25/01/2026
Behavior is communication — not defiance.
When children show “problem behavior,” it’s often because their coping skills are overwhelmed. What we do next matters. When emotions are dismissed or minimized, feelings tend to grow louder and harder to manage. Regulation becomes more difficult, and the behavior escalates.
When we pause to validate and soothe, we help a child’s nervous system settle. From there, their brain can learn how to cope, regulate, and respond more effectively the next time. Over time, this is what leads to less challenging behavior — not because the child was controlled, but because they were supported.
We don’t reduce behavior by suppressing feelings.
We reduce behavior by teaching children how to handle them.
If you are interested in learning more about this topic please send me a private message.
Blessings, Elma xx
Credit - Institute of Child Psycology