Behavior Growth Isn’t Linear
Written by Jenelle McClenahenIt’s Built on Consistency and Care
Sometimes, behavior improvement begins simply with having a plan in place. Change doesn’t happen overnight. For both children and adults, consistency, validation, and clear boundaries are what make it feel safe enough to grow new skills.
Why Growth Looks Messy (and That’s Okay)
It’s important to remember that growth is not linear. There will be ups and downs, and often behavior gets worse before it gets better. That doesn’t mean the plan isn’t working, it means you’re doing the hard work of rewiring habits and teaching new responses.
Fidelity Over Perfection
As educators, caregivers, or therapists, one of the best indicators that we’re doing our jobs isn’t how quickly a child “gets better,” but how faithfully we follow through with our strategies. Measuring our own fidelity helps us stay grounded and consistent when emotions run high.
It’s Not About Avoiding Dysregulation
Behavior support isn’t about eliminating dysregulation or uncomfortable feelings, it’s about knowing what to do when dysregulation happens. That’s life. The strength comes from having a toolbox of go-to strategies and knowing how to use them.
Teaching the “Why, What, and How”
When students begin to understand why they react the way they do, what they need in those moments, and how to cope in healthier ways, that’s where the real growth begins.
Because true behavior change doesn’t just come from control, it comes from connection, reflection, and the courage to keep showing up for the process.