05/11/2024
When we encounter challenging behaviours, it can be easy to see them as simply "bad" or "defiant." But Ross Greene reminds us that behaviour is often a signal—a sign that a child is struggling because they don’t yet have the skills to cope with what’s expected of them.
Imagine being placed in a situation where you’re asked to perform a task that feels way beyond your ability. Now, imagine experiencing that as a young child, with a still-developing brain and limited communication tools. It’s understandable why a child might react with frustration, withdrawal, or outbursts when they lack the skills to adapt effectively. As adults, we can still struggle to deal with setbacks and frustration if we still are lacking the skills to cope.
So, what can we do? Greene's philosophy encourages us to shift our perspective from, "How can I make this child comply?" to "What skills does this child need to navigate these demands?" When we focus on understanding and teaching missing skills—like emotional regulation, flexibility, or social understanding—we’re setting the child up for long-term success, not just immediate compliance.
This month we will be focusing many of our posts on challenging behaviours and building resilience in children and ourselves. Look for this topic continued in our newsletter, expected to arrive in your email November 10th. To make sure you receive it subscribe to our newsletters here: https://bit.ly/neuro-newsletter
We wish you a month of greater connection to the lives you touch every day. 🩷
