Best Practices For Handling Challenging Behaviors

1. Refocus the Energy Then (2016): Redirect a student’s attention by engaging them in a task. Now: Invite the student into purpose. Example: Instead of: “Stop tapping the desk!” Try: “Can you help pass out the journals?” Or: “Let’s see who can get their materials out and ready the fastest—you lead.” Why it works: Children don’t always need a correction. Sometimes, they need a mission. 2. Give Students a Break Then: Offer short mental or physical breaks to reset focus. Now: Normalize breaks as brain regulation. Example: “You’ve been working hard—take two minutes at the calm table.” Or for younger kids: “Let’s visit the breathing corner.” Pro tip: Let breaks be chosen—not assigned as punishment. Empowerment changes everything. 3. Use Non-Verbal Cues Then: Use eye contact, gestures, or signals. Now: Make cues a shared language. Example: Tap the desk twice = Eyes on me. Hand on heart = Remember our classroom promise. Current child need: Visual learners, neurodivergent students, and anxious learners benefit from predictable, non-verbal systems. 4. Address the Disruption Quickly and Quietly Then: Handle problems without embarrassing the student. Now: Preserve dignity as a sacred practice. Example: Walk over. Whisper: “Can we talk for a second after the activity?” Avoid: Correcting in front of peers or making it a “teachable moment” at the student’s expense. Today’s child: They are emotionally aware. They remember how you made them feel. 5. Offer Kinesthetic Movement Options Then: Allow students to move or stretch to release energy. Now: Build movement into daily structure. Example: “Would you like to stand and work today?” “We’re going to learn this vocabulary while clapping it out!” Brain breaks every 20–30 minutes. Why it works: Movement builds memory. Motion strengthens focus. Stillness isn't always engagement. 6. Give Anonymous Reminders Then: Remind the class without calling out specific students. Now: Use inclusive language that invites reflection. Example: “I notice some folks need a reminder about voice levels.” “Let’s all check ourselves—are we focused or distracted?” New suggestion: Use self-assessment cues: thumbs-up, sideways, or down behind the back to check in. Keeps ownership with the student. ✨ Final Thoughts This generation is different. They’re more sensitive, more aware, more expressive. Disruption isn’t always defiance. Sometimes it’s a cry for connection, a need for movement, a test of trust. As leaders, we don’t just teach reading. We set the conditions where children can think, feel, and thrive. This summer, reflect deeply. What are you willing to change so children don’t have to be changed to survive your classroom? #LavertLines™ #TeachTheBrain #DisciplineWithDignity

Connect with Challenging Youth These strategies enable one to build positive connections with youth at risk so they can solve problems and develop strength and resilience. 1. Reach out to guarded youth. Rather than wait for problems, one practices “pre-emptive connecting” with wary youth. 2. Avoid a judgmental tone. Two centuries ago, pioneering educator Johann Pestalozzi suggested that the crowning achievement of education was being able to correct a student while at the same time communicating positive regard. 3. Connect in times of conflict. All children have natural brain programs motivating them to attach to trusted persons when they are upset or in trouble. In crisis, the child’s brain is signaling “find somebody who is safe,” but traditional discipline by punishment or exclusion only creates further threat. Conflict and crisis present unparalleled opportunities to build trust, respect, and understanding. 4. Understand behavior. This is not as simple as it might seem. Many behaviors of youth confuse and disturb us, and it is easy to make incorrect assumptions as to “what motivated you to do that?” Intense emotions overwhelm children’s ability to think and act rationally. They need someone who can help them identify, understand, and sort out their feelings and thinking. 5. Clarify challenging problems. The human brain is designed to make meaning out of chaos and confusion. This usually does not require formal counseling but an understanding mentor who can help a youth sort out “what happened.” These conversations give us a window on the youth’s private logic and goals. . Resolving problems is the foundation for building resilience. 6. Restore harmony and respect. Inner conflict and interpersonal discord trigger painful emotions in the brain. We help youth resolve problems and restore harmony. Traditional discipline uses pain-based methods to motivate change. Restorative methods seek to restore broken bonds and build a climate of mutual respect. --- Larry K. Brendtro, PhD

Challenging behaviors are integral to childhood development, presenting distinct hurdles for early childhood educators. Addressing these behaviors necessitates patience, comprehension, and effective strategies, whether dealing with tantrums, aggression, or defiance. In this post, we will explore practical tips and strategies for early childhood educators to navigate challenging behaviors in the classroom and foster a positive learning atmosphere for all children. Understanding the Root Causes - Taking a proactive stance involves identifying the underlying reasons behind challenging behaviors. This includes considering unmet needs, developmental stages, communication difficulties, and environmental stressors. By observing patterns and triggers, educators better understand individual children's behavior. Fostering Positive Relationships - Building strong, trusting relationships with each child is foundational and grounded in empathy, respect, and understanding. Establishing clear expectations and boundaries while providing warmth and encouragement cultivates an environment conducive to growth. Additionally, creating opportunities for one-on-one interactions facilitates meaningful connections. Implementing Positive Reinforcement - Emphasizing positive behaviors through praise, encouragement, and rewards is pivotal. Specific praise acknowledges and reinforces desired behaviors, while behavior charts, tokens, or incentive systems motivate children and track progress. Teaching Emotional Regulation - It is essential to equip children with age-appropriate strategies and tools to identify and manage their emotions. Teaching calming techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and sensory activities empowers children to navigate their emotions effectively. Furthermore, modeling self-regulation and problem-solving skills fosters a conducive learning environment. Using Redirecting and Distraction Techniques - Redirecting children's attention away from challenging behaviors by offering alternative activities or choices is beneficial. Employing humor, storytelling, or engaging activities as distractions helps defuse escalating situations. Offering guidance and support facilitates children's transition to more appropriate behaviors. Navigating challenging behaviors in the early childhood classroom necessitates a proactive and compassionate approach. Educators can foster a supportive and inclusive environment where all children can thrive by understanding the root causes, fostering positive relationships, implementing positive reinforcement, teaching emotional regulation, and employing redirecting techniques.

✨Trauma-Informed Behavioral Interventions for the Classroom✨ Behavioral challenges in the classroom are often misunderstood, especially when trauma is a factor. Trauma-informed interventions recognize that challenging behaviors may stem from a child’s attempt to cope with overwhelming emotions or stress. By addressing these behaviors with empathy and understanding, educators can create a classroom environment that supports regulation, trust, and learning. Trauma-informed strategies are not just about managing behavior—they’re about fostering safety and growth for every child. Here are effective trauma-informed behavioral interventions for the classroom. 1. Establish Predictable Routines ✅ Provide a consistent daily schedule to create stability and safety. ✅ Use visual aids or timers to prepare for transitions. 2. Validate Emotions ✅ Acknowledge feelings without judgment to build trust and connection. ✅ Use phrases like, "It’s okay to feel upset." 3. Offer Sensory Breaks ✅ Allow access to calming activities like fidget tools or quiet corners. ✅ Incorporate movement breaks to reduce stress and boost focus. 4. Use Positive Reinforcement ✅ Highlight strengths and reward progress to build self-confidence. ✅ Focus on what the child does well, not just areas of difficulty. 5. Create a Safe Space ✅ Designate a calming area where students can self-regulate. ✅ Keep the classroom free from triggering stimuli or loud disruptions. 6. Teach Self-Regulation Skills ✅ Introduce breathing exercises or mindfulness practices for emotional control. ✅ Model and practice coping techniques during calm moments. 7. Build Strong Relationships ✅ Show genuine interest in each student’s well-being and experiences. ✅ Foster connection through one-on-one conversations and positive feedback. Trauma-informed behavioral interventions transform the classroom into a space where children feel safe, understood, and ready to learn. By addressing behaviors with empathy and support, we empower students to regulate their emotions and thrive academically and socially. Let’s continue to prioritize trauma-informed approaches, knowing that these small adjustments can lead to significant changes in a child’s life. #OccupationalTherapy #OccupationalTherapist #WhyOT #OTMatters #OT #OTR #OTD #UnitedStatesOT