Parenting Through Big Behaviours

What we often see as defiance, tantrums, or shutdowns are usually signs of stress, unmet needs, or past experiences that a child doesn’t yet have the skills to manage.
Through approaches like Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), we learn that behaviour is communication. When we respond with curiosity instead of correction, and connection before consequences, we help our children feel safe enough to grow, learn, and change.
Trauma—whether big or small—can shape how a child’s brain, body, and beliefs develop. But healing also happens in relationships. As caregivers, we have the opportunity to be a steady, safe presence that helps rewire those patterns over time.
This means:

• Staying calm when our child is not
• Choosing gentle, kind responses
• Meeting needs before addressing behaviour
• Prioritizing relationship over immediate compliance

The goal isn’t perfection—it’s presence. Small, consistent moments of connection can lead to powerful, lasting change. Big behaviours aren’t a sign of failure—they’re an invitation to step in closer.
To support families willing to participate, Grant Church will provide a meal from 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm and childcare for children in grades 4 and under. Please let us know if you’re planning to come for the meal and whether you will need childcare.
**Teaching Resources provided by Hope for the Journey
**This session is a great resource for teachers & volunteers who work with children.

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