GUIDED COMPLIANCE WITH CHILDREN

Guided compliance is a behavior guiding technique that can be used with younger children with limited language skills. This technique can help to increase their compliance and develop better attending skills.

1) Give a directive (command).
•Give a small simple task that is developmentally appropriate.
•The directive is not a request.
•Give only one directive at a time using simple language the child will most likely understand.
•Use pantomime gestures or nonverbals if appropriate (i.e. give a hug—wrap arms around self and hug self).
•Use an even tone of voice or be dramatic in the positive to get their attention

Example: “give momma the shoes” “hug mamma”
2)If your child follows the directive praise him/her.
3)If the child does not follow the command within 3 seconds:
•Repeat the command in the exact same wording and tone.
•Physically guide the child through the action you have commanded.
•Compliment/praise your child as if he/she had completed the command for the first time by their self.
•Do not repeat the command without physically guiding them.
•The only difference between the first and the second command is voluntary vs. involuntary control for your child.

It works best to use the language you and your child are most familiar. You can imagine to use guided compliance during bed time routine, eating etc.
It the situation where a younger child is displaying inappropriate social behaviors you can substitute the desired behavior for the command. You avoid telling the child what not to do and tell the child what it is you desire. If the child does not do what it is you commanded (desired) after the first request than you guide the desired behavior physically with the child and then praise the child as if they had done it voluntarily. Work at stating the desired behavior in place of stating..”don’t….” You can save that teaching for another time.

For example: If your child hits you, then you request the child to “love” (hug) mama/papa/dada and then follow through with the above directions. The result should be a more positive experience for both of you.

Beth Rogerson Ph.D. 2004