Episode 3 - Emotional Literacy for Children: From Trauma to Advocacy

How can we better support children’s mental health and emotional literacy? In this episode of the In This Together Podcast, Becky Dawson is joined by Jennifer Wyman, founder and director of Bridge the Gap, Child Mental Health CIC. Jennifer shares her powerful journey from childhood trauma to becoming a leading advocate for children’s wellbeing, and why emotional literacy is just as vital as academic learning.

We discuss:

Jennifer’s journey: from lived experience to professional advocacy.

Why emotional literacy is the foundation of lifelong wellbeing.

The challenges adults face in supporting children (discomfort, time, sensory overwhelm).

Practical strategies for schools and parents, including “emotional swimming lessons.”

The importance of reflective practice and whole-school wellbeing policies.

How simple language shifts can transform support for children.

🔗 Find out more about Jennifer’s work at Bridge the Gap CIC: https://www.jwbridgethegap.com/

📖 Sharing is Caring Recommendation: The Kindness Principle by Dave Whitaker

✨ Key takeaways from this episode:

Emotional literacy is as essential as academic learning.

Adults must lead the way in modelling emotional skills.

Whole-school approaches create safer, more supportive environments.

Small language shifts can make a big difference for children.

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

02:15 Jennifer’s Background and Inspiration

08:30 The Importance of Emotional Literacy

15:45 Challenges in Emotional Support Systems

22:00 Practical Advice for Schools and Parents

30:10 Youth Volunteering and Impact

38:00 Final Thoughts and Recommendations