Promoting Positive Behavior during Virtual Schooling!

Progressive Pediatric Therapy • October 21, 2020

Written by Kathryn Ring OTR/L & Tiffany Thomsen OTR/L, edited by Danielle Olmstead COTA/L

A group of children are standing next to each other in a room.

How can I encourage positive behaviors at home during the virtual school day? 

When we look at behavior it’s important to understand behavior is a form of communication.  Children sometimes are unable to communicate their needs whether it’s due to medical, physical, emotional, cognitive, developmental, speech, or language. All behaviors have a specific purpose and when we understand the purpose, all children can feel safe, heard, valued and in turn, successful and resilient. 

A young boy is covering his eyes while using a laptop computer.

What are the different reasons for behavior and how can I help? 

The 4 most common reasons for behavior are: seeking attention, wanting to escape, expressing a need, and sensory. As a parent, work with your Progressive Pediatric therapist to figure out the behavioral trigger. Try to remove the trigger and see if the behavior continues. If the behavior continues, your therapist can:

  • Focus on how to avoid the difficult behaviors and teach new positive replacement behaviors. 
  • Use strategic behavior techniques such as positive reinforcement. Reinforcements should be meaningful and child centered, created with the child when possible, and rewarded immediately after the positive behavior occurs. Consistent reinforcement of all positive behaviors can help change the difficult behaviors. 
  • Structure the child’s learning environment, tasks, or interactions according to their needs
A child 's hand is pointing at a good behavior chart

Are negative consequences okay?

The answer is yes. However, punishment can reinforce the inappropriate behavior. The following are important recommendations to consider regarding negative consequences:

  • Consequences should be logical, constructive, and not punitive. 
  • Always do a fair pair: a child still needs to be positively rewarded for positive behaviors with the negative consequence.  
  • If the behavior continues, the consequence is not working.
  • Never take something away that has already been awarded.

Share with us in the comments some fun ways you have encouraged positive behavior, we would love to hear the different techniques you guys are using!

Celebrating Occupational Therapy Month: How OTs Help Children Thrive

April 30, 2025
In the vibrant world of childhood development, every child learns, plays, and grows in their own unique way. But for some, everyday activities like holding a crayon, tying shoes, or interacting with peers can be challenging. That’s where the role of an Occupational Therapist becomes so important. In honor of Occupational Therapy Month , let’s take a closer look at what pediatric OTs do, how they support children’s development, and why their work matters so much.

Understanding and Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month

April 30, 2025
April is a month full of fresh starts, bright colors, and meaningful moments but, for many families it holds a deeper purpose. It marks Autism Acceptance Month , a time to celebrate, spread awareness, and foster genuine inclusion for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Step Up For Students: How to Get Your Child's Therapy Services Covered

March 3, 2025
Discover how the Step Up For Students scholarship can help families afford high-quality therapy services for children with unique abilities. Learn about eligibility, covered therapies, and how to apply for funding at Progressive Pediatric Therapy. Empower your child’s future—get started today!

Creating a Sensory Calming Corner in Your Preschool Classroom

By Progressive Pediatric Therapy • August 20, 2024
Progressive Pediatric Therapy (PPT) is committed to empowering children and families through specialized Physical, Occupational, Speech, and Feeding Therapy. With a compassionate team of pediatric therapists, PPT focuses on providing individualized care, enhancing development, and fostering hope and happiness in a supportive environment. The post Creating a Sensory Calming Corner in Your Preschool Classroom appeared first on PPT4Kids.
A chalkboard with the words school 's out for summer written on it

Preventing Summer Slide: Keep Your Kids Engaged with Lively Letters!

By Progressive Pediatric Therapy • June 7, 2024
The post Preventing Summer Slide: Keep Your Kids Engaged with Lively Letters! appeared first on PPT4Kids.
A woman is swimming in a pool with her hand out of the water.

Autism and Water Safety: Essential Tips and Resources for Families

By Progressive Pediatric Therapy • May 7, 2024
Learn vital water safety tips for children with autism. Explore expert advice and resources to keep your family safe. Prevent drowning accidents with practical solutions tailored for children with autism. The post Autism and Water Safety: Essential Tips and Resources for Families appeared first on PPT4Kids.
A baby is sitting on the floor surrounded by toys and a book.

Unlocking Your Toddler’s Full Potential: The Magic of Occupational Therapy

By Progressive Pediatric Therapy • April 10, 2024
Pediatric OT helps toddlers master daily skills, from self-care to sensory processing, boosting confidence and independence for life's early adventures. The post Unlocking Your Toddler’s Full Potential: The Magic of Occupational Therapy appeared first on PPT4Kids.
A woman is sitting on a bean bag chair holding a baby.

How to Play with Your Neurodivergent Child: 8 Strategies to Help You Engage

By Progressive Pediatric Therapy • March 11, 2024
Unlock the magic of play with your child! 8 practical tips for bonding and learning through play, tailored for the unique world of neurodiversity. The post How to Play with Your Neurodivergent Child: 8 Strategies to Help You Engage appeared first on PPT4Kids.
A baby is laying on a bed looking at a tablet.

Help! My baby HATES Tummy Time

By Progressive Pediatric Therapy • February 26, 2024
Pediatric Physical Therapists' parent tips. Struggling with tummy time? Discover fun, creative ways to make tummy time enjoyable for both you and your baby with Progressive Pediatric Therapy—transforming a daily challenge into delightful playtime moments. The post Help! My baby HATES Tummy Time appeared first on PPT4Kids.
A yellow background with the words `` parent tips & tricks for picky eaters ''

Parent Tips & Tricks for Picky Eaters

By Progressive Pediatric Therapy • January 23, 2024
The post Parent Tips & Tricks for Picky Eaters appeared first on PPT4Kids.
More Posts