What Does "Challenging Behavior" Mean?

Morgan Flynn, Kaitlyn Fetsko, Brandon Grosser, Molly Mennen

Children have a large range of emotions and often express themselves in many different ways. It is normal for children to show some defiance as well. However, it is important that caregivers give support to the developing child and help them lean towards appropriate ways to behave.

"For young children, behavior is communication that's used to meet needs. It's how they let you know they either want something or want to avoid something" (Tantrums, Tears, and Tempers: Behavior Is Communication).

What does challenging behavior look like?

hitting
biting
yelling "no"
falling to the floor
fighting over toys
not wanting to participate in activities
refusing to take turns

This graph depicts the cycle of challenging behavior.

As teachers, it is important for us to be able to recognize what stage of a challenging behavior episode they are at. Knowing this will help us plan a proper response based on the child's current state of mind. If we learn about different types of challenging behavior and what each behavior looks like at different stages of intensity, we can learn how to provide aid in ways that the children actually needs.

Statistics from RethinkEd

In 2023 more than 70% of teachers reported a rise in challenging behavior in the classroom, as apposed to 66% of teachers in 2019
Only about a third of teachers are effectively trained to manage challenging behavior
- More than 40% of teachers think that they are not fully prepared for management and handling student behavior
Only 15% of teacher special education programs provide sufficient coursework on classroom management

Over on the right hand side is an infographic from RethinkEd that provides strategies for any teachers who may be struggling with challenging behavior.

Solutions to challenging behavior:

One solution you can implement is giving a child two positive choices:
- Moves the child from an emotional state where they feel powerless to an executive state.
- Gives the child a sense of power when providing two choices.
- Gives the child a choice to do one of two positive behaviors you want to see them exhibit.
- Gets the child back on track while not feeling forced to be.
  - Example: "Would you like to work on your math problems on the floor or at your desk?"

Solutions to challenging behavior:

Another solution is to use distraction techniques. This can look like:
- Talking about the child's favorite topics.
- Attempt to engage the child in a calming activity, or in something that they typically enjoy doing.
  - Example: "Look outside at the warm sunshine! I know you really love playing outside, maybe at recess you'll play tag!"

Positive Reinforcement

Reward good behaviors often rather than directing attention to negative behaviors.
Consider implementing a positive behavior system at home.
Be a role model for your child. It is important to act and talk like you want your child to act and talk.