Trey is a four-year-old with Down syndrome in your class. To support him in cleaning up his space after
snack, which of the following should you avoid doing?
A. Repeat expectations, such as "Your napkin goes in the trash."
B. Conceal your feelings about the importance of cleaning up.
C. Move the trashcan closer to his seat.
D. Accept and acknowledge that he throws away his napkin, even if he leaves his cup on the table.
And your answer is?
my answer is a.
I disagree. What does your book say?
To support Trey, a four-year-old with Down syndrome, in cleaning up his space after snack, you should avoid doing option C - moving the trashcan closer to his seat.
Explanation:
Option A suggests that you should repeat expectations, such as saying "Your napkin goes in the trash." This is a helpful strategy as repetition can often be beneficial in reinforcing expectations and helping Trey understand what is expected of him.
Option B advises against concealing your feelings about the importance of cleaning up. It is important to express to Trey that cleaning up is important and valued, as this can help him learn and develop his understanding of appropriate behaviors.
Option C, however, should be avoided. Moving the trashcan closer to his seat may seem like a helpful modification, but it might unintentionally provide Trey with an easy way out of taking responsibility for cleaning up. It is important to encourage him to fully participate and learn the skills necessary to clean up independently, even if it requires some assistance or guidance from you.
Option D suggests accepting and acknowledging that Trey throws away his napkin, even if he leaves his cup on the table. While it is essential to praise and reinforce the positive behaviors Trey exhibits, it is equally necessary to gently guide and support him in improving other aspects of cleaning up, such as reminding him to also put away his cup along with his napkin.
In conclusion, to support Trey in cleaning up his space after snack, you should avoid moving the trashcan closer to his seat (option C). Instead, you should repeat expectations, express the importance of cleaning up, and provide guidance and support as needed.