Preventing Problem Behaviors: Proactive Strategies for Parents
One of the best ways to support your child and reduce challenging behaviors is to focus on prevention. In Applied Behavior Analysis, these are called antecedent strategies. They are tools you can use every day to help your child feel calm, confident, and ready to succeed. Think of it like preparing the environment and routines so your child has fewer reasons to feel frustrated or overwhelmed.
With the new school year beginning, these strategies can be especially helpful. Transitions into a new classroom, meeting new teachers, and adjusting to a different routine can all feel overwhelming. Putting proactive strategies in place at home and at school helps create consistency and makes these changes feel more manageable for your child.
Clear Expectations
Children do best when they know exactly what is being asked of them. Keep your instructions simple and direct. Instead of saying “be good,” try saying “first put your shoes on, then we will go outside.” When school mornings are busy, this type of clear direction helps the day start on the right foot.
Structured Routines
Predictability is comforting for children. Keeping a consistent morning routine during the school year—like breakfast, brushing teeth, and packing the backpack in the same order—reduces stress. Evening routines are just as important, giving your child a chance to wind down and prepare for the next day.
Visual Supports
Pictures and visuals are great reminders. A daily schedule posted at home, a “first, then” chart for homework before play, or even pictures of the steps for getting ready in the morning can make the school routine feel smoother and less stressful.
Offering Choices
When children feel they have a say, they are more likely to cooperate. You can still keep the end goal the same while offering choices along the way. For example, “Do you want to use the blue lunchbox or the green one?” This keeps mornings moving while giving your child some control.
Transition Warnings
Many children struggle when activities end without notice. Use a countdown or timer before moving from playtime to homework, or before turning off the TV to get ready for school. A small reminder gives your child time to prepare for what is next.
Reinforce the Positive
Notice and praise the things your child is doing well. If you see them packing their backpack or starting homework without a reminder, say, “I love how you got started right away.” Focusing on the positives encourages more of those behaviors.
Modify the Environment
Sometimes small changes in the environment make a big difference. A quiet homework space, keeping school supplies organized, or having a calm area for your child to relax after school can prevent frustration and meltdowns.
Build in Movement and Breaks
Children need opportunities to move and release energy, especially after a full day at school. Scheduling short breaks, playtime outside, or stretching before starting homework helps them focus and feel less restless.
Proactive strategies are about setting your child up for success before challenges even start. During the school year, they can make mornings smoother, homework time less stressful, and transitions more predictable. By creating routines, giving clear directions, and focusing on the positives, you can help your child feel more confident as they adjust to new schedules and expectations.
Every child is unique, and it may take a little time to discover what works best for your family. The important thing is to stay consistent, celebrate small successes, and remember that your ABA team is here to support you along the way.
For More Information
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