🔬 Stage 2 - Defensive / Escalation 🎢

How to De-Escalate Challenging Behaviour in the Classroom: Practical Strategies for Supporting Children at Stage 2 of Crisis

👋 Welcome to SEMH Education!

Every week, I share insights, strategies, and tips from my experience working with children and professionals on social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) in education. This week, we’re moving into the second stage of the 6 Stages of Crisis: Defensive / Escalation. This is the crucial moment, the last opportunity to de-escalate before a full-blown crisis takes hold.

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📝 Inside the Full Analysis:

In the full post, I break down:

• 🔍 What stage 2 actually looks like

• 🤝 How we can support children in Stage 2

• 🧑‍🏫 Tips and tricks I’ve found that really work

• 🔬 Insight from Educational Psychologist Research

• ✍️ Bonus Bits - Scripts, CPD & More!

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🔍 What it looks like:

You may notice sudden shifts in body language, tone, and verbal control. These signs often appear rapidly and can be easy to miss if you're not attuned to the child’s baseline behaviours.

Common signs include: