An aid in the shape of a jigsaw to help social workers and others communicate with parents has been developed by Wakefield Social Service Department. Called the Needs Jigsaw, it was developed by a social work co-ordinator, Kathy Stevens, at a pre-five centre offering nursery places, parents activities and a family support programme.
“We needed something non-threatening, simple and with visual impact and I had the idea of using a jigsaw-based game,” says Miss Stevens. The completed jigsaw is a visual interpretation of the concept of the “whole child”. Missing pieces represent emotional and developmental gaps and help to encourage discussion with parents.
The jigsaw, with laminated guidance cards, costs Pounds 25 from the Educational Resource Service, Crigglestone, West Yorkshire WF4 3LB.
