Step 1.8 Determine how to fade the controlling prompt
Strategies for fading prompts are part of the planning process and, as such, should be discussed prior to implementing the graduated guidance procedures.
As the toddler becomes more proficient at performing the chained skill, prompt fading strategies will be implemented quickly.
Decisions about fading prompts are made during a trial or teaching session and require “thinking on your feet” about how to change the delivery of the controlling prompt. Consider the intensity or location of the prompt.
One error that is often made is using a more intrusive prompt in the moment when a less intrusive prompt would be as effective. For example. a full physical prompt may also be used when a partial physical might be just as effective.
Understanding how to fade prompts as you are using graduated guidance is critical in decreasing the likelihood that the toddler will become dependent. When the toddler needs the prompt before performing the behavior or skill this can result in prompt dependency.
Guidelines for Fading Prompts
- Fade prompts gradually, systematically, and as quickly as it is determined, through collection of data, that the toddler is responding without the prompts. Graduated guidance requires the adult to make decisions as the child is being prompted within the routine. Collecting data at each teaching moment or trial is necessary in order to effectively fade prompts.
- Increase the response interval gradually to determine if the toddler will respond independently.
- Decrease the intensity of the prompt quickly as you determine that the child is beginning to learn the skill or behavior. Intensity refers to the amount of pressure used when delivering the physical prompts. An example would be moving from complete hand-over-hand instruction to just having your hands on the learner while he or she does the chain.
- Provide less assistance by changing the location of the physical prompt. For example, if you have been providing a physical prompt by using a hand over hand, move the prompt further up the arm.
- Move to less intrusive prompts quickly and as soon as the toddler starts using the skill. Less is better.
- Immediately remove the prompt when it is no longer needed.