The teens are incredibly well behaved, for the most part, and this is allowing us to target a number of behaviors more successfully, mostly having to do with executive functioning and communciation. Typically Positive Practice is the method we use. This is where we have them "back up the the tape" of what they just did and demonstrate the behavior in a more positive way. We also make use of both the "blue tickets" and "hero tickets." Blue tickets are given whenever a child exhibits a positive behavior that we want to see occur more often. Hero tickets are given for behaviors that require more motivation and effort.
As for group today, it was certainly a bit hectic, but there was quite a bit going on. We started off by shopping at Gelsons for frozen fruit to make our own smoothies (I purchased a high powered blender to do the job). Practically all of them them tried it and they generally gave it a "thumbs up" (frozen strawberries, mango, apple juice, and little orange sherbet). Lunch slightly delayed to coincide with the parent meeting from 1:15pm-2:15pm. The teens worked on first project, which came about when one of them seemingly asked a question, but proceeded to give unneeded advice without waiting for someone to answer his question. You can view the project (7/9/09) by clicking here.
During the parent meeting, we mostly covered what strategies parents need to employ to support the program and plan for generalization of gains. Major areas included: types of consequences used, an explanation of how to prompt and remind kids, use of social rather than tangible reinforcement, and avoiding any "promises for being good in group." We also reviewed the LUNCH Points program, which is our home/community behavior generalization system and this will go live over the weekend.
While the parents met, the teens were outside with four counselors (Rina provided backup) eating what they had purchased at Gelsons then came inside for more activities.
There will be a parent dinner for both groups next Tuesday and another parent meeting, just for the Teens' Group in two weeks. Consult the calendar. Teleconferences have not presently been scheduled, but if you wish to review how to use the web site or need assistance with other technology, email us and I will set one up.
Next Tuesday we'll be going for laser tag. Have a great weekend!
