Notice without labelling.
Changes in confidence, motivation or willingness to talk can prompt a conversation. These observations alone do not explain what is happening or establish what support is needed.
Include your child.
Ask what they would like more help with and how they feel about another supportive adult. Their interests and preferences matter.
Discuss the starting point.
Share your hopes and relevant context with the team. Explore whether mentoring fits alongside the support your child already has, and agree what a useful first step could be.
From the ECNM journal
This reading edition adapts our published work. Explore the original articles below.