How child counsellors help with acting-out behaviours in children

Frustration is a normal part of growing up. Expression of that frustration, as well as other thoughts and emotions can be extra-challenging for some children. They may not be able to express their distress in words, or make themselves understood. They may feel unheard or misinterpreted. Despite this, they are still communicating through behaviour.

Commonly called “acting-out”, children behaving this way will scream, cry, hit, throw temper tantrums, and be argumentative and/or aggressive. While not easy to deal with, the challenge then is on parents and caregivers to correctly interpret this behaviour. The problem is it often gets labelled as other things, like being entitled/spoiled, willful, defiant, disobedient, etc. This is where child counsellors can help, by taking the focus off the behaviour itself and determining what’s actually behind it.

How child counsellors help

• Offer a supportive environment

• Understand what message the behaviour is conveying

• Give parents the tools to correctly interpret various behaviour

Child behaviour counselling gives parents the tools to interpret their child’s behaviour. Once they understand the true meaning of what their child is trying to convey, changes in behaviour, reactions and relationship dynamics can occur. In fact, child counsellors in Surrey help both children and their parents feel supported. Children that feel safe, secure in their environment, and understood, enjoy close, healthy relationships with their loved ones.

When children’s behaviour gets concerning, it’s helpful to seek professional support. Child counselling, play therapy, parent counselling and family therapy provide tools that encourage understanding, which improves and deepens connections and loving relationships between parents and children.

Alison has worked with children and youth for many years and has developed a unique set of skills that allows her to support and nurture children, parents and the relationship between them. Contact us for more information or to make an appointment.