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See how a child psychologist approaches oppositional and challenging behaviour. Across three short videos, Dr Kimberley demonstrates visual mapping, one-behaviour-at-a-time goals and practical ways to understand what sits beneath conflict, strengthen cooperation and reduce everyday power struggles.
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Welcome to Chapter 1, where we delve into the nuances of oppositional behaviour—a common challenge for parents. Meet Dr. Kimberley O'Brien, Principal Child Psychologist at Quirky Kid, and see her clinical skills in action. This chapter provides valuable insights into the impact and prevalence of oppositional behaviour among boys and girls.
In this chapter, we explore how educators often use leverage, based on the quality of relationships, to counteract defiance as children with oppositional behaviour often test limits and struggle to build connections. Understanding the feelings behind challenging or oppositional behaviour in the classroom and at home is vital. Dr. Kimberley introduces visual techniques to explore this further and encourages you to do the same with your child..
To offer a relatable perspective, we present a real-life case example of Stella, a nine-year-old girl who says no to most things. Through Stella's story, Dr Kimberley highlights the emotional impact that oppositional behaviour can have on children, educators and family members. She also cuts through the issue to present solutions for immediate implementation.
In conclusion, understanding oppositional behaviour is crucial for parents navigating this challenging phase with their children. By implementing playful techniques and understanding the feelings behind oppositional behaviour, parents are more able to create a cooperative culture at home and school. Join us in Chapter 2 as we explore practical techniques to overcome more significant incidents of defiance at home.
In Chapter 2, Dr. Kimberley O'Brien presents practical techniques to foster problem-solving, positive change, and to build resilience in children presenting with oppositional behaviour.
Our first technique involves mapping out feelings in a structured, fun and visual way. Drawing a before-during-after scenario of an incident allows both you and your child to express feelings at each stage, encouraging open communication. This could be about a past incident or an ongoing issue that needs unpacking.
Encouraging children to use play and art to solve problems allows for an engaging and effective approach than simply talking. This technique can be used more than once to explore and resolve past incidents, or to prepare for an upcoming event.
During the second exercise Dr Kimberley introduces the "Behaviour of the Week" poster as a great way to pinpoint the desired behaviour on a weekly basis. Family discussions and rewards further encourage progress, especially for children with oppositional presentations.This also helps to discourage siblings from copying a child with oppositional traits.
Dr Kimberley’s clinical and creative approaches help children to develop problem-solving skills and express their emotions more effectively, without relying on old habits, such as ‘the instant refusal’ which can be anxiety-related. Join us in Chapter 3, where we explore the journey of finding support and solutions to navigate oppositional behaviour on a long-term basis, as we encourage children to develop greater self awareness and self control.
In Chapter 3, we focus on finding the support needed by most parents or educators impacted by oppositional behaviour. Dr. Kimberley O'Brien emphasises the significance of building a supportive environment and maintaining patience during setbacks. Quirky Kid's resources and support offer invaluable tools and a community of like-minded parents.
Dr Kimberley also provides Fieldwork Ideas to practise outside the home. These are designed for children to try in the community as they interact with others. Offering to help is always appreciated, even if assistance is not required. This chapter also explores volunteering in your child's classroom and scheduling one-on-one time on weekends to mitigate ongoing oppositional behaviour.
In conclusion, navigating oppositional behaviour requires a positive and understanding approach. Parents and young people can develop greater self awareness about power struggles by using Dr Kimberley’s art and play techniques to elicit deeper emotions, mutual appreciation and shared goals. Give yourself a break from power struggles and take a look from Dr. Kimberley O'Brien’s perspective based on two decades of experience.
This is a short, practical video workshop for parents and carers who want to see how an experienced child psychologist approaches oppositional, defiant and challenging behaviour.
Rather than a long theoretical presentation, Dr Kimberley O'Brien demonstrates visual, art-based and practical techniques she uses to understand what may be happening beneath repeated refusal or conflict, and to make difficult interactions easier to explore with a child.
The workshop focuses on observing the psychologist's thinking and demonstrations so you can consider which ideas may be useful in your own family.
This workshop is intentionally concise. It is not a long-form parenting course, diagnostic assessment or individual clinical consultation. Its purpose is to let you observe practical psychological thinking and techniques that may help you decide what to try next with your child.
Children can show oppositional behaviour for different reasons. More persistent or significant difficulties may require individual assessment or support.
Create or sign in to your Quirky Kid account to purchase and access the workshop.
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