Why words and pictures, and when is the best time to start the work?
"Words and Pictures" is a supportive tool designed to assist families during pre-proceedings or proceedings. It helps parents or family members address difficult questions by clearly explaining what has happened and outlining the steps being taken to create positive changes. We work closely with parents to break down complex events into simple, child-friendly explanations that are easy for children to understand.
We’ve found that the most effective time to begin this process is when parents and families acknowledge concerns and recognise the need for change. Another suitable time to introduce "Words and Pictures" is when the child starts asking a lot of questions.
We support parents and family members in crafting meaningful stories to support their child's understanding. No artistic skills are required simple stick figures are more than enough. While some parents do opt to use photographs, we will still encourage sticking to stick figures and basic drawings whenever possible for a more personal and creative touch.
How does this support the child?
Children are often very perceptive and can sense when something isn’t right at home. They notice when parents argue or when unusual behaviours occur, such as drug use, often accompanied by strange smells. They may see objects around the house that seem out of place or observe visitors whose presence changes the atmosphere. Children might also experience unsettling moments, such as a lack of food, shouting, or even instances of people hurting one another.
They may remember times when a social worker or the police arrived, taking them to stay with a family member or a foster carer. Using words and pictures can help parents explain these events in a way that provides context, helping the child understand what happened and why, while supporting them in making sense of their current situation. This reduces the anxiety for children and can help reassure and settle them.
How the sessions are run?
We will consult with the social worker to gather key information about the circumstances that led to the family requiring support, focusing on significant events and primary concerns.
Next, we will identify a safe and comfortable space to meet with the parent. During this time, we will introduce the concept of using words and pictures as a tool to help their child understand the situation. Together, we will create a storyboard that outlines and sequences the events leading up to social work involvement or the child being placed in alternative care.
Throughout this process, we will work closely with the parents to explore how they perceive and communicate about the challenges they face, including child protection concerns and related factors such as mental health issues, severe illness, or substance misuse. We aim to understand what parents feel is important for their child to know, address any questions the child may have asked, and consider what the child might have overheard.
If the parent or family member has significant learning or just needs more time and support, we will support the parent to structure the story. The sessions are often an hour over 4-6 sessions depending on the parents abilities. Once the work have been completed we will make copies for each child and parent, laminating the work.
How the words and picture is shared?
We work with parents, social workers, and foster carers to decide when, where, and how the "Words and Pictures" story is shared with the child. While these sessions can take place at a family centre, they should not replace or interfere with family time.
Both the child and parent will receive their own copy of the "Words and Pictures" book.
The parent takes the lead by introducing it as their shared story, fostering connection and understanding.
Parents read the story together with their child, exploring the words and pictures in the book. As the child asks questions, we assist parents or family members in responding in a clear and supportive way that the child can easily understand.
