How to redirect physical aggression

I’m honestly considering putting my son in behavioral therapy.

Because he is non verbal. Have you tried word cards with pictures with toilet, drink, play inside, play outside, cuddle, happy, sad? That you can carry around and one that he can easily access too. learning some makaton may help improve it all. It may also be worth looking into possitive restraining courses. Its used for when they have meltdowns and theyre at a point they could endanger themselves, you or others its used in SEN schools to protect other children.
Do you also have a board you cam clearly display whats going to happen that day in picture form. That can help too. Each morning you explain the plan. Let's say its a weekend and youre a bit flexible you could get them to pick something they want as they get used to it.


Redirection to deescalate may work, but it depends on the child. Sometimes you need a safe, soft area they can go that they put their frustration on instead of you.

It is hard but certainly finding a way to help them communicate WILL 100% help.

I have taught a non verbal children (the reason theyre non verbal varied) and once a way that worked for them was found they stopped being violent and became calm because it was all down to the fact they couldnt get what they needed out and that is truely frustrating

My daughters SEN taught me this:

Every time she gets aggressive I need to put the following words in my head:
' Mommy, please help me. I dont know how to behave or react in this moment'.

Secondly, I need ro sit down at her level. Gently grab both her wrists, hold it, look her in the eyes and say:
'Every time you hit me, you are CHOOSING to hurt me. I still love you though.'

and lastly, I got a punch bag and made a sensory corner.
In the corner theres a hiding space, punch bag, sensory toys and Ive put cards up that teaching different breathing techniques etc and we practice that.
She goes in there to calm down.
I go and sit on the floor nearby and eventually asks:
'Are you ok now? Would tou like a hug?'
And she always comes out for a hug.


Hope this helps.

Learning and teaching some basic sign language helped here. Being able to ask for help before there was a word for it prevented just whacking or pulling for attention. It didn't always work or resolve the frustration, but helped tremendously for them advocate for themselves. Also loved having communication cards on keychains. Offer choices for everything to help them feel in control. 3 is a hard age. Impulse control has not developed yet so modeling behaviors when they arent overwhelmed helps, sometimes it goes out the window anyway. As much as I dislike it, I allow stomping of feet, whacking a pillow or stuffed animal on a couch/bed, and if complete meltdown is reached just providing a safe space for her to calm down and comfort when she's ready. Always explaining it is not okay to hit others, which often happens when she is calm enough to hear anything said. If he is only 3 and it's not more than basic aggression when frustrated, he will likely grow out of this and just needs support to feel heard