The Continuing Saga of Heavy Freddy,
or The Magic of the Monkey!
The kids love him! A few of the children who are highly “energetic” sometimes
need continuous reminding of what they are trying to help Freddy learn and
what they need to do if they want Freddy to leave them a treat for their good
work the next time he comes out.
Question: Sometimes they just can’t hang in there for Freddy.
What would you suggest then?
Answer: I had them try again the next time I took him out (and there wasn’t a treat attached for them from
their previous day’s ‘assignment’, just a note saying how Freddy was sad they couldn’t help him last time and could they try again today).
Question: Do you think for those students who have much trouble sitting still and
following the rules, I should have Freddy have them ‘working’ on one
thing (like staying in their space or raising their hand when they have
something to say) at a time?
Answer: First of all you need to take a look at the treat. A tote tray with something rented is better than
giving them something that ‘s soon rejected. Different strokes for different folks!
I would definitely work on one thing at a time. Here’s a contract I have used in the past.
It really helps to be specific in setting goals with your challenging kids. Try the “Needs Now”
contract. Focus on two areas you need now, such as following directions or working quietly.
You might also want to teach all the kids the rap song: Follow directions the 1st time given,
not the 2nd, not the 3rd, but the 1st time given.
Following Directions
Work Quietly
Name
I Will…
I Will