Understanding Challenging Behaviors: A New Perspective

Michelle's revelation represents a seismic shift in educational thinking. When we stop interpreting behaviors through the lens of defiance or non-compliance and start seeing them as communication about internal states, everything changes.

Sara H, SLPA, with extensive experience, shared: "This course has changed my work life drastically in the best way. It has changed how I view my students, helped me to better understand them, relate with them, and help them. I am able to see them have more success, and they seem happier and more regulated."

This isn't about excusing behaviors or lowering expectations—it's about understanding the neurological reality behind what we observe and responding in ways that actually help.

The Science of Regulation

Modules 7 & 8 (Regulation & Dysregulation, Regulation Strategies) introduce educators to the Polyvagal Theory and its practical applications in educational settings. Amy B, a school-based Occupational Therapist noted: "I think the underlying principles related to praxis, sensory processing, and relationship building are key components of being successful in supporting our students."

This handout from the Regulation & Dysregulation module helps participants understand the nervous system.

Understanding the autonomic nervous system helps educators recognize:

• When students are calm, regulated, and ready to learn

• When stress is building and support is needed

• When fight/flight has been triggered and learning isn't possible

  
  

This framework transforms how we structure learning environments, plan instruction, and respond to dysregulation.

The Co-Regulation Connection

One of the most powerful concepts from our regulation modules is co-regulation—the idea that our own nervous system states directly impact our students' ability to regulate.

Pearl Castro, a Communication Partner and Instructor at the Autism and Communication Center at California Lutheran University, reflected: "This course was a great reminder of what best practices I can implement in my practice as a communication partner. Hearing autistic advocates really helped put everything I do into perspective!"

Co-regulation means:

• Monitoring our own stress levels and taking care of our regulation first

• Providing a calm, predictable presence during challenging moments

• Modeling regulation strategies rather than just teaching them

• Understanding that regulation is relational, not individual

  
  

Beyond Individual Students: Patterns and Insights

Maria C, a Communication Support Partner, discovered: "There aren't boundaries for communication. That is a huge lesson that Communication for Education course taught me."

When we understand regulation, we start to see patterns across environments and relationships that we missed before. The student who "acts out" in math class but not art class isn't being manipulative—they're communicating something about the demands, supports, or sensory environment in different settings.

Practical Applications: Implementing Change

Understanding regulation translates into immediate, practical changes:

Environmental Modifications

• Reducing sensory overload in learning spaces

• Creating predictable routines and transitions

• Offering movement and sensory breaks proactively

  
  

Instructional Adaptations

• Recognizing when a student is dysregulated and needs support before academic demands

• Using regulation strategies as part of lesson planning

• Building in opportunities for regulation throughout the day

  
  

Relationship-Based Approaches

• Focusing on connection before correction

• Seeing behaviors as communication about internal states

• Responding with empathy and support rather than consequences

  
  

The Staff Transformation: A Collective Shift

Jeannine, a school-based Occupational Therapist, captured the broader impact: "This course was incredible and has changed how I will work with students from now on! What an amazing experience. The instructors made it a very comfortable space to be vulnerable!"

When entire teams understand regulation, school cultures shift. Staff meetings include discussions about co-regulation. Professional development focuses on nervous system science. Behavioral interventions are replaced with regulation support.

The Parent Connection: Empowering Families

Paula, a parent, shared: "This course changed my perspective on communication with my son and how many valid types of communication are out there! I'm also a better parent and advocate for him."

Understanding regulation helps parents:

• Recognize early signs of dysregulation before behaviors escalate

• Provide appropriate supports based on nervous system state

• Advocate for environmental modifications at school

• Take care of their own regulation to better support their children

  
  

The Long-Term Impact: Transforming Lives

Daniel O, Parent and Therapist, reflected: "The impact of this course has been profound and complex. In short, I have been given knowledge, the kind of which can be transformational. As a parent, advocate, professional, and citizen, I now have a whole new set of ideas and skills."

Understanding regulation doesn't just change how we respond to challenging behaviors in the moment—it changes how we design educational programs, structure learning environments, and support both students and staff over time.

The Professional Development Revolution: Renewed Passion

Sara H, SLPA, made a powerful observation: "After 10 years as a speech therapist and 12 years as a special education teacher, I was feeling a little stale in my work and wondering if I was helping my students enough, if I was making a real difference. Now I definitely feel like I am, and I have a renewed excitement for the work I'm in, as well as a desire to continue learning and do new things!"

For experienced professionals, understanding regulation often provides the missing piece that makes everything else click into place.

Getting Started with Regulation: Your Journey Begins

Ready to transform your understanding of challenging behaviors and create more supportive learning environments? Modules 7 & 8 (Regulation & Dysregulation, Regulation Strategies) provide:

• Neurological foundations for understanding regulation and dysregulation

• Practical strategies for supporting regulation in educational settings

• Assessment tools for recognizing regulation states

• Environmental modifications that support nervous system regulation

• Co-regulation techniques that help both students and staff

  
  

Elizabeth, a School Psychologist, noted: "I look forward to continuing this work at the preschool and expanding my horizons to be able to communicate with ALL students."

The regulation revolution starts with each educator who chooses to see behaviors as communication and responds with support rather than consequences. Are you ready to join the revolution?

Explore Modules 7 & 8 - Regulation Strategies →