What is Planned Ignoring?

Summary

Planned ignoring means purposefully not responding to certain behaviors in children with special needs. This helps guide them towards better actions by not giving attention to unwanted behaviors. It’s like gently showing them that positive actions lead to better results.

Frequently Asked Questions
Science Person Definition
Real World Example of Planned Ignoring
How Does Planned Ignoring Work?
Recommended Products
Related Topics

Frequently Asked Question

Is Planned Ignoring effective for all behaviors?

Planned Ignoring works best for attention-seeking behaviors, mild disruptions, and repetitive actions. It aims to discourage behaviors that thrive on attention, while reinforcing positive actions through acknowledgment and praise.

Won't ignoring unwanted behaviors make them worse?

Ignoring behaviors isn’t about neglect; it’s a careful strategy. When done correctly, Planned Ignoring diminishes the reinforcement that negative behaviors seek, making them less appealing and encouraging children to seek positive attention instead.

How can I implement Planned Ignoring without causing distress?

It’s important to remain calm and consistent. When ignoring a behavior, offer alternative activities or direct attention to positive actions. Gradually, children learn that desired behaviors lead to more engagement.

Is Planned Ignoring the only approach I should use?

Planned Ignoring is one tool in a larger toolkit. Combining it with positive reinforcement, clear communication, and targeted interventions can create a well-rounded strategy for guiding behavior in children with special needs.

Scientific Definition

Planned ignoring, or strategic ignoring, is a behavior management technique used with children with special needs. This approach involves caregivers or educators deliberately withholding attention or reactions in response to specific unwanted behaviors displayed by the child. By doing so, they aim to discourage those behaviors by denying them the reinforcement they seek. This method emphasizes reinforcing positive behaviors through attention and praise while gradually reducing attention to undesirable behaviors. It is a proactive strategy that fosters positive behavior development and communication skills in children with special needs.

Real World Example of Planned Ignoring

Meet Susie, a bright and curious child with special needs. Let’s see how her family used planned ignoring to guide her behavior positively:

Attention-Seeking: Susie loved playing with her blocks but often interrupted conversations for attention. Her parents decided to use planned ignoring. When she interrupted, they gently turned away, showing her that polite communication was more effective.
Tantrum Time: One evening, Susie wanted a cookie before dinner. When denied, she threw a tantrum. Her parents stayed calm, not reacting to the outburst. Once she settled down, they praised her for calming herself and redirected her to choose a healthy snack.
Repetitive Play: Susie’s habit of tapping on tables for attention was challenging. Her parents resisted responding and started a game with her blocks. Intrigued, Susie joined in, learning positive ways to engage.
Quiet Victory: At bedtime, Susie used to resist brushing her teeth. Her parents stayed calm, not arguing. Instead, they used Goally’s gamified app to make teeth-brushing a fun routine, gradually making it a quiet success.

Through planned ignoring, Susie’s family nurtured her positive behaviors, showing that patience and redirection can create remarkable progress.

How Does Planned Ignoring Work?

Planned ignoring is a powerful tool that guides positive behavior in children with special needs. Here’s how it works:

Tantrums: When a child throws a tantrum, avoiding eye contact and refraining from responding can discourage the behavior. Once they calm down, acknowledging their improved state reinforces their ability to express themselves without tantrums.
Attention-Seeking Behaviors: If a child engages in attention-seeking behaviors like interrupting conversations, withholding responses teaches them that polite communication is more effective in gaining attention.
Repetitive Actions: If a child repeats an action for attention, not reacting can diminish its appeal. Shifting the focus to a more productive activity encourages positive engagement.
Mild Disruptive Actions: For minor disruptive actions, like tapping or making noises, not addressing them prevents escalation while rewarding quiet and focused behavior.

Planned ignoring shapes positive behaviors in children with special needs. Goally’s diverse apps, from life skills to emotional regulation, provide a comprehensive platform that complements techniques like planned ignoring and fostering growth dynamically.

Recommended Products

1. The Rules by Goally 2. How to Use Planned Ignoring by R. Vance Hall 3. Behavior Management Skills Guide by Scott Walls 4. Visual Schedule App by Goally