Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (EBD) affect a significant number of children across the UK. Research shows that nearly 18% of students with disabilities are identified as having emotional behavioural difficulties, highlighting how common these challenges are in our communities. For parents and carers working in health and social care settings, understanding EBD can make a real difference in supporting the children in your care.
What is EBD?
Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (EBD) refers to conditions where a child’s emotional or behavioural responses differ significantly from what we would expect for their age. These differences affect their daily life, including their ability to learn, form relationships, and manage everyday situations.
The Shift to SEMH
It’s important to note that the terminology around these needs is evolving. The SEND Code of Practice now officially uses the term Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs instead of EBD. This change reflects a broader understanding that encompasses not just emotional and behavioural aspects, but also mental health and social difficulties. However, many professionals and families still use the term EBD, and both terms describe similar challenges that children face.
Whether we call it EBD or SEMH, these difficulties are characterised by persistent patterns that affect a child’s daily functioning. According to educational guidance, children may experience:
- Learning challenges that cannot be explained by intellectual, sensory, or health factors
- Trouble building or maintaining relationships with peers and adults
- Inappropriate behaviour or emotions in normal situations
- An overall mood of unhappiness or depression
- Physical symptoms or fears related to personal or school problems
EBD is more than a temporary reaction to stress. It involves persistent behaviours that affect a child’s daily functioning and can occur alongside other conditions like ADHD or autism.
How EBD Presents Itself
Children with EBD may show their difficulties in different ways. Mental health professionals classify these as either “internalising” or “externalising” behaviours.
Internalising Behaviours
These are often harder to spot because they involve internal struggles:
- Withdrawal from social situations
- Excessive worry or anxiety
- Persistent sadness or depression
- Low self-esteem
- Self-harm behaviours
- Eating difficulties
- Physical complaints without clear medical cause
Externalising Behaviours
These are more visible and disruptive:
- Aggression towards others or property
- Defiant or oppositional behaviour
- Hyperactivity and impulsiveness
- Difficulty following rules
- Disruptive behaviour in group settings
- Challenging or disturbing behaviour
It’s important to remember that many children show some of these behaviours at times. The difference with EBD is that these behaviours continue over long periods and significantly impact the child’s ability to function in daily life.
Supporting Children with EBD: Practical Strategies
Creating Structure and Predictability
Children with EBD benefit greatly from consistent routines and clear expectations. This doesn’t mean being rigid, but rather providing a framework that helps them feel secure. In your care setting:
- Establish clear, simple rules that everyone understands
- Use visual schedules or reminders where helpful
- Maintain consistent daily routines
- Prepare children for any changes in advance
Building Positive Relationships
Strong, trusting relationships are fundamental to supporting children with EBD. Research shows that positive social interactions are crucial for these children’s development. Focus on:
- Spending one-to-one time with the child regularly
- Acknowledging their strengths and achievements
- Using calm, respectful communication
- Being patient and understanding during difficult moments
Teaching Emotional Regulation
Many children with EBD struggle to manage their emotions effectively. You can help by:
- Teaching simple breathing exercises or mindfulness techniques
- Helping them identify and name their emotions
- Creating a calm-down space they can use when overwhelmed
- Modelling appropriate emotional responses yourself
Early Intervention Matters
Early intervention is crucial for children with emotional and behavioural difficulties. The sooner support is provided, the better the outcomes tend to be. If you notice concerning patterns:
- Document specific behaviours and when they occur
- Speak with parents or guardians about your observations
- Consider referral to appropriate professionals
- Work collaboratively with other services involved with the child
Working with Families
Supporting families is just as important as supporting the child directly. Parents and carers often feel overwhelmed and may blame themselves for their child’s difficulties. You can help by:
- Providing information about EBD in accessible language
- Connecting families with appropriate support services
- Acknowledging the challenges they face
- Celebrating small improvements and progress
Recent government initiatives emphasise the importance of keeping families together where possible, with better early support to prevent problems from escalating.
Professional Support and Services
Children with EBD often benefit from multi-disciplinary support. This might include:
- Educational psychologists
- Child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS)
- Speech and language therapists
- Occupational therapists
- Specialist teachers or tutors
- Mental health practitioners
An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) may be appropriate for children whose needs are significant and long-term. This legal document ensures coordinated support across education, health, and social care services.
Understanding Current Classifications
Under the current SEND Code of Practice, what we traditionally called EBD now falls under the broader category of Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. This is one of four broad areas of need:
- Communication and interaction
- Cognition and learning
- Social, emotional and mental health
- Sensory and/or physical needs
This updated classification helps ensure that children receive appropriate support tailored to their specific needs, whether you refer to them as having EBD or SEMH needs.
Looking After Yourself
Supporting children with EBD can be emotionally demanding. It’s important to:
- Seek regular supervision and support from colleagues
- Take breaks when you need them
- Access training opportunities to build your skills
- Remember that progress may be slow and that’s normal
Moving Forward
Understanding EBD is the first step in providing effective support. Every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. The key is to remain patient, consistent, and hopeful.
Remember that children with EBD can and do make progress with the right support. Your role in providing that support, whether as a parent, carer, or professional, makes a real difference in their lives.
If you’re concerned about a child’s emotional or behavioural development, don’t hesitate to seek advice from appropriate professionals. Early intervention and coordinated support can help children with EBD develop the skills they need to thrive.
If you’re looking for a role supporting children with EBD, whether that’s a Registered Manager of a Children’s Residential or as a 1:1 Support Worker in the community, please search our job opportunities here. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Register your CV here.
