North Somerset Five to Thrive: Brain Development and Positive Parenting
More than 90% of what we know about the human brain has been discovered in the last 20 years. This research is transforming how we think about human beings and importantly our work around vulnerability. Learning from neuroscience supports the development of practice in education, health and social care, if we learn together, developing a common language across services, this will strengthen our network, increasing the positive impact we can have for children and families.
The Five to Thrive Approach
Central to the Five To Thrive approach is the set of five key activities:
Respond · Cuddle · Relax · Play · Talk
These are the ‘building blocks for a healthy brain’.
By noticing Five to Thrive in everyday interactions practitioners can use this
model to support positive feedback processes.
This approach, developed by the KCA, helps practitioners to promote secure attachment in the children that are the focus of their work and build resilience in the networks of adults around these children.
As part of the North Somerset Early Years and Childcare Strategy 2023-2026 we are committed to embedding the Five to Thrive model of brain development and connected relationships across all of our services and partner organisations. This will enable all health professionals, practitioners and volunteers engaging with North Somerset families to be using a common language when talking about brain development and parents connecting with their babies/children.
We offer three training courses on Five To Thrive.
An introduction to the five to thrive model
This short introductory 90 minute webinar gives a brief overview of the Five to Thrive model and starts to explore some of the common language to use.
Next course: 20 May 2025 Book your free space here
Contributing to healthy brain development in the Early Years
This half-day training is for Early Years staff who care for children directly within early years settings and work with families in groups.
Next course: 8 October 2025
A model and approach to promoting connected relationships
This full day training is for managers and practitioners including those who work one to one with families.
Next Course: 26 January 2026
Resources
Alongside the training we offer a broad range of resources to enhance understanding and implementation of the Five to Thrive Model.