How the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill is impacting home educated children’s mental health

When legislation causes anxiety: supporting our children through the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill

The passage of the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill (CWSB) through the House of Commons has been deeply unsettling for many families—but for my son, it has caused a level of stress and anxiety I never expected.

Like many home-ed children, he thrives in a learning environment tailored to his needs, free from the pressures of a system that doesn’t always work for every child. The idea that the government could take more control over his education, impose restrictions on our choices, or even force children into schools where they may not thrive has left him feeling anxious and powerless. The uncertainty of what might happen next has been weighing heavily on his mind.

How the CWSB is affecting children

While adults engage in political debates and legal discussions, it’s important to remember that children are listening. Many home-ed children are deeply aware of the implications of this bill, and some—like my son—are struggling with feelings of fear and instability.

🔹 Loss of security – Home education provides a sense of safety and stability. The thought of it being threatened can be distressing.

🔹 Fear of the unknown – Changes to the law take time, but all the uncertainty can feel overwhelming.

🔹 Injustice and frustration – Many home-educated children feel unheard and misunderstood, adding to their stress.

Managing stress and anxiety in uncertain times

If your child is struggling with anxiety about the CWSB, here are some ways to support them:

✔ Acknowledge and validate their feelings – Let them know it’s okay to feel anxious, frustrated, or uncertain. Reassure them that their emotions are normal and that their concerns are valid. Avoid dismissing their worries; instead, listen with patience and empathy.

✔ Encourage open discussions and self-expression – Create opportunities for conversation by spending quality time together, whether through walking, cooking, playing, or simply talking. Ask what’s on their mind, help them put their thoughts into words, and encourage writing or drawing as a way to process emotions.

✔ Focus on what can be controlled – Remind them that home education is still legal and that families are actively standing up for their rights. Encourage positive actions such as writing to MPs, creating advocacy content, or getting involved in supportive communities.

✔ Maintain routine and stability – Keeping daily life as normal as possible helps provide security. Encourage structure while allowing flexibility to adapt to emotional needs.

✔ Limit exposure to distressing discussions – While staying informed is important, constant exposure to conversations about the bill can heighten anxiety. Balance awareness with moments of peace and positivity.

✔ Support problem-solving and confidence-building – Instead of providing immediate solutions, guide them to think of ways to handle their concerns. Break challenges into small, manageable steps and remind them of past successes to boost confidence.

✔ Encourage a positive outlook – Talk about good moments in their day and what they look forward to. Shifting focus toward positive experiences helps balance worries and stress.

✔ Teach calming techniques – Introduce relaxation strategies like deep breathing, mindfulness, and grounding exercises to help ease moments of overwhelm.

✔ Reassure them with presence and support – Sometimes, just being there is enough. Offer comfort, understanding, and a sense of security, reinforcing that they are not alone in this.

Moving forward together

As parents, we are fighting not just for our rights, but for the well-being and security of our children. We must continue to advocate for them while also ensuring they feel supported and heard.

If your child is struggling with anxiety due to the CWSB, know that they are not alone. Together, we can provide them with reassurance, strength, and hope for the future. 💙