Father's Day Special - Celebrating Father's Day
For many years now, the role of fathers has changed and evolved. During the industrial revolution, fathers were often considered detached and distant due to working long hours in factories. However, today things have changed dramatically with many dads being celebrated for being sensitive, caring and more hands-on.
Recent studies have shown that children benefit greatly from having fathers who are present and interacting in everyday activities. This has transformed the understanding of how fathers shape children’s lives from the start, challenging conventional ideas of parenthood and gender.
Research also suggests that fathers influence their sons and daughters in different ways, which is especially true during their transition to adolescence. Engaging in regular physical activities can play a key role in influencing children to learn self-control, face challenges, regulate emotions and take manageable risks.
In this Special Report, fathers will learn about the positive impact they can have on their child’s mental health and wellbeing, whilst also ensuring they indulge in a little self-care.
Here is the link to your Special ReportUnderstanding Adolescence
Adolescence is the transitional stage of development. During this time, they experience rapid physical, cognitive and psychosocial growth which affects how teenagers feel, think, make decisions, and interact with the world around them.
During adolescence, a child's brain can be considered as being “under-construction”. The rate at which this progresses will vary depending on the individual and also their gender. As a result, some parents may view adolescence as stressful or difficult. However, it does not need to be. Setting boundaries, implementing consistent monitoring, and maintaining a strong and loving connection will help families adjust during this time.
It is also an important time to keep the communication lines open through clear and age-appropriate conversations. Speak openly about changes that they are experiencing and be conscious of their mental health as many of the conditions people confront in adulthood, can begin to manifest in adolescence.
In this edition of SchoolTV, adult carers can learn how to guide and best support their young person as they transition through adolescence. If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact your child’s Head of House, Year 9 Director / Head of Community or Wellbeing Support Service for further information or seek medical or professional help.
Here is the link to the Understanding Adolescence edition of SchoolTV“Parenting adolescents can be demanding, terrifying, exhausting and a sanity threatening endeavour. Often it can be a lonely business with many parents being afraid to share their concerns.”
Dr Michael Carr-Gregg
Nurturing family relationships as your child moves through adolescence
Navigating adolescence can be a challenging time for both teenagers and their families, but nurturing family relationships during this period is essential for healthy emotional growth. As teenagers seek independence, communication becomes key. Families can foster open, honest dialogue by creating safe spaces where teens feel heard without fear of judgment. Active listening shows respect for their evolving perspectives and helps build trust.
Spending quality time together is another powerful way to strengthen bonds. Shared activities, whether simple like cooking meals or more involved like family outings, provide opportunities for connection and fun. These moments help teenagers feel valued and supported amid the complexities of growing up.
Encouraging mutual respect is crucial. Parents can model respect by acknowledging teens’ opinions and emotions, while teens can learn to appreciate their parents’ guidance. Setting clear but flexible boundaries also helps teenagers understand expectations while feeling trusted.
Finally, showing unconditional love and support during both successes and struggles reassures teenagers that family is a stable foundation. When families nurture relationships with patience, empathy, and understanding, teenagers are more likely to develop confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of belonging as they transition into adulthood.
The Wellbeing Support Service.