In this episode of Early Childhood Chapters, we speak with Dr. Ginger Welch, clinical psychologist, author, and early childhood expert, about how educators can better understand and respond to challenging behaviors in the classroom.

Dr. Welch draws on her decades of experience in homes, schools, and clinical settings to explain why children act out—not as willful defiance, but often as communication of unmet needs, anxiety, or trauma. She shares practical strategies from her book How Can I Help? to help educators shift their mindset, reframe behaviors, and build stronger relationships with children and families.

Key takeaways include: ✅ Viewing behavior through biological, environmental, and relational lenses ✅ Using a “trauma-first” approach when assessing challenging behaviors ✅ Recognizing how anxiety may appear as inattention or hyperactivity ✅ Practicing self-care through small, daily micro-strategies to prevent burnout ✅ Building positive, strengths-based relationships with families to better support children

This episode is a must-listen for early childhood educators, caregivers, and anyone seeking compassionate, research-backed strategies for working with young children.

Find Dr. Welch’s books at GryphonHouse.com.