Library/Classroom: 
Student refuses to sit and listen to a story.  Student can sit at a table or designated location.  Student may stand and look out the window.  Another adaptation is to have the child read a book (alone or with someone) in another part of the library.

Physical Education: 
Is assisted by an adult (adult may model while student sits and watches); can sit and watch but must stay in the gym; suggest that he/she “watch a friend”; student partner games; post activities for the session; 2 – 3 activities to participate in during PE class.

Art Class:
Provide choices with what child might create using mediums provided.  Adult or student assistance to help draw, cut, paint, etc.  Great time for an occupational therapist to push in and assist the student.

Refuses to complete seatwork activities:
Stand and work on the shelf by the window; work at a different table/corner in the room; prioritize assignments or modify the amount of work to be completed (emphasize quality rather than quantity); adult may record responses; turn taking with work items – both provide modeling, reinforcement and task completion.

Needs Break from Class:
Therapy sessions (when appropriate); run an errand; take a note to someone familiar; down time – personal space; computer; play a game with classmate; time in Resource Room or Special Education class.

Large Group Activities in Class:
If student is does not come to the rug, allow and alternate place to sit (desk, rocking chair, bean bag chair, etc.), have a cushion/carpet square to sit on; allow student to sit on the perimeter of the rug.

Write/Draw:
Trace a model; copy from a model; dictate; dot to dot; imitation; expect simple tasks competed (e.g., label vs. writing in complete sentences).

Recess or Free Play:
Have choices that interest the child (e.g., books, computer, blocks, play school, tag).  Participation increased as kids showed interest in same activities.

Use Humor:
Just be ready to receive some silly comments (a great way for children to play with language!)

Use Songs/Music:
Some students respond to special lyrics or directives put into song.

Use Text and/or Pictures:
To improve responses to “wh” questions or to demonstrate comprehension

Provide Processing Time Following a Question or Request

Look For Patterns:
Don’t jump on the bandwagon or completely change what worked 3 days ago.  The child could be having an off day, something may be different at home, and a student may be tired or not feeling well.  Allow some flexibility in the schedule.  After all, each of us can have and off day!!

Home Communication:
A daily journal to drop a note to let others know of home and school activities.  Bring pictures from home or a special toy.  For journal entries, have the student communicate with home by writing an entry to a family member.