Oppositional Defiance Disorder Aggressive Behaviour

[Cath01]

Hoping for some advice. I work in an OOSH and we have a child who has been diagnosed with Oppositional Defiant disorder. He is very aggressive when he has melt downs, with staff and other children. The family is very collaborative and has shared strategies and information and willingly attended meetings.
Can anyone give some fresh ideas or advice?

[Nandy84]

First of all, you need to follow the pattern of the child, like when he gets angry, what triggers him, etc.

Then you have to be very clear about the rules and consequences to the child that going to apply. Inform the child very firmly about the rules.

Exercise hostility away from the child. Treat him patiently.

Practice some good manners activities like greeting in the morning, bidding goodbye, and saying “thank you” regularly.

Stay positive and be Consistent with Disciplinary Strategies.

Celebrate the child's accomplishments in front of others. That will motivate the child.

I know it is a tough job and that is why you have to keep patience as every child is different and takes a different time frame to reciprocate. Slowly and gradually with your help, the child will be pacified and definitely will learn the disciplinary acts.

Thanks

Nandita

[Lorina]

That’s definitely a tough one ODD behaviours can really test everyone’s patience, especially in a busy OOSH setting. It’s awesome that the family is on board and working with you, because consistency between home and care is huge. Some fresh ideas you could try are giving him clear, simple choices (so he feels some control), using calm, neutral language during meltdowns, and having a safe “cool‑down” space he can go to before things escalate. Visual schedules or cue cards can also help him know what’s coming next, which reduces frustration. And sometimes it’s about catching the positives praising even small bits of cooperation so he starts to connect with that feedback. It won’t change overnight, but with patience, consistency, and strong teamwork, you’ll usually see progress bit by bit.

,
Lorina