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WELCOME
A guide
for parents and carers
of children aged 0-5
Positive
parenting
working together to
support families in
Barnet
WELCOME
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Welcome
Being a parent can be the most rewarding experience, but it can also be tough and may be
a little daunting at first. Every child is different and at every age we are faced with new
challenges and situations to handle. There is no such thing as a perfect parent and we all
need a little help and support at times.
From 0 to 5 your child will develop rapidly from a newborn into a toddler then become a little
person with their own personality and opinions. It is a rewarding and challenging time taking
them through the early days of feeding, sleeping, potty training and on to nursery with school
following soon after.
We aim to offer practical advice and positive ways to manage some of the challenges you
may encounter. You will find information, warning signs, as well as ideas and tips that can
be used to tackle specific issues. There is also information on how to get further support.
We hope you find this guide helpful.
Throughout this booklet the term ‘parents’ has been used to mean mothers, fathers, carers and other
adults with the responsibility of caring for a child.
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Contents
A guide to services
Smacking
Temper tantrums
Immunisation and
common childhood illnesses
Childcare
Meningitis
Dangerous dogs
Safety in the home
Developing speech and language
Domestic abuse
Children with a disability
Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Bedwetting and sleeping difficulties
Changing relationships
Starting nursery and school
Healthy lifestyles
Protecting our children
Encouraging good behaviour
Useful contacts
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A guide to services
We have a wide range of professionals who can help and support you.
See which professional is best to help you.
Children’s Centres
Common Assessment Framework
(CAF)
A CAF is a simple way of gathering and sharing
information about your child, when extra support is
needed.
The CAF will gather all relevant information together
in one place, this will mean that you do not have to
keep repeating your story to lots of professionals.
The CAF is a voluntary process, that involves you
as a parent and your child if appropriate. When
information is collected, all agencies required to
meet your needs will be invited to a meeting with
you to share information and plan the next steps
together.
You can request a CAF from any Health Visitor/
School Nurse, School or Support Worker.
Early Education Services
Early Years Professionals like Nursery Nurses (both state
and private day care), Childminders and Nursery
Teachers are all trained to follow a foundation based
curriculum of guidelines, the Early Years Foundation
Stage (EYFS). It sets the Standards for Learning,
Development and Care for Children from 0 to 5.
The EYFS provides guidance to practitioners in helping
children develop physically, intellectually, emotionally
and socially.
You may be entitled to some free child care. Your child
must be two years of age (funding would be available from
the term after their second birthday until they are eligible
for the three and four year old early education entitlement).
To find out if you are eligible visit www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
We also offer advice and support on school and nursery
admissions.
Children's Centres
provide a variety of
advice and support for
families. These services
are available to you from
pregnancy right through
to when your child goes
into reception class and
beyond. Drop in to your
local centre and see
what is available for you.
You can make an
appointment to visit
healthcare professionals
who are based at, or
hold sessions at a
number of our centres.
Children and
Families
There are a range of services
available to parents in
Barnet. Many of these can
be accessed through FYi.
These include services
such as:
• Child and Adolescent
Mental Health Services
(CAMHS)
• CAF and Family Focus
Services
• positive activities for your
child from eight years
upward as part of our
Youth Support Service.
This includes holiday clubs
and after school clubs.
Health Visitor
The Health Visitor is
there to support you and
your family. They are
there to support you
when you need them.
They will visit you at
home or see you in a
clinic and can offer
support and advice and
can tell you where to get
extra help if you need it.
They are part of a team
of Nurses and Nursery
Nurses who are there to
support you during the
early years.
Speech and
Language
Therapist
The role of a Speech
and Language Therapist
(SLT) is to assess and
treat speech, language
and communication
problems in people of all
ages to enable them to
communicate to the
best of their ability. They
may also work with
people who have eating
and swallowing
problems.
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Immunisation and common
childhood illnesses
Being prepared and protecting your child
Chemist’s tips
Keep a small supply of
useful medicines, where your
child cannot reach them.
Include things like:
Thermometer
Plasters
Liquid painkillers
(baby paracetamol or
ibuprofen)
Barrier cream
FYi 0800 389 8312 • www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
Parents are usually good at noticing when something is wrong with their child
from quite early on. It is normal to worry that you would not recognise the signs
that your child is unwell. Trust your instincts, you know your child best.
Immunisations, also known as vaccinations are usually given by injection. Children in
the UK are offered vaccinations against a variety of diseases as part of the Healthy
Child Programme. A record is kept in the Parent Held Child Health Record (Red
Book), which is a book you keep, containing information on your child’s health.
Immunisations are mainly given during the first five years. It is important to have
vaccinations at the right age to keep the risk of disease as low as possible. It is
normal to worry about vaccinations, ask your Health Visitor, Doctor or call NHS
Direct on 0845 4647 for advice.
Stop
I have a new baby at
home and I am
worried I will not
know what to do or
what to look out for.
Think
Be prepared so that if
they do become
unwell you will know
what to do and
whom to contact.
Do
Keep a small supply
of useful medicines.
Keep emergency
numbers in a place
you can find them.
Doctor says
Immunisations are used to
protect children from
diseases which can be very
serious and sometimes even
cause death. It is important
your child’s vaccinations are
kept up-to-date.
Some immunisations are
given more than once, to
make sure the protection
continues. This is known as a
booster, so make sure your
child gets it.
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Meningitis
A serious illness
The glass test
Meningitis is a swelling around the brain. It is a very serious illness, but if it is
treated early most children make a full recovery.
The glass test is a really useful way of spotting suspected meningitis. If your
child has a cluster of red or purple spots, press the side of a clear drinking
glass firmly against the rash.
You should always treat any case of suspected meningitis as an emergency.
Go straight to the Accident and
Emergency Department
Early signs may be like having a cold or flu. Children with meningitis can
become seriously ill very fast, so make sure you can spot the signs. Your child
may have a cluster of red or purple spots. Do the glass test. This rash can be
harder to see on darker skin, so check for spots over your baby or child’s whole
body as it can start anywhere (check lightest areas first). However, the rash is not
always present - be aware of all the signs/symptons.
The presence of fever and any other of the above symptoms should be taken
extremely seriously. Not all children will show all the signs listed on the right.
In this example the spots are still
visible through the glass. Contact a
Doctor immediately (for example your
own surgery or Walk-in/Urgent Care
Centre). If you cannot get help straight
away go to the Accident and
Emergency Department.
In this example the spots under the
glass have virtually disappeared. It is
unlikely to be meningitis but if you
are still worried contact NHS Direct,
your surgery or go to the Accident
and Emergency Department.
Doctor says
Stop
Is your child showing
signs like those in
the box on the right?
Think
You should always
treat any case of
suspected meningitis
as an emergency.
If any of the signs below are
present contact a Doctor.
Fever, cold hands
and feet
Floppy and
unresponsive
Drowsy and
difficult to wake
Spots/rash.
Do the glass test
Rapid breathing
or grunting
Fretful, dislikes
being handled
Do
Do the glass test.
If spots do not fade
under the glass
treat as an
emergency.
Unusual cry or moaning
If worried, contact a Doctor (for example, your own surgery or Walk-in/Urgent Care Centre) or NHS Direct. If you cannot get help go to Accident and Emergency.
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Dangers around the home:
• make sure that all medicines and drugs are locked away
well out of reach
• certain rooms are full of danger, such as the kitchen and
should remain out of bounds or made safe by the use of
safety devices
• is the safety chain high enough on the front door even
for a very active toddler?
• do not leave windows open and make sure you have
safety locks
• keep an eye on your young children, especially near
wires and sockets - use plug guards
• small children should never be left alone with pets, even
trained, good natured animals can be tested when
children are around
• make sure that irons, saucepans and hot drinks are kept
out of the reach of children, scalding and burns are
common and avoidable accidents
• inhaling cigarette smoke is bad for children’s health
• check toys for safety marks, ensure that your child does
not play with toys that are not suitable for his or her age,
especially if the pieces are small enough to choke on
• do not leave blind or curtain pulls dangling.
With some planning and use of safety equipment your
home can become a safe place. Visit
www.rospa.com/homesafety
Source: RoSPA 2012
FYi 0800 389 8312 • www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
Safety in the home
Making your home safe
Babies and toddlers learn about their world by exploring it. This means that, as soon
as they are able to, they will crawl, touch and grab at whatever is in their line of
vision. They are curious by nature and need careful and gentle guidance early on
about what danger is and what to stay away from. Shouting at or smacking children
will not teach them about safety. Supervision is most important for all young children.
More than one million children experience accidents in and around the home
every year, for which they are taken to accident and emergency. Those most at
risk from a home accident are the under fives. Falls account for the majority of
non-fatal accidents while the highest number of deaths are due to fire. Most of
these accidents are preventable through increased awareness, improvements in
the home environment and use of safety products.
Children are not aware of the consequences of the many new situations that they
encounter daily. We all know that some accidents are inevitable and usually easily
treated and are part of a child’s development as they explore the world around
them, but it is possible to 'child proof' your home to an extent.
Stop
Spend some time at
home exploring as if
you were a toddler.
Think
Make a list of potential
dangers.
Do
Think about types of
safety equipment or
how you can move
these things out of
your child's reach.
Common injuries:
• strangulation including blind
cords
• falls (stairs, balconies and
from windows)
• fires
• scalds (hot drinks cause
most scalds to children under
the age of five)
• glass-related accidents
• poisoning (from household
chemicals or medicines and
drugs)
• suffocating and choking
• drowning (children can drown
in less than 3cm of water,
(they should be under
constant supervision when in
or near any water).
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For help call Solace Women’s Aid on
020 8733 4113.
Providing help for all the community.
Domestic abuse
Keeping your child safe
If you are the victim
Many people find it difficult to understand why
people stay in abusive situations. Fear, love,
the risk of homelessness and money worries
can make it difficult for women with children
to leave. If you are a victim of domestic
abuse, you are not the only victim - your
children are too. You can report domestic
abuse to any professional. There are many
agencies working in Barnet who will help you
to access support from a range of specialist
services. For more information, call Solace
Women’s Aid on 020 8733 4113.
Even if you think an incident is just a one-off,
other professional agencies may already have
concerns. So your information could be very
important.
Safer Families Project works with
children from birth to 11 years offering
a range of support which includes a
specialist parent support group, Safer
Families stay and play and drop-in
sessions and one-to-one or family
counselling from Relate for children
and parents. Tel: 020 8359 7218
Children are affected in many ways. They may feel frightened, become withdrawn,
aggressive or difficult, bedwet, run away, have problems at school, lack
concentration and suffer emotional upset. Domestic abuse places children at risk of
significant harm and professional support is needed. It is best that action is taken
early to stop things getting worse. Keeping your child safe is your responsibility.
Children can often get caught up in the crossfire and become victims.
Long-term abuse is much more likely to cause problems for a child or young
person as they get older. The longer children are exposed to violence, the more
severe the effects on them are. These can include a lack of respect for the nonviolent parent, loss of self-confidence (which will affect their ability to form
relationships in the future), being over-protective of a parent, loss of childhood,
problems at school and running away.
Children need time to discuss the feelings they have about violence or abuse.
Children need to know that it is not their fault and that this is not the way
relationships should be.
Stop
It is not your fault.
FYi 0800 389 8312 • www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
Think
Victims often feel
isolated, frightened
or humiliated.
Do
Access support,
whatever your
circumstances. Talk
to someone.
What is domestic
abuse?
Abuse can take many forms:
• physical including sexual
violence
• mental and verbal cruelty
• financial control
• controlling behaviour.
The facts
Domestic abuse affects a
number of families across
Barnet. Women are at increased
risk of domestic abuse during
pregnancy and the first year
after giving birth, even if there
has not been any abuse before.
Children do hear, they do see
and they are aware of violence
at home, even if you think they
do not. Children react in
different ways to violence and
research suggests that they are
more likely to become abusers
or victims later in life.
You can call Solace Women’s Aid on 020 8733 4113.
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Bedwetting and sleeping
difficulties
Patience, praise and peace
There are many different reasons why babies and toddlers do not sleep through
the night. Feel confident in yourself to know whether your child is really distressed
or just restless. Trust your instincts.
Health Visitor
FYi 0800 389 8312 • www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
If your sleep is often disturbed,
arrange for a trusted relative
or friend to care for your baby
or child so that you can get
some sleep. Talk to your
Health Visitor.
Between the ages of three and
four years, your child is likely
to be dry during the day, with
the occasional accident. This
is often a gradual process
where more and more nights
will be dry nights.
Try to establish a regular night time sleep routine for your child early on by putting
them to bed at a regular time each night. Prepare a warm, comfortable place for
them to relax in. Reading to your child at bedtime helps them to unwind, and
gives you some special time together. If your child is scared of the dark, try
keeping a night light on.
Bedwetting may be stressful for both of you and will often wake your child. It is
not easy to know why some children take longer to be dry at night than others.
Try not to lose your patience or punish them, your child is not doing this on
purpose. Children learn at their own pace and praise and support will help.
Night time checklist:
• is your child too hot or cold?
• are they comfortable?
• could they be hungry?
Stop
My child is waking up
during the night.
Think
Is it because they
are wet? Could they
be ill? Do you have
a nightly routine?
Do
Think about recent
changes, maybe they
have a new routine.
Speak to your Health
Visitor.
• check their bed is not wet
• are they scared of the dark?
• did they have a calm relaxed
time before bed?
• is the house too noisy?
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Changing relationships
And baby makes three
Before, you were a couple - now, you are parents. The focus of a new mum's
attention is on the baby, sometimes to the exclusion of everyone and everything
else. Many new dads are unaware of and are often surprised and frustrated at
how left-out they feel. Dads often have little information of what to expect. Prenatal classes more often help dads share with their partners the experience of
pregnancy, but they are unaware of what to expect emotionally.
Challenges for
new mums
Mums have their own
challenges to confront.
Pregnancy temporarily changes
the body they are used to; a
couple of extra pounds and
dark circles under the eyes from
late-night feedings can make a
woman feel self-conscious and
less attractive to her partner.
Some mums also find it difficult
to reconcile the image of a
mother with that of a sexual
woman, so they may be less
interested in intimacy.
FYi 0800 389 8312 • www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
The reality of caring for a baby can be overwhelming. This can generate many
different and new feelings. It is common for new parents to feel guilty when they
are not enjoying every second - remember that it is okay to want and need to take
a break from the baby.
A baby can also stir up feelings of jealousy. Sometimes new dads get jealous
because the baby takes up so much of mum's time, or maybe he is jealous that
he does not get to spend as much time with the baby. These feelings are
completely normal when your household grows from two to three, your
relationship with your partner will change. Give time for things to settle down.
Stop
I never seem to be
able to spend any
time alone with my
partner now.
Think
She may be under
pressure. Try to
suggest a regular time
to take some time out
for yourselves.
Do
Organise a trusted
babysitter, or even plan
an evening at home
with a nice meal and a
film while baby sleeps.
Things to help:
• try to set aside some time
just for you as parents and
also as a couple, even if it is
just an hour or so a week
• give time for things to settle
down, do not expect things to
be perfect
• do not beat yourself up in
trying to be the perfect partner
and parent
• talk about your feelings
• try to agree on certain aspects
of parenting and work together
• reassure your partner you are
there for them
• recognise that you both may
have different ideas about
parenting
• try to agree on your parenting
style.
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Protecting our children
Getting support
Very few adults harm children deliberately and most often, when harm does
happen, families need support, not punishment or the removal of their children.
Barnet Social Workers and other professionals get involved when parents may be
unable to protect their child from harm and need some help. In some cases the
Metropolitan Police Child Abuse Investigation Teams will work with Social Workers
to help protect children and decide whether an offence has been committed.
What can I do?
FYi 0800 389 8312 • www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
If someone you know is having
difficulties, you could offer the
following:
• a listening ear
• ideas to cope with problems
• encouragement to get help
• practical support (for
example offering to babysit).
If the family is unable to cope
and they do nothing to get
help you need to report it.
Speak to Barnet Duty Desk on
020 8359 4066 or the Police.
Speak out and consider how you would feel if it was your child. Discuss your
concerns in confidence with either Barnet Duty Services on 020 8359 4066 or the
Police. Barnet Council also offer support and information.
When we suspect, witness or are told of a child that is being harmed, action
should be taken to stop things getting worse. Even if you think an incident is just a
one-off, your information could be very important. Long-term abuse can have a
negative affect on a child for the rest of their lives.
Stop
There are many signs
of abuse, from
physical and
emotional injury
leading to changes in
behaviour.
Think
Make sure your
child knows who
they can share
worries with if and
when they need to.
Do
Seek advice about
what practical and
emotional support is
available from
schools and
Children’s Centres.
Abuse at home
When we suspect abuse of a
child in our own home, we
can react in many different
ways. We may feel guilt,
anger, disbelief or denial.
Some of these reactions can
prevent getting help to a child
who needs it. You may not
tell others because you fear
that the children will be at
further risk of harm. You may
love the person who is
causing the harm and not
want to believe what is
happening. You need to put
your child’s safety first.
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Encouraging
good behaviour
Communication through the years pays off
Every day, your child learns new things. It is what makes childhood so exciting.
You have an important job in teaching them about values and beliefs and by being
a good role model. Start early and see your hard work pay-off.
Being a good
role-model
Having a child means a lifelong
commitment to someone who will
need your care and support. If
you are a parent then you are
responsible in the eyes of the law
for the safety, wellbeing and
upbringing of your child. Your
children are a reflection of you
and your parenting. The most
effective parenting tool we have is
the example we set as good role
models early on. This will help
your child grow into a responsible,
healthy and happy adult.
Using positive feedback is a great idea. Build up self-esteem by talking about their
strengths. Being too critical can damage confidence. When they do something
good, praise them and explain why. Rather than saying “Good boy” try saying,
“You are a good boy for helping me”.
You can use positive feedback when they are misbehaving too. Tell them you are
upset about their behaviour, not them. That way they will not see themselves as a
bad person and know they have the power to change the way they act. It is up to
you to set boundaries and rules in their life, which will change as they grow.
Discuss your parenting styles early on with your partner so you both set
consistent rules.
Life is busy but it is important to make time to spend together. Ask for help if you
need it, there are many professionals who can give you hints and tips to help.
Stop
Do they say things like
“I cannot do this, I will
never get it right”?
Think
Is your child’s selfesteem low?
Do
Praise them where you
can. Try to focus on
what they are good at.
Positive feedback:
• use positive feedback to
build up self-esteem
• praise your child when they
do well and explain why
you are pleased with them
• children are happier if they
have rules to follow
• use play to teach your child
good behaviour
• as they grow, change the
way you encourage them.
FYi 0800 389 8312 • www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
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Smacking
Is it legal?
It is unlawful for a parent or
carer to smack their child,
except where this amounts to
‘reasonable punishment’
regardless of any individual,
cultural or religious justification.
There is a grey area in the Law
as to whether a ‘smack’
amounts to reasonable
punishment. However, physical
punishment will be considered
‘unreasonable’ if it leaves a
mark on the child or if the child
is hit with an implement such
as a cane or a belt*. As a result,
child protection professionals
will assess incidents of physical
ill-treatment of children, in order
that they can understand,
prevent and explain the
consequences of further
incidents to parents.
FYi 0800 389 8312 • www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
*Source www.childrenslegalcentre.com
The great debate
It is important that children learn how to behave. Parents have a very important
job as role models for their children in helping them to learn how to do this.
Setting limits early on and explaining reasons for these limits helps to instill selfdiscipline. Smacking has no long-lasting positive effect and in fact smacking
usually has to increase in severity in order to have the same impact on your
growing child. This is where the fine line between smacking and hitting can be
crossed. Smacking does not teach self-discipline and may teach your child to hurt
others. It could make them frightened of you.
Every parent gets frustrated at times and it is at these times that it could be easy
to smack in the heat of the moment. However this is an outlet for the parent’s
frustration, rather than a helpful way of influencing the child’s behaviour. Try to use
different ways to teach acceptable behaviour. Praise them when they are good
and try to distract them from misbehaving.
Stop
My child is being so
naughty I feel like
smacking them.
Think
This has happened
in the past and
smacking does not
seem to work.
Do
Think about different
ways of showing your
child how to behave.
Explain why you are
angry.
How to avoid
smacking:
• try not to let a situation get
so bad that you feel you
need to smack your child
• set limits early on
• explain why you may be
unhappy with their
unacceptable behaviour
and praise their good
behaviour
• if you feel so angry you are
out of control take time out
and walk away
• try to take a break, all
parents get frustrated
sometimes.
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Temper tantrums
Managing behaviour
Tantrums may start around 18 months and become less common at four.
However, tantrums may later be replaced by mood swings once your child
reaches puberty. It is not all bad news, just part of growing up and will pass.
Toddler tantrums often happen when a child is not able to express themselves as
much as they want to and their frustration may come out as a tantrum. Tantrums
are especially likely to happen if a child is tired, hungry or uncomfortable. They
often happen in busy, public places, which can be highly embarrassing and add
to the parents’ stress.
Remember, bad temper tantrums are normal and do not usually lead to serious
problems. As your child gets older they will learn to deal more calmly with the
stresses of everyday life.
Stop
Temper tantrums
are normal.
Think
Try to identify
possible causes of
tantrums and try to
avoid them.
Do
Offer your child the
choice of a positive
way out. Be calm
and understanding.
Toddler tantrums
Keep calm and consider
whether your child needs
food or rest. Give your child
attention and if possible, find
a quiet place or some way of
distracting their attention. Do
not give in, but do try to
understand your child’s
feelings. Praise your child for
calming down afterwards.
FYi 0800 389 8312 • www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
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Childcare
Types of childcare:
How do I make the right choice?
You are responsible for the safety and well-being of your children. It is important
that you think carefully about the childcare provision that you choose for you child
whether this is an Ofsted registered childminder or nursery/pre-school, or informal
childcare such as a relative, friend or babysitter. Ofsted registration is required for
any person or organisation who cares for children under eight years for more than
two hours per day.
We are offering free early years provision for two, three
and four-year-olds in Barnet. For children aged two there
is a targeted service called the Two Year Old Scheme and
for children aged three and four there is a universal
service called Free Early Education Entitlement.
When you leave your child in the care of someone else you want them to be as well
cared for and safe as they are with you. Therefore, when choosing childcare take
your time and visit a number of different childcare providers. Always ask to see their
Ofsted Registration Certificate which should be on display. Talk to other parents.
The Two Year Old Scheme funds eligible children from the
term after their second birthday. Children must meet a
range of criteria to qualify and can access up to 15 hours
(until 2013) of childcare in selected childcare settings.
All children from the term after their third birthday can
access up to 15 hours of free flexible childcare in
nurseries, pre-schools, accredited childminders, nursery
schools and classes. Both schemes operate for 38
weeks only (term time). Talk to your chosen childcare
provider on how they offer the free 15 hours as many
offer it in different ways. For more details go to
www.barnet.gov.uk/free-childcare
For more information on choosing childcare contact FYi on 0800 389 8312 or visit
www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
For information on help with the costs of childcare go to
www.barnet.gov.uk/quidsforkids which is an online guide for parents.
Stop
What type of
childcare are you
looking for?
FYi 0800 389 8312 • www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
Think
Contact FYi who can
discuss the different
childcare options
available.
0800 389 8312
Do
Visit a range of
childcare providers
with your child, Make
sure you are both
happy.
• nurseries offer childcare for
children aged 0-5 often
during the hours of 8am-6pm
all year round
• pre-schools offer childcare
for children between two and
five often for three-fours a
day, term time only
• out-of-school childcare
offers childcare after school
or during the school holidays
• childminders care for children
aged 0-7 (and above) in the
childminder’s own home.
All of the above childcare
providers must be registered
and inspected by Ofsted see
www.ofsted.gov.uk for more
details
• nannies, au pairs and home
child carers can provide care
in the child’s own home and
may be registered on the
Ofsted Voluntary part of the
Childcare Register.
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Dangerous dogs
There are many benefits of having a dog in the family
Having a dog (or any other suitable pet) in the family can be fun, a source of
exercise and help children learn about responsibility and respect for animals. You
should always have some guidelines when it comes to pets and children. If you
are thinking of getting a dog, research to find out which breeds behave best with
children. Buy from a reputable breeder and make sure that the dog has no history
of aggression and that it is a legal breed.
Around dogs:
• never attempt to stroke/touch any
dog without the owner’s permission
• never run past a strange dog as this
could make it chase you
• never stare at a dog as they may see
this as a challenge or an attack
• dogs and small children should never
be left together unsupervised, no
matter how good-natured the dog is,
a dangerous situation could develop if
the dog is hurt, frightened or feels
threatened
• children must be taught to handle
animals gently and carefully.
FYi 0800 389 8312 • www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
If you already have a dog introducing a new baby into the family can take some
preparation and planning to keep them safe. Your dog may feel left out or jealous.
Try changing their routine ahead of baby's arrival, so you may need to slowly
change where they sleep or eat for example.
Never allow your dog to play rough games with adults because they may not
understand they cannot do the same with children. Never allow your child to be
alone with your own or any other dog. Take care in parks and open spaces where
a dog could approach you or your child.
Stop
Is it safe to leave my
child alone with our
family pet?
Think
Dogs are animals
and will always
respond instinctively.
Plan ahead for when
your baby can crawl.
Do
The key to any childdog interaction is
Supervision. Never
leave any child alone
with a dog.
The Law and dogs
There is a penalty of prison, a fine,
or both for allowing a dog you
own or are in charge of to be
dangerously out of control or for
owning a banned breed. These
are sometimes known as ‘trophy
dogs’. Whether your dog is a
banned type depends on what it
looks like, rather than the breed
or name by which it is called
(whether a crossbreed or not).
The Law refers to four kinds of
dog which are banned:
• Pit Bull Terrier
• Japanese Tosa
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Braziliero.
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Developing
speech and language
Chatter matters
Parents are children's very first teachers and those who actively engage their babies
and children in conversation can have a great impact on their child's communication
skills. Talking to babies, and having fun with nursery rhymes and songs is a great way
to lay the groundwork when it comes to learning speech.
The dummy debate
Prolonged dummy use and
thumb sucking for long
periods each day can affect a
child’s speech and language
development, as well as teeth
alignment. They also reduce
babbling and a child’s
experimentation with sounds
which is an important step in
learning to talk.
If your toddler or child
continually uses a dummy
after 12 months it may affect
speech and language
development by restricting
tongue movement.
FYi 0800 389 8312 • www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
While there is no magic formula to help a child talk, there are things you can do to
help with their development. Be natural and always respond when your child tries to
communicate with you. The process of talking involves listening, understanding,
thinking, wanting and needing to speak, as well as being able to coordinate all the
right muscles around the mouth.
Talking to babies throughout the day is important. Try to skip the ‘baby talk’.
Remember that babies learn to talk from listening to others and it is important to talk
in a fun and friendly manner. Talking to your child does not need to be a chore and
does not need to be time consuming, it can easily fit into your daily routine and can
be extremely beneficial in your child’s speech and language development.
Stop
My toddler can not
seem to string a
sentence together.
Think
Be patient, talking
comes from
experience of listening
to adult voices.
Do
Talk to your child
throughout the day.
Chat about everyday
things and give them
your attention.
Tips
Reading to toddlers and young
children is a great way to
encourage speech. Choosing
a variety of books as well as
rhyming can help with the
rhythm and flow of language.
Parents who include children in
conversation are more likely to
have children who love to talk.
It is important to show a
genuine interest in what your
child is trying to say.
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Children with a disability/SEN
Make sure that they get the best support available
Education
Depending upon the disability or
Special Educational Need that
your child has, they may need
additional support in their
mainstream school. In some
circumstances your child may
need to attend a special school a specialist environment designed
to match their educational needs.
Every nursey and school has a
Special Needs Co-ordinator
(SENCO) who can discuss any
issues with you.
You can also contact Barnet
Parent Partnership Service on
020 8359 7637 for impartial
information.
FYi 0800 389 8312 • www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
FYi provides information about
a range of support. Contact FYi
on 0800 389 8312.
If your child has a disability the future can feel like a real challenge, but you are not
alone. The earlier the problem is identified the better. It may be that you already
have a diagnosis or you may have noticed there could be a problem. You cannot
stop your child’s condition, but you can help with the disability they experience by
making sure that they get the best support available.
Your Doctor and Health Authority provide the help you need to understand your
child’s disability and help you plan treatment, therapy, equipment and ongoing
care. The Pre-school Inclusion Team helps parents of disabled children under five
to be at the heart of decision making and planning. This includes access to
keyworker services and other resources.
Your child is especially protected by Law. The Disability Discrimination Act makes
it unlawful for any service provider like schools to treat disabled people differently
because of their disability. The Disabled Children’s Team can also provide support
to you and your family. We support equal rights.
Stop
You think your child
may have some
form of disability.
Think
The earlier you do
something about a
possible problem
the better.
Do
Contact your Health
Visitor, Doctor, local
Children’s Centre,
NEYS or school to
access Team Around
the Child support.
Benefits
Benefits that you could receive
to help you include Disability
Living Allowance, Carer’s
Allowance, help with extra
housing costs, Carers Blue
Badge Scheme, free dental
treatment and prescriptions
and help with the cost of
glasses. In some cases travel
to hospital, school meals and
road tax exemption. There are
organisations and charities
who provide further help,
advice and support.
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Starting nursery and school
Change and transition
For children, any kind of change or transition can be scary. Start thinking about
your child’s early learning place well in advance and research their new nursery or
school. It can be a difficult time for parents too. Talk to FYi about your childcare
choices and what might be best for your child.
Nursery school: being in a large group of children, sometimes for the first time
can be a frightening experience. Try going to a Parent and Toddler Group, or
attend other activities where other small children are around so they get used
to mixing. Be patient if they become clingy and take it slowly.
Starting school: this is a big change in your child’s life. Try to prepare them for
what will happen and encourage their independence. Visit the school before they
start. Talk to their Teacher and share information about your child that may help.
Children must be in education by the term after their fifth birthday.
If your child has a disability or SEN there are more things to think about. Contact
Barnet Parent Partnership Service on 020 8359 7637 where you can discuss
mainstream or special school options.
Stop
You are feeling
anxious about your
child starting school.
FYi 0800 389 8312 • www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
Think
Do not let your child
know how you feel,
be strong for them.
Do
Be positive. Talk to
your child and
reassure them. Take
them to visit the
nursery in advance.
Tips:
• give your child lots of
support and make sure they
know what to expect
• they may feel nervous and
say they feel too ill to go to
school, they may also be
angry towards you or cry this is all quite normal
• you might worry how your
child is going to cope with
being in a new environment,
have confidence in them
and be strong for them.
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Healthy lifestyles
Start healthy habits early in life
With healthy habits from birth, you can give your baby a good start for a healthy
and happy future. Breast milk is ideal for your baby’s growing needs and giving
them breast milk can make a big difference. If you are not as healthy as you could
be, now could be a great time to establish good healthy habits for all the family.
Babies like the foods they get used to. If you give them lots of different, healthy
foods to try when they are babies and toddlers, they are more likely to eat a
variety of healthy foods as they grow up.
Health Visitor says
Smoking at home can lead to
health problems. This is called
passive smoking and It means
you are forcing your child to
breathe in your smoke. Even if
you smoke outside it can still
damage their health. Now you
are responsible for your child
why not give up smoking?
Visit www.smokefree.nhs.uk
for more information.
FYi 0800 389 8312 • www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
As they grow, you can help them by playing with them and helping them make
new movements and explore their surroundings. As they develop, encourage
them to take up a new sport or activity. The whole family can enjoy a healthy
lifestyle together, even simple things like hiking or cycling help our health and
allow us time together to relax and get fit.
At around two or three some children become very picky and only seem to eat
one type of food. Do not take the easy option and give them what they will eat keep offering a varied healthy diet.
Stop
Do you drink too
much alcohol, take
drugs or smoke?
Think
You may be passing
these habits onto
your child. Now is
the time to get
healthy together.
Do
Get help if you
need it from NHS
websites and speak
to your Practice
Nurse.
Doctor says
Here are some basic rules to
help you lead a more healthy
lifestyle:
• your good health habits will
become your child’s good
health habits
• exercise together
• eat well
• drink alcohol with caution
and know the limits
• do not smoke or take
drugs, if you do, get help
to give up.
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Useful contacts
Local contacts
National contacts
Alateen Al-Anon (for young people)
020 7403 0888
www.al-anonuk.org.uk
Advisory Centre for Education (ACE)
0808 800 5793
www.ace-ed.org.uk
British Association for Adoption
& Fostering
020 7421 2600
www.baaf.org.uk
Bully Busters
0800 169 6928
Child Exploitation & Online
Protection (CEOP) Centre
0870 000 3344
www.ceop.police.uk
Cruse Bereavement Care Helpline
0844 477 9400
www.crusebereavementcare.org.uk
Cry-sis Helpline
08451 228 669
www.cry-sis.org.uk
Defra
For more information about the laws on
dangerous dogs
08459 33 55 77
www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/
pets/dangerous
Education & Resources for
Improving Childhood Continence
(ERIC)
0845 370 8008
www.eric.org.uk
Gingerbread
Expert advice and practical support for
single parents
0808 802 0925
www.gingerbread.org.uk
NSPCC
0808 800 5000
www.nspcc.org.uk
Family Lives
Call the Parentline free on
0808 800 2222
www.familylives.org.uk/
RoSPA
0121 248 2000
www.rospa.com
The Samaritans
08457 90 90 90
www.samaritans.org
www.itsnotyourfault.org
www.justice.gov.uk
Kidscape
08451 205 204
www.kidscape.org.uk
PP4Dan
For parent/carers of children and young
people with a disability and additional
needs in Barnet
020 8449 5251
www.pp4danbarnet.org.uk
Local contact
Domestic violence
Solace Women’s Aid
020 8733 4113
[email protected]
Families and Young People's
Information service (FYi)
FYi is a free information service for
families, children and young people
up to the age of 20.
FYi hold extensive information on a
range of areas including:
• a directory of registered childcare
in Barnet
• information on parental support
and courses
• information about help available to
help pay for childcare
• guidance on careers in childcare,
childcare qualifications and careers
• advice on starting and running a
childcare business
• Directme - a family information
directory containing many local
organisations.
If we do not have the information
you need we will signpost you to
the organisation who can best help.
Tel: 0800 389 8312
text: 07781 480 070
email: [email protected]
www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
Directme
Directme is an online directory
providing information on services
and activities for children, young
people and their families in Barnet.
It contains details on services
available in childcare, education,
social care, health, housing and the
voluntary sector.
The directory is updated regularly.
www.barnet.gov.uk/directme
Barnet Parent Partnership
Offers free, confidential, impartial
information, guidance, advice and
support for parents/carers of
children with special and additional
educational needs via telephone or
face-to-face meetings. It is
available to all parents of children
aged 0-19 with a special or
additional educational need.
Tel: 020 8359 7637
CommUNITY Barnet
CommUNITY Barnet is a voluntary
organisation. As part of a national
network of Councils for Voluntary
Service (CVS), CommUNITY
Barnet supports, promotes and
co-ordinates an effective voluntary
and community sector in the
borough to enhance the quality of
life for all.
We have a wide membership and
work with over 1000 organisations,
representing all aspects of
voluntary and community activity,
from social care to culture,
encompassing local branches of
large national charities as well as
grassroots self-help groups, faith
groups, community sports and arts
groups.
Tel: 020 8364 8400
www.communitybarnet.org.uk
Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this handbook is up-to-date and accurate. However, we cannot guarantee that inaccuracies will not occur.
We will not be held responsible for any loss, damage or inconvenience caused as a result of reliance on such information. (July 2012)
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For parenting advice, support and help contact:
Call FYi on 0800 389 8312 or visit www.barnet.gov.uk/fyi
Direct me - The online directory www.barnet.gov.uk/directme
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Sense Interactive Ltd. © 2012 All Rights Reserved. Tel: 01622 752160 www.sensecds.com
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