A clear, memorable seven-part framework that helps early childhood educators respond to challenging behaviors with confidence, calm, and compassion while protecting relationships and promoting growth.
Easy to remember, powerful to implement, PERFORM gives you a clear roadmap for responding to any challenging behavior.
Designed for teachers, coaches, directors, and anyone supporting children birth through age 8.
Available as keynote, workshop, training, or multi-session series, customized to your team's needs.
Seven strategic steps that transform how educators respond to
challenging
behaviors, moving from overwhelm to intention, chaos
to calm.
(Script Discovery)
Know your role, the "plot" of the classroom, and gather as much information as you can about the child. Ask: "What do I need to understand about this child before I step into this role?"
(Costume & Props)
Shape the "set" of the classroom. Use visuals, routines, and calming tools. Remember, your tone and posture support regulation and are a part of the environment.
(Stage Direction)
Move, stand, kneel, and speak with intention. Nonverbal cues communicate safety faster than words.
(Improvisation)
When the "script" goes sideways, pivot with creativity. Redirect, adjust, or pause.
(Rehearsal)
Practice approaches and strategies ahead of time. Role-play with colleagues to build automaticity under stress.
(Director's Notes)
After the moment has passed, reflect on what happened and seek feedback. What went well? What would you adjust next time?
(Backstage Support System)
Identify your "backstage crew", colleagues, administrators, mental-health consultants, and other team members who help you stay regulated and resilient.
"PERFORM shifts educators from reacting in the moment to responding with intention, confidence, and emotional composure."