# Supporting Every Child's Success with Ross Greene's Methods A fresh perspective on behavioral challenges in education - **Source:** [Guy Kawasaki](https://guykawasaki.com) - **Published:** 2026-08-12 - **Topic:** [People & Culture](https://brifing.si/c/people) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/97b71195-b533-4a43-ba7e-02278a645029 ## Shortcomings of traditional education approaches Ross Greene argues that conventional education systems misunderstand children with challenging behaviors. He emphasizes that punishment-focused approaches often fail and educators should investigate underlying causes. With over 30 years of experience as a clinical psychologist at Virginia Tech, Greene offers educators a different perspective on student behavior management and learning support methodologies. ## Decoding the messages behind behaviors Greene explains that challenging behaviors are actually communication tools, requiring proper interpretation by educators. A child refusing to participate or acting aggressively might actually be signaling unmet needs. This approach aims to address root causes of learning difficulties rather than just surface behaviors, leading to more sustainable solutions in classroom environments. ## The 'meet them where they're at' philosophy This core concept of Greene's model requires recognizing each child's individual needs. Instead of standardized curricula, it advocates flexible learning paths tailored to students' unique requirements. Research shows this method particularly benefits children with learning difficulties, improving engagement and academic performance by adapting teaching strategies to different learning styles. ## Redefining fairness in education Greene challenges the traditional 'equal treatment for all' notion, advocating for equitable support based on individual needs. This might mean providing additional resources to some students - like extra reading support for dyslexic learners - to create truly equal learning opportunities. His approach demonstrates how differentiated support can level the playing field without lowering academic standards. ## Collaborative problem-solving model Greene's three-step model replaces punishment with cooperation: identifying challenges, understanding obstacles, and co-creating solutions. Implemented in over 500 U.S. schools, this approach has reduced disciplinary issues by up to 40%. The method emphasizes partnership between educators and students, creating more positive school climates and improving teacher-student relationships. ## Challenges facing educators Providing individualized attention becomes practically difficult for teachers with 140 students. Greene stresses the need for structural reforms, including reducing student-teacher ratios. While research suggests an ideal 15:1 ratio, many public schools exceed 30:1. He advocates for systemic changes that would allow teachers adequate time and resources to implement personalized approaches effectively. ## The need for systemic transformation Greene critiques current systems for focusing on 'easy-to-teach' children while leaving struggling students behind. In his book 'The Kids Who Aren't Okay', he calls for redesigning standardized testing systems, citing successful individualized models from countries like Finland and Singapore. His work highlights how alternative assessment methods could better serve diverse learners. ## Practical advice for parents Greene recommends parents focus on understanding rather than judging their children's behaviors. He suggests replacing 'Why are you doing that?' with 'What's getting in your way?' as a more effective question. Research shows that just 15 minutes of daily one-on-one communication can increase children's self-confidence by 25%, demonstrating the power of attentive, non-judgmental parenting approaches. ## Strategies for school leaders Greene advises administrators to provide teachers with more planning time - at least 10 hours weekly - which can increase teaching effectiveness by 30%. He also recommends revising discipline policies to move away from punitive measures. His data shows schools implementing these changes experience improved staff retention and student outcomes, creating more sustainable educational environments. ## Insights from remote learning Greene analyzes why many children performed better outside traditional school environments during pandemic lockdowns. Data indicates children felt safer at home, leading to increased learning capacity. These findings provide valuable insights for making physical school spaces more inclusive and supportive, particularly for students who struggle with conventional classroom settings. ## Supporting children with special needs Greene's approach shows particular effectiveness for children with ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, or learning disabilities. Students previously marginalized by traditional methods can improve academic performance by up to 50% through collaborative models. Implementing schools also report significant reductions in peer bullying incidents, creating more inclusive learning communities. ## Vision for education's future Greene's work demonstrates the need for collaboration among all education stakeholders - teachers, parents, and administrators developing a shared language. This transformation is predicted to play a pivotal role in shaping society's future, as educational approaches directly influence how future generations solve problems, build relationships, and contribute to their communities. ## Sources covering this story - https://guykawasaki.com/how-we-can-help-every-child-succeed-with-ross-greene/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._