Description
Functional Communication Training (FCT) for Caregivers
Evidence-Based Behavior Support Training
This caregiver-friendly presentation provides a clear, practical introduction to Functional Communication Training (FCT)—an evidence-based approach used to reduce challenging behavior by teaching meaningful, functional communication. Designed for caregivers and individuals supporting children and youth (ages 3–22), this training explains why challenging behavior occurs and how to replace it with an appropriate communication response that meets the same need.
Caregivers will learn how to:
- Identify challenging behaviors that interfere with learning and interaction
- Determine what the learner is trying to communicate through behavior
- Teach a functional communication response (e.g., asking for help, requesting items, requesting a break)
- Use differential reinforcement to reinforce communication while reducing challenging behavior
- Establish and maintain motivation for communication
- Create (“contrive”) everyday opportunities for learners to practice communication
The training includes clear explanations, step-by-step guidance, and relatable examples such as requesting help with a snack, asking to leave an area, or accessing preferred items. Emphasis is placed on reinforcing communication consistently while no longer reinforcing challenging behavior.
Who This Resource Is For:
✔ Caregivers and parents
✔ Teachers and classroom staff
✔ Paraprofessionals and aides
✔ ABA providers supporting caregiver training
✔ Home and school-based behavior support teams
Who This Resource May Not Be For:
✘ Individuals seeking advanced clinical or graduate-level ABA instruction
✘ Learners without adult support to implement strategies
Disclaimer
This resource is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized assessment, diagnosis, or treatment by a qualified professional. Strategies presented are based on applied behavior analysis principles and should be implemented with consideration of the learner’s individual needs. Caregivers and educators are encouraged to consult with a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or other qualified professional when developing or modifying behavior intervention plans.
Highlights
Description
Functional Communication Training (FCT) for Caregivers
Evidence-Based Behavior Support Training
This caregiver-friendly presentation provides a clear, practical introduction to Functional Communication Training (FCT)—an evidence-based approach used to reduce challenging behavior by teaching meaningful, functional communication. Designed for caregivers and individuals supporting children and youth (ages 3–22), this training explains why challenging behavior occurs and how to replace it with an appropriate communication response that meets the same need.
Caregivers will learn how to:
- Identify challenging behaviors that interfere with learning and interaction
- Determine what the learner is trying to communicate through behavior
- Teach a functional communication response (e.g., asking for help, requesting items, requesting a break)
- Use differential reinforcement to reinforce communication while reducing challenging behavior
- Establish and maintain motivation for communication
- Create (“contrive”) everyday opportunities for learners to practice communication
The training includes clear explanations, step-by-step guidance, and relatable examples such as requesting help with a snack, asking to leave an area, or accessing preferred items. Emphasis is placed on reinforcing communication consistently while no longer reinforcing challenging behavior.
Who This Resource Is For:
✔ Caregivers and parents
✔ Teachers and classroom staff
✔ Paraprofessionals and aides
✔ ABA providers supporting caregiver training
✔ Home and school-based behavior support teams
Who This Resource May Not Be For:
✘ Individuals seeking advanced clinical or graduate-level ABA instruction
✘ Learners without adult support to implement strategies
Disclaimer
This resource is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized assessment, diagnosis, or treatment by a qualified professional. Strategies presented are based on applied behavior analysis principles and should be implemented with consideration of the learner’s individual needs. Caregivers and educators are encouraged to consult with a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or other qualified professional when developing or modifying behavior intervention plans.
