In the Learning Together program, we use a visual behavior management
program which operates on the same principle as a traffic light (something
which all of the children are familiar with prior to coming to school.)
As is the case with a traffic light, the top circle on the visual display is
a large red circle. Pictured in the circle are examples of "Red Behavior" -
behavior which must STOP immediately. The middle circle is "Yellow
Behavior" - which is worthy of a warning, and last is the green circle in
which are pictured "Green Behaviors" - which are behaviors we want to see
continue. Examples of each type of behavior are listed below.
Each staff member also wears a lanyard which has miniature versions of the
behavior pictures. In September, direct teaching is done to teach the
children what the pictures represent and WHY the behaviors are depicted in
the specific colors they are shown in. During lessons, the staff members
can show specific children a picture card which indicates the type of
behavior being observed. It can serve to reinforce positive behaviors
and/or eliminate negative behaviors without interfering with the lesson.
In times of crisis when the children are less likely to respond to verbal
commands, the visual representations of expected behavior tend to be more
successful.
Below are some examples of each type of behavior. New pictures are added as
new behaviors are displayed in the classroom.
Red Behaviors-(behaviors which must STOP immediately): Biting, Kicking,
Pinching, Screaming, Throwing things, Running in the classroom, Grabbing
things, etc.
Yellow Behaviors-(behaviors which warrant a warning): Laying down in group
lessons, Touching friends, Talking out (instead of raising your hand),
Talking to friends during a lesson, etc.
Green Behaviors-(behaviors which we want to see continue): Sharing, Raising
your hand, Using kind words, Sitting "criss-cross-applesauce" on the rug,
Eyes on teacher during lessons, Taking turns, etc.
We have found this behavior management system to be very successful and have
shared it with other teachers and programs in the district. If you have
specific questions about our behavior program, feel free to let us know and
we would be happy to discuss it further.
