Stage 1
Getting to know your child
Hayley begins with an initial consultation and spends time building a genuine connection with the child. This helps the child feel safe, comfortable and able to trust her.
How Coaching Works
A gentle, personalised journey built around your child.
Every stage begins with connection and moves at a pace that feels manageable. Families understand what is happening, and every coaching plan remains centred on the individual child.
The coaching journey
Seven thoughtful stages, from first meeting to next steps.
The process is clear enough for parents to understand and flexible enough to respond to the child in front of Hayley.
- 01
- 02
Stage 2
Understanding the wider picture
Hayley speaks with the parent or carer to understand the child’s strengths, challenges, routines and current worries.
- 03
Stage 3
Agreeing the programme
Together, the family and Hayley agree whether a four- or eight-week programme is most suitable.
- 04
Stage 4
Creating a personal plan
Each coaching plan is tailored to the child, rather than following a one-size-fits-all programme.
- 05
Stage 5
Weekly coaching sessions
Sessions feel active, creative and free from pressure. Hayley selects activities that suit the child and the aims of their personal plan.
- Conversation
- Games
- Drawing
- Stories
- Physical movement
- Brain breaks
- Confidence exercises
- Calming techniques
- Emotional regulation activities
- 06
Stage 6
Reflecting on progress
Hayley shares appropriate observations and progress with the parent or carer and discusses what is helping.
- 07
Stage 7
Graduation or further support
At the end of the programme, the child may graduate with their new toolkit, continue for further support or move to monthly check-ins.
Take the coaching journey away with you
Download Hayley’s guide to how life coaching works and what families can expect.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Helpful answers about what to expect before your child begins their journey with Helping Little Minds.
How long is each session?
Sessions last for one hour. Parents and carers are welcome to stay nearby in the waiting area or leave their child with me for the full session. You know your child best, so we can choose whichever option will help them feel most comfortable.
Does my child need a diagnosis?
No. Your child does not need a formal diagnosis to attend. Sessions are designed to support children with a wide range of needs and are always tailored to the individual child.
What age children do you support?
I currently support children and young people aged 6–18. I also work with younger children through sessions delivered in several nurseries.
Can sessions take place at home or school?
Yes. Sessions can take place in my Calm Classroom in Greenfield, Saddleworth. I can also provide afternoon sessions within your child’s school or, where appropriate, arrange some sessions at home if that is where your child will feel most comfortable.
We can discuss the most suitable option during your initial consultation.
What happens if my child does not want to talk?
That is completely okay. Every child is different, and building trust can take time.
I pride myself on the connections I build with children, and many begin chatting and having fun once they have had time to settle. However, communication does not always have to involve talking. We can use play, drawing, games or movement to help your child express themselves in a way that feels safe and comfortable.
Will parents receive feedback?
Yes. Parents and carers receive feedback after every session. I build time into each session to discuss what we have been working on and to share practical strategies that you can continue using at home.
Working together is an essential part of helping your child make progress.
Is coaching the same as therapy?
No. Coaching is not therapy and is not intended to replace clinical or medical support.
It provides children with a supportive and enjoyable space to learn about how their brain works, develop practical tools and explore the challenges they may be experiencing. Through play, games, conversation and fun activities, we work through problems together and help your child build confidence in managing their thoughts and feelings.
What happens after the initial consultation?
During the initial consultation, I will meet your child and begin building a clear picture of their individual needs. You can then choose to continue with either a four-week or eight-week block of sessions.
Once your chosen block is confirmed, I will create a programme tailored specifically to your child. I will explain what we aim to cover, provide regular feedback and review their progress with you as we decide on the most appropriate next steps.
A reassuring beginning
The first meeting is about connection, not pressure.
It is simply a chance for Hayley to begin understanding your child and for your family to see whether the approach feels right.
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