Through 1:1 mentoring, children are able to see that they are responsible for their actions and work towards developing strategies and building confidence to make positive changes in the way they behave and the decisions they make.
As both parents and educators we understand the difficulties that exist between parent and child when trying to unravel why a they might be struggling or lack motivation or are constantly testing the boundaries. The relationship between parent and child is one of love, trust and nurturing which sometimes can be a barrier for a child to honestly explore their feelings, emotions and ambitions. This is the beauty of Coaching and Mentoring; the relationship is an objective and rational one without any underlying dynamics or expectations. Within this context, the child feels free to talk honestly and openly and is more able to consider and accept guidance and advice.
Is Coaching and Mentoring Right for my Child?
Coaching and Mentoring is not a therapeutic intervention but a guidance and support service which focusses on the development of emotional intelligence. If your child finds any of the following difficult either at home or school, they may well benefit from coaching and mentoring:
The Themes and Principles that Coaching and Mentoring will Explore
Children and parents often identify a number of the above issues which are having an impact on their child’s performance and success both in and out of school. Whilst this is not an exhaustive list, principle areas of focus would include:
What Coaching and Mentoring aims to achieve
By exploring the above principles, children will identify their strengths and weakness and develop the skills to goal set for change. As a result, children will:
Where and When Coaching and Mentoring Takes Place
Once you have decided that you would like to give your child the opportunity to improve and succeed through Coaching and Mentoring, you will need to complete a registration form. This form will identify your preferred coaching package, how the Coaching and Mentoring will take place either via Face-toFace/FaceTime/Skype/Telephone/Email and your ideal day and time. It will also enable you to highlight any key concerns that would benefit from change.
The first session usually is an opportunity for the child to gain an understanding of the process and consider where they think they need to make a change and goal set for the future. The child should have the opportunity to privacy during the session and be in a place where they feel relaxed and comfortable. The sessions are always positive and nurturing with high expectations and the priority is for children to recognise their strengths before focussing on their weaknesses. A number of methods are used which may include writing/drawing ideas, video input and discussion.
As Coaches and Mentors, we work from our home in Bournemouth. The optimum length of a session is 20 minutes to take account of the child’s developing communication skills.
Initial Consultation
A telephone conversation with the parent to discuss why and how Coaching and Mentoring may be of benefit to the child. This gives you the opportunity to see if this approach is for you without any financial investment or commitment. This can also be done via email if preferred.
Stand Alone Session
This is a one-off session suitable for an issue which may require immediate support and guidance. It could also be an opportunity to revisit concepts to maintain change or previously discussed concepts and goals. The Stand Alone Session is also an ideal opportunity to see if Coaching and Mentoring is the way forward for you. This is a 30 minutes session via whichever method of communication is preferred.
Bronze Package
This package is suitable to work on one or two issues such as disinterest in school, friendship difficulties or behavioural concerns. This package includes:
4 x 30 minute sessions spaced over about a month
May combine longer sessions if desired or add packages together
Free email support for the duration of the Coaching and Mentoring sessions
Silver Package
This is the most popular package and is designed to offer the time and opportunity to explore attitudes and thinking at a deeper level. This package includes:
12 x 30 minute sessions spaced over about three months
May combine longer sessions if desired or add packages together
Free email support for the duration of the Coaching and Mentoring sessions
Gold Package
This package builds on achievements to preserve accomplishments and ensure continued performance and success. This package includes:
24 x 30 minute sessions spaced over about six months
May combine longer sessions if desired or add packages together
Free email support for the duration of the Coaching and Mentoring sessions
Bespoke Individual or Family Package
Some individuals require more intensive input at stages of the Coaching and Mentoring journey and thus a package can be designed to meet the specific requirements of the child.
Also, once a child starts to invest in Coaching and Mentoring, a sibling or other family member may also request the opportunity to access support and guidance. If this is the case then a bespoke Family Package may be more suitable.
In our new world of online interacting, Coaching and Mentoring is a game changer for children and young people. It helps them work towards their goals whether this is mastering a new skill, developing their emotional intelligence or boosting their academic performance. Coaching and Mentoring helps children path a way for change, stay on track and focussed all within the safety and privacy of their own home.
Coaching and Mentoring is the next education frontier. Our goal as educators is to help children and young people learn, grow and succeed. Coaching and Mentoring can be the catalyst for this.
Be one step ahead.
