While waiting for my son who is undergo occupational therapy and speech language therapy, I asked some parents on tips on how their child improves behavior. In this way, I can apply it to my son and share it to some parents out there.
Here are some tips to improve child’s behavior:
- Give time before changing activity
Most child with autism have trouble in term of changing in routine activity so to minimize their tantrums, a child should aware the activities to be done ahead of time.
- Reward positive behavior
It is important to recognize good behavior in children because it is likely that it will happen again. Highlighting language identifies and confirms children’s specific positive actions and encourages them to continue their appropriate behavior. Praising the child for good behavior is one of the best reinforces. For some children, praising means nothing to them, offering a reward such as giving a piece of candy or sticker can be used as reward for good behavior.
- Give choices.
Giving choices make your children have a sense of control over the world. All children are entitled to have choices including a child with autism. Parent or guardian may use picture for those kids that have language difficulty.
- Use schedules
Some parent use schedule to let their child know how his day will go. A visual schedule also used for those who have trouble reading and understanding language. These activities includes eating breakfast, taking a bath, brushing teeth, going to school, doing homework, eating snack, reading books, watching TV and go to bed.
- Remain Calm
Remaining calm all the time is quite hard but we need to practice to being kind, calm and patient. When things go wrong, just take a deep breath and remind yourself that you have to be a good example for your child.