Resources to Support Challenging Child Behavior

I have a new student who has extremely limited communication skills and many challenging behaviors. He can imitate some sounds and words but does not use them functionally. He will hit, scream, or scratch to get something he wants or to get out of something that he doesn’t want to do. Also, when he wants something he will just go and get it on his own. His parents report the same behaviors at home and that they often give him whatever he wants just to stop the screaming.

I have a student who can not keep his spit in his mouth, but he will also purposely spit on his peers.  Do you have any suggestions?

I have a bright student with Asperger’s who is falling behind in his grades. When I talk to him about it, he doesn’t seem to understand what he has to do to pull up his grade. He doesn’t seem to care much about the work that is assigned.

My son is 9, has autism, and he is constantly sticking his tongue in his nose out of habit. The kids at school are making fun of him and it grosses other students and people out. Can you suggest a way to stop it?

So many times I have to deal with calling out behavior or tears because I did not call on a particular student. How can I decrease this behavior? I can’t call on everyone all the time.

My son screams in the grocery store and everyone stares. I barely make it through the store, what can I do?

I am a long-term sub right now in a special education class. The teacher I have been covering for is out due to a serious illness. I am attempting to put together a presentation/information about anticipatory grief to help ease the anxiety the situation has created for the students. 3 students in the class have autism and I thought there might be a social story or other resources on your site to help with this issue. Can you share any resources on helping children cope with grief?

The Watson Institute has received a number of questions from parents searching for resources to teach their child how to complete various tasks with greater independence or how to set routines for their child. For example, one parent noted that her daughter had difficulty staying focused while getting ready for bed in the evenings. She was looking for a resource to help her stay focused and be more independent. Another parent asked about teaching their son to brush his teeth before bedtime and incorporate that into his daily morning and evening routines.

We’ve also heard from educators looking for ways to support their students with exceptionalities who may have difficulty following along during activities or particular classes.

I have a bright student in my math class. She knows much of the work and when we start the workbook pages she wants to keep working ahead. If I make her wait or stop her from continuing the back side she will tantrum. What can I do to make her follow along with the class?