PBIS at Home
Schools implementing PBIS create a set of expectations, share them
with the students and then model them using class exercises. These
expectations remain the same for students on the playground, in the
classroom and on the bus. But, what about at home?
Using PBIS at home can help students maintain those expectations.
Family Involvement in School-wide PBIS
Schools implementing PBIS are typically eager to have participation from parents and families. So, get ready to get involved!
In the early stages of PBIS, schools will often send a letter discussing:
- “The Rules” or a set of simple expectations, developed by the
school, to communicate what is expected of all students in all areas of
the school.
- Rewards used to reinforce positive behavior.
- Consequences of choosing to go against the rules.
As parents, this letter provides you with a great tool! You can
review the letter with your child so both of you understand what is
expected at school. Ask your child, “Do you understand these rules? Do
you think you can follow these rules at school?” This is also an
opportunity to talk about your expectations at home. Consider posting
the expectations on your refrigerator door and use them for reference.
Don’t forget, you must inspect what you expect!
Get Involved in Your School’s PBIS Initiative
- Learn more about PBIS.
- Join the PBIS Leadership Team at your child’s school.
- Review the PBIS materials sent home with your child.
- Learn “The Rules” that have been implemented at your child’s school and create consistency by enforcing them at home.
- Encourage other parents and family members to take an active role in PBIS.
- Share the PBIS successes from your family with your child’s PBIS leaders.
Expected Behavior at Home
Different homes may have different sets of expectations. Whatever you
decide is right for your home, it is important to set the expectations
and then follow through. To help you get started here are a few tips
other families use:
Example #1 | Use positive wording
When misbehavior occurs offer positive alternatives instead of harsh criticism.
| Negative Reaction |
Positive Alternative |
| Don’t run. |
Walk. |
| Stop yelling. |
Use your inside voice. |
| No playing catch inside. |
Play catch out in the yard. |
Example #2 | Be a teacher
If you have to say no, give a reason why.
Scenario: While shopping your child asks you to buy
him a toy. He already has toys and you are short on time. You tell your
child “No, we cannot buy that toy today. You already have a toy in the
car to play with on the way home.”
If your child accepts your answer make sure to compliment him.
Example #3 | Reward positive behavior
Use positive reinforcement to teach children what actions are
accepted and desired. Rewards don’t need to cost a thing. Try sitting
down with your child to find out what rewards would work best.
- Ask your child to make a list of the things they enjoy like going to
the park or getting ice cream together. This will help you determine
what they are motivated by.
- Create a special "reward" basket of toys that you already own, but
they only get to play with when they have shown what was expected. You
can do this with stickers as well to earn the basket of toys.
- Create a menu of rewards, such as special dinners, special desserts,
computer time, game night, watching extra TV, extra book time, etc.
- Create celebration dances or songs.
- Create a system of recognition. If one of your expectations is that
your child will do chores each week, create a board that lists each
chore. When your child has completed a chore, use a sticker to mark it
complete. At the end of the week, give a reward if all chores are
complete. Consider choosing a reward from the list your child made of
things they enjoy!
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