Child Therapy Telford

01/01/2026

Happy New Year from Child Therapy Telford 💙

As we step into a new year, I just want to say thank you. Thank you to the parents who trusted me, the children and young people who showed courage, and everyone who supported emotional wellbeing in 2025.

28/12/2025

Not sure if you're experiencing abuse? Worried about someone else? If you or a friend need help, we are here. Learn more about our information and support.

26/12/2025

18/12/2025

Coping With Holiday Stress as a Family
The holiday season looks magical on the surface, but real families know it can bring stress, pressure, and emotional overload. As an NLP4Kids practitioner and child therapist at Child Therapy Telford, and as a parent myself, I want to offer some realistic guidance to help you get through Christmas with more calm, more connection, and fewer meltdowns.
Nothing here is sugar coated. Just practical tools that work in real homes with real children.
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Set Realistic Expectations
Christmas does not need to look perfect. You do not need to match what you see online. Talk as a family about what matters most and keep it simple. When everyone understands what to expect, holiday stress drops fast.
Ask:
• What part of Christmas actually matters to each of us?
• What can we make easier so we enjoy it instead of enduring it?
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Communicate Clearly
Children cope better when they feel heard. Make space for honest conversations. Let everyone share how they feel without jumping in to fix it. Listening is often more powerful than solving.
Ask:
• What would help you feel calmer this week?
• Is there anything you want the rest of us to know?
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Balance Time Together and Time Alone
Family time is lovely. Too much of it can drain anyone, including children. Build in quiet time. Let everyone take breaks without guilt. This helps prevent overwhelm and improves the time you do spend together.
Ask:
• How can we balance being together with having our own space?
• What activities do we want to do as a family this year?
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Create New Traditions
Not every tradition survives each stage of family life, and that is okay. New traditions can feel grounding, especially if family circumstances have changed.
Ask yourselves:
• What can we create this year that feels meaningful for who we are right now?
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Supporting Neurodiverse Children at Christmas
Christmas can feel like a sensory hurricane for neurodiverse children. Extra noise, smells, lights, visitors, changes in routine and unpredictable social demands can push them into overload quickly. With a few adjustments, you can make the season much smoother.
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Create a Sensory-Friendly Space
Give your child a predictable place to retreat to. Think low light, quiet sounds, familiar textures, and things that soothe rather than stimulate.
Useful questions:
• What sensory triggers do we need to plan for?
• What helps our child reset when things get too much?
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Use Visual Supports
Holiday plans change fast. Visual schedules, simple charts, or social stories help your child see what is coming next. This reduces anxiety and builds confidence.
Ask yourselves:
• Which visual supports will help our child feel prepared?
• How will we show them any changes to the plan?
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Keep Routines Steady
You can enjoy Christmas without tearing up every routine. Bedtimes, meals, and simple daily rhythms help your child feel safe.
Reflect on:
• Which routines matter most?
• How can we fit them around our holiday plans?
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Prepare for Transitions
Moving from one activity to another is often the hardest part. Give warnings. Use timers. Keep language clear.
Ask yourselves:
• What helps our child manage transitions?
• How can we prepare them before going somewhere new?
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Offer Choices
Choice gives your child a sense of control. Too many choices overwhelm, so keep it simple and clear.
Consider:
• Where can we give small choices during holiday events?
• How do we keep choices supportive but structured?
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Help Family and Friends Understand
Most people want to help. They just need to know how. Share what your child needs in a calm, straightforward way. It builds understanding rather than judgment.
Try asking:
• What does our extended family need to know to support our child?
• How can we explain our child’s needs clearly and kindly?

Every child is different. Every family is different. What works for one home will not always work for another. Adjust these ideas to suit your child’s personality, sensory needs, and emotional world. With the right support, Christmas can feel calmer and more connected for everyone.
I wish you and your family a very happy Christmas, wherever you are and whatever your holiday looks like this year.
Louisa Gauld-Crichton
NLP4Kids Licensed Practitioner and NLP Practitioner
Child Therapy Telford - NLP4Kids
Telford, Shropshire, United Kingdom
Tel: 07966 819194
Email: Louisa@NLP4Kids.org

Coping With Holiday Stress as a Family The holiday season looks magical on the surface, but real families know it can bring stress, pressure, and emotional overload. As an NLP4Kids practitioner and child therapist at Child Therapy Telford, and as a parent myself, I want to offer some[…]

10/12/2025

10/12/2025

Last Week We Started the Conversation…

Last week, I posted an article about helping children improve their concentration, and this week I want to continue that conversation. Parents and educators alike have been asking the same question: How can we support children to focus better? It’s a question that has become more urgent than ever.

Recent studies reveal a concerning trend. A survey conducted by The Independent found that 84% of primary school teachers believe children's attention spans have significantly decreased since the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, one in five teachers reported spending less than 10 minutes on any single activity to maintain students’ focus (independent.co.uk).
It’s not just teachers noticing this shift. A study by King’s College London indicated that 66% of the public believe young people’s attention spans are worse than in the past (kcl.ac.uk).
So, what’s going on? And more importantly, how can we help?

Why Focus Is Hard for Children Today

Several factors are contributing to shrinking attention spans.

1. Digital Distractions
Children today are surrounded by screens. A report from Children and Screens highlighted that older adolescents in Europe average five hours of phone use per day, including 150 notifications and 85 unlocks (childrenandscreens.org). The constant notifications and quick-switching between apps make sustained focus much harder. Even younger children, who aren’t using phones as much, are affected by the digital presence of tablets, TV, and online games.
2. Post-Pandemic Learning Gaps
The disruption caused by COVID-19 led to increased screen time, less structured learning, and reduced face-to-face interaction. These experiences have slowed the development of attention regulation and coping strategies. Children may struggle to sit through a longer lesson simply because their brains have become accustomed to rapid digital stimulation.
3. Environmental Factors
The physical environment matters more than many adults realise. Classrooms that are too hot, too cold, cluttered, noisy, or even poorly ventilated can all undermine focus. Hunger, thirst, fatigue, or emotional stress can amplify these distractions. Sometimes the root cause of inattention isn’t behaviour; it’s biology and environment working against the child.

Give Them a Reason That Matters

Here’s the part that often makes the biggest difference. Children don’t live in the future, they live in the present. If we ask them to do something just because it’s on the curriculum, or because someone told them to, it’s boring. Resistance creeps in, focus drifts, and motivation drops.
The trick? Give them a reason that actually matters to them right now. Not about exams. Not about grades. Not about rules. Something that resonates in their world today.
Even better, involve them in figuring out their own “why”. Ask: Why does this matter to you? How could it help you today? When children generate their own reasons, engagement skyrockets, and concentration follows. Even a short conversation about why learning a maths skill might help them budget their own pocket money or win at a game can make a huge difference.

Practical Strategies to Enhance Focus

Once children have a meaningful reason to engage, practical strategies make it easier to sustain attention:

1. Short, Engaging Activities
Break learning into short, manageable segments. Use games, hands-on projects, quizzes, or small group discussions to keep children actively involved. Even a 10–15 minute “focus sprint” followed by a break can significantly improve retention.

2. Conducive Learning Environments
A well-lit, quiet, and organised space matters. Minimise visual clutter, keep water nearby, and ensure they are comfortable. A simple walk outside or opening a window for fresh air can reset the brain.

3. Encourage Movement
Movement breaks refresh the mind. Simple activities like stretching, jumping jacks, or even a walk around the house or school corridor can help children reset focus and improve memory consolidation.

4. Limit Recreational Screen Time
Screens aren’t the enemy, but excessive recreational use can undermine attention. Encourage offline activities such as reading, drawing, building models, or puzzles. Try structured tech-free times each day.

5. Open Communication
Ask children what distracts them and how they feel about tasks. Listen without judgment. By understanding their perspective, adults can address root causes of inattention rather than only dealing with surface behaviour.

Emotional Well-being Matters

Concentration is closely tied to emotional health. According to NHS England, one in five children and young people aged eight to 25 had a probable mental disorder in 2023 (england.nhs.uk).
Anxiety, stress, or low mood can make focus almost impossible. Activities that support emotional wellbeing, mindfulness, creative arts, movement, and quality time with caring adults, help children regulate their emotions and improve their ability to concentrate.

Every Child is Unique

There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Each child’s attention span, triggers, and motivators differ. Patience, flexibility, and creativity are essential. Experiment, observe, and celebrate small successes.
Helping children concentrate isn’t about strict rules or longer study sessions. It’s about understanding their needs, giving them meaningful reasons to engage, and creating environments that support their focus.

Next Steps for Parents and Educators

Start small. Pick one strategy like asking your child to find their “why” for a particular task, and see how they respond. Track small wins. Build routines gradually. Encourage curiosity, celebrate effort, and show that focus is a skill that grows with practice.

The more tools a child has, the better they can navigate distractions and maintain attention. This isn’t just about school. It’s about giving children the confidence and ability to thrive in life, not just in the classroom.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
If you found this article helpful or have your own strategies to share, I’d love to hear from you. Together, we can equip children with the focus and resilience they need to succeed both now and in the future.

For more information on how Child Therapy Telford can help and support children and young people, visit Child Therapy Telford. https://childtherapytelford.nlp4kids.org

Book a FREE 🆓consultation with Child Therapy Telford. 👇
https://louisa-nlp4kids.youcanbook.me
https://childtherapytelford.nlp4kids.org
📞07966 819194
📧 louisa@nlp4kids.org

The original version of this article was written by Gemma Bailey, director of www.NLP4Kids.org. It was republished and rebuilt with additional content by Louisa Gauld-Crichton - Child Therapy Telford. https://childtherapytelford.nlp4kids.org

Last Week We Started the Conversation… Last week, I posted an article about helping children improve their concentration, and this week I want to continue that conversation. Parents and educators alike have been asking the same question: How can we support children to focus better? It’s a questi...

06/12/2025

The hidden 20%

03/12/2025

Helping Children Focus Without Losing Their Spark - Why Concentration Can Be Tricky

Concentration in children and young people is often a tricky topic, and it comes up frequently in my therapy practice in Telford, Shropshire. Parents often tell me they want their children to focus better, especially on schoolwork. But the truth is that some children just don’t enjoy academic tasks. They might find the structured classroom environment or certain subjects uninteresting. That doesn’t mean they aren’t capable. Many excel in arts, music, sport, or social situations, yet these talents are sometimes overlooked in a traditional school setting.

Interestingly, children who are socially confident often seem to struggle most with academic focus. Their curiosity and engagement with peers can make them appear distracted in class. This isn’t a flaw; it’s simply a different way of interacting with the world.

Rethinking Success

One of the first questions I ask parents is: what do you want for your child? Would you rather have an A* student who feels anxious, lacks confidence, or is unhappy, or a balanced, happy young person who gets B’s and C’s but thrives socially and emotionally? It may sound hard, but sometimes we need to weigh achievement against wellbeing.

Research consistently shows that emotional wellbeing and academic performance are linked. Children with high anxiety or low self-esteem are less likely to perform well consistently, regardless of natural intelligence (NHS, 2022). Prioritising happiness, balance, and resilience can actually support academic success more sustainably than pressure alone.
Understanding the Exhaustion Factor

A key area where lack of concentration shows is homework. Many children come home after school already mentally and physically drained. School days are demanding: children are absorbing academic content while navigating social dynamics and developing personal skills. By 3:30pm, their brains have processed a huge amount. Asking them to immediately dive into homework can be overwhelming, which often results in resistance.

To tackle this, we need to rethink routines. Start by giving children time to recharge. A snack can help replenish energy, a shower can refresh body and mind, and then a structured yet flexible approach to homework can be implemented. Sitting with them, providing support, and creating a framework where homework is achievable but time-bound can make a significant difference. Ending the session with a rewarding activity helps maintain motivation.

Practical Tips to Improve Concentration

-Break tasks into manageable chunks: Long tasks can feel impossible. Short, focused intervals with breaks improve attention (Child Mind Institute, 2023).

-Create a predictable routine: Consistency helps the brain know when it’s time to focus (NHS, 2022).

-Support with encouragement, not pressure: Positive reinforcement improves engagement and self-esteem.

-Incorporate movement and mindfulness: Physical activity and short mindfulness exercises can help reset attention and energy levels (University of Oxford, 2023).

-Tailor strategies to your child: Each child is unique. Experiment with timing, environment, and support methods to find what works best.

Finding Balance and Perspective

We must keep perspective. The world thrives on a variety of talents. Not everyone will pursue academic excellence, and that is perfectly fine. Children who are happy, resilient, and socially adept contribute enormously to society. Protecting their mental health while encouraging them to reach their potential is far more important than forcing perfect grades.

Concentration is not just about willpower or intelligence. It’s about recognising a child’s natural strengths, understanding their limits, and creating an environment where they can succeed academically without compromising their wellbeing. With thoughtful routines, emotional support, and realistic expectations, children can learn to focus while staying happy, balanced, and motivated. For more information on how Child Therapy Telford can help and support children and young people, visit Child Therapy Telford. https://childtherapytelford.nlp4kids.org

Book a FREE 🆓consultation with Child Therapy Telford. 👇
https://louisa-nlp4kids.youcanbook.me

Helping Children Focus Without Losing Their Spark – Why Concentration Can Be Tricky Concentration in children and young people is often a tricky topic, and it comes up frequently in my therapy practice in Telford, Shropshire. Parents often tell me they want their children to focus better, especial...

27/11/2025

📣 Follow Our New Hanley Education Page!

We’re excited to share that we’ve launched a dedicated page for our Hanley site. Parents and carers of our education learners can now follow their young person’s progress, see updates, and stay connected with what’s happening at the centre.

👉 Follow us here: https://www.facebook.com/landaueducationhanley/

Thank you for your support!

26/11/2025

Improving Independence In Children

>Is your child independent in their learning?

>Do they take responsibility for thinking about themselves?

In today’s educational environment, there is a growing recognition of the importance of developing independence among students. Many children can significantly benefit from taking more initiative in their learning, and it is crucial to help them establish a stronger sense of autonomy. The overarching aim of education should not only be to impart knowledge but also to instil ambition and drive in young people, preparing them academically for a successful future and ensuring they are well-equipped to achieve their aspirations.

However, in the hustle and bustle of daily life, parents and teachers may find it challenging to reflect on their responses to students, adjust their approaches, or explore alternative methods to empower pupils. This can lead to missed opportunities for encouraging a sense of ownership over their learning experience.

Promoting a “forward-thinking” mindset can have a profound impact on their ambition and motivation. As children begin to set and achieve personal goals, they often experience a boost in self-belief and confidence. Research by the Education Endowment Foundation indicates that students who engage in self-regulated learning show improved academic performance and a greater sense of agency over their educational journey (Education Endowment Foundation, 2020).

Teaching young people to plan and assess their own academic progress is essential for developing independence and responsibility for their future. This skill set is not exclusive to high-achieving students; it is equally valuable for those who may struggle academically. By enabling all pupils to take ownership of their learning, we can enhance their educational experience and outcomes.

Identifying the factors that lead to disengagement is a vital step in this process. By working collaboratively, parents and educators can help students recognise their triggers and learn strategies to maintain motivation. For pupils with additional educational needs, support can be tailored to create achievable goals and break down tasks into manageable steps, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach that may not suit everyone.

According to the UK’s Department for Education, approximately 15% of children have special educational needs (SEN), and it is essential to adapt teaching methods to engage these pupils effectively (Department for Education, 2021). By doing so, we increase their likelihood of achieving learning outcomes and maintaining enthusiasm for their education.

The long-term implications of encouraging motivation in students are significant. Children who feel empowered in their learning are better positioned to tackle future educational challenges, such as important examinations, and have a brighter economic outlook beyond their schooling years. A report by the Institute for Fiscal Studies highlights that students who perform well in school tend to have higher earning potential later in life (Institute for Fiscal Studies, 2020).

When students develop self-driven learning habits, the benefits extend beyond academic success. As they commit to their education, the gap between pupils narrows, and the positive impact on self-esteem and confidence can be substantial. Witnessing peers thrive and excel fosters a supportive learning environment where collaboration and motivation flourish.

By encouraging independence in learning is a critical endeavour that can transform the educational experience for children. By equipping pupils with the skills to take ownership of their learning, we prepare them for a lifetime of success. This journey requires the collaboration of parents, educators, and students, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive and realise their full potential.

Education Endowment Foundation. (2020). Self-Regulated Learning: Impact on Student Outcomes. Retrieved from EEF.org.uk.
Department for Education. (2021). Special Educational Needs in England: Statistics. Retrieved from GOV.UK.
Institute for Fiscal Studies. (2020). The Long-Term Impact of Education on Earnings. Retrieved from IFS.org.uk.

For more information on how Child Therapy Telford can help and support children and young people, visit Child Therapy Telford. https://childtherapytelford.nlp4kids.org

Book a FREE 🆓consultation with Child Therapy Telford. 👇
https://louisa-nlp4kids.youcanbook.me

https://childtherapytelford.nlp4kids.org
📞07966 819194
📧 louisa@nlp4kids.org

Improving Independence In Children >Is your child independent in their learning? >Do they take responsibility for thinking about themselves? In today’s educational environment, there is a growing recognition of the importance of developing independence among students. Many children can significant...

19/11/2025

Helping Shy Children Thrive in the Classroom

In every classroom, there are often a few quiet or reserved children who may struggle to connect with their peers. These students sometimes come across as unfriendly or withdrawn, leading to misconceptions about their abilities or intelligence. However, their reticence does not necessarily reflect a lack of skills. Instead, their quiet nature can mask their talents and potential, which can raise concerns about their long-term social development if they do not acquire the necessary strategies to become more confident and form meaningful relationships.

Psychologists have identified persistent shyness, particularly when it results in solitary play, as a challenge that can hinder children from learning vital social skills such as sharing and taking turns. This lack of interaction can affect both cognitive development and their self-perception. According to a study by the University of Cambridge, children who struggle with social engagement are at risk of lower academic performance and diminished self-esteem (University of Cambridge, 2019).

For children who feel shy around their peers, anxiety about how others perceive them can become overwhelming. This often leads to self-exclusion from social situations, making them more vulnerable to bullying and isolation. For parents, it can be deeply concerning to see their child return home upset due to feelings of exclusion and loneliness.

At Child Therapy Telford, we recognise the importance of addressing this issue. NLP4Kids has worked with numerous schools across the UK to implement targeted programmes aimed at helping shy children develop confidence in their social interactions. Our approach includes coaching sessions and workshops designed to equip both children and parents with techniques to encourage bravery and effective communication.

As children become more confident, they naturally develop stronger social skills. This improvement in communication often translates into enhanced language abilities, which in turn support cognitive development and academic success. By gaining the tools to express themselves, children can demonstrate their strengths and abilities, dispelling any misconceptions about their skills.

In addition to academic benefits, children who become more socially engaged tend to have a greater sense of belonging. They are more likely to voice their concerns when faced with challenges, which opens the door to increased opportunities for learning and personal growth. This newfound confidence can significantly enhance their understanding of the world around them, leading to broader horizons and a more fulfilling life.

Moreover, fostering social connections contributes positively to mental well-being. As children build reliable friendships, they are better equipped to overcome anxieties and develop a support network that can help them navigate life’s challenges.

The development of new skills in various domains can lead to benefits:

Emotionally, Children gain a better understanding of themselves and the emotions of others. They experience reduced anxiety and worry, feeling empowered to make choices rather than feeling trapped by shyness.

Intellectual: Increased social interaction enables children to learn from their peers through the exchange of thoughts and ideas. This access to diverse perspectives enhances their decision-making abilities and overall knowledge.

Language: As their social skills improve, children experience growth in their language comprehension and vocabulary. This linguistic development carries long-term benefits for cognitive function well into adulthood.

Social: Enhanced social skills lead to more meaningful relationships, which can positively influence their future roles as partners and parents. Strong interpersonal connections are key to a fulfilling life.

Financially, investing in a child’s social skills now can yield significant returns in the future. By addressing shyness and social anxiety early, parents can potentially avoid the costs associated with deeper-rooted issues that may arise later, including mental health challenges and academic struggles.

Helping shy children in the classroom is not just about addressing immediate concerns; it’s about paving the way for a brighter future. By providing support and strategies, we can empower these children to unlock their potential, fostering emotional, intellectual, linguistic, and social growth. The journey towards enhanced confidence and social competence will not only benefit them in school but throughout their lives.

University of Cambridge. (2019). The Long-Term Effects of Childhood Shyness on Academic Performance. Retrieved from cam.ac.uk

For more information on how Child Therapy Telford can help and support children and young people, visit Child Therapy Telford. https://childtherapytelford.nlp4kids.org

Book a FREE 🆓consultation with Child Therapy Telford. 👇
https://louisa-nlp4kids.youcanbook.me

https://childtherapytelford.nlp4kids.org
📞07966 819194
📧 louisa@nlp4kids.org

Helping Shy Children Thrive in the Classroom In every classroom, there are often a few quiet or reserved children who may struggle to connect with their peers. These students sometimes come across as unfriendly or withdrawn, leading to misconceptions about their abilities or intelligence. However, t...