How Can I Make Behaviour Strategies Work at Home? Real-Life Tips for Families
How Can I Make Behaviour Strategies Work at Home? Real-Life Tips for Families
- June 23, 2025
Let’s be honest—navigating challenging behaviours at home can feel like walking through a maze blindfolded. Some days go smoothly, and other days… well, not so much. If you’re a parent, carer, or family member supporting someone with behaviours of concern, you’ve probably asked yourself more than once: “Am I doing this right?”
The truth is, you’re already doing more than you think—by caring, by showing up, and by looking for ways to help your loved one thrive. And you don’t have to do it alone. That’s where behaviour strategies come in.
These strategies aren’t about strict rules or punishment—they’re about creating a safe, supportive environment where everyone can feel more understood, calm, and in control. So let’s chat about how to actually make them work at home, where things are real and often unpredictable.
1. Start Small and Keep It Simple
You don’t need to overhaul your entire household overnight. Pick one or two strategies that feel doable. For example:
- Give clear, gentle instructions
- Praise the behaviour you want to see more of
- Offer choices instead of commands
These small changes can make a big difference over time. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being consistent and kind.
2. Look Beneath the Behaviour
Every behaviour is a message. Is your loved one tired? Overwhelmed? Trying to avoid something that feels hard or scary?
Before reacting, try to pause and think: “What might they be trying to tell me right now?” You don’t need to have all the answers, but this mindset shift can turn frustration into curiosity—and open the door to better understanding.
3. Set Up for Success
Creating a calm, structured environment helps reduce stress—for everyone. You might try:
- A visual schedule or daily routine
- A quiet space to go when things feel too much
- Giving a heads-up before transitions or changes
Think of your home as a support system. When the environment works with your loved one instead of against them, things tend to go smoother.
4. Celebrate the Small Wins
Did they use their words instead of yelling today? Did they manage a tough moment with a little more calm? That’s huge.
Celebrate it! Say, “I noticed how you handled that—that was awesome.” Encouragement builds confidence and shows them that effort matters more than perfection.
5. Practice Self-Compassion (Yes, You Too)
You’re human. You’ll get tired, make mistakes, and sometimes feel like nothing’s working. That’s okay.
Taking care of someone else’s needs can be a lot—especially when you’re also juggling work, appointments, and everything else life throws your way. Give yourself permission to take breaks, ask for help, and let go of guilt. You’re doing something incredibly important, and you’re doing your best.
6. Work Together as a Team
If your loved one has a Behaviour Support Plan, try to stay in touch with the professionals who created it—like Behaviour Support Practitioners, therapists, or support workers. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or share what’s working (and what’s not).
You are the expert on your loved one’s everyday life. Your input is valuable, and collaboration leads to better outcomes.
7. Keep the Big Picture in Mind
Progress doesn’t always look like a straight line. There will be tough days. But over time, with patience and support, things can and do get better. You’re helping your loved one build skills, express themselves, and feel safe—and that’s incredibly powerful.
Need Extra Support?
At Concept Care Disability Solutions (Concept Care), we’re here to support families just like yours. Whether you need help developing a plan, understanding your child’s behaviour, or simply want someone to talk to, we’re just a call away.
You’re not alone. You’ve got a team behind you—and a whole lot of strength already within you.