Autism.18.c Behavior Support Strategies-Respond

Validate emotions: Acknowledge the child’s feelings to build trust and understanding

Adjust the environment: Modify surroundings to soothe and support, using comfort items, sensory objects, adjusting lights/sounds, or providing space and not forcing eye contact

Focus on positive language rather than negative language (DO this rather than DON’T do this)

Attempt to stop the behavior through distraction

Introduce and reinforce safer behaviors with rewards to encourage positive change

Encourage positive behavior with praise or rewards. Ensure the reward follows the behavior closely for maximum effect. You can use a token economy (stickers, point, tokens, behavior chart) to incentivize and track positive behaviors.