Red Shoe Play Therapy Training Centre

22/02/2026

Credit to

22/02/2026

This is so important to understand

Not all challenging behaviour is caused by inconsistent boundaries or lack of routine.

Yes, some children respond well to clearer structure, predictable consequences and consistent parenting. In those situations, behaviour often improves when adults provide firm, calm and reliable boundaries.

But anxiety-driven demand avoidance linked to autism, or a persistent pattern of oppositional behaviour linked to ODD, is different from a child simply testing limits because routines are unclear.

A child who is overwhelmed by anxiety may resist even enjoyable activities when they feel pressured. Increasing demands can increase distress. A child with entrenched oppositional behaviour may need structured, evidence-based behavioural support, not just stricter rules.

When we reduce everything to “they just need firmer boundaries”, we risk missing anxiety, neurodivergence, trauma or emotional regulation difficulties.

Boundaries matter. Consistency matters. But understanding what is driving the behaviour matters just as much.

Like the photo and comment "DIFFERENCE" and we will send you a message with a link to a free PDF of this resource.

20/02/2026

Resistance in children is often misunderstood.

It’s not defiance.
It’s protection.

When every choice is decided for them, pushing back becomes the only way they feel heard.

Control may create obedience.
But choice builds confidence.

The goal isn’t to overpower your child.
It’s to guide them while protecting their voice.

Because confident adults are raised in homes where their voice was allowed to exist. 🌿






EmotionalIntelligence
RespectfulParenting

17/02/2026

Is your child constantly arguing, refusing to follow rules, or reacting with intense anger over small things?

Oppositional Defiant Disorder - ODD - is often misunderstood. Many children and teenagers labelled as rude, difficult or disrespectful are actually struggling with emotional regulation, feeling powerless, or coping with stress they cannot put into words.

ODD is not about bad parenting. It is not about a child being “naughty”. It is not solved by shouting louder or punishing harder. In fact, power struggles, public arguments and harsh consequences often make things worse.

Children with ODD frequently feel criticised, controlled or misunderstood. Their behaviour can look like constant defiance, blaming others, losing their temper quickly, or deliberately pushing back against adults. Underneath that behaviour is often a young person who feels overwhelmed and does not know how to manage big emotions safely.

This is hard. It can drain families. It can impact school life. It can affect siblings and relationships. Parents and carers can feel exhausted, judged and alone.

But understanding what is driving the behaviour changes everything. Calm responses, clear boundaries, consistency and daily positive connection can reduce conflict over time. Early support from schools and mental health professionals can also make a real difference.

If you are raising or working with a child who shows ongoing oppositional or defiant behaviour, you are not alone. With the right support, things can improve.

Like the photo and comment "POSTER" and we will send you a message with a link to a free PDF of this resource.

08/02/2026

The very popular pre-recorded webinar: How to support traumatised children with their trauma symptoms OUTSIDE the playroom is now CPD accredited at HPCSA
To order: Send POP with your name and contact details to rindablom@gmail.com
Banking details
Dr B Blom
ABSA
Account number: 4050777253
Branch code: 334-334
The webinar and Powerpoint slides will be emailed to you. You have till 31 March 2026 to watch and send back the MCQ for the CPD points

07/02/2026

I am excited to announce that I received accredition from the World Association of Sand Therapy Professionals (WASP) as a Registered Sand Therapist Consultant/Trainer. Apart from still working with clients in the sand tray everyday and acting as supervisor and consultant to therapists in terms of sand tray work, I have presented more than 70 in-person and online sand therapy trainings in the past 10 years. I am everyday amazed to witness the sacred healing power of this modality.
For more info about sand training, visit www.playtherapytraining.net