Is My Child’s Behavior Normal or Should I Be Concerned?

A Guide for Parents Navigating Child Development and Behavior

As parents, we all ask ourselves at some point:

“Is this normal… or is it something more?”

Whether it’s tantrums, speech delays, difficulty with transitions, or social challenges, it's natural to feel concerned — especially when comparing your child to others or receiving conflicting advice from different sources.

Is My Child’s Behavior Normal or Should I Be Concerned?

At Divinity ABA, we speak with parents every day who are asking the same question. This post will help you better understand what’s typical, what might be cause for concern, and what steps you can take to support your child’s development.What Is "Typical" Behavior?

Every child develops at their own pace, and some variation is completely normal. However, here are some general developmental milestones that can serve as helpful benchmarks:

Toddlers (1–3 years):

• Tantrums and emotional outbursts are common

• Language may still be developing

• Children begin imitating others and exploring independently

  
  

Preschoolers (3–5 years):

• Beginning to follow simple instructions

• Engaging in pretend play

• May still struggle with transitions and self-regulation

Early School Age (5–7 years):

• Growing emotional awareness and independence

• Improved communication and attention span

• Increasing ability to handle frustration and social situations

• Temporary struggles with behavior or communication are often part of normal development, especially during growth periods or major life changes.

Preteens (10–12 years)

• Developing more complex thinking and emotional skills

• May question rules and authority, showing a desire for independence

• Building deeper friendships and beginning to understand peer dynamics

• Likely to experience mood swings due to hormonal changes

• Increasing ability to reflect on their own emotions and behaviors

• May struggle with time management, organization, or focus, especially if neurodiverse

While emotional ups and downs, occasional defiance, and shifting social preferences are common, persistent challenges with emotional regulation, aggression, social isolation, or extreme rigidity may warrant a closer look.

When to Take a Closer Look

You don’t need to panic, but there are signs that may suggest your child could benefit from additional support:

• Frequent, intense tantrums that last a long time

• Lack of eye contact, social engagement, or pretend play

• Delayed speech or difficulty following simple instructions

• Strong need for routines or fixated interests

• Aggression or self-injury

• Trouble adapting to change or sensory sensitivities

If your child consistently shows several of these behaviors or seems noticeably different from peers, it may be time to talk with a professional.

What You Can Do Next

1. Trust your instincts.

• You know your child better than anyone. If you’re concerned, it’s okay to ask questions.

2. Talk to your pediatrician.

• They can provide screenings or refer you for developmental evaluations.

3. Seek a professional assessment.

• At Divinity ABA, we offer behavior evaluations to help you better understand your child’s strengths, needs, and possible next steps.

4. Take action early.

• Early intervention leads to better long-term outcomes and helps families find support sooner rather than later.

You’re Not Alone — We’re Here to Help

1. This isn’t about labeling your child. It’s about understanding how to help them grow in a way that’s right for them.

If you're unsure about your child’s behavior or development, Divinity ABA is here to support you. Whether you're just looking for answers or ready to start services, our team is ready to help.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.