A Common Developmental Concern: Behavioral
Behavioral
It is important for parents and caregivers to understand that a child who is three years old or younger does not yet have the cognitive ability to misbehave or be ‘bad’. Their behavior is attributed to a root cause such as their inability to communicate their wants or needs, fatigue as they may not be getting enough sleep, a sensory-based reaction, or perhaps tied to social emotional well-being.
Our decades of experience working with infants and toddlers has shown that behavioral concerns are sometimes sensory based. For example, environments that are too loud or too bright, or tactile experiences such as cold air or wipes during diaper changes may overwhelm a child’s sensory system and trigger a fight-or-flight response.
However, behavioral concerns may be related to a child’s communication abilities or a communication delay. Children under three are still developing communication skills to express what they want or don’t want. When they can’t express their needs or feelings with words, they may show frustration by using their body to tell us what they want or need.
Common concerns from parents and caregivers include:
As a parent or caregiver, you may wonder if behaviors you are witnessing are common or indicative of a behavior that would benefit from Early Intervention Services. Our team of trained professionals can observe your child and work closely with you to determine if Early Intervention Services would be helpful.
In some cases, parents or caregivers are informed by their childcare provider that the child is demonstrating challenging behaviors. They may suggest Early Intervention Services for support and strategies. Whatever the situation, we are here to help.
As a parent or caregiver, you can contact us directly to request a no cost evaluation. A medical referral is not necessary.
Getting Started is as Easy as 1, 2, 3
Our Approach
At Early Intervention Services, our services start with a free evaluation which is an opportunity for our multi-disciplinary team to meet with you, your child and, where possible and appropriate, with teachers to listen and learn more about the specific concerns. Our team will conduct a broad evaluation of your child in five areas as required by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. The areas include adaptive skills (e.g., self-care skills such as feeding and sleeping), personal/social, communication including expressive and receptive, motor skills including gross and fine motor skills, and finally, play skills.
If your child is found to be eligible for EI services, our team will work with your family to develop an individualized family service plan based on your concerns and priorities.
Our family-centered approach uses a coaching model, empowering parents and caregivers with tools and strategies they can use in daily routines. We often start by observing your child. For behavioral concerns, we may coordinate with childcare staff to support the child in their natural environment.
Together, we identify strategies that help prevent and manage challenging behaviors while promoting participation and engagement. Notes from each session are provided to parents and caregivers, and our team partners with childcare staff to implement shared strategies to support a coordinated approach.
Our team is experienced in working in these environments to help the child with strategies to improve their behavior and to help parents, caregivers, and teachers in identifying cues to take action to prevent a challenging behavior from occurring.
Our team offers ideas, suggestions, and strategies that can be incorporated into a family’s daily routine, accommodating each family’s values and culture. For example, we meet with families in the community such as in parks, playgrounds, or grocery stores to help address real-world triggers and build successful routines.
Our services are flexible and adaptive to each family’s unique situation.
Experienced and Dedicated Professionals
Developmental Specialists
Occupational Therapists
Music Therapists
To assist with behavioral concerns, Early Intervention specialists may include occupational therapists, occupational therapist assistants, developmental specialists, and our music therapist.
Resources for Parents and Caregivers
Below are links to additional Early Intervention Services articles and videos related to Behavior.
Impact Stories
Emilia’s parents have been consistently diligent in following through on strategies worked on in our weekly sessions. This has been apparent every week when I see the progress she is making, their dedication to their daughter’s growth is beautiful to watch. I love that part of my job! It has been a pleasure working with this family!
Getting Started is as Easy as 1-2-3
Learn more about our services.
Contact us.
Nurturing the growth and development of children, infants up to age three.
