Unlike typical bedtime worries, O would become extremely distressed if his parents were out of sight. He needed to know they were close by, and being apart from them could feel almost impossible.

Then, in 2021, when O was turning six, his family experienced the heartbreaking loss of a sibling to a heart condition. Understandably, this had a huge impact on O. His anxiety became even stronger, and he began avoiding school because he was frightened that if Mum or Dad left him, he might not see them again.

It was during this incredibly difficult time that O’s family reached out to our Family Support Team at Little Miracles. He began attending weekly 'Draw and Chat' sessions, giving him a safe and supportive space to express how he was feeling.

For one hour each week, O was able to attend without his parents by his side. For a child who had found separation so difficult, this was a huge step. But, much to his family’s amazement, O began to look forward to his sessions.

Through drawing, talking and simply having time to be himself, he gradually became more comfortable expressing his emotions. Little by little, his confidence began to grow, and he started to realise that he could manage without Mum or Dad being right beside him.

For his family, these may have seemed like small changes, but they were incredibly important milestones. O began sleeping on his own and slowly started to process and come to terms with the losses he had experienced.

Although his Draw and Chat sessions eventually came to an end, O’s journey with Little Miracles didn’t stop there. He continues to attend and now enjoys taking part in Forest School for a few hours each week.

Being able to spend time with other children, have fun, explore and simply be himself has become an important part of O’s life. Opportunities like these are vital for children who may find social situations or new experiences challenging. They provide a safe environment where children can build friendships, try new things and develop confidence at their own pace.

O’s family are incredibly grateful to the Little Miracles Family Support Team and for the counselling support he has received. Through that support, they have seen so many small but meaningful steps forward.

There haven't been any overnight transformations. Instead, there have been lots of little moments – a night sleeping independently, an hour spent away from Mum and Dad, a new activity, a smile, or simply the confidence to try something new.

And sometimes, those small steps are the biggest achievements of all.

For O and his family, Little Miracles has provided more than support. It has given them reassurance through some incredibly difficult times and helped them see that, even when life feels overwhelming, there can always be hope, progress and light at the end of the tunnel.

Find out more about our Counselling and Art Therapy here.