You're dealing with students exhibiting challenging behaviors. How can you best support them in your school?

Students with challenging behaviors are exhibiting them for a reason and it lies with the teachers, staff, and school administration to get a handle on what is driving the behavior. Students may not be able to express what is causing the behavior so helping them to process what they are feeling, thinking, and then be able to articulate it is vital. Also providing them with opportunities to learn more about themselves and what their needs are becomes important in developing the skills necessary to manage their own behavior.

Understanding the personality styles of your students gives you insight as to the "why" behind the behavior. Each of us, including our students are wired from birth with our unique personality traits. Each of the personalities has internal emotional needs. When these needs are not being met, we experience disruptive behaviors as they strive to get their needs met. We tend to address the surface behaviors, but if we do not get to the "root", usually an unmet need or a lack of skill yet to be acquired, the behavior will continue or escalate. We need to change our approach from the surface behavior to connect with the heart of the child so they feel seen, heard, and understood. We need to Reach Them To Teach Them.

Creating a supportive environment starts with understanding the causes behind challenging behaviors. By identifying the root factors such as learning difficulties or emotional distress, we can design targeted interventions and provide the necessary support to help students thrive in our school.

- Start by establishing partnerships with local organizations, such as mental health services, youth programs, and social services, to provide comprehensive support for students. - Create a multidisciplinary team within the school that includes teachers, counselors, administrators, and community representatives to collaboratively develop and implement intervention strategies. - Engage parents and guardians by keeping them informed and involved in the process. - Implement individualized support plans that incorporate community resources and services. - Foster a school culture of empathy and understanding by providing professional development for staff on effective behavior management techniques and promoting open communication.