Children cannot always articulate their feelings, and their frustrations often show up as behavior challenges. Before a solution to behavior issues can be found, teachers must work to find the cause of the negative behavior. Put yourself in a child’s place, and see what his/her behavior might be telling you.
If I child shows:
Anger, defiance, refusal to participate...it might mean...I’m not able to do what you are asking—I have a delay in my brain/body.
Lack of attention to charts, books, big group activities...it might mean...Everything is blur to me, my brain is not seeing what you are telling me—I have a vision acuity or perception problem.
Not listening, not following directions, not responding to questions correctly...it might mean...I may not be able to hear you clearly-I have a language processing problem.
Hitting, shoving, taking items...it might mean...I cannot make my wants/needs known. Others cannot understand my words-I have a speech problem.
Self play, no friends, fear, outbursts, crying, attention seeking...it might mean...My heart is hurt, my emotions are not stable-I need a lot of extra TLC.
Refusal to do drawing, writing, cutting, or gluing...it might mean...I can’t do what you are asking me-I have a fine motor deficit.
Poor eater, eats too much, eats too fast, takes others food, picky eater...it might mean...My tummy REALLY does hurt everyday-I have anxiety, I’m hungry, I have hidden food allergies, or I just don’t feel right when I eat that food.
Cuss words, inappropriate sexual behavior, talking about sex, gestures...it might mean...Someone is sexually abusing me, I see things at home in real life or on TV that I shouldn’t see.
Doesn’t like outside play, doesn’t join in games, doesn’t use playground equipment...it might mean...My gross motor skills are not where they should be, I cannot keep up with my friends, or I cannot do what others can.
In constant motion, rough with others, intensely likes/dislikes touch, removing shoes or clothing, needs things in his/her hands a lot...it might mean...I have sensory issues—my body is telling me to do this behavior to quiet my senses—My body reacts differently than others.
Looking for the causes of behavior challenges can lead you to a solution and make the day much brighter for you and for the child. Sometimes the child may need more help than you alone can give. Some resources in your community might include: Family Services Division, doctors, counselors, psychologists, Child Abuse Hotline (In Missouri, 800-392-3738), First Steps, speech services, occupational therapists, Midwest Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Missouri School for the Deaf/Blind, and Workshop on Wheels CCR&R.
Written by Sarah Williams, Inclusion Specialist
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