Proactive Strategies
Tip Sheet
What is it?
Proactive (antecedent) strategies are tools used to prevent or avoid problem behaviour or
dysregulation from occurring. They are introduced before any challenging behaviours and help to
reduce the chances of them occurring.
Proactive Strategies include:
1. Visual supports – can support children in understanding the expectations and instructions. They
provide structure and allow children to know what is coming next. For example, First-Then
board, red-green schedule.
2. Transition warnings – can support children in understanding how long an activity would be, or
how much longer they have with a preferred activity or item. Sudden end (termination) to an
activity may be difficult for some children. Can use timers, visuals, count-downs, etc.
3. Give clear and simple instructions – can support children in understanding what the
expectations are.
Ensure child is looking or paying attention.
Be clear and direct.
Statements and avoid questions.
Give instructions up to two times.
Allow for processing time (e.g., 5 seconds).
Ensure they are realistic expectations.
Stay calm.
4. Choices – can give children a sense of control and independence. When offered choices such as
“Do you want the ball or car?” it can be easier for children to make a choice, then to ask “What
do you want?
5. Descriptive praise – can encourage positive behaviours in children. Let them know exactly what
it is that they are doing well. This can encourage or motivate them to do it again.
6. Positive attention – catch children while they are doing something good and provide them with
praise. Checking in and letting them know they are playing nicely, and giving them attention can
promote positive behaviour.
7. Reward system – can encourage positive behaviour in children. Parents can select certain
behaviours and provide a certain reward when children demonstrate these positive behaviours.
Some reward systems can include: behaviour charts, first-then, level system, etc.
