The Importance of Early Intervention for Behavioral Issues

It’s common for children to act out occasionally. It can be difficult for a parent to know when a child’s behavior is normal and when it is a sign that early intervention is needed. Dr. Carol Calabrese, Dr. Inna Meskin, Dr. Alexis Capozzoli, Renee Thomas, APN, and Joe Larena, APN at Skylands Pediatrics in Sparta, NJ, provide comprehensive medical services for children, including behavioral assessment and treatment.

What You Need To Know About Childhood Behavioral Issues

Children grow and develop at different rates. Childhood behaviors are individual, too, making bad behaviors difficult to identify. Consider that:

• Defiance is a sign your child is practicing normal boundary testing
• Withdrawal is a sign your child wants to have more independence from you

Your child may have a behavioral issue and can benefit from early intervention if your child is:

• Having difficulty getting along with others
• Showing a lack of respect for authority figures
• Threatening to harm themselves, other children, or pets
• Feeling unhappy or depressed most of the time
• Feeling anxious about social situations and school
• Intentionally damaging or destroying things
• Frequently lying, stealing, or arguing
• Doing poorly in school or skipping class

If you notice your child is exhibiting any of the behaviors listed above, you should consider calling your pediatrician and scheduling a behavioral assessment. If your child does have a behavioral issue, your pediatrician may recommend:

• Behavioral counseling for your child
• Family counseling for all your family members
• Medication to help with focus and impulse control

It's important to take steps to diagnose and treat behavioral issues because they can become significant problems as your child grows into a teen and then an adult. Early intervention can make a difference in your child's success.

Want To Know More About Childhood Behavioral Issues?

To learn more about the importance of early intervention for childhood behavioral issues, call Dr. Calabrese, Dr. Meskin, Dr. Capozzoli, Renee Thomas, APN, and Joe Larena, APN, at Skylands Pediatrics in Sparta, NJ. You can reach them in the office by calling (973) 729-2197, so call today.