Setting Clear Expectations What are Clear Expectations Clear
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Setting Clear Expectations
What are ‘Clear Expectations’? ★ Clear expectations define limits, and create guidelines. ★ Clear expectations help us to know what to expect and what is expected of us. ★ For people with Autism, clear expectations can be especially helpful. ★ By setting clear expectations and reinforcing compliance with them, your child can learn to display expected behaviors and participate in learning- with little or no maladaptive behavior.
How to set Clear Expectations ★ Use clear and concise language when giving instructions ★ Use visual supports ★ Make the beginning and ending of an activity clear ★ Have clearly stated rules ★ Be consistent with your expectations ★ Use the Premack Principle, or “First____, then_____” statements ★ Use timers to indicate when something will happen or when something is complete ★ Practice self-reflection; are you following these guidelines?
Why is this it so important? Clear expectations help people to know which behaviors are acceptable and which are not acceptable If expectations are not clear- we should not be surprised if people cant follow them!
When is it clear enough? How much structure and guidance you need to use when setting expectations will depend on several things; your child's age, skill level, previous learning, and established norms and routines. . . Example: Least intrusive Most intrusive Clearly stated rules House rule; school work has to be completed before free time. Clearly stated rules + First/ then statement House rule; school work has to be completed before free time. “First do your school work, then you can go outside to play” Clearly stated rules + First/ then statement + visual support House rule; school work has to be completed before free time. “First do your school work, then you can go outside to play”. Visual ‘to-do’ list posted clearly in a prominent location (check-off activities/ tasks when complete) Any one of these could work, but one might be more suitable than another for your child.
What to do next? If you think you would like to talk to someone about this, ask your child’s teacher about it. . . Parent: “I’d like to talk to someone about setting clear expectations at home, how can I get started? Teacher: “Great! I will email the BCBA and they will get in touch with you about that!”
