Beyond Behaviour: Understanding Emotional Regulation with Samantha Dholakia

What might change if children’s behaviour was understood as communication rather than something to simply manage? For Rocket Talks, Rocket welcomed Samantha Dholakia, behaviour and emotional regulation specialist, coach and creator of the Behaviour Balance System™. Drawing on her experience working with children, families, educators and school leaders, Samantha explored the relationship between emotions, behaviour, connection and the environments in which children grow and learn. Her approach challenges traditional cultures of blame, shame, rewards and sanctions, inviting adults to look more closely at the needs, experiences and feelings that may sit beneath a child’s behaviour.

Across three recorded conversations, the series brought specialist perspectives on emotional regulation and compassionate, research-informed practice into the homes of Rocket families and the wider educational community. The discussions connect closely with Rocket’s commitment to understanding the whole child, nurturing secure relationships and creating environments where children feel safe, included and supported to develop the skills they need. By making these conversations accessible beyond the Pre-Preps, Rocket Talks offers parents and educators an opportunity to reflect on familiar challenges with a little more understanding, confidence and curiosity. Sometimes the most useful change begins with asking a different question about what a child might be experiencing.

▶ Watch the three talks:

How Children’s Brains Develop

The Power of Words: How Adult Language Shapes Child Behaviour

How to Survive the School Run: Successful Routines