Polyvagal Theory provides a breakdown of how the nervous system responds and reacts to unconscious messages of safety and threat. This accessible guide explores Polyvagal Theory and its potential for fully understanding and supporting the behaviours of children and young people in emotional distress at school. By exploring how early childhood experiences - such as abuse, trauma, an insecure attachment, or bereavement - can have a detrimental impact on the development of the child’s nervous system, we can view their behaviours in a new light. Polyvagal Theory in the Classroom: - Contains a wealth of activities to use in the classroom - Delves into new understandings of what is happening to children and young people when they become dysregulated - Introduces practical ways to support pupils' emotional wellbeing, promote better mental health, and help to develop their capacity to self-regulate - Contains exercises which provide opportunities for the reader to reflect on their own