What is it?
‘Adult time’ refers to dedicated time the student spends with an adult. For students who seek adult attention, scheduled time with that adult can give students the attention they need in a way that is structured and predictable. This time spent together can also help build and reinforce the adult/student relationship.
How do I use it?
If the function of a behaviour is related to seeking and wanting the attention of adults, ‘adult time’ may be an appropriate strategy to trial. Teachers can determine when the student could be given dedicated time with an adult and what form this will take. The ‘adult time’ should be shown on a visual schedule and the student given information and notice about when it will occur, what will happen and when it will finish. The student should also have information about the next ‘adult time’ session. It could be useful for teachers to take data before and after implementation of the ‘adult time’ strategy.
Age group
The strategy could be trialled across age groups with modifications to the types of activities and length of sessions made according to age and ability e.g. pre-schoolers may respond to daily 1:1 play sessions while high school students may benefit from regular mentoring sessions with the year advisor or other valued teacher.
| Preschool | Possibly |
| P-2 | Possibly |
| 3-6 | Possibly |
| High school | Possibly |
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