Amplifying Silent Struggles: Giving Voice to Children Who Internalise Their Emotions in School

In every classroom, children communicate their emotions and struggles in diverse ways. While some may express themselves loudly and assertively, there is a significant population of students who internalise their emotions. It is no secret that it’s not always the children who shout the loudest who are silently grappling with struggles. But how do we ensure that these silent strugglers are heard, supported, and empowered?

In this blog post, we will explore the importance of recognising and understanding the experiences of children who internalise their emotions. Additionally, we will discuss practical strategies, including the use of surveys, to give voice to these students and create a more inclusive and supportive classroom environment.

Understanding Internalised Emotions

Internalising emotions refers to a coping mechanism in which children tend to keep their distress, anxiety, or sadness within themselves, rather than expressing it outwardly. While some may perceive these students as "well-behaved," their inner struggles can significantly impact their overall wellbeing and academic performance. Internalising emotions can manifest in various ways, including withdrawal, excessive self-criticism, perfectionism, or even physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach-aches.

The Importance of Allowing Silent Strugglers to Speak

By recognising that all behaviour is a form of communication, teachers can create an environment where silent strugglers feel safe to express themselves. It's essential to understand that those who shout the loudest may not be the ones who need the most support. By giving silent strugglers a voice, we can address their needs and promote their emotional wellbeing. Surveys provide a valuable tool for teachers, enabling them to gain insights into the experiences and emotions of these students, even when they are not openly shared.

The Power of Surveys

Surveys can be a transformative way to hear from all children, including those who internalise their emotions. Through carefully crafted questionnaires, we can uncover valuable information about their feelings, concerns, and struggles that may otherwise go unnoticed. Surveys offer a confidential and non-threatening platform, allowing students to express themselves without fear of judgment or retribution.

At BounceTogether, we provide a comprehensive and intuitive platform for measuring pupil, staff, and parent wellbeing. With the largest repository of evidence-based surveys preloaded onto our platform, we help schools amplify the voices of silent strugglers. Our surveys are designed to capture a wide range of emotions and experiences, providing a holistic view of students' wellbeing that ensures no-one falls under the radar.

As a team, we have had the privilege of working with numerous schools and teachers who have found immense value in our surveys and the insights they provide. If you are interested to find out more, please do reach out to our team – click here

You can also book a place on our next group webinar – click here