Connection Before Correction: Supporting Students with Emotional Needs

About this session

Supporting students with emotional needs such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) or Emotional Disabilities (ED) in the classroom requires a relationship-first, trauma-informed, and highly structured approach. These students often struggle with emotional regulation, authority, and impulse control�but with the right strategies, they can succeed. This session will 1)describe the unique challenges faced by students with ODD and ED, 2)discuss the importance of relationship-first, trauma-informed, and structured practices, and 3)share evidence-based strategies to support emotional regulation, reduce power struggles, and increase positive engagement.