Behavior Support and Intervention Hierarchy Flashcards

According to the TCI Intervention Hierarchy, what is the foundation and first level of intervention?

Answer: Proactive and Environmental Strategies

The TCI model emphasizes prevention as the most effective strategy. Creating a supportive, predictable environment and using proactive strategies to meet children's needs form the foundation of the hierarchy and can prevent many crises from occurring.

Which of the following is the best example of 'Managing the Environment' as a behavior support technique?

Answer: Removing a distracting object from a child's desk before a lesson.

Managing the environment involves proactively changing the physical or social setting to reduce stress and prevent escalation. Removing a potential trigger, like a distracting object, is a direct example of this technique.

A staff member says, 'I can see you're really angry that the game is over. It's tough to stop when you're having fun.' This statement is an example of what TCI technique?

Answer: Active Listening and Validation

This response identifies and validates the child's feelings ('angry,' 'tough to stop'). It demonstrates that the adult is listening and trying to understand the child's perspective, which is a core component of Emotional First Aid and de-escalation.

In the TCI Intervention Hierarchy, when are 'Safety Interventions' such as physical restraint permitted?

Answer: When a child poses an immediate, serious danger to self or others.

Safety interventions are the highest and most intrusive level of the hierarchy. Their use is strictly limited to situations where a child's behavior poses an immediate, serious risk of physical harm to themselves or others, and only when less intrusive methods have failed.

What is the primary goal of 'Crisis Co-regulation' during a moment of crisis?

Answer: To provide support that helps the child regain self-control.

Co-regulation involves the adult offering their own calm, centered presence and support to help a child manage overwhelming emotions they cannot handle alone. The adult 'lends' their self-regulation to the child, with the goal of helping the child calm down and regain self-control.

Which of the following is NOT considered a proactive/preventative strategy in TCI?

Answer: Using Emotional First Aid.

Emotional First Aid is a reactive strategy used at the first sign of a child becoming upset to de-escalate the situation. Proactive strategies are things done *before* a child shows signs of distress, such as building relationships, managing the environment, and setting clear expectations.