“Behavior” is one of the most common and complex challenges faced by both therapists and caregivers of young children. But what if the real change starts not with the child, but with us?

This interactive session explores the idea that challenging behaviors are often best addressed through intentional adult action. We’ll dive into the most frequently observed behaviors in children ages 2–5 and uncover how our own words, tone, choices, and mindset can either escalate or ease those tough moments.

Participants will learn 10 self-strategies that shift the focus from controlling behavior to guiding it with empathy, structure, and clarity. These strategies, rooted in principles of child development, motor learning, and emotional safety, are supported by real-world examples and simple techniques designed for therapy sessions, classrooms, or home environments.

Attendees will leave this session feeling empowered to create a more successful, less stressful space for children to grow and learn.

• Identify at least three common challenging behaviors in young children
  ages 2–5.
• Explain how intentional adult language, choices, and actions can
  influence a child’s behavior and emotional regulation.
• Describe at least three self-strategies and the rationale behind how
  each supports a child’s development and behavioral success.
• Apply a self-strategy by sharing it with a colleague or family member,
  reinforcing its use within the child’s support system.