Behavioural Skills Training

Behavioural Skills Training (BST) is a five-step process that can be used to teach a variety of skills to children of all ages, regardless of ability levels. Here are examples of skills that can be developed using BST:

  • skills that require specific explanations (e.g., asking for help);
  • skills that can manifest in different ways (e.g., starting a conversation);
  • skills that involve other people (e.g., respecting the personal space of others).
BSTtrio

For many years, researchers have demonstrated the effectiveness of BST. The approach not only aims to explain the skill to the child, but also allows them to see an example of the skill they are seeking to develop, and to practice using it while receiving immediate feedback. It also allows adults to confirm that the child is really able to demonstrate the skill in different environments.   

  

Prerequisite Skills for BST

To ensure the success of BST, it is important that the child has mastered the skills prior to the targeted skill. For example, if the targeted skill is “walking on the sidewalk”, you must first ensure that the child is able to walk close to the adult and follow instructions (e.g., “Stay close to me.”)

In addition, before starting BST, it is important to make sure that the child has mastered the following specific skills.

  • The adult can adjust their complexity and level of language according to the learner's needs.

 

  • The child must be able to pay attention to the model from start to finish of the modelling excercise.

  • The child must be able to reproduce the actions, gestures or even the words of another person.

 

  

The five Steps of BST

BST has five steps which are presented here in the order in which they are usually performed with the child. Note, however, that BST is not always a linear process. For example, after completing steps 3 and 4, you may find it necessary to go back to step 1. This will depend on the child and their progress. Here is a description of each step.

  • Explain to the child what the skill is and when it can be used.
  • Explain why the skill is important.
  • Present the different steps of the skill, if applicable.

 

  • Demonstrate the skill yourself in front of the child.
  • Model several examples, if necessary.

 

  • Allow the child to practice using the skill.
  • Offer feedback to the child immediately after the activity.
  • Practice as many times as necessary, on different occasions if needed.

 

  • Tell the child what they did well and what they could improve next time, if necessary.
  • Use a calm, encouraging tone of voice.
  • Encourage the child to practice again so that they can correct their mistake, if necessary.

 

  • Allow the child to practice the skill in the natural context (e.g., waiting in line at a restaurant).
  • Continue to encourage the child and let them know if there are things to improve for the next few times.

 

You can find a printable version of those five steps here.

This cycle can be repeated as many times as necessary. It is also recommended to use prompting and reinforcement to increase chances of success. Refer to these sections for more information on the subject.
 

Here are three examples of Behavioural Skills Training sessions

Example 1

Example 2

Example 3

  

Planning and Implementing BST

Here is a presentation with some information that can help you plan and implement BST with a child.

  

Happy lesbian couple with little daughter at home
Final thoughts

Behavioural Skills Training (BST) is a strategy that can be used to teach a variety of skills. It consists of providing instruction and modeling after which the child can practice implementing the skill while receiving feedback from the adult. This cycle, or one of its  steps in particular, can be repeated as many times as necessary. The adult can also use prompts and reinforcement to promote the child’s success.