Finding help & support

First of all, a teacher should notice if there are significant and lasting changes in the pupil’s behavior. Changes in behavior might signal a need for intervention, but not all changes mean that the pupil needs support or help. Thus, when a teacher notices a significant and lasting change in the pupil’s behavior, they should try to decide if the situation might be dangerous for the pupil.

If the situation is currently dangerous, the teacher should immediately send for help and call the medical emergency team. It is important to ensure that the pupil is not left on their own. If the situation is not currently dangerous but the threat of danger is still there, the teacher should inform parents and specialists (e.g., child protection services) of the situation.

If the situation is not such that the pupil is in danger, the teacher should talk to the pupil. They should find a suitable time and place for a quiet, undisturbed chat. The teacher should describe what they have noticed and why they are concerned. Tact and kindness should be used, as the topic might be difficult for the pupil to discuss. Even if the pupil decides to keep to themselves, they need to know that they have been noticed, that they are cared for, and that there is a trustworthy adult who is willing to listen.

If it turns out that the pupil is in need of support services, the teacher could discuss with a knowledgeable colleague what kind of opportunities are available in school or outside of school to make the possibilities known to the pupil and the parents. During these discussions, it is important to respect the privacy and confidentiality of the pupil and their family.

The teacher should inform the parents in a way that makes it clear that the goal is to cooperate in order to provide support and help to the pupil. As with talking to the pupil, the teacher should describe what they have noticed and why they are concerned. Tact and kindness should be used, as the topic might be difficult for the parents to discuss. It would be advisable to conclude the discussion with an agreement on what can be done right away to support and help the pupil.