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Guiding Youth Behavior

The behavior of children in out of school time programs can have a significant impact on meeting outcomes, maintaining staff and keeping children safe. From aggressive and defiant behaviors to avoidant and hard to regulate behaviors, out of school time providers must have a well-stocked behavior management toolbox.

During this 3-part series, out of school time providers will learn brain-based strategies to support positive youth behaviors in and out of program settings. Topics covered will include how behaviors are learned and influenced, teaching and developing self-control and regulation, de-escalation strategies and more.

Participants will be introduced to the science of behavior change and practices that guide positive youth behavioral choices, gain a basic understanding of child and adolescent behavior - including those related to traumatic experiences or mental health need, and have guided practice in identifying and implementing behavioral intervention techniques

Session 1: Understanding Youth Behavior
• Use the Behavior Equation to identify WHY bad behavior happens
• Explore and practice using the #1 tool for managing behavior
• Learn how to de-escalate by working with the Behavior Escalation Cycle

Session 2: Proactive and Responsive Youth Behavioral Interventions
• Identify positive behavioral practices that you can implement program wide
• Practice behavioral intervention techniques for children from K-12th grade
• Understand how to manage staff reactions to reduce challenging behaviors

Session 3: Providing Specialized Support
• Handling highly disruptive and aggressive behavior
• Using restorative interventions to support youth connection and collaboration
• Recognizing higher levels of youth need and supporting families in crisis