Mega Doctor News
EDINBURG, Texas – When children struggle to express their emotions, their behavior often speaks for them. Tantrums, defiance and emotional outbursts may be signs of frustration, anxiety or other feelings they do not yet know how to express.
For parents and caregivers, these behaviors can be difficult to navigate. Understanding what may be triggering them can provide important insight into a child’s emotional needs.
“Children are still learning how to understand and express their emotions, so behavior is often one of the ways they communicate what they are feeling,” said Bob Cooper, LCSW-S, Director of Utilization Review, South Texas Health System (STHS) Behavioral. “Taking the time to understand what may be behind a behavior can help parents respond with patience and compassion while providing the support their child needs.”
Approximately 1 in 6 children between the ages of 2 and 8 has a diagnosed mental, behavioral or developmental disorder, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, underscoring the need for greater awareness and guidance for families.
While occasional behavioral challenges are a normal part of childhood, parents and caregivers should pay closer attention when behaviors become more frequent, intense or begin interfering with a child’s daily activities.
Behavioral changes can occur for many reasons, including difficulty managing emotions, developmental changes, stress, transitions at home or school or other challenges a child may be facing.
When these concerns go unaddressed, they can affect a child’s confidence, relationships and ability to cope with emotions over time.
Recognizing concerns early can help children develop healthy communication and coping skills.
“Parents and caregivers don’t have to have all the answers,” Cooper said. “Consistent routines, clear expectations, positive reinforcement and opportunities for children to talk about their emotions can all make a difference.”
While every child is unique, practical tools and strategies can help families feel more confident managing difficult moments and encouraging positive behaviors.
To help families better understand challenging behaviors and support their child’s emotional development, STHS Children’s will dedicate its next Let’s Talk Children’s Health webinar to the topic.
Broadcast live on the STHS Children’s Facebook page on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., the free virtual seminar will provide parents and caregivers with expert guidance on understanding the causes of challenging behaviors, recognizing potential warning signs and implementing practical strategies that encourage positive growth and emotional well-being.
For more information about the webinar, visit the STHS Children’s Facebook Events page. To view previous Let’s Talk Children’s Health seminars, visit STHSLetsTalk.com.
| Who: | South Texas Health System Children’s |
| What: | FREE virtual seminar entitled “Let’s Talk Children’s Health – Behavior & Conduct” |
| When: | Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. |
| Where: | Online via STHS Children’s & STHS’ Facebook pages |
