SEND Adult Support Scripts

💬 Know exactly what to say and do when a child is struggling. 💬

In the hardest moments, it's easy to say too much, ask too many questions, or reach for words that make things worse. These 10 adult support scripts give teachers, teaching assistants and parents a calm, clear plan to follow, so every adult around a child responds in the same supportive way. Each script covers one common situation in 5 simple steps, with the words to say, the supports to offer, and what to avoid.

Created by The SEN Advocate.

📋 WHAT'S INCLUDED – 10 SCRIPTS 📋

1. Sensory Overload – when noise, light, movement or touch is too much

2. Rising Distress – early support to prevent a crisis

3. During a Meltdown – keeping everyone safe and calm

4. Shutdown or Withdrawal – when a child goes quiet or freezes

5. When a Demand Feels Impossible – making the first step feel possible

6. Unexpected Change – making the new plan clear

7. Anxiety or Worry – helping a child feel safer

8. Communication Breakdown – changing the way the message is shared

9. Peer Conflict – slowing it down so everyone feels heard

10. Recovery and Reconnecting – recovery comes before reflection

✅ EVERY SCRIPT INCLUDES

• 5 clear, numbered steps

• A "Say this" phrase to use in the moment

• Simple visuals showing the supports to offer

• An "Avoid" strip listing what to steer clear of

🏫 PERFECT FOR

• Teachers, teaching assistants and SENCOs

• Staff training and induction

• Classroom walls, staff rooms and calm spaces

• Supply staff and lunchtime supervisors

• Parents and carers at home

• Creating a consistent approach across a whole team

🖨️ FILE DETAILS

• 1 PDF, 10 pages

• A4 portrait, one script per page

• Print at home or at a print shop

• Laminate for display, or print smaller for a lanyard or keyring set

📥 INSTANT DIGITAL DOWNLOAD This is a digital product. No physical item will be sent. Your file will be available to download as soon as payment is confirmed.

📌 PLEASE NOTE For personal, classroom and staff training use within your own setting. Please do not resell, share or redistribute the files.

These scripts are general guidance to support good practice. They do not replace a child's individual support plan, your setting's policies, or safeguarding procedures.

Colours may vary slightly depending on your screen and printer.

Any questions? Just send me a message, I'm always happy to help! 💛 The SEN Advocate