Aarti Takawane

Parenting children with special needs poses unique challenges. Aarti Takawane, child psychologist at the National Federation for the Blind, Pune and founder, SpeakSoft Training Solutions, shares 10 behaviour management strategies to support the development and well-being of special needs children.

1. Clear expectations and consistency. Children thrive on routine and structure. Set clear and consistent expectations, so they know what’s expected of them. Consistency avoids confusion and provides them with a sense of security. Use visual schedules or behaviour charts to facilitate understanding and to reinforce acceptable behaviour.
2. Positive reinforcement. Highlight and reward positive behaviour instead of focusing on correcting negative behaviour. Praise, stickers, or small rewards go a long way in encouraging children to repeat acceptable behaviour. This reinforces positive actions and builds self-esteem.
3. Visual supports. For children with special needs, visual supports such as charts, diagrams, and picture schedules help them understand what’s expected of them. Visual schedules or ‘First-Then’ boards, for example, make transitions between activities smoother and reduce anxiety about what’s coming next.
4. Break tasks into smaller tasks. Some tasks may be overwhelming or confusing for children with special needs. Break them into manageable smaller tasks and provide clear instructions so they remain on track. This also builds confidence and helps them experience a sense of accomplishment as they complete each task.
5. Use sensory tools and techniques. Special needs children often experience sensory problems that adversely affect their behaviour. Creating a sensory-friendly environment — using items such as weighted blankets, noise-canceling headphones, or soft lighting — reduces overstimulation and induces calm. Incorporate sensory breaks to enable children to refocus.
6. Teach coping skills. It’s essential to teach children appropriate ways to cope with frustration, anxiety, and other negative emotions. Teach them techniques such as deep breathing, counting, and using fidget toys. This will equip them with the skills to navigate challenging situations positively.
7. Model expected behavior. Children learn by observation. If you model calmness, patience, and empathy in your behaviour, they are more likely to mirror those traits.
8. Incorporate play and interaction. Engage children in activities they enjoy to build social and communication skills. Play is a great way to strengthen children’s cognitive, emotional, and social development. Plus, it’s a bonding experience that reinforces positive interaction.
9. Establish a calm-down space. Designate a “calm down” area in the house for children to take a break or calm down from emotional overload experiences. This space should be safe, quiet, and inviting, with soft textures and calming visuals to provide comfort.
10. Collaborate with professionals. Don’t hesitate to consult professionals such as occupational and speech therapists, behavioral specialists. They can offer guidance tailored to your children’s needs and provide more specific, individualized strategies.

Managing behaviour of special needs children requires patience, understanding, and nuanced, customised strategies. Implement these behaviour management strategies to build a nurturing environment that promotes positive behaviour, reduces stress, and enhances children’s well-being. With empathy, love, and deep understanding of children’s strengths and challenges, parents can pave the way for them to achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.

P.S. Each child is unique, therefore, these strategies need to be customised to suit specific needs.

Also read: “Parents of children with special needs SHOULD BE POSITIVE”