The kids are starting to show more group cohesion and we've been able to successfully work with the majority of those who display oppositional or less/non-compliant behavior. Typically Positive Practice is the method we use. This is where we have them "back up the the tape" of what they just did and demonstrate the behavior in a more positive way. We also make use of both the "blue tickets" and "hero tickets." Blue tickets are given whenever a child exhibits a positive behavior that we want to see occur more often. Hero tickets are given for behaviors that require more motivation and effort.
As for group today, it was certainly a bit hectic, but there was quite a bit going on. We started off by shopping at Gelsons for frozen fruit to make our own smoothies (I purchased a high powered blender to do the job). Practically all of them them tried it and they generally gave it a "thumbs up" (frozen strawberries, mango, apple juice, and little orange sherbet). Lunch slightly delayed to coincide with the parent meeting from 1:15pm-2:15pm. The kids worked on more of their first project, creating voices. They also watched a cartoon about negotiating, which I will be discussing with them at a future date (two aliens try to change colors on Earth then compromise).
The parent meeting was audio-recorded and a link will be sent to families next week to access it. We mostly covered what strategies parents need to employ to support the program and plan for generalization of gains. Major areas included: types of consequences used, an explanation of how to prompt and remind kids, use of social rather than tangible reinforcement, and avoiding any "promises for being good in group." We also reviewed the LUNCH Points program, which is our home/community behavior generalization system and this will go live over the weekend.
While the parents met, the kids were outside with four counselors (Rina provided backup) eating what they had purchased at Gelsons then played games, before coming inside for more activities. The only disruption, ironically, where the kids who were not part of group who accompanied their parents and waited in the waiting room during the meeting. It's hard to juggle and, that proved to be one additional distraction, but overall, we were able to cover what we needed.
There will be a parent dinner for both groups next Tuesday and another parent meeting, just for the Kids' Group in two weeks. Consult the calendar. Teleconferences have not presently been scheduled, but if you wish to review how to use the web site or need assistance with other technology, email us and I will set one up.
Have a great weekend!
Bruce
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