It is important to help a child to feel prepared for supervised contact. Here are some tips we recommend:
Open communication
Talk to the child: begin by having an age-appropriate, honest, and open conversation with the child about the contact centre. Explain why they are going there and what to expect. Use simple and straightforward language to avoid overwhelming the child.
Reassurance
Provide reassurance: let the child know that their well-being and safety are the top priorities, and the contact centre is a safe and neutral environment for them to spend time with their loved one.
Normalise feelings
Validate their feelings: encourage the child to express their feelings about the situation and reassure them that it's okay to have mixed emotions, if they do.
Visit the contact centre
Familiarise the child with the contact centre: if possible, take the child on a visit to the contact centre before the first supervised contact session. This can help reduce anxiety by making the environment more familiar.
Provide a comfort item
Let them bring comfort items: allow the child to bring a favourite toy, blanket or other comfort items to the contact centre, which can provide a sense of security during the visit.
Prepare for the parent's arrival
Explain the process: describe what will happen during the visit, such as:
- when the person they’re seeing will arrive
- what activities they might do
- when it will end
This can help the child anticipate the day and feel more in control.
Maintain a routine
Keep a consistent schedule: try to maintain the child's regular routine as much as possible on the day of the visit. This can help create a sense of stability.
Positive outlook
Stay positive: avoid negative talk or discussing conflicts with the child, as it can make them anxious. Focus on the idea that this is an opportunity to spend time with their loved one.
Support from professionals
Seek help from professionals: consult with child psychologists or therapists who can provide guidance on how to best prepare the child for supervised contact. They can offer coping strategies and address any specific concerns.
Be patient
Be patient and understanding: Understand that the child may experience a range of emotions and behaviours during and after the contact sessions. Be patient and supportive and allow the child time to adjust.
It's essential to remember that every child is unique, and the preparation process may vary depending on their age and individual needs. Continuous communication, emotional support, and maintaining a child-centered approach can help ease the transition into supervised contact at a contact centre.