We all know about anticeedant, behaviour and consequence as a formula to hypothesise the function of a behaviour. Mainly, problem behaviour is to avoid/escape, or for attention.
It is in the day to day family routine, that most parents experience stress when they are either asking their child to stop what they are doing (computer,t.v.) and do something they don't want to (toilet, put on shoes, coat, eat etc) or trying to encourage them to a task, such as brushing teeth or going to the workroom/classroom.
So here's where Two Good Choices can help.
Giving choices allows the child to feel they are in control of a situation that is usually dictated by us. Taking away the initial trigger for escape-motivated behaviour can be done by offering two choices that they like, such as location, how you are getting there, activity, reward or reinforcer.
For example: A child who does not want to go into the classroom, or up to bed may begin to escape at the mention that it's time to go. Two good choices: Shall we jump or piggy back?
Example 2: Handwashing or brushing teeth. Two good choices: Do you want a Thomas or Aeroplane sticker for brushing your teeth?
Example 3: Working at the table. Two good choices: Do you want to do counting with beads or animals? Do you want to work at the table or easel?
Example 4: Getting dressed. Two good choices: Do you want your blue or green coat? Shoes or runners?
The list is endless.
When a child feels they have some part in decision making, it can immediatley change a situation that may have been difficult.
It works for me, hope it does for you!
Claire.
I like this as it also takes the focus away from the actual request, e.g. the choice of stickers for brushing teeth :) Noted and filed for future use, thanks :) Jen.
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