Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What should I do if my student does not want to go to the home base area?

A: You have several options. First, make sure the student understands that home base is not a punishment and that he will be taking a break to get back on track. Use visual supports to help students understand where they are going and why. Once students learn that going to home base helps them save face and avoid embarrassment, they often go very willingly. Getting the student to the home base before a behavior problem occurs is best. Let the student help to pick the place, decorate it, if appropriate, and make sure he knows how to get there. Some children could receive points, stickers, rewards, etc., for each time they go to the home base.

Q: Other children look at my student with ASD as being “lucky” to get to leave the classroom. What should I tell them about home base?

A: Make sure that the other students see the home base for what it is – a place where the student with ASD can go to calm down and get back on track. A class talk about individual differences and needs of supports for those who are having difficulty at the school may help. When students understand how hard it is for children with ASD to get through their days, they are often very understanding and will even help.

Q: What should I do if the student never wants to go back to the activity or routine after she has been in home base?

A: As for any behavior, looking at the reason why it is happening is critical. If you observe a pattern of the student wanting to remain in home base, ask the following questions:

• Is the work/task the student doing appropriate?
• Has the work been modified if needed?
• How often does the student get a break?
• Is the classroom too stressful for the student to return to?

Task avoidance is usually not a problem if the home base guidelines are followed. That is, the student takes assignments with her to home base and as soon as she can focus on the task, she is prompted to do her assignment in the home base or the classroom, depending on the student’s needs. If the child is truly using home base as an escape, then measures must be implemented to ensure that she is not avoiding tasks. A token economy that reinforces both going to home base and returning to the classroom may be appropriate.

Q: Isn’t home base just letting the student escape work?

A: No! The whole concept behind home base is that students will be able to do more work because they feel safe and comfortable, and their needs are being met. Academic work should always accompany the child to the home base.