At younger ages, temporarily removing the child from the situation may be the most appropriate and effective response. We may need to first observe to see what the trigger in a situation sets a child off, and work from that point.

It is important for younger children to teach them and then encourage a less unacceptable substitute behavior. Sometimes behaviors become more extreme when new rules are introduced, but children need to test the limits so they know what is really expected. Having faith in the capability of our children is most important at these times.

One of the most commonly heard suggestions among professionals who study children with challenging behaviors is to 'catch them being good.' Giving them attention and praise when they are behaving like we would like them to act more often is amazingly rewarding to children.

Another suggestion is to use affirmations in our daily exchanges with our children. Saying things like, "It's nice being with you," "I'm glad we are together," "You are a wonderful son/daughter," or "I'm so happy that I am your mom" can cause unexpected positive changes in their behavior as well as our responses to their sporadic behavioral shortcomings.

It is never a good idea to label a child; a behavior may be unacceptable but it should not be used to define the child. Likewise, it is better to use 'people first' language when introducing a child's special needs.

Sometimes it's best to write two or three rules and post them on the refrigerator, to divert a power struggle between child and parent to a contract between the child and the refrigerator. This is a surprisingly good aid for learning to read and tell time.

As parents, it is our responsibility to guide and discipline our children, and create a safe, welcoming home for the whole family. Maintaining a positive relationship while supporting and encouraging children is as important to their development as any intervention, treatment or special program. This does not mean ignoring, excusing or accepting problem behavior without consequences.

Books on teaching self-discipline to our children are available at public libraries, bookstores and parent group libraries, as well as amazon.com
Parent Magic - One Two Three Magic - Products

Applied Behavior Analysis
http://www.cdss.ca/en/resources/personal_stories/ABA%20by%20Liz%20Steele.pdf

ABA Board Certified Behavior Analysts by State
http://www.bacb.com

Making an Argument for Social Skills Support in School
Review of Social Relationships and Peer Support by Rachel Janney & Martha Snell
http://www.brookespublishing.com/newsletters/ed-article-0906.htm

Dr. Mac's Amazing Behavior Management Advice Site for Teachers - Thomas McIntyre
http://www.behavioradvisor.com

The Behavior Survival Guide for Kids by Thomas McIntyre

Promoting Social Success A Curriculum for Children with Special Needs
by Gary N. Siperstein, Ph.D., & Emily Paige Rickards, M.A.
http://www.brookespublishing.com/store/books/siperstein-6741/index.htm

The Gift of ADHD - How to Transform Your Child's Problems into Strengths

visionarysoul.com

The Gift of ADHD - Activity Book

Celebrate ADHD

The Edison Gene - ADHD and the Gift of the Hunter Child

Making ADHD a Gift - Teaching Superman How to Fly

The ADHD Affected Athlete

University of Oregon Resources
Positive Behavior Support at School
http://darkwing.uoregon.edu/~ttobin/

University of Oregon Resources
Difficult Behaviors and Successful Interventions
Function Based Support at School
http://darkwing.uoregon.edu/~ttobin/enufhtml.htm

One Two Three Magic

Brookes Publishing Co Article
Bringing It Home: Positive Behavior Support
http://www.brookespublishing.com/newsletters/dd-article-1006.htm

Is Diversity Like A New Box of Crayons?
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art5144.asp

Disability Advocacy and Awareness
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art35878.asp

Recess Skills for Children with Special Needs
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art432.asp

Music Education for Children with Special Needs
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art33733.asp

Reading Readiness and Reading Strategies
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art35577.asp

Sibling Support and Rivalry

Learning Disabilities
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art33533.asp

Grandparents of Children with Special Needs
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art37114.asp

Teens with Disabilities - Transition Planning
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art33519.asp

Behavior problems can often be symptoms of medical problems

Mental Wellness in Teens and Adults with Down Syndrome A Guide to Emotional and Behavioral Strengths and Challenges
by Dennis McGuire and Brian Chicoine

Sleep Disorders and Children with Special Needs
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art33877.asp

Celiac Disease in Children
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art21075.asp

Reflux - Pediatric GERD, Infant GER and EER
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art3730.asp

Symptoms of Childhood Onset Diabetes
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art32583.asp