The Smart Moves® Journal helps young people looked after to build their resilience by identifying how resilient they feel within the areas of:
The Smart Moves® journal is adapted from Smart Moves Year 6 to 7 Transition program and is based on the evidence of Hart and Blincow’s (with Thomas and Boingboing) Resilience Framework which sets out easy & practical ideas that can assist with increasing a young person’s resilience. It is a workable model that can really help a young person target area of their life they may be struggling with that is changeable as they grow and experience new things.
Underpinning the resilience framework are the Noble Truths, 4 fundamental values that act as a starting place for anyone committing to helping a young person build their resilience. Research (Children and young people’s view of being in care: Lit Review) also suggests looked after young people have identified 4 key areas they feel most important to build a foundation for resilience. Positive relationships, Respect, Rights and Responsibility.
See more about how the Four Noble Truths that underpin the Resilience Framework apply to this project here: Noble truths
The journal is personal to them and does not have to be completed or shared with an adult. The activities encourage the young person to seek others views and opinions and to share their thoughts and feelings around areas of resilience, where they may be struggling and a good talking point for further discussion.
You can view the Smart Moves® Journal here
Mental health advice and support – Resources
We hope the information above and links to resources and videos below can provide a little support when times may get tough:
Heads Together: Online resources focusing on various mental health needs
Children’s Rights