Behavior Strategies

Proactive Strategies

Here is a document on Tips for Creating a Home Learning Environment
Potential Activity: Create a simple schedule that includes movement breaks and takes into consideration the realities of your current home life. Here is an article about how to make a new home routine (from PBS).
Video: Managing Emotions
Create routines and be consistent.
You may use a first/then board; Video: First/Then Board Tutorial. A First/Then Board gives clear expectations to your child on what is expected first and what is happening next. This tool is especially helpful for students with special needs who need some extra support. Try it like this - for the "First" section, use academic or non-preferred tasks and for the "Then" section, use a highly preferred activity or item.
Be clear with your expectations. Give instructions while sitting next to your child and check for understanding.
Provide transition warnings, timers, cues, countdowns, songs, etc.
Be aware of hunger, fatigue, anxiety or other emotions, and any distractions in the environment. Take care of these first before your child can be ready to learn.
Utilize shared control. Allow your child to develop the daily schedule with you. Give them choices of activities.
Make time for quality interaction that is fun such as “Child-Directed Play”.

Potential Activity: Set up check-ins with your child - Daily Check-Ins How-To video
Video: Everyday Parenting - Praise Technique
Acknowledge positive behaviors. Model gratitude and build self-awareness by thanking your child for their hard work in a specific way (ex: "I'm really impressed with how you kept trying even though you didn't know the answer")
Use reward charts when your child struggles to stay focused and persevere when things get hard. It is important to fade them once your child has developed the ability.
Ensure your expectations are within the level of your child’s development. Rewards will not override developmental readiness.

Set rules and be consistent
When escalated, give your child time and space to calm down. When your child is calm, return to the original task. Do your best to follow through with your expectations.
Manage your own emotions. It is ok to take a step back and acknowledge your feelings and need for time and space.

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