@samaritans.org. Replies to email can take several days. Samaritans website Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) talking service Evening helpline open 5pm to midnight phone 0800 585858 Send a message on WhatsApp or web chat on the CALM website SHOUT Mental health service open any time day or night Text ‘Shout’ to 85258 SHOUT website

Keeping a behaviour diary

It can be helpful to share the behaviour diary with professionals if you are worried about your child’s mental health or think they might be neurodivergent. You can share it with: your GP or health visitor your child’s school SENCo or teacher early help services Page last reviewed: February 2026 Next review due: February 2029

Eating issues in neurodivergent children

your child is neurodivergent, they might avoid some foods, or you may struggle to get them to eat.

Help if you’re worried your child isn’t safe with their other parent

[…] might have noticed a change in their behaviour. Reasons your child may be at risk with their other parent include:    alcohol or drug misuse   unmanaged mental health conditions   witnessing domestic abuse   emotional, physical or sexual abuse  emotional or physical neglect  You may not have a clear idea what’s happening when […]

Help your child to make friends

Friendships are an important part of children’s lives. They’re crucial for mental, physical and emotional health.

Activities to help soothe your child when they feel worried or anxious

[…] or watch online washing my hands to stay safe Outside the circle, get your child to write "Things I can’t control." Such as: the weather what other people post online how my friends or family feel You can find more ideas for supporting your child with anxious feelings in the mental health and wellbeing section.

Speech delay in toddlers and children

If your child has been slow to start forming sounds and words, you may wonder what it means.

Getting your child ready for a new school term

If you’re worried about your child going to school, make sure you are taking care of your own mental health. Read our advice on parental burnout. You can also talk to someone in your support network. They may be having the same concerns. Be positive when dropping off your child, even if you’re not […]

How to help your child cope with change or transitions

[…] by Action for Children. Text 07888 868 059 Monday to Friday. Email help@sidekick.actionforchildren.org.uk Sidekick website. The Mix Support for young people aged 11 to 25 who are struggling with their mental health. Text THEMIX to 85258 any time. Young people can also apply to get 8 counselling sessions by telephone and webchat. The Mix website.

Understanding and managing your child’s behaviour

It’s not easy being a parent or carer. Every child will behave in a way that challenges you at some point, and you won’t always know what to do. If you feel like you’re going to lose your temper, step away from the situation and calm down before responding. Recognise what you’re doing well, and […]

Supporting your autistic child with anxiety

Lots of people feel anxious about a big change or stressful events. If your child’s anxiety is more constant and is affecting their daily life, speak to their GP. There are some differences between anxiety and an anxiety problem or disorder. If your child feels anxious, they might: be more restless or irritable than usual […]

1:1 chat

Free and confidential online chat for parents and carers with an experienced parenting coach. Support on behaviour, mental health and more.

Supporting your child with exam results

Help your child take care of their mental health by understanding any worries and helping them work through them: Encourage them to talk to a trusted family member or friend about how they're are feeling. They could also contact services like The Mix for confidential support. Help them manage their emotions by showing them […]

Child dyslexia signs and diagnosis

[…] of dyslexia are mistaken for a lack of interest or misbehaviour. Problems with reading and writing can also cause anxiety and low self-esteem which might mean their mental health needs are noticed before their dyslexia. If your child speaks more than one language or has only just started learning English, it might take longer […]

location chat

Free and confidential online chat for parents and carers with an experienced parenting coach. Support on behaviour, mental health and more.

Debt advice for families with children

[…] how challenging things may feel, there is always a way forward. If your financial situation is affecting your wellbeing, you can read our advice about money and mental health as a parent or carer. You might find it helpful to talk to other people who have been through similar situations. Try your local children’s […]

Confidentiality policy

[…] else might be at risk of harm. On these occasions we may need to share your information with: the Police The Ambulance Service Children’s Social Care a mental health crisis service other emergency services For more information about how we store your data, read our privacy policy. Find out about our parenting coaches and […]

Advice if you’re worried for your child’s safety because of race, religion or ethnicity

[…] family and friends who know you. Looking after yourself can help you feel more able to be there for your child. It may help to talk to: your GP your local mental health crisis team Shout text service, for anyone struggling to cope – text Shout to 85258 Samaritans - call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org

Money saving advice for families in winter

Rising energy prices can be a huge worry for families. It’s important for your mental and physical health that you don’t stop heating your home altogether, but there are ways to reduce the costs: Turning the temperature down by 1°C and wearing extra layers instead can help save you money. You can teach your […]

Look after a friend or relative’s child as a kinship carer

Look after a friend or relative’s child as a kinship carer Looking after a friend or relative’s child as a kinship carer can be a rewarding and challenging experience. Find out about the benefits for the child in your care and how you can support them. You can also read our advice on taking care […]

Childcare costs for working parents and carers

[…] work and childcare costs can be overwhelming. You can read our advice on: Coping with money worries Talking to your partner or ex-partner about money Money and mental health as a parent or carer You can also get money advice from other organisations. Citizens Advice Advice about budgeting, debt solutions, and accessing local support. […]

Talking to your child about pornography

Many parents are worried about what their children might see online, particularly pornography and indecent images.

What happens when a child is excluded from school

[…] also involve other agencies like the police or social services. Headteachers should consider any contributing factors that might have led to the behaviour. This includes additional needs, mental health and any changes at home. In a lot of cases, exclusion will be the last resort following a pattern of behaviour and other measures will […]

Commission us

[…] delivering high quality and cost-effective online family support work with you to assess and understand remote support needs for families in your area, including early intervention and mental health support collaborate with local on the ground services to ensure Parent Talk blends into and works alongside your family support offer be responsible for supervising […]

Partner with us

[…] Talk, you can empower parents and give children the bright futures they deserve. We support parents with a wide range of issues, from development and behaviour to mental health. We can build a partnership that supports our service and meets your organisation’s objective. As a corporate partner you could sponsor: the service for a […]

How to support your partner’s children

[…] these feelings with your partner, a close friend or family member, or a counsellor. Looking after yourself Take the time to look after yourself and your own mental health. Being a step parent can be hard, and challenging behaviour can have an effect on you. Try not to get involved in online forums for […]

Advice if your child is a young carer

Your child may be a young carer if they:  Are under 18.  Help to look after a sibling, parent, relative or friend who may have a disability, illness, mental health condition or drug or alcohol problem.    If the child is between 18 and 25, they are a young adult carer.

How to support your child when someone has died

Coping with the death of a loved one is hard. You may feel unsure how to support your child through grief.

How to practise mindfulness at home with children

How to practise mindfulness at home with children Mindfulness means being aware of the present moment. Some studies suggest it can help with mental health and wellbeing. You can try some activities to help children feel calm.

How to tell if your child has ADHD

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) can show up in a variety of different ways.

How to co-parent with your ex partner

Co-parenting can be one of the biggest challenges for separated partners but it can also be a positive experience.

Tips for when your child is a fussy eater 

If your child is refusing some foods, there are some things you can do to encourage new habits.

Potty training at night

Using a potty during the day doesn’t mean your child is ready to go without nappies at night.

Support for your autistic child, with or without a diagnosis

If your child is autistic, or you think they might be, there are ways you and others can support them.

Helping your toddler learn to talk and develop language skills

Children learn to talk by listening to people around them. Use everyday moments to help your child’s language skills.

What to do if your young child can’t sleep

If your child feels worried or anxious about something, this can stop them sleeping. Talk about their fears, and reassure them you’re close by. How can I help my child share their worries? What can I do if my child has nightmares? Activities to help with anxiety Look after your own wellbeing Children can pick […]

How to start home schooling

If you are considering home schooling as a long-term approach, here’s the key information you need to know.

How to help your teenager cope with extreme views on social media

[…] offline. Discuss with your child a limit for time spent online. Include them in the decision making process by asking them to suggest a reasonable amount of time and coming to a compromise. Doing sports and outside activities helps to boost mental wellbeing. Plus, the time will give your child a break from the news.

When to feed your baby

Whether you’re using breast or bottle, you can try responsive feeding. This is where you watch for signs your baby is hungry.

Support for your dyslexic child, with or without a diagnosis

Ways to support your child's learning if they're showing signs of dyslexia.

Potty training or toilet training your child

How to tell if your child is ready for potty training, tips to get started and dealing with difficulties.

Budgeting for a baby

If you’re expecting a baby or will be the main carer for a baby, there will be a range of costs involved. But there are some ways to save money too.

Keeping your child safe in the sun

Here are some important things to remember before going out in the sun with your child.

Moving your baby or toddler out of your bedroom

As your baby gets older, you might start thinking about moving them out of your bedroom at night.

Financial support for children and families

Raising children can be expensive, but there is financial support available to help your child both at home and school. 

Help if you’re being abused by a partner or co-parent

Abuse can take many forms, but if you think you could be being abused by someone you parent with, get help as soon as you can.

What to do if you think your child is being bullied

[…] they feel they can go to school while the bullying is going on. You can keep your child off school if you have concerns for your child’s mental or physical wellbeing, while you work with the school towards finding a solution. You do have a legal duty to send your child to school, so […]

Understanding county lines and how to protect your child

County lines is a type of criminal exploitation. Spotting early warning signs can help protect your child.

Use a sleep diary to understand your baby or child’s sleep

If your child has disturbed sleep, a sleep diary can help you understand what’s causing difficulties.

What to do if your school won’t support an EHCP application

If the staff at your child’s school don’t feel that your child needs an EHCP, you can discuss this with them.

Supporting your child with anxiety about changes at school

Changes at nursery or school, or college may feel big or overwhelming to your child.

Supporting a child with ADHD at home

Understanding your ADHD child’s behaviour and what they need from you can have a positive effect on your child and family.

Keeping your child safe online

[…] they’re worried. Empower them with information Make sure they know how to block and report someone. Let them know what behaviours are unacceptable or illegal. Support their mental wellbeing Find ways to help build their resilience and self-esteem. This will put them in a good position to handle difficult situations. Encourage openness Even if […]