We all want our children to become as self-sufficient as possible in life. Here are some tips from STARAutismSupport.com for helping children internalize daily routines. There are four levels of prompt intensity:
- Verbal, visual, or gestural prompt
- Model prompt
- Partial physical prompt
- Full physical prompt
Prompt levels
A best practice is to use the least intensive prompt necessary to help your child be successful, and fade your prompts as quickly as possible. For example:
- Direct your child’s attention to the cue — say it once! (for example, “Brush your teeth”)
- Wait at least 5 to 10 seconds to give your child a chance to respond.
- Respond to your child’s attempt. If your child’s action is correct, provide positive feedback. If your child’s action is incorrect, repeat the cue, provide the least restrictive prompt that will ensure success, and then provide positive feedback.
- Go to the next step of the routine.
If your child is motivated by rewards, for positive feedback consider using a token board provided by STARAustismSupport.com (https://starautismsupport.com/files/behavior-supports-0) Here’s an article on how to use a token board: https://starautismsupport.com/how-use-token-board-motivate-kids.