Circle of Security
Date issued: May 2022
Review date: May 2024
Ref: C-347 v4
PDF: Circle of Security final May 2022 v4.pdf
Introduction
You have been given this leaflet as someone thought you might be interested in a group we’ve been running at the Child Development Centre.
To start with let me tell you what this group is NOT…
It is NOT a parenting group which tells you how to parent a child. It is NOT a behaviour modification approach. It is NOT a permissive approach.
We get that parenting is hard. At times all parents feel lost or confused about what our child might need from us. The Circle of Security® Parenting™ program is based on decades of research about how secure caregiver-child relationships can be supported and strengthened.
If you are still unsure don’t just take our word for it; turn to the back and have a look at what parents who have come on our groups have said.
The Circle of security is a program for any caregiver, as it focuses on the relationships that give children emotional support. The Circle of Security is a way of thinking about children that enables us to look beyond the children’s immediate behaviour and think about how to meet their relationship needs. It teaches us how to be Bigger Stronger, Wiser and Kind, whenever possible follow our child’s need, but wherever necessary to take charge.
By the end of the group you will be able to:
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Understand your child’s emotional world more by learning to read their emotional needs
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Support your child’s ability to successfully manage emotions
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Enhance the development of your child's self esteem
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Have support from other caregivers who understand how tough parenting can be
Who is the group suitable for?
The group is suitable for any caregiver who wants to come; the material is aimed at parenting younger children but the underlying principles apply to all caregiver-child relationships. This particular group is aimed at caregivers of children aged around 4-8 years old. Although we do take some younger or older children after discussion. It is suitable for caregivers who are struggling with aspects of parenting but also for those who want to reinforce and enhance already strong relationships.
How the course is run?
The course is run over eight sessions, of no more than 2 hours each, using video footage, hand-outs and discussion. Being able to attend all sessions is essential to get the most out of the group. I am afraid it is not possible for you to bring any children to the group, so you will need to arrange childcare.
When and where?
We try and run groups throughout the year, during term time. Groups vary across different days but we find starting these at 10.00am tend to work best. The groups are run at the Child Development Centre but we have also run at other venues in Plymouth. We also run an online group for those who prefer to meet in that way.
Who runs the groups?
Dr George (Georgina) Davis and Dr Debbie Green are our registered Circle of Security Facilitator’s and will lead the group. Alongside the facilitator there is usually one more person who will be another professional.
Who else will be there?
Our groups size depends on the space we are in but ranges between 4-8 caregivers. Your child does not have to have a diagnosis for you to attend this group, although some children will have diagnoses like ADHD, ASC or attachment difficulties. Although the Circle content is not aimed specifically for children with additional needs, the principles benefit all child-caregiver relationships and these topics often come up in our discussions. The group is a closed group, so it will be the same people every week.
Can my partner come?
Yes! We have found that having both caregivers of a child in the group is really helpful, just let us know when booking as spaces are limited. Do not worry if this is not possible and only you or your partner can attend.
I don’t like the idea of a group
We know that not everyone likes being in groups and we try to be very thoughtful about this. We will meet with you on your own before the group starts to address any worries you may have. The real strength of the group is being with other caregivers facing similar struggles and sharing your own.
How do I register?
There are two ways:
By email: plh-tr.wellbeing@nhs.net
Make sure you let us know:
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You/Your Child’s Name
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Your preference for an online OR face to face group
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Your preference for days (we can’t always provide)
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How many people are intending to come (max 2 caregivers)
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The best contact number to reach you on
By phone: Contact Rebecca Powell on 01752 435233
We may have to add you to a waiting list, as the group is popular and places are first come, first serve.
If you are still not sure it’s for you, Debbie or George are always happy to explain more about the group over telephone or email.
