Homesickness

HOMESICKNESS

From our experience, boarders are usually busy having a great time with their peers during the evening, with very little opportunity to become homesick. Homesickness normally only occurs when children slow down at the end of each evening.

Telephone calls can have a huge impact on a boarder’s confidence, particularly if they haven’t much boarding experience. Therefore, our advice is:

• If possible, try to agree not to speak to children on their first night boarding. • Keep any conversations short and positive. • Focus conversations on what boarders have been doing, which friends they are spending time will, what are they looking forward to the next day. • Praise your child and let them know how proud you are of their efforts.

Our boarding staff are experienced and sympathetic when dealing with homesickness. Houseparents will only contact you if they need to discuss additional support, please do not worry if you do not hear from us! If we deem it necessary, we will contact you with any news in the morning.