Certain behaviours may indicate when a child is less able to cope, such as:
* loss of interest and energy, or being very withdrawn
* being aggressive or feeling very angry. Some refugee children copy the violence that they have witnessed. Others may be unable to express their feelings verbally and use violence as an outlet.
* Daydreaming, lack of concentration and feeling very restless
* repetitive play or drawings or intrusive thoughts about traumatic events
* physical symptoms such as poor appetite, overeating, breathing difficulties, pains and dizziness
* losing recently acquired skills, such as keeping dry at night
* nightmares and disturbed sleep
* crying and feeling overwhelming sadness
* being nervous and fearful of things, such as loud noises
* difficulties forming relationships with other children.
However, it is vital, when assessing a child's behaviour, to be aware of cultural norms when expressing emotions, and so avoid misinterpreting a child's actions.
If you think extra help is needed, get in touch with local child guidance services through your Local Education Authority or Social Services.
Always involve parents and carers in any decisions to seek additional support. They will be able to provide additional insight into their children's behaviours, which will help in deciding whether or not referral is necessary. Parents are only likely to be able to provide information if a good relationship has been established.
Other behavioural issues may need to be considered. For example, some children:
* will be frustrated and insecure as a result of their unfamiliarity with toys, books, routine, foods and behaviours in the setting
* may exhibit extreme fear of loud noises, groups of men or men in uniform
* Some children may appear 'overactive' or 'silly'. Poor concentration and restlessness are other ways that children manifest their feelings.
Many of these behaviours will disappear after time in the setting, where there are opportunities for children to come to terms with their feelings through play and trusting relationships.
