Looking Behind the Behavior

We all have good days, bad days, and days that fall somewhere in between. Some days are exciting, others feel ordinary, and then there are days we can’t wait to tell someone about — along with the ones we hope never to relive again.

This is true for adults and children alike.

One of the most meaningful parts of working with children is having the chance to share in the stories of their day. Their experiences, feelings, and emotions give us a small window into their world — a window many adults never stop to look through.

The Power of Sharing Time

When children open up and share their day with us, it allows us to look behind the behavior we see on the surface.
It helps us understand the “why” behind the smiles, the frustration, the silence, or the bursts of energy.

Getting to know a child’s character and personality is a blessing. As we learn their sense of humor, their likes and dislikes, what makes them emotional, what they care about — and who they care for — we begin to understand them on a deeper level.

This understanding becomes a powerful tool. It helps us guide them through whatever they’ve experienced that day. It helps us respond instead of react.

Building Trust Through Understanding

One of the greatest benefits of looking beyond behavior is the trust it builds. When we truly know a child, our patience naturally expands. We become better equipped to suggest healthy ways for the

We become better equipped to suggest healthy ways for them to navigate challenges. We become a safe place.

When children know they can come to us without judgment, the door to communication opens wide. An open-door policy, paired with a no-judgment zone, creates space for them to express themselves honestly and confidently.

The Heart of the Work

Looking behind the behavior is more than a strategy — it’s a practice of compassion. It reminds children that they are seen and heard. And it reminds us, as adults, that every behavior has a story behind it.

When we take the time to listen, we strengthen our connection with each child and help them grow into more confident, emotionally aware individuals.

Picture credit: Joann-Glaudemans@Unsplash.com