Understanding PDA: Why Common Strategies Don’t Work for Every Child (Episode 328)

Discussed in this episode:

✅  The Tomorrow Box Strategy – Create a physical “Tomorrow Box” on your desk where students can place work they’re not ready to complete today. This gives anxious children an “out” without conflict and builds trust.

✅  Be a GPS, Not a Reactor – Practice maintaining a calm, monotone voice regardless of student behavior—like a GPS that stays calm even when you’re frustrated. Consider using a sensory tool (like blue-tac) in your hand to help you stay regulated.

✅  Consistency Over Routine – Instead of rigid schedules and visual timetables, focus on being consistent in how you approach every situation. Your calm, predictable response matters more than a planned routine.

✅  Allow Doodling During Lessons – Recognize that drawing and doodling can help some students focus and process information. As Eliza explains, it “quietens the external” and helps maintain concentration.

✅  Use Humor as a Connection Tool – Look for opportunities to use humor and playfulness—like Laura’s “Jabba the Hutt poo” story. Laughter can break through anxiety and build relationships faster than worksheets.

✅  Let Students Choose Task Order – Give students genuine choices about what order they complete tasks. This reduces the feeling of being controlled and lowers anxiety.

✅  Play Video Games or Watch Students Play – Engage with students’ interests, including screen-based ones. Sitting side-by-side (like driving a car) allows for less intense interaction while building connection.

✅  Teach Through Interests, Not Just Worksheets – “You can teach everything through cooking or gardening” – use student interests as pathways to learning instead of forcing traditional worksheet-based instruction.

✅  Keep the Same Staff for Multiple Years – When possible, allow students to stay with trusted adults longer. It can take six months just to see a child’s sense of humor—having 18 months together allows for deeper progress.

✅  Recognize and Validate Their Bravery – Acknowledge that these children are incredibly brave just for showing up. As Eliza says, “If I had PDA, I promise you, I’d be under my duvet all day.”