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Information & advice
Anxiety is a common emotional experience, which most of us will have experienced at some point but it can be particularly overwhelming for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
In this guide, we’ll explore how anxiety affects children with SEND, signs to watch for and effective strategies to help your child manage their anxiety
Anxiety is a natural emotional response to stress or perceived threats. While everyone feels anxious from time to time, children and young people with SEND might experience anxiety more intensely or frequently.
Anxiety may not always be easy to spot, especially in children and young people who have difficulty expressing their emotions.
Here are some signs to look out for:
Anxiety can present differently depending on individual needs. For example, an autistic child might show repetitive behaviours when anxious, while a child with ADHD may seem more restless.
Common triggers for anxiety in children and young people with SEND include changes in routine, sensory overload or school pressure. They may feel overwhelmed in new environments or struggle to understand social cues.
It’s important to recognise that anxiety is not just something your child can ‘snap out of’. Their brain is reacting to a perceived threat and is trying to protect itself. This is often known as Fight or Flight, or sometimes as Fight, Flight or Freeze.
Many children and young people experience anxiety about going to school, and for those with SEND, a range of factors can contribute to this. They may feel anxious about social situations, changes to routine or find the classroom overwhelming. Sensory sensitivities or feeling different from peers can also add to their worries.
Sometimes, this anxiety can lead to emotionally-based school avoidance (EBSA), where a child feels so anxious they refuse or are unable to attend school.
Schools can play a big role in helping children with SEND manage their anxiety by offering clear routines, quiet spaces for sensory breaks, and tailored learning plans.
The Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) is a valuable resource in this process, as they work closely with teachers, parents, and the child to ensure appropriate support is in place.
With greater staff understanding of SEND needs, peer support like buddy systems, and open communication with parents, children can feel more supported, making school a more positive and less stressful place for them.
As a parent or caregiver, there are lots of ways you can support children and young people manage their anxiety.
Sharing information with your child can empower them to understand and manage their anxiety effectively.
Our Young People’s Hub is a supportive space designed specifically for young people with SEND.
We have a fantastic video featuring a mental health expert from the NHS discussing anxiety and neurodiversity.
Here are some practical strategies you can try at home to support a child with SEND who is experiencing anxiety:
Our online workshops provide expert advice, practical tools, and a supportive community to help you navigate and support your child’s unique needs.
Find out about Autism and Sensory Processing Difference, how these affect children, and how to support them.
Explore the differences and similarities between ADHD and Autism and discover strategies to support your child.
For all areas outside Hull, ERYC, N & NE Lincs. Explore the science behind sleep, how SEND can impact, and strategies to support a better night’s sleep for you and your child.
Join our informative workshop designed for parents and caregivers of children with a Demand Avoidance diagnosis
Masking is one of the main characteristics of autism in girls. Find out what masking is and how to support.
Explore the differences and similarities between ADHD and Autism and discover strategies to support your child.
For all areas outside Hull, ERYC, N & NE Lincs. Explore the science behind sleep, how SEND can impact, and strategies to support a better night’s sleep for you and your child.
Here are some frequently asked questions around anxiety.
The 3-3-3 rule is a simple technique that can help children and young people manage feelings of anxiety by using their senses to redirect attention away from anxious thoughts and calm their minds.
Here’s how it works:
For more information, we have a great video where James, an NHS specialist in learning disabilities and autism, shares his knowledge and advice about anxiety. Click here to watch the video.
Yes, a child or young person with anxiety can qualify for an education, health and care plan (EHCP), if their anxiety significantly affects their ability to learn and participate in school. The purpose of an EHCP is to meet the individual needs of a child with SEND, including mental health conditions like anxiety.
Yes, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is considered highly effective and suitable for many children, including those with anxiety, depression, or other emotional and behavioural challenges. It may, however, not be suitable for all young people.
CBT is a structured approach that can help children understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. It can be useful in teaching them practical skills to manage their emotions and cope with difficult situations.
