Setting the PACE at Kedleston Group

There are a number of approaches, both holistic and therapeutic, that can improve outcomes for children and young people. Popular approaches include Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and the Playful, Accepting, Curious, and Empathetic (PACE) approach.

At Kedleston Group specialist residential schools and children’s homes, our practitioners use the PACE approach to support the learning and social and emotional wellbeing of children and young people in our care. But what does this approach look like in practice?

Helpful Information > PACE Approach

PACE at Kedleston Group

The PACE approach, which stands for Playful, Accepting, Curious, and Empathetic, is a child-centred approach to childcare and education. It focuses on creating a supportive and nurturing environment that promotes the well-being and development of children.

If you would like to learn more about the PACE approach please register for our webinar in January 2024!

Let's explore each element of the PACE approach and how we use this approach in our specialist homes.

Playful: The PACE approach recognises the importance of play in a child's learning and development. Play is viewed as a natural and essential way for children to explore, make sense of the world, and develop various skills.

At Kedleston Group we follow the PACE approach by encouraging and facilitating play-based activities that allow children to engage their imagination, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.

Accepting: Non-judgmental attitudes and acceptance towards children are important elements of the PACE approach.

Our expert practitioners strive to create an atmosphere where children feel safe, respected, and valued for who they are. This involves acknowledging and accepting each child's unique qualities, strengths, and challenges without imposing unrealistic expectations or judgments and helps to build self-esteem and confidence creating a positive atmosphere to learn in.

Curious: Another key to the PACE approach is for childcare practitioners to engage children with curiosity and genuine interest. By being curious, we can better understand.

Our specialist team of educators and carers actively listen to children, ask open-ended questions, and engage in meaningful conversations to foster children's communication skills, critical thinking, and self-expression.

Empathetic: Empathy is the final component of the PACE approach and by ensuring that care and education is provided in empathetic way, we can develop a deep understanding of children's emotions and how best to respond with compassion.

This involves recognising and validating children's feelings, providing comfort and support when needed, and helping children develop their emotional intelligence and empathy towards others.

By incorporating the PACE approach our homes and caregivers can create a nurturing and stimulating environment where children can thrive emotionally, socially, and cognitively.

It promotes healthy relationships between children and caregivers, encourages children's natural curiosity and love for learning, and supports their overall well-being.

If you would like to learn more about the PACE approach please register for our webinar in January 2024!

Setting the PACE at Kedleston Group

PACE at Kedleston Group

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