Observer__________________________

1.  Positive suggestions (telling child what to do instead of what not to do)
 
 
 

2.  Alternative suggestions (e.g., suggesting a way to share a toy rather than grabbing, or suggesting play with a different toy)
 
 
 

3.  Give children choices of acceptable activities/behaviors (e.g., "Do you want to look at a book or write with the chalk?")
 
 
 

4.  Be specific in requests to children (e.g., "Put the book on the shelf.  Go stand on the blue feet" instead of "Let's get ready to go to the bathroom")
 
 
 

5.  "Positive strokes" (praise, helping others notice child's achievements, giving opportunities for success)
 
 
 

6.  Use firm but calm voice when needed
 
 
 

7.  Be consistent in requests, restrictions, consequences
 
 
 

8.  Explain reasons behind rules in simple language
 
 
 

9.  Isolate overactive or distressed children from group when possible (not as punishment, but to give then a chance to calm down)
 
 

10.  Implement "preventive measures" (e.g., positioning of clinicians relative to children; preparing child for transitions; using visual cues/social stories/etc. to increase chance of appropriate behavior)
 
 
 
 
 

© Linda R. Watson; last edited 8/17/99