Series of Interventions- Does not Follow Directions

Problem Behaviors:
• Child may have trouble following multi-step directions
• Child may be off task
• Child may often rush through assignments

Suggestions:
• Provide clearly stated directions (oral and written if necessary) and keep them as simple and concrete as possible
o Make sure that written directions are printed clearly and large enough to read
• Stand next to the child when giving directions
• Speak to the child to make sure he / she understands the directions
o Ask them to repeat the directions back to you
• Create a risk free environment where the child feels free to ask for clarification of directions
o Many children would rather do an assignment incorrectly that risk asking the teacher/parent for help
• Teach the child how to question any directions that he / she does not understand
o Role-play if necessary
• Reinforce the child for following directions
o Try to move from the tangible reinforcer to intangible as quickly as possible
• Break directions up into smaller parts if necessary and monitor the child frequently
o Have the child do one step at a time while you monitor to make sure that he / she
understands when doing a written assignment
• Assign a peer to work with the student to help him/her follow directions
• Have the child practice following directions on nonacademic tasks- Games, errands, etc.
• Give the child a predetermined signal before giving directions so that he / she will be ready for them- Handclap, hand raise, etc.
• Require that any assignment done incorrectly because directions were not followed, be redone
o It is important to be consistent with this
• Follow a less desirable task with a highly desirable task so that the student will want to do the first
task correctly to get to the second one
• Make sure that the child has all of the materials necessary to complete the activity or task
o However, make sure that the directions are given before the materials are handed out so as not to distract the student
• Maintain consistency in the format of directions
• Tape record directions for student if necessary
• Create direction-following activities that are fun as well as helpful
• Make sure the child can achieve success when following directions

I have used many of what has been written here- and it does work just be consistent
Adapted from Pasco county schools