Behind Every Challenging Behavior

Behind every challenging behavior is a child trying to communicate a need, emotion, or frustration they may not yet have the skills to express. Learn how to identify the underlying causes of challenging behaviors and respond with patience, understanding, and developmentally appropriate strategies. Discover how positive guidance and meaningful connections can turn challenging moments into opportunities for learning and growth.

Big Behaviors, Little Feelings

Young children often experience big emotions before they have the words or skills to express them appropriately. By understanding the feelings behind challenging behaviors, educators can respond with patience, empathy, and positive guidance. Learn practical strategies to help children manage emotions, develop self-regulation skills, and build healthy relationships.

Every Behavior Tells a Story

Challenging behaviors are often a child's way of communicating feelings, frustrations, or unmet needs. When educators look beyond the behavior to understand its underlying cause, they can respond with empathy, positive guidance, and strategies that build trust, emotional regulation, and meaningful connections.

About the course

This course introduces educators to a deeper understanding of challenging behaviors in young children and the underlying needs, emotions, and developmental factors that influence their actions. Participants will explore how behavior serves as a form of communication and learn to recognize common triggers, including frustration, overstimulation, and difficulty expressing emotions. The training will introduce practical, research-informed strategies for supporting emotional regulation, building positive relationships, and responding to challenging situations with empathy and consistency. Educators will learn how to use observation and documentation to identify behavioral patterns and develop individualized support strategies. Participants will also explore proactive approaches to creating supportive classroom environments that help prevent challenging behaviors before they occur. 

Dr. Rhonda Crabbs

Rhonda Crabbs is an early childhood education leader, trainer, and curriculum specialist with extensive experience supporting educators, children, and families across Texas. She is the founder of Shade Tree Learning, an organization dedicated to providing high-quality professional development, CDA support, and leadership training for early childhood professionals. Through Shade Tree Learning, Dr. Crabbs offers instructor-led webinars, director credential programs, curriculum support, and practical training designed to strengthen early childhood programs and empower educators.

Curriculum

1 Chapter · 1 Lesson

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Introducation

Understanding Behavior, Building Connections

Through real-world examples and practical applications, educators will gain tools to replace reactive discipline with positive guidance that supports children's social-emotional development and long-term success.

$15.00

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