Sonia Mainstone-Cotton 
Supporting Children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs in the Early Years 
Practical Solutions and Strategies for Every Setting

This accessible book offers essential guidance and practical ideas for Early Years staff to support children with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. It draws upon a wealth of experiences and insights to explore what SEMH is, why children may have SEMH needs, and what this can look like, giving practitioners the confidence they need to understand early signals and signs.

Chapters share practical tools, activities and strategies, exploring topics that include:

• environment


• routines and transitions


• sensory experiences


• feelings and emotions


• the role of the adult.

A range of case studies and resource suggestions are woven throughout, bringing the theory alive with first-hand advice from a variety of professionals, including educational psychologists, play therapists and Forest School specialists. This book is a refreshing and practical guide, and an essential read for all Early Years practitioners looking to cultivate a supportive and compassionate environment.