Overcoming the Behavior Challenge of Pain in Children: An Intervention Guide for Support

Overcoming the Behavior Challenge of Pain for Children is a supportive and practical guide for caregivers, clinicians, and educators helping children navigate pain—whether chronic, medical, or momentary. Many children, especially those with Autism, ADHD, or other neurodivergent needs, experience pain in ways that are difficult to express or understand. They may respond with fear, behavioral changes, or shutdowns, making it even harder to support them effectively.

Developed by a collaborative team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), and Registered Nurses (RNs), this guide provides clear, compassionate strategies to:

• Recognize how children express pain behaviorally
• Support communication about pain using visuals and accessible language
• Reduce fear and anxiety around medical procedures or daily discomfort
• Empower children to advocate for their bodies
• Build trust, routine, and coping skills around pain-related experiences

With step-by-step tools, calming visuals, and real-world solutions, this resource transforms painful moments into teachable, supportive ones—helping children feel heard, safe, and stronger.

Pain is real—but so is support. You GOT THIS.
— The OBC Team: Dr. Holthaus, BCBA Melissa Killam, and SLP Maggie Kuykendall