Step 1: Stop before entering the
place
This is especially important at places where misbehaviour often occurs.
Take the child aside and come down to their level. Ensure that whilst you are
speaking, the child is listening, and not distracted.
Step 2: Set up the rules before entering
the place
Using short, brief statements,
give the child up to 3 rules that are commonly violated there. Next, get the
child to repeat the rules back to you. If they refuse to repeat the rules, give
a warning that they will have to go to time out. If they continue to refuse,
take them to serve time out immediately.
Step 3: Set up an incentive that the child
can earn by using compliant behaviour
Whilst still outside, clearly
explain to the child what they will earn if they adhere to the rules. Some
examples of rewards are points, tokens, praise, and healthy snack foods. These
should be given throughout the outing as they are earned to immediately
reinforce good behaviour, rather than saving them until later. Purchased
rewards may also be used for very good behaviour, but should be kept for rare
occasions, to prevent the child from coming to expect them.
Step 4: Set up your punishment for
noncompliance
Also before entering, clearly explain to the child what the
punishment will be for not following the rules or for misbehaving. For example,
minor rule violations could warrant the loss of points or tokens, whilst a
major violation might warrant a time out. If the child misbehaves, the
punishment should be served immediately without repeating any rules, warnings
or commands. The disciplinary procedure should be carried out in the same way
that it would be at home.
When away from home and in public, time out
is the most effective method of managing
misbehaviour. As a result, children only to serve half their usual time in time
out for it to be effective. Upon arrival to a new place, look for appropriate
and convenient place that could be used for time out if needed.
Step 5:
Give your child an activity to do
Children with ADHD tend to get bored quickly... even more so
than other children! Therefore, when going out, it is important that you plan
ahead and give children activities to do that will occupy their hands and
minds. Small things are often the most convenient, including toys, games, and
hand-held devices. If you find yourself somewhere unprepared, involve the child
in the purpose of the trip by giving them a helpful role, such as helping to
pick groceries at the supermarket. REMEMBER: Give plenty of praise and positive
feedback to your child when you see them following the rules and behaving!
At the shops: Utilise a stimulus-free corner of a quiet area,
an empty aisle, or on the dull side of a display case
In church: The ‘crying room’ used for irritable babies,
the foyer, or restroom
In restaurants: The restroom
In other peoples’ homes: A chair or corner in a quiet room
or hallway
During a long car trip: Pull over and have the child sit on
the floor in the back seat, or on a mat outside the car
Here is a great video on the time out technique, more of which you learn
