Question:

I have a student who whines, cries, and protests loudly over class assignments.  His behavior irritates everyone!

Special Day Class/Learning Handicapped Teacher

Answer:

• If yes, ask him exactly what it is that bothers him.  If no answer is forthcoming, offer some suggestions.   When you have identified the problem, have the student assist you in coming up with alternative ways to complete the assignment, i.e., tape record instead of write, do the odd problems, use sticky notes to cover part of the assignment to reduce the visual distractions or the feeling of being overwhelm by so much to do, etc.

• If there is no pattern, look at the antecedent conditions.  Did someone bother him?  Does he appear tired?  Hungry?  Grouchy? Has he had his medication (if he takes any)?  Is he angry with someone or is someone angry with him?. . .  Once you have discovered the antecedent you can take steps to solve the problem.  Possibly this will provide you with the opportunity to teach new skills, i.e.,  if the behavior is caused by being angry with someone, conflict resolution could be taught.

Remember, a student's behavior is communication, i.e., they are attempting to get their needs met.

Web Links:

http://www.wrigtslaw.com
Wrights  law is a site with information for parents, educators, experts, and attorneys to effectively advocate for children with disabilities.

Additional Resources:

Behavioral Disorders
Journal of the Council for Children with Behavioral Disorders is published 4 times a year.  To order contact:

The Council for Children with Behavioral Disorders
The Council for Exceptional Children
1920 Association Drive
Reston, VA 20191-1589

Childswork ChildsPLAY is a catalog directed toward counselors which has useful products for educators to address the social and emotional needs of children and adolescents. 1-800-962-1141 or http://www.childswork.com