Child with Challenging Behaviour (#704)

This meeting between teachers and a parent is an emotional one for all because of the child’s behavioural problems. A consultant must try to understand the positions of each person, remembering that the child’s interests are most important.

• Listening skills 
• Developing trust 
• Demonstrating empathy 
• Uncovering hidden agendas 
• Finding collaborative solutions

Elaine’s oldest son, Michael, has ADHD. His teachers are frustrated that she has not made herself available to discuss his behavioural problems. They have called this meeting, with the consultant, to assist them in coping with Michael’s challenging behaviours in their respective classrooms. They have not had a chance to discuss their concerns in depth with Elaine Knight prior to this meeting. She does not come into the centre when he is dropped off in the morning and she usually sends a friend to pick him up at the end of the day. When she does pick him up, she is often late and has her eight-month old daughter with her so she rushes off without any interaction.