Fight, flight, freeze is an automatic nervous system response designed to protect us in moments of perceived danger.
Think of it as a built-in alarm system that activates when the brain detects a pontential threat - whether real or felt.
It's important to understand that many children have sensitive alarms due to past trauma or adverse experiences. Their bodies may perceive danger in situations that seem completely safe to others.
When a child displays these behaviours in the classroom they are NOT being deliberately difficult. These are unconscious, physiological responses happening completely outside of their control.
Remember: All behaviour communicates feelings and needs
By recognising these stress responses for what they truly are - the body's automatic protection mechanisms - we can respond with compassion rather than punishment.
Our role isn't to judge the behaviour but to help children feel safe enough for their nervous systems to return to calm, where learning and connection become possible again.
Responses