When behaviour is doing the work of words

The short answer

Behaviour can sometimes carry a message a child cannot send quickly or safely another way: stop, help, break, pain, more time, attention, no, finished or I do not understand. Do not assume every action has one fixed meaning. Observe the situation, what changes afterwards and the child's own account. Then teach a message that is easier than the behaviour and make sure adults respond to it promptly. The message may use speech, gesture, sign, pictures, writing or an AAC system. Keep existing communication available; do not remove it to encourage speech. Address pain, sensory load, task difficulty and safety as well as communication. Ask a speech and language therapist for help when communication needs are unclear, substantial or affecting daily life.

• Behaviour may carry a message, but its meaning cannot be read from the action alone.
• Teach a message for the same outcome, available under the same level of stress.
• Speech, gesture, sign, pictures, writing and AAC are all valid communication routes.
• Respond to the new message quickly enough for it to become dependable.
• Check pain, environment, understanding and safety alongside communication.