1. Increasing Understanding to Affect Behavior for Children with ASD
Dr. Sharon Darley, Ed.D.
GAPBS Conference
December 3, 2014

2. Function of Behaviors
For individuals on the Autism Spectrum, the function of the behavior may be significantly different than expected and, therefore, require a significantly different approach to address.

3. Additional Functions of Behavior for individuals on the spectrum
Routine
Ways to address routine behaviors:
A choice board for options other than
Use the routine to develop useful behaviors
Whistle box
carpets

4. Additional Functions of Behavior for individuals on the spectrum
Ritual
Solution for ritualistic behaviors:
Add an additional step in the routine
Change the routine at the typical onset
Present a distraction
Ex. Emeka at the door frame and Suzette’s sweaty experience

5. Additional Functions of Behavior for individuals on the spectrum
Deficit in inhibition
Solutions for deficits in inhibition:
Use repetitive phrases
Give an unrelated set of directions
Visual behavior scale
Limit the number of times the student can perform the action with a visual
Count to sustain an incompatible action
Ex. Counting so Jude will be quiet.

6. Additional Functions of Behavior for individuals on the spectrum
Lack of understanding
Solutions for lack of understanding:
Social Stories
Toontastic app
Cartooning

7. Additional Functions of Behavior for individuals on the spectrum
Communication
Solutions:
Give them the words to say that they used the behavior to communicate
Teach phrases commonly used in a structured setting
Make a list of things that can and cannot be said in specific situations
Ex. Jude saying “no”

8. Executive Functioning
Using multiple brain systems at the same time to perform a task
Recent research showing promise on how to teach executive functioning to individuals on the spectrum using:
Social Stories™
Video Modeling
Power Cards

9. Contact information
Sharon Darley
Write GAPBS conference in the subject line, please