Providing Choices
Providing choice can make all the difference
Providing an individual with choice can lead to a number of positive outcomes:
Increasing compliance
Decreasing problem behaviours
Encouraging independence
Promoting the individual’s feelings of control and confidence
What are some choices that can be offered?
Snacks
Activities
Toys
Tasks (e.g. chores, academic work)
Materials (e.g. red or green toothbrush, pencil or pen)
Time
Location
Relaxation and/or coping strategies
Other Helpful Tips:
Choices can be provided verbally many times throughout the day
For some individuals it may be beneficial to have a visual that displays his/her options – this is called a Choice Board
Choice Boards should be tailored to best fit the individual’s needs
It may only include 2 options or it could offer many more
Choices may be presented in pictures or written words
If you are using pictures, the internet is a great resource to find clipart or real-life photos to use. Taking your own photos and putting them into a Choice Board is a great option as well!
Providing Choices Resources
What Does Research Say on Providing Choice?
When choosing any intervention strategy it is important to know what research evidence is there to support the effectiveness of the strategy. These articles will provide you some insight into the evidence available on providing. Much more research is available on this topic.
An Evaluation of the Value of Choice with Pre-school children
Effects of Choice Making on the Serious Problem Behavior of Students with Severe Handicaps
Choice Making to Promote Adaptive Behavior for Students with Emotional and Behavioral Challenges
Evaluation of Client Preference for Function-Based Treatment Packages