Navigating distressed behaviours in PDA: Supporting your child and yourself

Friday 15 January 2027

10.00am–12.30pm

Live online training

Places are limited, so early booking is recommended.

Building on your understanding of PDA and helpful approaches, this practical course takes a closer look at distressed behaviours and how to navigate challenging moments with greater confidence.

When a child experiences intense distress or overwhelm, it can be difficult to know what to do. Even when we understand the reasons behind their behaviour, responding in the moment can feel very different from knowing what might help in theory.

This course moves beyond understanding why distressed behaviours happen to explore what we can do before, during and after these difficult moments.

Importantly, it takes a dual approach, recognising that parents and carers have their own emotional responses and support needs too.

We'll explore practical ways to reduce anxiety, recognise escalating distress and support your child when they are overwhelmed, alongside realistic strategies to help you manage your own emotions, cope during difficult situations and recover afterwards.

Because supporting your child matters — and so does supporting yourself.

What makes this course different?

This session builds on the foundations of PDA understanding and helpful approaches, with a more focused exploration of distressed behaviours and practical support.

Rather than concentrating solely on your child's needs, we'll consider two equally important perspectives:

Supporting your child

Understanding what may be happening beneath distressed behaviours, recognising early signs of overwhelm and exploring compassionate, practical ways to respond. We'll focus particularly on what to do in the moment, when situations are escalating and it can be difficult to think clearly.

Supporting yourself

Recognising the emotional impact of distressed behaviours on parents and carers, understanding your own responses to stressful situations and exploring realistic ways to manage fear, frustration and overwhelm. We'll also consider recovery, self-care and how to look after your wellbeing when challenges are ongoing.

What will the course cover?

• Building on your PDA understanding – revisiting how anxiety, demands, sensory experiences and the need for autonomy can contribute to distress.
• Recognising escalating distress – understanding early warning signs and identifying opportunities to reduce pressure before situations escalate.
• What to do in the moment – practical approaches to prioritising safety, reducing demands, adapting communication and supporting your child through periods of intense distress.
• Managing your own responses – recognising what happens to you emotionally and physically during challenging situations, and exploring strategies to help you cope.
• Recovery for both of you – understanding what your child may need following distress, while recognising your own need for time, support and recovery.
• Planning for the future – reflecting on difficult moments and developing realistic approaches that work for your family.

Who is this course for?

This course is designed for parents and carers of children and young people with a PDA profile who want to develop their understanding and confidence in responding to distressed behaviours.

It is particularly suitable for those who already have some understanding of PDA, whether through lived experience, previous PDA Society training or their own learning, and are looking for more focused, practical support.

What will you take away?

By the end of the session, you'll have:

• A deeper understanding of what can contribute to distressed behaviours.
• Practical strategies to support your child before and during periods of overwhelm.
• Greater awareness of your own emotional responses and ways to manage them.
• Ideas for supporting recovery and rebuilding connection after difficult moments.
• A clearer understanding of how to look after your own wellbeing alongside your child's needs.

You don't have to get everything right, and you don't have to manage everything alone.

Join us to build on your existing knowledge, explore practical approaches and develop greater confidence in supporting both your child and yourself through difficult moments.

Practical Details

• Please book only if you can attend the session live; refunds or transfers are not possible once the course has started.
• Ticket holders will all receive access to a standard recording of this training for 14 days following the live session.
• Refunds or transfers are available up to 7 days before the first session.
• We recommend joining 5–10 minutes early to check your setup — we cannot delay the start once underway.
• Delegates will need access to the chat function.
• Tickets are for individual use; links must not be shared.
• Limited places available — book early to secure your spot.
• If cost is a barrier, please contact our training team to discuss support options.

Important Notes

• Please let us know about any additional needs when booking so we can make arrangements.
• The PDA Society may substitute speakers if necessary.
• Education, healthcare, and legislation discussed will relate to England.
• Safeguarding is a priority: concerns about a child or adult at risk may need to be shared with relevant authorities.

All resources and materials shared during any live training event are © PDA Society. They are provided for the personal use of attendees only and must not be copied, shared, or distributed outside of the session, nor used to deliver training without prior written permission from the PDA Society. Please see our training hub terms and conditions.

Contact Information

For more information, please contact:
training.support@pdasociety.org.uk