Strategies

General Strategies

• Positive Reinforcement - Positive reinforcement is the introduction of a reward after a behavior. The reward makes it more likely that the behavior will reoccur. 
  For example, if a child remembers to use appropriate voice level and tone, they may be rewarded with a high five or a compliment.  This makes it more likely that the child will use appropriate voice level and tone in the future. 

  • Token systems

• Modeling - Modeling is a teaching strategy for showing the child what the appropriate target behavior looks like by having an adult or another peer engage in the target behavior.
  For example, the adult or peer might demonstrate how to accept disappointment by saying, "Bummer!  I really wanted to do that. Maybe I will get to another time," and then employs a calming strategy such as deep breathing or counting to ten.

• Discrete Trial (also known as "DT") - DT is an evidence-based method for teaching expected behaviors.  Discrete Trial is used by many trained professionals in a clinical or educational settings.  Basically, it is focusing on a very specific (discrete) skill, and practicing that skill with many repetitions. 
  (DT is often used to teach individuals on the autism spectrum; however, it is effective for many children with different needs and abilities.) 
  Want to know more about Discrete Trial therapy?  Click here.

• Be sure to check out Additional Resources for more ideas!

Specific Strategies