ABSTRACT
Every child wants to be seen, known, valued and understood, but sadly for some children their behaviour can result in them getting the opposite of what they need. If a child has English as a second language or is a selective mute, it is essential they are provided with the tools to help them to express their thoughts, needs and feelings. Some children may have learnt to respond in a defensive way as a coping mechanism to manage the feelings of anxiety and fear that situations evoke in them. If a child is being disruptive, picking fights, being uncooperative and challenging school staff, or if a child is constantly trying to please other people, they are very clearly trying to communicate something to the adults around them. Most adults use language to express their needs and how they feel to other people. Children need help from sensitive adults to help them work out and express what they feel.
