A Day in My Life is an insightful assessment tool developed to help professionals, including social workers and educators, explore the daily routines and lived experiences of teenagers. Adapted from tools by the Hampshire Safeguarding Children Board, this resource provides a detailed framework of questions to assess the appropriateness and wellbeing of a teenager’s daily life.
The guide is structured around key aspects of a teenager’s routine, encouraging practitioners to gain a holistic understanding of their environment, relationships, and challenges. It offers prompts for open-ended discussions with parents or carers and helps professionals triangulate information through observations and reports from various sources.
Key Areas Covered:
- Morning Routines: Examines wake-up times, hygiene practices, and preparation for school.
- School Experience: Explores attendance, friendships, meal availability, and academic engagement.
- After-School Activities: Looks into leisure activities, family interactions, and responsibilities at home.
- Evenings and Bedtime: Investigates internet use, social interactions, safety concerns, and sleep routines.
- Health and Independence: Considers medical care, disability support, mental health, and opportunities for independence.
This tool is ideal for practitioners aiming to create a complete picture of a teenager’s life, identify areas of concern, and tailor interventions to improve their wellbeing. It is also useful for evaluating relationships, social connections, and the overall support system available to the child.
By promoting understanding and detailed assessment, A Day in My Life empowers professionals to provide targeted support, ensuring the safety, development, and happiness of the teenagers they work with.
