Start Here
My child is struggling behaviorally
Changes in behavior can be stressful and difficult to understand. This pathway helps you identify possible next steps and find appropriate support.
Information reviewed: August 28, 2026
Quick answer
If your child’s behavior has suddenly become harder to manage, start by thinking about what changed, what happens before the behavior, and what your child may be trying to communicate or cope with.
Behavior can have many causes. Avoid assuming that every behavioral change is caused by a diagnosis or requires the same type of service.
Step 1 — Write down what you’re seeing
Before the next appointment or phone call, make a few notes:
- What is happening?
- When did it start?
- How often does it happen?
- What usually happens immediately before?
- What happens afterward?
- Does it happen everywhere or mainly at home/school?
- Has sleep, eating, medication, health, routine, school, or the home environment recently changed?
- What seems to help?
You don’t need a perfect behavior log. A few specific examples can make conversations with professionals much more useful.
Step 2 — Consider whether there could be a health issue
A child who cannot easily communicate pain or discomfort may sometimes show changes through behavior.
If the behavior is new, suddenly worse, or accompanied by physical symptoms, consider contacting the child’s healthcare provider.
Step 3 — Talk with the people who know your child
Depending on the situation, this might include:
- Pediatrician or healthcare provider
- Therapist
- School team
- Behavioral-health provider
- Care Manager, if your child has one
Share specific examples rather than only saying, “The behavior is getting worse.”
Step 4 — If you need behavioral-health support
Families can call PerformCare at 1-877-652-7624 to discuss behavioral-health needs and learn about services available through New Jersey’s Children’s System of Care.
Vicabell provides educational resource information and is not affiliated with the State of New Jersey, PerformCare, or the Children’s System of Care. Program requirements, contact information, and services can change. Always confirm current information with the official agency.