Today was a reminder that progress with children with a PDA profile is often found in the moments that can easily be missed.
One child, who usually needs a high level of control to feel safe, completed three puzzles with me — and even allowed me to add pieces alongside them.
Another child, carrying significant anxiety about an upcoming event, engaged in an adult-led activity making vinegar and bicarbonate volcanoes and genuinely had fun.
To many people, these might seem like small moments. In reality, they represent feelings of increasing trust, safety, connection and reduced anxiety.
Children with PDA profiles rarely move forward through increased pressure or demands. More often, progress happens when adults prioritise relationship, flexibility, and co-regulation.
Every child is different, and every day teaches us something new — not just for the child, but for me as the professional too!
Sometimes success is not compliance. It is simply staying connected, sharing control, or finding joy despite overwhelm.
I feel it’s so important to celebrate these moments. I must remember to recollect them in the more challenging times !