Next you describe the process as you model the procedure for
them. “First, I’m going to wash up—just like you said. Then I’m
going to put my jammies on (put something over your clothes). Next
we sit on the bed for a story.”
After you’ve modeled the routine, have the child do it and praise
her as she goes along: “That’s it—you remembered what was next.
Good work.” Remember, some kids like business and some syrup!
With older kids (five and up), you can skip the modeling and just
ask them to go through the motions. Praise the kids and suggest
modifications in what they are doing as necessary.
Once you’ve rehearsed your routines and started using them, try to
keep pretty much to the same time, same place, same way. But what if
the kids get sloppy with their homework or bedtime routine?
Remember Start Behavior Tactic 5—natural consequences? A natural
consequence of getting sloppy with a routine is needing to rehearse
and practice the routine again! No righteous indignation, nagging, or
arguing from you is necessary. Be nice and praise cooperation. You’ll
find that things will fall back into place.
That’s our list of Start behavior strategies. You’ll probably be able
to come up with several of your own after a while. Next we’ll take a
look at how to apply these tactics to some of the most common Start
behavior problems. You’re going to be an expert motivator in no
time!
CHAPTER SUMMARY
Your Seven Start Behavior Tactics