EBSA Toolkit | Emotionally Based School Avoidance | 12 Illustrated Staff Resources | SEND & Pastoral Support What’s Included? The toolkit features 12 individually illustrated A4 pages, covering: Understanding EBSA– What emotionally based school avoidance is and why children may find attending school difficult. The Anxiety Iceberg – Exploring the feelings, worries and unmet needs that may sit beneath visible behaviours. Fight, Flight, Freeze & Fawn – Understanding common responses to stress and anxiety. The Cycle of Anxiety – How avoidance and short-term relief can maintain anxiety over time. Creating Safety – Building predictable, supportive and emotionally safe environments. Supporting Regulation – Practical approaches to helping children feel calmer and more secure. Re-engagement Pathway – Supporting gradual, personalised steps towards engagement. Emotions & Feelings – Recognising, validating and responding to emotional needs. Coping Strategies Toolkit– A visual collection of practical strategies to explore with children. Helpful Language for Staff – Supportive phrases to use and language that may increase distress. Final Reminders & Reflection – Key messages and opportunities for staff reflection. Illustrated Cover Page – Bringing the toolkit together as a cohesive resource.