ATTACHMENT difficulties in children will be discussed at a conference staged by Social, Emotional Behavioural Difficulties (SEBD) Isle of Man.
The SEBD is a multi-agency network of professionals that includes the Department of Education and Children, the Youth Justice Team, the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service and the Isle of Man Adoption Service.
The conference, called Inside I'm Hurting, is aimed at professionals working with children with attachment difficulties at home and in school, and their parents and carers.
It will be led by Louise Bomber, an attachment support teacher, therapist and author from the UK.
Dave Colley, school improvement adviser for special education needs, said: "Attachment theory was developed by John Bowlby in the 1950s and emphasises the importance of a 'significant other' in the life of a child.
"Where an infant has access to a warm, reciprocal relationship, healthy development will follow. The child will learn that he/she is of value and that adults are likely to be safe and helpful. Where a child has not had access to this kind of early relationship (through being placed in care or for other reasons), attachment difficulties can occur.
"This leads the child to be distrustful of adults and to behave in ways that are challenging or out of control. Current neuroscience research supports the claims of attachment theory. Neuroimaging shows that where a child has suffered trauma or neglect, the brain develops in a different way. Central to healthy brain development is the child's sense of safety, of belonging and of joy.
"By working together, SEBD Isle of Man hopes to improve the consistency of support on offer to children and families across the Island.
"A key aim of the day is to bring professionals together with parents/carers to reflect on mutual experiences and shared approaches when supporting children with attachment difficulties in different settings."
The Inside I'm Hurting conference takes place at the Mount Murray Hotel and Country Club on Friday, July 1.
There are 50 places which can be booked for £15 for carers/families and £45 for professionals. Bookings can be made by contacting the Department of Education and Children’s Professional Development Centre on 01624 693830 or by e-mail cpdbookings@doe.sch.im
