08 Sep How can I teach Replacement Behavior?
There are two things that should be considered when parents decide to teach a replacement behavior.
- Choosing the behavior for change
- Teaching methods (strategies)
- How do I choose replacement behaviours to teach?
- Choosing a Replacement Behavior starts with you identifying and defining the behavior for change in a measurable and observable terms.
- Observing appropriate behavior shown by typical children in the same environment
- Choosing a replacement behavior that will serve the same function as the behavior you want to change
- Must be age appropriate
Behavior: James hits Richard to take his toy
Replacement Behavior: James asks Richard for his toy
So rather than hitting, James is taught how to solicit for Richard’s toy. Many problem behaviors are as a result of limited social skills so teaching James the appropriate way to solicit sharing will be the replacement behavior
Before teaching a replacement behavior, you need to determine where the replacement behavior fits into your child’s skills level.
Like;
- A child may not engage or demonstrate an appropriate behavior if he does not know how
- if he knows how to in some environments but not in others
- or if he lacks the motivation.
Depending on the child’s skill level,
- You may have to teach the child
- Assist the child with some steps
- Or negotiate with the child
In any of these instances, you must know what skills your child is lacking
- Can my child demonstrate part of this skill?
- Does my child need help with this skill?
- Can he/she demonstrate the skill anywhere else?
This will give you an understanding into the child’s learning stage.
Have you decided on behaviors for change?
What is your child’s skills level?