Recently, I engaged in a fascinating conversation with an external provider to support their research exploring how challenges affect us all – children and adults. What struck me most was a simple yet profound truth: challenges are universal. They don’t discriminate. Every child faces obstacles, whether in learning, friendships, or self-regulation.

Yet somewhere along the journey, we’ve developed a tendency to seek labels when children struggle. Perhaps it provides comfort, explanation, or a sense of direction. However, as Mark Finnis wisely reminds us: “Labels belong on jars,” (not children). When we truly seek to understand what one needs, we can create the environment that meets those needs and helps all to thrive.

“Labels belong on jars,”

In so many spaces, we witness daily how children respond differently to the same challenges. One child might need movement breaks, another quiet reflection time, whilst someone else requires visual prompts or a listening ear. These aren’t symptoms requiring diagnosis—they’re simply different ways of processing the world around us.

The research we discussed revealed something powerful: when we focus on understanding rather than labelling, we empower children to develop resilience and self-awareness. Instead of defining a child by their difficulties, we help them recognise their strengths and strategies for success.

This doesn’t mean ignoring genuine needs or dismissing professional guidance when appropriate. Rather, it means approaching each child with curiosity: What helps you learn best? When do you feel most confident? What makes difficult moments easier?

When we create flexible, responsive environments that celebrate difference without defining children by their struggles, remarkable things happen. Children develop growth mindsets. They see challenges as temporary obstacles rather than fixed characteristics. They learn that needing support isn’t weakness – it’s human.

Let’s challenge ourselves to look beyond labels, to ask deeper questions, and to build a world where every child can flourish, simply as themselves.