“Help! What Do I Do Now?”: Strategies to Support Children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs in the Primary Classroom

"Help! What Do I Do Now?" is an essential guide for primary school teachers, full of practical strategies to support children with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs in the classroom.

The book offers a comprehensive approach and holistic perspective on SEMH support, covering topics from regulating the whole class and regulating individual children, to understanding the impact of sensory needs and transitions. Chapters illustrate how a range of strategies can be applied in real-life classrooms, and case studies and reflections demonstrate how they can be adapted to suit each setting and unique child in need. Further support and guidance is also offered on staff wellbeing, emphasising the importance of looking after yourself and supporting your own wellbeing first.

With a wealth of cost- and time-effective ideas and suggestions to support children with SEMH, this accessible guide will be essential reading for practising and trainee primary school teachers, as well as SENCOs and school leaders.

Sharon Cooke is a Thrive Licensed Practitioner and nurture specialist who has extensive experience of working in schools with vulnerable children with a wide range of additional needs including social, emotional, behavioural and SEND needs. She is also a member of the Brighter Futures Nurture Outreach Team providing training and coaching for school staff.

Sonia Mainstone-Cotton is a freelance nurture specialist and Thrive Licenced Practitioner working with Brighter Futures Nurture Outreach team, she has extensive experience of working in schools and early years settings with children who have high social, emotional and mental health needs. Sonia also delivers training across the country, working with early years settings, charities and schools. This is Sonia’s 12th book.