Behavior Observation Forms for Special Education

As the school year ramps up, so do the demands for functional behavioral assessment and special education services. For some teachers, this is a new territory. Behavior observation forms are one way to help gather data and assess behaviors. What types of special education resources can we use for support?

What are Behavior Observation Forms?

Behavior observation forms are simply a way to collect data on behavior. This can be done in many ways, but the most common is to use an ABC observation or chart. You'll record the Antecedent (what happened before the behavior), the Behavior itself, and the Consequence (what happened after the behavior). Data is usually collected on one specific problem behavior and can be used to create a behavioral intervention plan. What do you do after the function of the behavior is identified using ABC observations? That's where frequency tracking comes in. This technique is an essential part of any behavior plan, and it can help you determine if the interventions and supports you're using are working or not. Frequency tracking is a method of data collection that involves counting the number of times a behavior occurs over a period of time. This data can be used to identify patterns and trends in behavior. With a quick glance at frequency tally marks, it's easy to see if the behavior is increasing or decreasing.

Why are Behavior Observation Forms Important?

Behavior observation forms are important because they help to identify patterns in behavior. This is the first step in creating a behavior intervention plan. By understanding when and why a behavior occurs, you can start to put together a behavior plan to address it. This observation data will be key when the IEP team meets to discuss next steps in student support.

Behavior Observation Options for Special Education Teachers

• You could use something you already have in place, like a behavior observation checklist. This is a simple way to get started and can be easily modified to fit your needs.
• If you're feeling a little more creative, you could design your own behavior observation form. This is a great option if you want to tailor the form to your specific needs.
• If you're looking for a done-for-you option, there are behavior observation forms available for purchase. These are great if you want a professional looking form or don't have the time to design your own. I have 18 easy-to-use behavior supports (including observation forms) ready to go in our Special Educators Resources Bundle.

No matter what route you choose, behavior observation forms are a valuable tool in special education. By taking the time to collect data on behavior, you can start to understand the patterns and develop an effective behavior intervention plan. If you're new to behavior observation forms, there are many different options available to you. Check out this bundle and get started today!

Which option will you start with today?