A Place to Feel Safe Again

When eight-year-old Leo* began withdrawing at school, his teacher noticed the small changes first. He stopped joining in at playtime. He became easily overwhelmed. He often complained of tummy aches before class.

At home, things felt unsettled too. A relationship breakdown, a house move, and ongoing financial pressure had left Leo’s mum, Cath*, feeling stretched and exhausted. She could see her son was struggling, but worried he was carrying big feelings he did not yet have the words for.

Walking alongside Leo and Cath

Through his school, Leo was referred to Mana Ake, where he and his mum were supported by a Family Works social worker. From the very beginning, the focus was on whakawhanaungatanga, building trust, connection, and a sense of safety for both of them.

Using gentle, child-led play, drawing, and storytelling, Leo was supported to share what felt hard and to understand how worries can show up in his body. He learnt simple tools to help calm himself when things felt overwhelming, both at school and at home.

Alongside this, Cath was supported too. She was given space to be heard, reassurance about her strengths as a parent, and practical guidance drawn from the Tuning in to Kids programme™. 

Building confidence and calm

Together, they explored small changes to routines and daily life that could bring more predictability and calm. 

Inside the Mana Ake sessions, progress was not rushed. Our social worker continued to work at Leo’s pace, helping him build confidence through play, conversation, and small successes. Leo learnt that his feelings were valid, and that big emotions do not last forever. He practised asking for help, using calming tools, and recognising when his body needed a break.

Cath noticed the changes at home first. Even when days were still hard, she felt more confident responding to Leo’s emotions with calm and empathy. She began to trust her instincts again, knowing she had the tools to support her son through challenging moments. 

The pressure she had been carrying felt lighter because she was no longer facing it alone. The support also strengthened the connection between home and school. Leo’s teacher was able to understand what helped him feel settled, and simple strategies were put in place to support him during the school day. Feeling understood made a difference. Leo began to participate more, enjoy learning again, and rebuild friendships.

When children and whānau feel supported, they are better able to navigate challenges and move forward together.