Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP)

If your child is having trouble with their behavior in school, he or she might need a Behavior Intervention Plan. BIP’s have been used for children who have ADD/ADHD, Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder, Opposition / Defiance, Anxiety, Laziness, or Attendance problems.

 A BIP is specifically designed to help a child learn to change his or her behavior. BIP’s are usually included in a student’s IEP (Individualized Education Program). An effective BIP includes coping strategies, support, and intervention to defuse the problem behavior. Here is a list of things a BIP should do:

·        identify and avoid triggers

·        modify environment (seating, pace, frequent breaks, leave early to transition)

·        identify emotions and learn appropriate responses to emotions

·        learn replacement behaviors (behavior must serve the same function but be socially and emotionally appropriate)

·        reward good behavior and provide consequences

For the plan to work, the child must be willing to follow the plan. It is helpful to make the child a visual of the plan (simplified) to serve as a reminder. Below is an example of items included in a BIP:

·        Problem behavior

·        Replacement behavior/ how it will be taught

·        Accommodations, such as: Special seating, Review rules, Clear directions, Frequent reminders, Breaks, Provide a cool down spot and time frame, Routine schedule/ high structure day, Avoid critiques, Avoid power struggles, Avoid contact

·        Three goals

·        Progress chart- shows positive and negative consequences

·        Evaluation: progress/ time frame

When the BIP is put in place the child must have support to change the behavior. The teacher or support staff needs to work with the child to let the child know when inappropriate behaviors are happening and alternatives to that behavior. Good behavior must be taught and rewarded. Social stories are a great way to incorporate teaching appropriate behavior. Role play and visuals are also effective.

Having clear communication with the parent and providing daily feedback will also help the child. Also, having the child’s parent enforce the BIP at home will make a big difference.