How to Calm Challenging Behaviours: A Guide for Caregivers and Educators

Join host Andy Baker on the Able to Care podcast as he shares powerful strategies for de-escalating challenging behaviours through the HELP-Prompt-Wait-Protect approach. Andy explains each step of this practical model, offering insights on how caregivers, educators, and social workers can communicate calmly, validate emotions, and foster safer interactions. He highlights the importance of framing intentions, staying calm, and prompting positive actions to support individuals experiencing emotional distress.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their skills in managing difficult behaviours in care environments, classrooms, or at home. 🎧

Resources Mentioned:

• Carer’s Card UK (Sponsor): Gain access to discounts, a wellbeing hub, and support tools with Carer’s Card UK, designed to reward and recognise carers across the UK.

• Andy’s Book, "Targeting the Positive with Behaviours that Challenge": A guide to understanding behaviour, building connections, and effective de-escalation techniques for caregivers and educators.

Key Messages:

The HELP-Prompt-Wait-Protect Model for De-escalation Andy introduces the HELP-Prompt-Wait-Protect model, a structured approach to addressing escalating situations by prioritising understanding, calm communication, and positive reinforcement.

Framing Intentions and Offering Support One of the first steps in any de-escalation scenario is setting clear, supportive intentions. By stating, “I’m here to help, not to judge,” caregivers can create a safe space that diffuses potential defensiveness.

Effective Prompts for Positive Action Andy stresses prompting desired behaviours, such as “Keep your hands to yourself,” rather than focusing on what not to do. This positive reinforcement encourages constructive behaviour.

Key Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 - Introduction to the Carer’s Card UK and benefits for carers

• 00:01:24 - Welcome to this episode and introduction to the HELP-Prompt-Wait-Protect model

• 00:01:49 - Defining de-escalation and the importance of positive reinforcement

• 00:03:47 - Framing intentions and creating a safe space in challenging situations

• 00:05:18 - The "HELP" acronym explained for assessing needs and sources of distress

• 00:05:58 - Prompting positive behaviours and avoiding “don’t” language

• 00:09:00 - The "Wait" stage: allowing space for self-regulation while remaining calm

• 00:10:19 - The "Protect" stage: Dynamic risk assessment and prioritising safety

• 00:12:25 - Andy’s book, Targeting the Positive, and building skills in behaviour management

Stay Connected! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t miss future conversations filled with practical strategies for caregivers, educators, and advocates. Subscribe to the Able to Care Podcast and follow us for updates on upcoming episodes. Connect with us on social media: @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and @abletocarepodcast on TikTok.

Keep Learning with AbleHub!

Are you looking for more resources to support your journey as a caregiver, educator, or advocate? Join the AbleHub community—a platform designed to empower you with exclusive podcast content, practical resources, certified online courses, and interactive events. With over 45 courses covering essential topics like self-care, dementia support, conflict management, and understanding neurodiversity, AbleHub provides a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips.

For less than the price of a coffee a week, gain access to tools and strategies that can make a real difference in your work and personal life. Try AbleHub free for 14 days with no commitment—because everyone who cares deserves the right support.

👉 Sign up today at AbleHub.uk