following directions iep goals

3 min read 03-12-2024

Meta Description: Struggling with "following directions" IEP goals? This comprehensive guide offers practical strategies, goal examples, and tips for parents and educators to support students in developing this crucial skill. Learn how to break down instructions, use visual aids, and create a positive learning environment. Improve your child's success with actionable steps and resources.

Understanding "Following Directions" IEP Goals

Many students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) have goals related to "following directions." This crucial skill impacts academic success, social interactions, and independent living. These goals address the ability to understand, remember, and act upon given instructions, whether verbal, written, or visual. The specific challenges vary, but often include difficulty with multi-step directions, auditory processing, or executive functioning skills.

Common Challenges in Following Directions

Auditory Processing: Difficulty hearing, understanding, or remembering verbal instructions.
Working Memory: Trouble holding information in mind long enough to complete a task.
Executive Functioning: Problems with planning, organizing, and self-regulation.
Attention Deficits: Difficulty focusing on instructions, leading to missed steps or incomplete tasks.
Reading Comprehension: Challenges understanding written directions.
Following Multi-Step Directions: Struggling to remember and execute a sequence of actions.

Writing Effective IEP Goals for Following Directions

Well-written IEP goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). They should clearly outline the expected behavior, the conditions under which it will be demonstrated, and the criteria for success.

Examples of SMART IEP Goals:

Goal: Given verbal, two-step directions, [Student's Name] will correctly follow instructions 80% of the time, across three consecutive observation sessions.
Goal: When presented with written, three-step instructions containing simple vocabulary, [Student's Name] will accurately complete the task 90% of the time, in a supervised classroom setting.
Goal: Given a visual schedule with picture cues, [Student's Name] will independently follow a four-step routine (e.g., getting ready for lunch) with minimal verbal prompts (no more than 2) across three consecutive days.

Strategies to Help Students Follow Directions

Implementing effective strategies is key to helping students achieve their IEP goals. These strategies should be tailored to the student's specific needs and learning style.

Breaking Down Instructions:

Chunking: Divide multi-step directions into smaller, manageable parts.
Repetition: Repeat instructions clearly and concisely, allowing time for processing.
Visual Aids: Use pictures, diagrams, or checklists to support verbal or written instructions.
Modeling: Demonstrate the task step-by-step, providing a clear example.
Verbal and Nonverbal Cues: Use gestures, facial expressions, or physical prompts to support comprehension.

Creating a Positive Learning Environment:

Positive Reinforcement: Reward effort and success with praise, stickers, or other incentives.
Patience and Encouragement: Avoid criticism or frustration; focus on progress, not perfection.
Consistent Routines: Establish predictable routines to reduce anxiety and improve focus.
Individualized Support: Tailor strategies to the student's unique strengths and weaknesses.
Collaboration: Work closely with parents, teachers, and other professionals to create a cohesive support system.

Using Technology to Support Following Directions

Technology offers valuable tools to assist students in following directions.

Apps and Software:

Visual Schedules: Apps like "Routine" or "My Schedule" provide visual supports for daily routines.
Task Management Apps: Apps like "Todoist" or "Any.do" can break down tasks into smaller steps.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices: These devices can provide visual and auditory support for students with communication difficulties.

Monitoring Progress and Adjusting Strategies

Regularly monitor the student's progress toward their IEP goals. Data collection methods might include checklists, anecdotal notes, or direct observation. Adjust strategies as needed based on the student's response and progress. Open communication among all involved parties is vital for success.

Conclusion

Helping students master the skill of following directions requires a multifaceted approach. By incorporating the strategies and IEP goal examples provided here, and by working collaboratively with the student, parents, and educators, significant progress can be made towards achieving IEP goals and improving the student's overall academic and social success. Remember, patience, consistency, and a positive learning environment are crucial elements in supporting these students. Regularly reviewing and adjusting IEP goals based on progress is key to ensuring continued growth and achievement.