Getting active (Parent/carer)

This tool provides guidance for caregivers on supporting their child’s engagement in meaningful activities as part of Behavioural Activation.

The resource explains how low mood impacts motivation and encourages parents to assist in planning achievable activities that offer a sense of accomplishment, enjoyment, or connection with others. It includes practical tips, such as helping children break down tasks into smaller steps, setting visible reminders, and finding supportive companions for activities.

References and Further Reading 

  • Loades, M. E., & Myles-Hooton, P. (Eds.). (2020). Oxford guide to brief and low intensity interventions for children and young people. Oxford University Press.
  • Arnberg, A., & Öst, L.-G. (2014). CBT for children with depressive symptoms: A meta-analysis. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, 43(4), 275–288.
  • Oud, M., de Winter, L., Vermeulen-Smit, E., Bodden, D., Nauta, M., Stone, L., van den Heuvel, M., Al Taher, R., de Graaf, I., Kendall, T., Engels, R., & Stikkelbroek, Y. (2019). Effectiveness of CBT for children and adolescents with depression: A systematic review and meta-regression analysis. Psychological Medicine.
  • Loades, M. E., & Myles-Hooton, P. (Eds.). (2020). Oxford guide to brief and low intensity interventions for children and young people. Oxford University Press.