This is Part 1 of a 3 part series on how to decode and prevent behavior in your classroom. Stay tuned for part 2 and 3 “The Role of Motivation” and “How to Shape Behavior” releasing 9/30 and 10/14.

Introduction: 

Behavior is a form of communication. When the brain doesn’t have the words to communicate it uses body language to communicate for it. This understanding can have a huge positive impact on how we manage and respond in both our classrooms and our personal relationships.

Understanding Behavior as Communication:

When the brain uses BIG behaviors it means that it’s experiencing BIG emotions. It’s getting a heavy dose of adrenaline and cortisol! Or you might say the brain’s fight/flight has been triggered.

When a student acts out or withdraws, their behavior often reflects what they don’t have the words to say. Recognizing this can transform how we address BIG behaviors in the classroom, by encouraging us to focus on the BIG emotions instead of the surface response (behavior).

The Meet the Needs Method:

1. Safety
2. Comfort
3. Autonomy
4. Belonging
5. Competency

These 5 needs align with both Maslow’s hierarchy and Ryan and Deci’s Motivational Needs, and they are essential for "optimal" brain function and emotional well being. By focusing on these needs, we can prevent BIG emotional strains and the challenging behaviors they cause.

So when you see a BIG behavior look for which one of these needs is consistently not being met. This is a big part of The Meet the Needs Method.

The Meet the Needs method is fully described in The Behavior and Needs Detective HERE.

Influencing Factors:

Beyond basic needs, other factors influence behavior, such as the physical and emotional environment. By being intentional with these elements, we can encourage more positive emotions and behaviors.

Want to Learn More?

Stay tuned for our next post on 9/30 where we will dive deeper into how the 5 needs positively and negatively influence motivation and what that means for your students. Understanding these connections empowers us to foster a more joyful learning environment. 

Do you want to bring this understanding into your school? Check out the Meet the Needs (MTN) Training for Schools and Districts.

The MTN Training is a 4 hour cooperative learning experience where I train your staff and teachers on the science of behavior, motivation, and needs in the classroom. 

Described as “Comprehensive” and “Expertly Delivered”, this training explores how the 5 Needs influence the emotion and behavior of our students, our selves, and our loved ones. With the use of interactive and universal strategies to engage teachers and deepen their understanding and connection to the emotions and motivation of their students.

Check out the MTN Training HERE