Five Things to Discuss with your Behavior Technician

Nobody likes an awkward situation and since in-home ABA therapy is conducted in a very intimate setting, facilitating a comfortable and respectful environment is crucial. So, it is important to discuss some key topics with your behavior technicians right away so that no one is inadvertently crossing any boundaries and potential awkward situations are avoided. Here are five things you should discuss with your behavior technicians as soon as they start providing therapy to your kiddo.

1. House rules. House rules vary from family to family and it is important to discuss any specific rules your house may have. Some families prefer no shoes in the home, others may not mind. Behavior technicians never want to be disrespectful.
2. What areas of the house are off limits. If you have any areas of the home that therapy is not to be conducted, outline where your technicians and kiddo can play and work, and where they cannot. That way your technician and kiddo aren’t barging into grandpa’s room when he likes his privacy.
3. Any medical issues of your kiddo or anyone in the house. It is very important to discuss any medical issues that anyone in the house may have. For instance, uncle may be highly allergic to peanuts, so your technician may want to refrain from eating anything with peanuts before going to session with your kiddo. Be sure to also share this information with your management team who will ensure this information is clearly stated in your child’s therapy binder.
4. Any specific items or activities that are off limits. We want to keep your kiddo’s interest and motivation during our sessions so that our therapy is fun and effective. However, some items and activities may be a “no go”. Some parents prefer not to have their kiddo play with kinetic sand or slime because it gets everywhere. Some may have a ban on some television shows and videos. It is very important to outline what your kiddo can earn during their sessions so that a technician is not providing anything that is otherwise banned. Technicians always want to respect your rules.
5. Any special family considerations. Some families may have special activities that behavior technicians need to be aware of. For example, your family may shut down the house at a certain time of the day to pray. We want to be considerate and support your family traditions and considerations as best as we can.
   

It can be very uncomfortable for a parent and a technician, if there is a discussion after the fact if any boundaries are crossed. So just be up front about what is allowed and preferred in the home and the technicians will be happy to oblige.

Mark Crevelli, M.S., BCBA
Behavior Supervisor
Tuesday, June 16, 2020