Children with disabilities can be confused, stressed and bothered by demands, verbal directions, sensory stimulation, and expectations they do not understand. Their inability to express their confusion directly may result in disruptive or aggressive behavior. As early childhood educators, we look for ways to teach children which behaviors are appropriate. Depending on the type of problem behaviors and analysis of probable cause or communicative intent, intervention strategies are selected. Many of the following strategies not only benefit the child with disabilities, but are helpful suggestions for all children.

Nadine McBride and Carol Logie (1992) have identified common situations in which behavior problems are likely to occur and offer instructions into the problems and practical suggestions for strategies which will support more appropriate behavior.