Behavioural Assessments For Children.

Clear, child friendly insights with practical steps for home and school.

The Bigger Picture

Behaviour is communication. We don’t see a “naughty child”. We look at what the behaviour is trying to solve in the moment, the load your child is carrying, and the settings that shape it. Routines, energy, sensory input, language demands, and the flow of the day all matter.

We map patterns so they make sense. What happens before, what the behaviour achieves, and what follows. That includes escape from overload, access to something wanted, sensory relief, or a bid for connection. We also consider strengths and co‑occurring needs like language, learning, ADHD, autism, and anxiety, as well as culture and family values.

You leave with a plan that works in real life. Clear steps for home and classroom, visual supports, predictable transitions, low arousal responses, co‑regulation, and calm scripts for tough moments. We provide a one page teacher plan and coach the adults so everyone is consistent. The aim is less conflict, more skill building, and safer days for your child.

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**When An Assessment Can Help.**

Common signs include:

Big feelings, meltdowns, or shutdowns after school
Aggression, hitting, kicking, or throwing when overwhelmed
Frequent oppositional or defiant behaviour at home or school
Eloping, bolting, or unsafe risk taking
Trouble following instructions or routines
Tantrums around transitions or unexpected change
Attention, impulsivity, or hyperactivity concerns
Worry, separation distress, or school refusal
Sleep, feeding, or toileting behaviours that affect family life
Sensory seeking or sensory avoiding in busy places
Friendship strain from rough play or social misunderstandings
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These are differences, not failings. Understanding them unlocks the right supports.

**What We Assess And How It Works.**

Areas we assess:

Triggers, skills, and functions of behaviour using ABC analysis
Emotion regulation, social skills, and communication needs
Executive skills like attention, memory, and planning
Sensory factors and daily routines that shape behaviour
Strengths that can be used to build new skills
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Tools we may use:

Parent and teacher questionnaires such as BASC‑3 and SDQ
Behaviour checklists like CBCL and Conners 4
Executive function tools like BRIEF‑2
Adaptive functioning like Vineland‑3
Social communication tools such as SRS‑2 when relevant
Functional interviews and behaviour logs
Home or school observation when helpful
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How we do it:

Intake session with parents or carers.
Questionnaires for home and school.
Assessment sessions with breaks and play built in.
Optional classroom or preschool observation and teacher consult.
Feedback session with a clear behaviour support plan.
A plain language report for school and health providers.
Follow up to review progress and next steps.
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We also screen for co-occurring needs and liaise with your GP, paediatrician, and school.

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Helpful Answers For Parents.

When a child’s behaviour is challenging, persistent, or causing difficulties at home or school, parents often wonder whether it is part of normal development or whether further support is needed. A behavioural assessment can provide clarity and guide effective strategies. Below are some of the most common questions families ask us at Unbound Minds about behavioural assessments.

Why would I seek a behavioural assessment for my child?

An assessment helps identify whether behaviours such as defiance, aggression, withdrawal, or difficulty regulating emotions are linked to developmental challenges, environmental stress, or underlying conditions such as ADHD or Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD).

What does the behavioural assessment process involve?

We gather information from parents, teachers, and the child themselves (where appropriate). This includes structured interviews, questionnaires, observations, and standardised tools to better understand the patterns, triggers, and impact of the behaviours.

How long does the assessment take?

The process usually takes place over several sessions. This allows us to gather thorough background information, conduct assessments, and prepare a detailed report with recommendations.

What happens after the assessment?

You’ll receive a comprehensive written report with clear explanations of the findings. We provide practical recommendations for home and school, and if necessary, referrals to additional supports such as therapy or allied health services.

What is the main outcome of a behavioural assessment at Unbound Minds?

The focus is on understanding why behaviours are occurring and how they impact daily life. Our assessments provide insight into triggers, strengths, and areas for support, along with clear recommendations for parents and schools. The aim is to guide effective strategies rather than simply applying a label.

Take TheFirst Step.

Challenging behaviour doesn’t mean a challenging child. With warm, evidence based assessment we find the triggers, skills gaps, and supports that reduce stress at home and school. You’ll get a practical behaviour plan and a clear report for teachers and your GP. Enquire today to start a pathway that brings more calm and connection.

Take The First Step ->

Unbound Minds provides general mental health information and professional psychological services. This website is not a substitute for personalised medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are in crisis or require urgent support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or seek help from your nearest emergency service.