Supporting Children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs in the Early Years: Practical Solutions and Strategies for Every Setting

This accessible book offers essential guidance and practical ideas for Early Years staff to support children with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. It draws upon a wealth of experiences and insights to explore what SEMH is, why children may have SEMH needs, and what this can look like, giving practitioners the confidence they need to understand early signals and signs.

Chapters share practical tools, activities and strategies, exploring topics that include

• environment
• routines and transitions
• sensory experiences
• feelings and emotions
• the role of the adult

A range of case studies and resource suggestions are woven throughout, bringing the theory alive with first-hand advice from a variety of professionals, including educational psychologists, play therapists and Forest School specialists. This book is a refreshing and practical guide, and an essential read for all Early Years practitioners looking to cultivate a supportive and compassionate environment.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Section One

1. Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs in Children, Part One: Exploring Trauma, ACEs and the Impact of Stress on the Body
2. Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs in Children, Part Two: Exploring these Needs in Further Detail
3. Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs in Children, Part Three: Exploring Domestic Violence, Foetal Alcohol Syndrome, Parental Mental Illness and Children who are Fostered or Adopted
4. The Role of the Adult

Section Two

5. Environment
6. Routines and Transitions
7. Recognising Feelings and Emotions
8. Sensory Experiences
9. Outdoors
10. Mindfulness
11. Working with Parents
12. Wellbeing of Adults

Conclusion