THRIVE IN ACTION
Supporting the whole child: How communication, SEND and behaviour connect in the early years
We’re connecting online between 4:00pm and 4:45pm BST on 15th September.
Meet the speakers
Dr Kirstie Rees
Child and Educational Psychologist
Dr Kirstie Rees, works with children, families, schools and organisations across the UK specialising in learning difficulties, disability, neurodiversity, and mental health. With a Doctorate in Educational Psychology from the University of Dundee, British Psychological Society chartership, and training in EMDR, CBT and mindfulness, Dr Kirstie has a particular passion for supporting children with learning difficulties and disabilities, sharing insights through research, articles, delivering talks, and writing a practical book for education staff.
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Viv Trask-Hall
Head of Innovation, Thrive
Viv began her Thrive journey as a Headteacher in Barnsley's primary schools, transitioning from a Licensed Practitioner to a Thrive Trainer. She witnessed the approach's positive impact on behaviour, attendance, and wellbeing, which ignited her passion. Now, Viv focuses on developing high-quality, evidence-based training for Thrive, with the goal of positively impacting as many children and young people as possible.
What is the event about?
When a child snatches a toy from another child, refuses to share, or has frequent meltdowns, is it behaviour that needs managing? A SEND need requiring intervention? Or a communication challenge that needs support? The answer might be all three – or none of them in isolation.
Join us for this exploratory fireside conversation to unpack the connections between communication, SEND and what we often label as 'behaviour' in early years settings. We'll explore how language development shapes interactions, why traditional behaviour management approaches may miss the underlying development picture, and the importance of seeing SEND, behaviour and communication as interconnected rather than separate challenges.
By the end of the webinar, you'll leave with fresh awareness of how these elements connect, new insights to reflect on in your early years practice, and a clearer lens through which to see the whole child.
