Communication-Based Behavior Problems

You are not alone! Many children with speech and language delays have trouble with behaviors. 

Behaviors that are commonly seen in children who can’t communicate include the following and many more!

• ​Getting frustrated due to not being able to communicate
• Giving up trying to communicate easily
• Screaming and kicking when not getting their way due to lack of communication and negotiation skills
• Difficulty with transitions between what the child is already doing and a new activity

What You Can Do to Alleviate Behavior Problems

• Provide alternate means of communicating, such as offering pictures, having child lead you to what he wants, etc.
• When speaking to your child, such as to give directions, show him pictures of what you want him to do or what you’re trying to tell him
• Prepare for transitions using pictures of what is coming next or where you are going
• Provide choices (even when there isn’t really a choice) so your child feels some control
• Prep for difficult outings or events with social stories​
• Practice desired behaviors before they happen and then show pictures or remind before the actual event.  Praise your child for good behaviors, even if you had to help him do it.
• Follow through with consequences and be consistent, including across different care providers.  Make sure Grandma, babysitter, Dad, and everyone has the same expectations for your child and is following through with the same consequences

References

This article was originally written by Speech and Language Kids. You can read the original text from here.