Asking for a break is a great replacement behavior for students trying to escape a certain situation. However, not all breaks are going to be effective for every student. Truly understanding the function of a student's behavior and what they are trying to escape from is key to understanding what an effective break would be for that student.

When looking at replacement behavior strategies and determining what your student would benefit from in terms of a break, it is important to remember that a break is not a timeout. There are several factors that go into an effective break for your students and each student is going to have different preferences. In this episode, I am breaking down what to consider when determining break options for your students.

06:12 - The importance of recognizing that a break is not a timeout 

10:00 - Why it is not necessary to have a specific area for breaks

11:27 - Examples of how a break may look with or without other people with the student

12:50 - How offering choices can work when students ask for a break

13:54 - Ways that breaks can offer an opportunity for emotional regulation

Show Notes: http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode207

Resources:

• Calm Down Tools: Social Stories & Visual Supports for Self-Regulation & Behavior
• Behavior Data Sheets - Editable Behavior Tracker MegaPack for Special Ed & RTI
• Join the Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library
• Get more information about the Special Educator Academy
• Join the Free Facebook Group

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