Changing Perspectives: How Behaviour Signals Unmet Needs in Neurodivergent Children

In the latest episode of Neurological Natters, Gordon Forsyth joins to discuss how understanding behaviour as a form of communication can transform support for neurodivergent children. Since 2014, Gordon has led Parents and Autistic Children Together (PAACT), drawing from his personal journey and professional dedication to assist families in Lincolnshire.

Behaviour as Communication

For Gordon, what’s often labelled as “challenging behaviour” is simply another form of expression. The upcoming PAACT conference, themed “Behaviour as Communication,” reflects his philosophy: “We understand behaviour as being naughty, but there’s so many different forms of behaviour… we need to explore,” he explains. By reframing behaviour as a language, Gordon believes that parents and caregivers can better grasp what neurodivergent children are truly expressing.

In his experience, behaviour often arises when a child is trying to communicate an unmet need or manage sensory overwhelm. He recalls how his own son’s diagnosis years ago drove him to understand what was behind his behaviour: “It wasn’t bad behaviour; it was just another way of communicating.”

Support and Resources at the PAACT Conference

This year’s PAACT conference aims to equip parents and caregivers with resources to interpret and respond to these behaviours effectively. The event will host experts such as occupational therapist Claire Ginty, behavioural therapist Jude Seaward and The Working Together Team’s Adele Sheriff, who will provide insights on addressing sensory needs and recognising early signs of agitation. Jude, for example, focuses on strategies to “stop [children] from reaching the pinnacle of a complete meltdown.”

The conference will also include a designated quiet area, hosted by the Virtual Autism Hub, to offer respite for those needing a sensory break. Gordon emphasises the importance of this accommodation: “We’ve made sure there’s a quiet space available… if anybody’s going to be struggling, if it’s overwhelming on the day.” By creating an inclusive environment, PAACT ensures all attendees feel welcomed and supported.

Adjusting Our Own Responses First

A key theme of Gordon’s work is the need for parents and caregivers to reflect on their own responses. As he puts it, “We as parents, or as the adults, have to change before our children can change.” He advocates for patience, adaptability, and understanding in handling neurodivergent behaviours.

For Gordon, making small adjustments in communication and approach can lead to meaningful changes. His advice? Start by “listening first,” allowing children room to express themselves in their own ways. This mindset shift, he believes, is essential in reducing frustration and building trust.

Customised Strategies for Unique Needs

Every neurodivergent child has unique needs, and Gordon is clear that there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach. “What I want to become apparent is… we are dealing with autism mainly, but the differences of how our children react… are huge,” he says. The conference will feature committee members sharing personal experiences, ensuring that parents leave with strategies adaptable to their own family situations.

This personalised approach is designed to empower parents to find solutions that work for their child. As Gordon notes, “You have to take this generic information and then say, ‘How does that apply to my situation and how do I adapt it?’”

Reframing Behaviour as Connection

Ultimately, Gordon’s message is that behaviour, especially challenging behaviour, should be seen as a means of connection. “What is a bad behaviour is somebody communicating but [who] doesn’t know how to communicate in the right way,” he explains. He believes that by approaching behaviour with empathy and curiosity, parents and communities can foster environments where neurodivergent children feel heard, supported, and understood.

Changing how society perceives neurodivergent behaviour has a powerful effect on reducing stigma. Gordon reflects, “I wanted to grab people to sort of say… I need to find out why my child’s being ‘naughty’… and over the years, I’ve come to find out it wasn’t bad behaviour; it was just another way of communicating.” This perspective not only transforms support for neurodivergent children but builds a foundation for an inclusive, empathetic future.

PAACT's 26th Annual Autism Conference will be held on Tuesday 12th November 2024 at The Showroom, Tritton Road, Lincoln.

To book tickets or for more details visit https://paactsupport.com/

Listen to the full episode here