Using the language of the child's behavior in your work with families

A child's behavior, and the way parents react to and understand that behavior, are important for professionals who work with families. Parental representations of a child's behavior provide an insight into their awareness of child development, as well as their thoughts, past experiences, values, and concerns. An appreciation of this parental viewpoint leads to a deeper and more effective professional relationship. In particular, when parents and professionals share their observations of a child's behavior and explore the meanings therein, they discover beneficial new ways of working together in support of the child and the family.