After writing out your ABCs (see my last post if you think I’m talking about the alphabet), and determining the function(s) behind the behaviors you’re interested in changing, it’s time to make a plan for each function of the behaviors. Remember: We’re trying to make long-lasting change. Long-lasting change requires time and strategy. That’s why we need to make a behavior plan.
Back to functions. Let’s review: There are 4 possible functions to a behavior: SEAT. Or better explained: 1) Sensory/Automatic- to fulfill a sensory need or to gain automatic fulfillment (like biting our nails as a way to cope with being anxious), 2) Escape – to escape something/someone, 3) Attention – to gain attention, and 4) Tangible – to get something out of it (like an object, money, etc.)
So, let’s start with the S, sensory-seeking or sensory-avoiding behaviors or behaviors seeking automatic reinforcement…
There are 2 different types of strategies: 1) preventative strategies and 2) what needs to happen when the problematic behavior is already happening.
When it comes to sensory-seeking or sensory-avoiding behaviors, the learner is trying to gain an internal sensation that’s pleasing or to remove an internal sensation that’s displeasing.
These behaviors are tough to decrease since the reward is internal and automatic. The learner performs these behaviors regardless of where they are or who they’re with. The best way to decrease sensory-seeking or sensory-avoiding behaviors is to load up on preventative strategies.
Some preventative strategies include:
- Try to set up/enrich the environment. For sensory seekers- Maybe it’s with music, colors, toys, and/or opportunities to engage in activities. You can try bean bag chairs (it’s like a chair that hugs), a swing, set up a ball pit, get a trampoline (other forms of exercise), play tile mats, teething toys (if appropriate and if chewing on non-food items is an issue), squishy balls, water beads (if you’re up for the clean up), etc. For sensory avoiders- it can be setting up a quiet place for them to relax, maybe somewhere dim.
- Create opportunities for the kiddo to engage in these activities. It’s so easy to get up in the everyday hustle. Try to set aside time for the kiddo to be able to play and fulfill their senses appropriately throughout the day. If they love the outdoors, make time for them to be able to be outside.
- Catch your kiddo seeking out appropriate ways to fulfill their senses, and give them a cuddle, a tickle, a smile, a compliment, whatever you can to let them know you recognize what they’re doing.
- Teach your kiddo how to request for appropriate sensory activities.
- Do these activities with your kiddo. Pair yourself with what they love and teaching becomes a lot easier.
Some strategies when the problematic sensory seeking or sensory avoiding behavior is happening:
- Block any intense or major behaviors. If a kiddo is hitting hard to gain a physical sensation, definitely be prepared to block them. I’ve worked with a child strong enough to throw furniture (a 12 year old, a preteen, if you want specifics), and we definitely had to rearrange his room to prevent him from gaining access to loose furniture.
- Refrain from giving attention to mild behaviors, wait until the kiddo is quiet or not engaging in the problematic sensory seeking/avoiding behavior, and redirect to an appropriate sensory activity.
I hope this helps you. Whether you’re preparing to write one for your own client, or for your own child, let me know how it goes. Let me know what worked and what didn’t. Like I said up there, sensory behaviors are tough, because the reward is internal. Be patient with yourself, and plan ahead. Next up, escape/avoidance behaviors.
