What do you need to get started?

• Think about the learning environment 
• Space should be clear of distractions
• Toys should be available, but just out of reach (so that you can deliver them)
• Table and chairs
• Place to play (the floor works well)
• Think about which materials you want to use

Pair

• Get to know your client
• What do they like? What can you bring into the session so that they will run to you instead of run away from you? 
• Be fun!  They should be excited to be with you! 
• You are more important than any materials, so work on the social and joint attention at all times

Have a Plan

• What are your goals for the session?  (They may be basic at first.  For instance, just getting into their space, just getting them to like you)
• How do you plan on engaging? 
• What toys/materials have you prepared?
• Data – Do you have anything set up? (It could be as simple as a tally counter for how many times they approached you)

Follow the Child’s Lead

• This does not mean that the child has full control over the session 
• It means that you watch for what is motivating for the child and use that throughout your teaching session 
• E.g., If your goal is requesting, use a toy that the child is interested in
• Use their lead to guide (not control) your session

Teaching Style

• How can you be fun and creative, but still follow the program? 
• E.g., If the program goal is imitation and the current target is to imitate clap hands, how can you make this fun?
• If does not have to be dry and boring – you can teach with music and fun toys – without changing the goal or target
• Every minute counts! 

Don’t Waste the Learners’ Time

• You should feel exhausted after a session with a beginner learner (It’s a good idea to give yourself breaks in between clients)
• Avoid the, “Go play by yourself” – you are wasting programming minutes
• Even if you finish the required number of trials, keep it going!  The more practice, the better 
• Generalize goals to the natural environment (i.e., play)