A minder: protecting the child from the rest of the class or the rest of the class from the child

The behavior always tends to have a purpose. If a child with ASD is non-compliant or badly behaved, it is likely that the child does not understand what is required or knows what is about to happen and wants to avoid it. As an extreme example, spitting, scratching or biting are a successful way of making people move away from you, but it is not a long-term strategy that will build friendships. Alternative behaviors need to be taught that are more socially acceptable and appropriate. Observations considering the antecedents, the actual behavior and the consequences of the behavior carried out with staff with expertise in behavior analysis and an understanding of ASD will be needed.

If a physical intervention has to be used, make sure that this conforms to the national and local guidance. It should not become the first form of intervention because it removes choice and control from the individual. Other proactive strategies of prevention should be employed whenever possible. Make sure you know them.

Sometimes a quiet area is needed as a secure base to prepare for a lesson or social event or to relax after the challenge of a social event. However, one needs to be aware of the degree of exclusion that may be occurring because of this.