What is redirection in behavioral guidance?

Redirection in behavioral guidance is effectively about guiding a child towards more appropriate or acceptable activities when they may be demonstrating inappropriate behaviors. This approach involves recognizing the child's current focus and intentionally steering them towards a different action or task that is positive and constructive.

By redirecting a child to an acceptable activity using their energy, caregivers can not only mitigate undesirable behaviors but also engage the child in a way that promotes their development and understanding of acceptable social norms. For example, if a child is throwing toys, redirection might involve guiding them to a different activity, such as building with blocks or playing a game, which harnesses their energy in a productive way.

This method emphasizes active participation and is based on the idea that children often require structured guidance as they navigate their environments. It supports their learning by providing alternative ways to express themselves and interact with their surroundings in a manner that is deemed acceptable and safe.