What is PBIS?

Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a strategy to teach social behaviors in a positive environment. It establishes ongoing behavior supports that can be used by students, staff, volunteers, parents, and community members. Examples of PBIS include:

• Establishing clear routines and expectations
• Using pre-arranged signals to let a child know when they are doing something that is not acceptable
• Finding opportunities for children to help others
• Using positive phrasing (Example: “If you finish your reading by recess, we can all go outside together and play a game.”)
• Stating the behaviors you want to see (Example: “I like seeing how everyone lines up so quickly and quietly.”)

How can PBIS be used at school?

In Minnesota, there is a state initiative called School-wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (SW-PBIS). Schools define core expectations, teach behaviors associated with them, and reward the use of those behaviors. Positive behavior intervention plans can also be included in a child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).

How can PBIS be used at home?

You can create a PBIS home plan to help reinforce the positive behaviors your child is taught at school. First, identify your family’s core expectations of behavior. Next, decide how to model and evaluate your expectations during different parts of the day and in different places in your home. Consistently use a simple method of positive reinforcement and make sure to recognize appropriate behavior more than problem behavior.