Thrive and Theraplay

We use an attachment centred approach at school, recognising the affect of significant relational traumas and losses in the children’s lives and the importance for all children to feel safe, secure and special, in order to become the best versions of themselves.

As Pastoral Lead, Thrive practitioner and Senior Mental health lead Mrs Goldsack works alongside staff to support the children’s emotional, social and mental wellbeing both in a whole class setting, small groups or individually based on the children’s needs.

Thrive

The Thrive Approach has been developed over many years, helping children to flourish. It supports children's emotional and social development and helps them to feel happy and secure, be able to enjoy friendships, relate well to others and be ready and able to learn.

Thrive is a special way of working with all children, that helps to develop their social and emotional wellbeing, enabling them to engage with life and learning. It supports them in becoming more self-assured, capable and adaptable. It can also address any troubling behaviours, providing a firm foundation for academic attainment.

Theraplay

A Theraplay Group is structured for children and directed by adult leaders. During the group, all the participants, adults included, are actively involved together in pleasant, enjoyable activities. Through the use of cooperative and often nurturing games, a Theraplay Group enhances a child’s self-esteem, the sense of belonging, the ability to trust and to care for self and others. Leaders create an atmosphere of fun, caring, acceptance, and encouragement which allows children to grow socially, emotionally, and often intellectually as well.

Playful and responsive care are the essential ingredients for a secure attachment and positive views of ourselves and others.

Theraplay has four key areas:

Structure: An adult takes charge and the child accepts this.

Engagement: The child is focused upon intensely and learns to manage this without withdrawing.

Nurture: Soothing, calming activities help the child to feel loved.

Challenge: Fun, partnership activities that include mild, appropriate risk.