When a child’s behavior increases, the usual response is often to revisit the FBA or behavior plan. But Lisa Lightner argues that teams should first step back and examine the IEP itself. Are all of the child’s needs being met? Are evaluations missing something? Is the IEP being implemented with fidelity?

Special Education Advocate Lisa Lightner explains why she now approaches behavior concerns differently. Many behaviors, she says, reflect lagging skills or unmet needs, and an FBA takes significant time and resources to complete. The focus should be on building and following a robust IEP that addresses the reason behind the behavior, not simply adding another plan after the behavior appears.

Related:

• Why So Many FBAs and Behavior Plans Fail

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

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