What are some examples of the "function" and intervention of behavior?

Behaviors can arise when the child is trying to obtain something through problem behavior. Here are a few examples of behavioral interventions.

• When the child seeks to obtain adult attention, feedback, or help:
 Directly teach routines and expectations for accessing the adult.
 Make sure tasks and activities match the child’s current ability.
 Directly teach steps for solving problems, in order to promote independence.

• When the child seeks to obtain peer attention or social interaction with peers:
 Directly teach relevant social interaction skills, practice in context, & give positive reinforcement when skills are used.
 Teach about accepting and including others, and review these expectations frequently.
 Teach words and strategies to use if others are trying to get their attention in an unwelcome way.

Behaviors can arise when the child is trying to escape or avoid something. Here are a few examples of behavioral interventions.

• When the child avoids situations, activities or work:
 Teach appropriate ways to ask for a break or activity change or ways to break down the task.

• When the child avoids unpleasant sensory or physiological sensations:
 Provide ear plugs or ear phones if needed to block out auditory stimulation.
 Give advance warning of fire alarms and loud noises.
 Let the child choose “time away” instead of escaping through problem behavior.
 Teach about diverse abilities/needs; promote acceptance of others.

In my private practice I teach parents and teachers the difference between "attention" and "connection". Many kids are trying to get "connection" and that is not as simple as attention. We are so busy and distracted as adults these days we unknowingly go days without really listening to our kids. Believe me, they end up doing all sorts of bizarre things to get us to be present with them.I can teach you how to use that "connection" time where you let them lead as a reward for them eliminating the undesired attention and before you know it, you are the reward and they are working for time with you in a productive, appropriate way. Call me for a consultation!