Introduction

Introduction

Discussions in the context of school may increase the child or young person's anxiety as they may perceive that staff are aiming to take away their current coping mechanism and 'make' them go to school. Discussion around thoughts and feelings associated with school may also trigger difficult thoughts and memories and feel unsafe.

It is important to acknowledge that these discussions are likely to be difficult and for adults to recognise, validate and empathise with the emotions expressed. It is important that adults do not dismiss a child or young person's feelings or experiences or try project too much of their own agenda when communicating.

Approaches of supporting the child or young person will depend on their age, understanding and use of language. Children and young people may find it difficult to verbalise what they are thinking and feeling and may prefer to draw or have visual prompts to aid their communication.