Challenging behavior is often a child’s way of communicating an unmet need. This session will help youth-serving professionals shift from asking, “How do I stop this behavior?” to “What is this child trying to tell me?” Participants will explore practical, relationship-centered strategies to better understand behavior, respond in ways that build trust, and support emotional regulation while maintaining appropriate expectations. Through real-world examples and actionable techniques, attendees will leave with tools they can immediately apply to create positive, supportive environments where children feel understood, connected, and successful.