Think Abouts for Individual Behavior Management

If a specific student is having behavior difficulties, try to determine what is causing the problem. Look at issues such as:

1. Is the material being taught too difficult for the student.
2. Is the student sitting with people that seem to distract him?
3. Does the student need a quiet place to complete independent assignments?
4. Does the student nee an accommodation to assist him in being successful?

Individual Behavior Management Strategies

1. Behavior contract with a specific student can be very successful. Both you and student should select one to two items you feel are important and the student can be successful with and include reward/consequences.

• This technique can be used with the students and the classroom teacher or with other school personnel and the student depending on who the student will best respond to.
• Do not focus on more than one or two areas of concern or it will be difficult to meet with success.
• Look at the behavior causing the most distraction in the classroom or school to work on first.
• Other difficulties can be worked on later.
• Contracts must be followed with fidelity
• The student must have input into rewards and consequences.
• Once a reward is earned it should never be taken away.
• Do not focus on more than one or two areas of concerns or it will be difficult to meet with the success.
• If possible include the parents in building the contract. That way the parents can support the contract with rewards at home.
• Explain the rewards and consequences that were decided on to the parents so they do not stray from that.

2. For High School Students with behavior problems work with them to schedule with teachers they will be compatible with and teachers who are structured.

3. For students who are tardy all of the time, try not to schedule a tested subject first period.

4. Have students work in small groups with guidance counselors on behavior areas of concern.

5. For students with continued behavior difficulties have parents shadow the students in class.