This free printable PDF is a simple and practical unmet needs checklist that helps adults understand what may be driving a child’s behaviour. It supports a more thoughtful approach by encouraging adults to look beyond what they see and consider what the child might need but cannot yet express.
The resource is clearly organised into key areas of need, including safety, connection, emotional support, routine and predictability, autonomy, sensory needs, physical wellbeing and achievement. Each section includes short, reflective questions that can be used in the moment to quickly think about what might be affecting the child.
It also links these unmet needs to common behaviours such as attention-seeking, anxiety, refusal, emotional outbursts or withdrawal, helping adults recognise behaviour as communication rather than simply challenging behaviour.
The tool includes brief guidance on how to respond in a calm and supportive way, such as staying curious, naming what you notice and offering support before correction. This makes it useful not only for understanding behaviour, but also for responding in a consistent and effective way.
This resource can be used at home, in schools or in therapeutic work as a quick reference tool or for reflection over time. It is suitable for parents, carers, teachers, social workers and other professionals supporting children and young people with emotional, behavioural or regulation needs, including those with trauma, ADHD or ASD.
