Prevention Strategy – Bouncing

  • Situation

    What can I do when I notice one of my students starts to get upset? I don’t want him to have a major meltdown.

  • Summary

    Give de-escalation prevention bouncing a try. When you notice your student starting to escalate, think of how you can “bounce” them away from the situation/task/person. Ask them to deliver a message, return a book to the library, or get a ream of paper from the office. This time away gives him an opportunity to get focused on something else.

  • Definition

    This strategy is used to prevent a behavior from escalating. It removes the person from the situation that is causing frustration or agitation for a short time. You “bounce” the person away from the frustrating situation which allows them to calm down. Upon return to the room they can continue the task.

  • Quick Facts

    • Child's Age: 3-5, 6-10, 11-13, 14-17, 18+
    • Planning Effort: Low
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Pre-requisites

    Ability to identify early escalating behaviors

  • Process

    1. Set up a signal in advance to let staff know that if student is sent with message or material, it is a cool down time

    2. Observe and identify when student behavior is escalating.

    3. Ask student to deliver message or material.

    4. Reinforce student upon return and re-direct to task.

    5. Be aware that if the task created the frustration, the task may need to be altered before returning.

  • Documents and Related Resources

    AntisepticBouncing (word doc. examples from ECS Exceptional Children Services)

    This resource was authored by Watson Institute Special Education Consultant, Lisa Plastino, M.Ed.

    If you have questions or concerns about the Watson Institute’s use of this information, please contact us.