Reducing a behavior is not enough. A student needs another way to accomplish what they need.
Key Idea
Ask: “What could the student do instead that would work?”
What This Can Look Like
Instead of leaving a difficult task → request help or a brief break. Instead of grabbing → request a turn. Instead of repeated calling out → use an agreed signal for interaction. Instead of escalating when something is delayed → use a waiting strategy.
✓Try This
- •Choose a replacement skill that is: - easy to perform - clearly taught - appropriate for the situation - efficient enough to actually work - reinforced when the student uses it
Keep in Mind
If the replacement skill is harder or less effective than the behavior it is replacing, the student is unlikely to use it consistently.