Behavioral Self-Management - Part 3
We all struggle to keep our tempers from time to time. And many of us know how hard it can be for children and adults with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to keep calm when they feel upset. "Behavioral self-management" refers to a set of skills that we all use when we are upset about something. These skills help us to maintain appropriate behavior even when we have very strong feelings. It is especially important to teach behavioral self-management to individuals with ASD, starting at a young age.
Behavioral Self-Management for Middle and High School Students with ASDAs students with ASD get older, they are more at risk for suspension and expulsion if their challenging behavior gets out of control. At this age, many students with ASD can begin to understand their behavioral triggers. While still using their "calm down" skills, they can also learn skills to prevent a behavioral episode from starting. Using tools like a behavior thermometer or another visual support such as "The Incredible 5 Point Scale" students can identify what upsets them and learn how to either cope with those situations more effectively or how to avoid those situations. Students with ASD will need to work frequently with a trusted teacher or other adult to learn these skills. It might be hard to find time in the school day to do this, but it is essential, and will have a great payoff for everyone involved when the student can manage his/her behavior more independently.
Book of the Week:
The Incredible 5-Point Scale: Assisting Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Understanding Social Interactions and Controlling their Emotional Responses. Kari Dunn Buron and Mitzi Curtis. Autism Asperger Pub. Co., 2003. This gives a visual representation of social behaviors, emotions and abstract ideas. Individuals can use it to regulate emotions and stress levels.
This book is in the SESA Library. You may search the library catalog via the SESA website (http://www.sesa.org), or contact Anne directly by email at afreitag@sesa.org or by phone at 907-334-1301.
Special Event in Two Weeks!!
Saturday, March 30th, from 11 am to 6 pm, is the AARC Book Fair at the Anchorage Barnes & Noble. We will have entertainment, crafts and an information table at the store during those times.
Children's author Julia Cook (http://www.juliacookonline.com/) will be in the store to sign books, give a talk for parents, and do a storytime with children. She'll be doing other presentations around the state.
Our very own Mrs. Northwest , Brandy Wendler will be speaking on Gluten Free cooking.
Plus local singers, dancers and musical entertainment groups!
Mark your calendar, and please come by and say hello, and participate in the activities that day!
