Emotionally Based School Avoidance - Parent Guide

EBSA Parent Guide (Home Edition)
Supporting Children with Emotionally Based School Avoidance

Help families understand and manage Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA) with this calm, practical guide designed for home use. Written by Joanna Kennard, Specialist SEND Teacher & SENCO, this resource empowers parents to support their child’s emotional wellbeing and rebuild confidence at their own pace.

What’s Inside
Clear explanation of EBSA and early signs

Practical home strategies for calm mornings and gentle reintegration

Parent‑friendly visual timetable templates

Emotion check‑in and calm plan sheets

Guidance for working collaboratively with school staff

Printable layouts for daily routines and decompression time

Why Parents Love It
Warm, reassuring tone — no jargon or blame

Neurodiversity‑affirming approach

Designed for KS2–KS3 families

Easy to print, laminate or use digitally

Perfect For
Parents, carers, and pastoral teams supporting pupils with anxiety‑related school avoidance.