Some people with disabilities (e.g. autism, ADHD, brain injury and/or intellectual disabilities.) enjoy one-on-one work. However, for many of individuals, sitting with a teacher or therapist is the last thing they want to do and they will engage in a number of challenging behaviors to avoid or escape from the situation. This session will discuss a method called preference-based teaching and provide a hands on opportunity for teachers and therapists to learn some techniques to make their therapy or work sessions more enjoyable for individuals with whom they work. These techniques should result in less challenging behaviour and individuals who are excited to work with you.

This workshop is most suitable for anyone who works directly with chidlren or adults in instructional situations - for example teachers, teacher aides, speech language therapists and occupational therapists.

Dr. Katrina Phillips is a Senior Lecturer in the Applied Behaviour Analysis programme at the University of Auckland. She has extensive experience within community and school settings, teaching varied skills to children and adults with a range of disabilities.