If a student needs help, space, clarification, or a break, we want them to have an effective way to communicate it.
Key Idea
Teach the replacement skill before the difficult moment whenever possible.
What This Can Look Like
Possible communication might include: - “Help.” - “Can you show me?” - “Break, please.” - a break card - a help card - another communication method already used by the student
✓Try This
- •Practice the request when the student is calm. Prompt it early when difficulty appears. Respond consistently when the student uses it. Reinforce appropriate requesting. If breaks are used, make returning predictable and achievable.
Keep in Mind
Communication should work. If appropriate requests are routinely ignored while escalation reliably produces support, the more difficult behavior may remain the more efficient option.