The Struggle Behind the Signal: Rethinking What Our Kids' Behavior Really Means

When children struggle with challenging behaviors, adults often focus on the end result - the hitting, the meltdown, the refusal to comply. But behavior is just the tip of the iceberg. In this conversation, Greg Santucci draws from 26 years of experience to reveal how becoming a "behavior detective" transforms our approach to supporting neurodivergent children. Through real classroom examples and practical insights, Greg explores how noticing difficulties (rather than just behaviors) allows us to provide support before crisis points. He discusses the critical role of felt safety, the importance of connection over compliance, and why traditional behavior management systems often fail our most vulnerable students. Learn how leading with curiosity, building authentic relationships, and recognizing stress cues early can prevent challenging behaviors while helping children feel genuinely supported and understood. This session offers a paradigm shift: from managing behaviors to understanding needs, from seeking compliance to building connection, and from punishment to support.