Supporting Children with a Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) Profile
This practical course provides educators and professionals with a clear understanding of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and how it can present in children and young people.
Through four focused chapters, learners explore what PDA is, the wide range of possible presentations, and why a flexible, compassionate approach is essential. The course offers practical, evidence-informed strategies for relationship-building, communication, and learning support, as well as guidance on de-escalation and managing dysregulation.
Course Outline:
To understand what PDA is
The understand what PDA may look like in the children and young people with whom you work
To know the strategies that can be used to support young people with PDA
Who Is It For?
Teachers
Teaching Assistants
Tutors
Duration: 1 Hour
Video Time: 50 Minutes
Chapters: 4
This course is certified by The CPD Certification Service.
Prospero Learning's Supporting Children with a Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) Profile course has passed rigorous checks to ensure it is of high quality and relevant in supporting continued professional development.
How It Works
Click Enrol
Click to begin the course
Watch Video Content
Watch our video content written by experts
Knowledge Check
Complete the knowledge check
Certification
On completion of this course, download your certificate
More About This Course
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and its relevance for professionals working with children and young people in educational and care settings. Learners begin by exploring what PDA is, how it is most commonly associated with autism, and why understanding its underlying drivers is essential. The course encourages a compassionate, curiosity led mindset that supports more accurate interpretation of behaviour and reduces the risk of misunderstanding or inappropriate responses.
Building on this foundation, the course examines the wide range of PDA presentations and emphasises that there is no single checklist or fixed profile. Participants are guided to recognise the importance of flexibility, creativity, and reflective practice when supporting children with differing communication styles, anxiety responses, and behavioural expressions. Practical strategies are introduced, including relationship-based approaches, adaptable learning methods, and supportive language that reduces perceived demands and promotes engagement.
The final section focuses on supporting children and young people during moments of dysregulation and escalation. Learners explore common triggers, early warning signs, and effective de-escalation techniques, while also reflecting on the importance of regulating their own emotional responses.
Course Chapters
1
Chapter 1 - What Is PDA?
Chapter 1 - What is PDA?
06:01
Chapter 1 - What is PDA: Assessment
5 Questions
2
Chapter 2 - PDA Presentations
Chapter 2 - PDA Presentations
05:49
Chapter 2 - PDA Presentations: Assessment
5 Questions
3
Chapter 3 - Strategies for Working with CYP with PDA
Chapter 3 - Strategies for Working with CYP with PDA
17:35
Chapter 3 - Strategies: Assessment
5 Questions
Handout: What is a Demand?
4
Chapter 4 - Supporting De-escalation with PDA
Chapter 4 - Supporting De-escalation with PDA
17:37
Chapter 4 - Supporting De-escalation: Assessment
5 Questions
Handout: The Curve of Dysregulation
Handout: Key Takeaways
Supporting Children with a PDA Profile Feedback
Supporting Children with a PDA Profile Certificate
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