With the H1N1 Swine Flu and the importance of preventing the spread of germs and universal precautions plus the need to pay attention to age appropriateness and abuse prevention there is a need for some students to work on remembering that "Kisses are for Home". Of course, when changing any behavior it is important for us as educators to realize the function of the behavior (all behaviors are communication) and then teach and reward a replacement behavior. One function of kissing (and hugging) staff and peers at school is simply that a kiss (or hug) is easier than using verbal or augmentative communication to express affection or appreciation. A high five, smile and wink (depending on the setting) or a sign language "I love you" can be taught as a replacement. Verbal or AAC using students can be taught replacements phrases as well. Below is a communication board I will be introducing to a student next week.
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This is great! Thanks for sharing.
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