Identification and early support

Children who are showing early signs of emotional and social difficulties may include those who are showing early signs of anxiety or emotional distress, for example, children who have poor peer relations, low self-esteem, are withdrawn or have behavioural problems.

Children who are exposed to difficulties are at higher risk of showing early signs of emotional and social difficulties, these children are those who are living in socially disadvantaged circumstances, adverse life events (such as bereavement or parental separation) and those who have been exposed to abuse or violence.

Additional vulnerable groups may include: looked after children (including those who have subsequently been adopted), those living in families where there is conflict or instability or low attendance to your setting.

If difficulties persist and/or the difficulties an assessment should be carried out in line with an Early Support Assessment (ESA), previously a Common Assessment Framework (CAF).

Actions should be taken to support parents or carers of children who are showing early signs of emotional and social difficulties, this should include employees.