Some students can follow language-based instructions, but not expectations. The may need frequent directing and reminding. They may follow rules, but not reasons for the rule. And if they don’t understand the motivation, they may comply in the moment but lack cooperation and follow-through. Sometimes a child may hear what you say, but doesn’t seem to follow? You may explain repeatedly, but it doesn't seem to stick. In this session, we will explore how to get your child ‘tuned in’ and understanding expectations and motivations.

What is ‘true’ or social comprehension? It is the ability to tune in to people and context and ‘read between the lines’. It allows us to understand and engage in meaningful back-and-forth play and conversations. This understanding extends beyond what was said. It involves understanding what was ‘meant’. Without such understanding a child may:
- remain very concrete and literal
- find it hard to follow conversations or play ideas
- be irrelevant or inappropriate in our communication or interactions
- struggle to narrate our experience in a logical, coherent or cohesive way
- be anxious, argumentative, aloof or withdrawn
- struggle to manage emotions and problem solve appropriately
This will impact academic and social functioning. It is often the root of a child’s emotional regulation and attentional issues.

In this 3-hour talk, we will: