Behavior Specialist
Understanding Behavior & Support
Our Approach: PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports)
At Parlier Unified, we believe that a safe and supportive school climate is built on reinforcement, not just punishment. We use a framework called PBIS, which focuses on teaching students the behaviors we want to see—much like we teach math or reading.
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Proactive Teaching: We explicitly teach school-wide expectations (e.g., "Be Safe, Be Respectful, Be Responsible") in every setting, from the classroom to the cafeteria.
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Positive Reinforcement: We catch students doing the right thing. By providing frequent positive feedback and rewards for expected behavior, we build a culture where students feel seen and valued.
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Instructional Discipline: When a student makes a mistake, our goal is to help them learn a better way. Instead of only using consequences, we use "re-teaching" moments to ensure the student knows how to succeed next time.
The "Why" Behind the Action: Behavior is Communication
We view every behavior—whether positive or challenging—as a form of communication. When a student struggles, they are usually sending a message about a need that isn't being met. By identifying the "why" (also known as the Function of Behavior), we can provide the right support.
Most behaviors serve one of four primary functions:
The Function What the Student Communicating
The Home-to-School Connection: Behavior Strategy Cheat Sheet
At school, we use Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to create a predictable and supportive environment. You can use these same strategies at home to help your child feel successful and understood.
1. The Power of "Positive Phrasing"
Tell your child what to do instead of what not to do. This gives their brain a clear instruction to follow.
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Instead of: "Stop running!"
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Try: "Please use your walking feet."
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Instead of: "Don't touch that!"
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Try: "Keep your hands in your pockets or by your side."
2. Use "First/Then" Language
This is a simple way to create a predictable schedule and help with transitions. It focuses on the reward waiting at the finish line.
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"First we put our shoes away, then we can have a snack."
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"First we finish two math problems, then we take a 2-minute LEGO break."
3. Be a "Behavior Detective"
When your child is struggling, ask yourself: What is this behavior communicating?
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If they are escaping a task: Break the chore into three tiny steps instead of one big one.
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If they are seeking connection: Spend 5 minutes of "Special Time" with no phones or distractions before starting homework.
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If they are seeking a sensory break: Offer a "heavy work" activity, like carrying a basket of laundry or doing five jumping jacks.
4. The "4-to-1" Rule
In PBIS, we strive for four positive interactions for every one correction.
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Positive interactions don't have to be big rewards; they can be a "high-five," a thumbs-up, or saying, "I noticed how hard you worked on that drawing!"
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High-frequency praise builds a "behavioral bank account" that makes it easier for the child to accept a correction when they eventually make a mistake.
5. Create a "Calm-Down Kit"
Rather than a "Time-Out" (which can feel like a rejection), try a "Time-In" or a "Calm-Down Corner." This is a designated space with:
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A soft pillow or beanbag.
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Fidget tools or playdough.
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A visual "Breathing Card" (Smell the flower, blow out the candle).
Checklist for Success
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[ ] Is it predictable? Does my child know exactly what is happening next?
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[ ] Is it visual? Can I use a timer or a picture to show them the expectation?
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[ ] Is it calm? Am I modeling the calm behavior I want to see from them?