How to Develop Behavior Contracts
INTRODUCTION
A behavior contract is an agreement between the child and teacher and often includes the student’s parent(s).
The behavior contract is a written agreement about how the individual will behave.
It will indicate the appropriate consequence should the student neglect to behave according to the contract and it also states the reinforcer to be used for successful compliance. The behavior contract provides the student with structure and self-management.
DEVELOPING THE CONTRACT
The contract should be written with the student and teacher – collaboration. It would be wise to involve the parent under certain circumstances. The contract should include the following:
- The goal. (Will not speak out…..will keep hands to him/herself…..will remain on task….etc.)
- How will the student receive the reward? (Become the teacher’s monitor after completing 5 assignments on time etc.)
- What is the consequence should the child not adhere to the behavior described in the contract?
- Time should be clearly stated in the contract. You may choose a half day, a full day, a week etc.
- Define who and how the behavior will be monitored. (teacher initials, stickers, check mark system etc.)
- Set a date for reviewing the contract
It is important to involve the student in the writing of the contract.
Ask the student to make suggestions for reinforcement and consequence for failure to comply.
Contracts should name specific behaviors to be changed.
Focus on 1 or 2 behaviors at a time.
Consequences and reinforcers need to be thought out clearly. You can include tangible reinforcers, social or activity based reinforcers, curtailment of an activity, tokens that can be cashed in for a specific activity etc.
NOTE: A minor problem with behavior contracts is that the focus is on controlling a student’s behavior rather than helping the child make wise choices.
Keep this in mind when developing behavior contracts. Behavior contracts don’t often work right away, be patient and consistent, you should see results.
Know when it’s time to review and revise. When the contract is not working well, be sure to include the student when making revisions.
SOME SUCCESSFUL REINFORCERS/REWARDS
- Teacher Helper
- Caring for Class Pet
- 5-10 Minute Free Choice Activity
- Happy Note to Mom
- Tell the Class a Joke or Read a Text Selection
- Free Library Period
- Read with a Buddy
- Listen to a taped story
- Provide Office Help
- Leading the Group
- Helping In Another Classroom
Once again, a little patience goes a long way.
It is critical for the student to know that you like them and that you’re only disappointed in their behavior.
Be sure to let the student know that you share their goals, you both want what’s best for the student. Praise goes a long way.
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