Why are so many Behaviour Smart users seeing huge improvements in behaviour?

By Dean Cotton, Managing Director, Behaviour Smart Ltd

Children may exhibit challenging or disruptive behaviour in school for various reasons. It's important to note that each child is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all explanation for behaviour issues. Here are some common factors that may contribute to challenging behaviour in schools:

1. Social and Emotional Factors: Children may not have fully developed emotional regulation skills, leading to impulsive or intense reactions.o Social Skills: Some children may struggle with social skills, making it difficult for them to navigate social situations appropriately.

2. Home Environment: Issues in the home, such as family conflicts, instability, or lack of support, can contribute to behavioural problems.o Parenting Style: Inconsistent discipline, lack of boundaries, or overly punitive parenting can impact a child's behaviour.

3. Learning Difficulties: Children with undiagnosed learning disabilities may become frustrated and act out due to the challenges they face in the classroom.

4. Mental Health Issues: Children may struggle with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, which can manifest as behavioural problems.o Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): ADHD can contribute to impulsive behaviour, difficulty focusing, and hyperactivity.

5. Bullying or Peer Issues: Children who are victims of bullying or social exclusion may display behavioural issues as a way of coping or seeking attention.

6. School Environment: A lack of positive relationships with teachers can impact a child's behaviour. Inconsistent or ineffective classroom management strategies may contribute to disruptive behaviour.

7. Unmet Needs: Basic needs, such as hunger, lack of sleep, or physical discomfort, can affect behaviour.o Need for Attention: Children may act out to gain attention, even if it's negative.

8. Developmental Factors: Developmental stages can influence behaviour, as children may be testing boundaries or seeking autonomy.

9. Cultural and Societal Factors: Differences in cultural expectations and values may impact a child's behaviour in a school setting.Addressing challenging behaviour requires a comprehensive and individualised approach that considers the specific needs and circumstances of each child. Collaboration between teachers, parents, and, when necessary, mental health professionals, can play a crucial role in supporting a child's social and emotional development.

Behaviour Smart uses the behaviour inputted in the incident report to generate clear and precise Smart Plans (behaviour plans) that highlight effective behaviour management strategies for staff to use. The strategies focus on teaching individuals to manage their own behaviour. Whilst completing an incident report staff are also asked to reflect on how they responded to the behaviour exhibited and consider alternative approach’s next time they see the child behaviours, this means the system provides continual professional development. Behaviour Smart had a very detailed analytics section which helps users identify patterns in behaviour.