When a child with a Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) profile walks into your classroom, you might first notice avoidance behaviours, big emotions, or unexpected resistance to everyday requests. What’s beneath the surface, however, is far more complex—and with the right understanding, connection, and strategy, we can create a space where these learners feel safe, respected, and able to thrive.
What is PDA?
PDA is a profile, characterised by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands and expectations, driven by high anxiety. These learners are often misunderstood because they may seem oppositional or controlling, but the root cause is a need to feel safe and in control of their environment.
You may hear or see:
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“No!” and avoidance, even to enjoyable activities
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“You’re not the boss of me” or refusal to comply
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Elaborate role play to mask anxiety
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Sudden shutdowns, meltdowns or withdrawal
The goal isn’t to “fix” this behaviour—it’s to understand the communication behind it, and respond with empathy and flexibility.
Introducing the PANDA Approach
One of the most effective ways to support PDA learners is the PANDA approach, developed by the PDA Society. It offers a compassionate, person-centred framework that helps both educators and families reframe their mindset.
Here’s how PANDA breaks down:
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P – Pick your battles: Focus only on what’s essential. Let go of non-urgent demands and work together on priorities.
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A – Anxiety management: Recognise that behaviour is driven by anxiety. Keep environments calm, predictable, and low-demand.
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N – Negotiation and collaboration: Offer choices, involve the learner in decisions, and co-create plans. “Let’s make a plan together” works better than “You must do this now.”
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D – Disguise and manage demands: Soften instructions, embed them in play, use humour or indirect language. For example, “I wonder who can help me with this” instead of “Do this now.”
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A – Adaptation: Flexibility is key. Traditional structure and rewards may fail. Adapt your expectations and meet the child where they are, not where you think they should be.
Actionable Tips for Teachers Supporting PDA Profiles
1. Let go of control to gain cooperation
Children with PDA need to feel autonomous. Instead of issuing instructions, frame them as invitations, options, or games. Avoid power struggles—they escalate anxiety quickly.
Try:
- “Would you like to start with this or that?”
- “I could really use your help with this puzzle.”
- “Shall we do this now or in five minutes?”
2. Reduce perceived demands
Even praise can feel like pressure. Be mindful of tone, body language, and the number of expectations you’re placing—no matter how small they seem.
Use:
- Visual timetables with ‘choice’ icons, or maybe they build their own schedule from given options
- Role play or puppet-led tasks
- Activities led by special interests
- Offer written, drawn or symbol instructions (non-verbally shown or just simply left in viewable proximity)
3. Always co-regulate before problem-solving
If the learner is upset, don’t rush to “fix” the behaviour. Validate feelings, stay regulated yourself, and wait until they’re ready to reflect.
Say:
- “I can see that was really hard.”
- “Let’s take a break together and we’ll think about what to do next.”
- Model meeting your own sensory regulation and anxiety needs without the expectation that they will join you
4. Keep a consistent adult they can trust
Relationships are everything. When learners feel connected and believed, they’ll begin to trust that school can be a safe space. One key adult—without judgment—can make all the difference.
Listen to More:
Podcast Episode 23 – PDA Parenting and Schooling
For deeper insight, real-world stories, and expert perspectives, tune in to Episode 23 of our podcast:
Watch on YouTube – PDA Parenting and Schooling
In this episode, we explore:
- Why traditional behaviour strategies often fail
- What PDA looks like in the classroom and at home
- How the PANDA approach can be life-changing for learners and educators
Final Thought: Connection Over Compliance
PDA isn’t about being difficult. It’s about a child doing their best to cope in a world that feels overwhelming. The more we choose collaboration over control, the more we show these learners that they are safe—and that’s where the real learning begins.
For printable visuals, sensory-friendly planning tools, and symbol-supported support plans, all with the aim to ease anxiety and support learning, browse our full range of classroom resources here.
And if you’re looking for support tailoring strategies to your learner, consider booking a virtual consultancy session with me.