Some children have behaviours that parents find very difficult to manage, and that cause considerable stress for the whole family. Before you try to tackle behaviour, decide whether it really is a problem rather than just inconvenient or embarrassing.

It is always useful to start by trying to identify the reason for the behaviour from the child’s perspective, and considering what the child is trying to communicate through their behaviour. Some behaviours are directly linked to difficulties the child has communicating because of their Learning Disability.

Other triggers might be social situations which they find stressful, unstructured time, sensory difficulties, medical reasons, and change which your child finds stressful. You may find it helpful to track your child’s behaviour in a diary so you can begin to see patterns in behaviour and notice small, positive changes as you develop strategies. Understanding your child’s particular difficulties will help you develop strategies to help with behaviour problems.

Try to be consistent when dealing with difficult behaviour, and don’t expect it to change overnight. Exercise, such as trampolining or swimming, can be a really good way of relieving stress and working-off frustration.