Why Therapy Can Help Children and Teens Overcome School Behavioral Challenges

August 14, 2025

Supporting growth, resilience, and connection for a smoother school journey

As the school year begins, many parents find themselves concerned about their child’s behavior in the classroom. Maybe there have been calls from teachers about disruptions, struggles with following instructions, or difficulty getting along with peers. While these moments can be challenging for both children and parents, they are often signs that a child may be navigating big emotions, unmet needs, or underlying stressors.

Therapy can be a valuable support for children and adolescents with behavioral challenges, helping them develop skills to succeed both academically and socially. Rather than focusing only on “fixing” the behavior, therapy works to uncover the why behind it, creating a path toward lasting change.

Benefits of Therapy for Children and Adolescents with Behavioral Challenges

1. Emotional Regulation Skills
Therapy provides a safe space for children to explore their emotions and learn strategies for managing frustration, anxiety, or impulsivity. For example, a therapist might use play-based activities to help a child recognize physical signs of anger and choose calming techniques like deep breathing or movement breaks.

2. Improved Social Skills
Behavioral challenges often stem from difficulties in communication or relationship-building. Through role-play, group activities, or social stories, therapy can strengthen a child’s ability to listen, share, take turns, and resolve conflicts—skills that build stronger peer connections.

3. Strengthened Problem-Solving Abilities
Therapists guide children in thinking through challenges before reacting, encouraging them to pause, evaluate options, and choose positive actions. Over time, this helps reduce impulsive behaviors and supports better classroom engagement.

4. Increased Self-Esteem and Confidence
When children learn that they can manage their emotions and make positive choices, their confidence grows. This boost in self-esteem often leads to better participation in school and a more positive self-image.

5. Support for Parents and Teachers
Therapy doesn’t just help the child—it also supports the adults in their life. Parents and educators can receive guidance on consistent responses, strategies to reinforce positive behaviors, and tools to create a supportive learning environment.

A Path Toward a Successful School Year

Every child deserves the chance to feel confident, capable, and connected at school. Therapy is not about labeling or judging—it’s about equipping children with the tools they need to succeed while fostering understanding and compassion from the adults around them.

As both a therapist and reflective supervisor, I’ve seen how addressing behavioral challenges through therapy transforms not just a child’s school experience, but their entire sense of self. When we invest in understanding, connection, and skill-building, we give children the roots and wings they need to thrive.
— Charisse Dawkins, LCSW

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Supporting Challenging School Behaviors with Connection and Presence

September 26, 2025

Every child has moments when big feelings show up in the classroom. For some, this can look like impulsive behaviors, difficulty paying attention, or even hitting. While these behaviors can be challenging for teachers, caregivers, and peers, they are also signals—messages that a child is still learning how to regulate emotions, manage stress, and build skills for healthy relationships. The good news is, with consistent support, children can grow their ability to navigate these challenges. Looking Beneath the Behavior Instead of labeling a child as “bad” or “difficult,” it helps to pause and ask, what is this behavior communicating? Impulsivity may signal excitement, worry, or a need for movement. Hitting may reflect frustration or limited coping tools. Inattention can often be linked to stress, lack of sleep, or feeling disconnected. When we shift from reacting to responding with curiosity, we create opportunities to support—not shame—the child. Practical Strategies You Can Try Pause and breathe together – A few slow breaths can help calm both child and adult. Add movement – Quick stretches, wall push-ups, or a “shake it out” moment help children reset. Create connection points – Greet children by name, use warm eye contact, and let them know you see them. Model calm regulation – Children borrow our calm; showing steady breathing or grounding helps them settle. Guide repair and reflection – After an outburst, support the child in making amends and talking through other choices for next time. Celebrate small wins – Acknowledge when they use a positive skill, even if it’s small progress. Why These Strategies Work Mindfulness practices and relationship-based approaches work together to shift behaviors over time. Mindfulness gives children tools to slow down and notice what’s happening inside, while strong, supportive relationships give them the safety to practice those tools. Together, they: Reduce impulsivity by teaching children to pause before acting. Build emotional safety so children feel understood, not shamed. Strengthen focus and attention by calming the nervous system. Encourage resilience and healthier coping strategies. Final Thought Supporting challenging behaviors isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about building skills and trust over time. When adults respond with presence, consistency, and compassion, children begin to discover their own ability to manage big feelings. And in those moments of growth, we send the message: Your feelings matter, your behavior can change, and you are not alone. ✨ Written by Charisse Dawkins, LCSW – Helping children, teens, and families find strength, resilience, and joy through life’s challenges.