Finding Clarity and Balance

A behavioural assessment is an evaluation that helps understand a child’s actions, reactions, and patterns of behaviour across different settings such as home, school, and social environments. It explores the reasons behind certain behaviours and identifies factors that may be influencing them—such as emotions, environment, or developmental needs.

Purpose
The goal of a behavioural assessment is to determine why a child behaves in certain ways and to develop effective strategies for supporting positive behaviour change. It helps identify whether behaviours are part of typical development, a response to stress or change, or related to underlying conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, or autism spectrum disorder.

What It Involves
A behavioural assessment may include:

• Parent and teacher interviews to gather detailed information about the child’s behaviour, triggers, and responses.
• Direct observation of the child in structured and unstructured settings to see how they interact, follow directions, and manage emotions.
• Standardized behaviour rating scales completed by parents, teachers, and sometimes the child, to measure specific behaviours and compare them to age-appropriate norms.
• Functional behaviour analysis (FBA) to identify the purpose or function of challenging behaviours—such as seeking attention, avoiding tasks, or expressing frustration.

What It Can Identify
A behavioural assessment can help identify:

• Patterns and triggers of challenging behaviours
• Emotional or environmental factors influencing behaviour
• Self-regulation and coping skill difficulties
• Social or communication challenges contributing to behaviour concerns

Outcome
Families receive a comprehensive report summarizing findings and practical recommendations. These may include behaviour support strategies, parent coaching, school-based interventions, or referrals for additional services.

A behavioural assessment provides valuable insight into the “why” behind a child’s actions—empowering families and educators to respond with understanding, consistency, and effective support.