Behaviour Often Improves When Language Improves

Many behavioural challenges in early childhood are much more closely tied to communication than many parents would expect.

When children cannot express their needs clearly, they often rely on less productive forms of expression.

Understanding this link shifts how parents interpret behaviour and opens the door to more effective support.

The link between language and behaviour

When language is limited, frustration can appear as crying, yelling, hitting or withdrawal. These responses are often attempts to communicate when words are not available.

Research shows that improving communication skills is associated with reductions in these behaviours, along with improvements in social interaction.

What changes with language support

Providing functional language — for example, words for emotions or simple requests — gives children alternatives to behavioural expression.

As communication becomes more accessible, children are better able to regulate their responses and navigate challenging situations.

Why this matters for parents

Recognizing communication as a factor in behaviour encourages a more supportive approach. 

Rather than focusing only on how the child is expressing themselves, attention shifts to what the child is trying to express.

This shift in perspective reduces misinterpretation and supports more effective, developmentally appropriate responses. In other words, it gets to the heart of the matter and gives your child an opportunity for learning and growth.

About Speakable

Founded in 2013 by Tamara Paull M.SC. SLP(C), Speakable Speech & Language provides in-person and virtual speech therapy in Montreal, Toronto and the Laurentians. The Speakable team of clinicians in good standing with the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO) or l’Ordre des orthophonistes et audiologistes du Québec (OOAQ) aim to engage children in 30-45-minute sessions that are therapeutic, educational and fun.