Summer Institute

Beyond Behavior Charts: Reframing and Rethinking Behavior Through a Neurodiversity-Affirming Lens

Training Description

How can we challenge traditional behavior management practices and introduce a paradigm shift towards understanding behavior as a communication form, particularly for neurodivergent students? This session addresses the unwanted effects of conventional systems like behavior charts, which often perpetuate shame, bias, and inequity, and explore alternative strategies that emphasize compassion, curiosity, and proactive support. Learn about the critical role of co-regulation in recognizing and valuing each student's unique emotional experiences and gain practical skills to engage students in managing their emotions and navigating social interactions effectively. In this session we will explore together the mindset shift and tools needed to transform their approach to behavior, ensuring a respectful, supportive, and neurodiversity-affirming educational environment.

Training Objectives

• Identify how behaviors in neurodivergent students often communicate underlying needs rather than indicating willful non-compliance, using a communication-based rather than compliance-based framework.
• Examine the various factors that impact neurodivergent student behavior, including sensory environment, routine structures, processing speed, executive functioning, and anxiety.
• Guide students through self-monitoring, self-evaluating, and self-regulating process to develop their own behavior management skills.

Target Audience

Educators, Administrators, SLPs, OTs, PTs, & Family Members

About the Presenter

Emily Kircher-Morris, M.A., M.Ed., LPC, is dedicated to destigmatizing neurodiversity and supporting neurodivergent people of all ages. She started her career in education and is now in private practice near St. Louis, Missouri as a licensed professional counselor, where she specializes in supporting neurodivergent kids and adults (and their families).

Emily hosts The Neurodiversity Podcast, which explores the psychological, educational, and social needs of neurodivergent people. She is the author of several books related to parenting and educating neurodivergent children and teens. Her most recent book, “Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices So All Students Feel Accepted and Supported” was released in January 2025.

She speaks at statewide, national, and international conferences and frequently provides virtual and in-person professional development to educators, mental health clinicians, and parents worldwide. Many of her presentations and workshops can also be found at the Neurodiversity University online learning platform.