🧠 WEBINAR - Understanding the Functions of Behavior: A Parent’s Guide to Positive Change
- Marie Patron
- May 25
- 2 min read
When your child displays challenging behavior, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure how to respond. But what if you could decode those behaviors and understand what your child is really trying to say? That’s where learning about the functions of behavior comes in—a powerful tool that can transform the way you support your child.
Why Do Kids Behave the Way They Do?
Every behavior—good or challenging—serves a purpose. Children may not have the words or skills to express themselves, so they communicate through actions. Behavior is communication.
In our “Understanding the Functions of Behavior” webinar, we teach parents how to recognize why a behavior is happening. This is the first step to responding calmly, confidently, and effectively. We must also understand the four functions of behavior.
The Four Functions of Behavior
Here’s what we explore during the training:
1. 💬 Attention
Some children engage in behavior to get your attention, even if it’s negative. They may not yet know how to ask appropriately or wait patiently.
What to do: Teach and reinforce positive ways to seek your attention—like tapping your shoulder or saying your name.
2. 🚪 Escape or Avoidance
Your child may try to avoid tasks that feel hard or overwhelming, like cleaning up or finishing homework.
What to do: Help them ask for a break or offer choices when possible, while still following through on expectations.
3. 🎁 Access to Tangibles
Sometimes a meltdown happens because your child wants a toy, snack, or screen time and doesn’t know how to wait or ask.
What to do: Model and practice requesting with words or visuals and provide rewards for using those tools.
4. 🌈 Sensory (Automatic Reinforcement)
Some behaviors feel good or help regulate the child’s body—rocking, hand-flapping, or humming, for example.
What to do: Identify safe and supportive ways for your child to meet those sensory needs.
Why This Matters for Parents
By understanding these functions, you can stop reacting out of frustration and start responding with intention. This doesn’t mean letting go of boundaries—it means creating an environment where your child can succeed.
Our webinar helps families shift from punishment to problem-solving. You'll walk away with tools that build communication, reduce stress, and strengthen your connection with your child.
👩🏫 Ready to Learn More?
Watch the full webinar and download the free resources and Parent Guide below to start applying these tools today!
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