Get Psyched Up
- Remind yourself of a time when you did well
- Start with easy problems
- Make sure you are rested and relaxed before starting. For example, we wouldn’t start a road trip on an empty tank of gas; we should approach our work the same way.
- Parents can help set you up for success
Make Tasks Meaningful, Interesting, and Doable
- Find ways to make things that have to be done more interesting. For example, you could do a multi-media report on your favorite rapper
- When possible, avoid things that are likely to lead to problem behaviors, such as situations that you find overwhelming
- Parents—Communicate that you are there to help, not to nag
Set Up a Daily Routine
- Having the same routine every day helps you know what to expect and to remember what to do
- It also helps shrink the number of temptations that are known to get you in trouble
Give Choice and Control
- Being allowed to make decisions about your daily routines and activities – having more choices encourages a sense of ownership, builds confidence, and supports independence
Use Positive Roles and Scripts
- Identify some important roles that you can play in order to develop a positive self-image. For example, take the lead on a family project
- Learn to say what you want or need instead of using negative behavior
What Is Negotiable & What Is NOT Negotiable
When making plans it is important for both teens and parents to understand what aspects are negotiable—those things that teens can have a say in—and what aspects are non-negotiable—those things that parents decide. This provides a way for both parents and teens to know where teens can have a choice and where parents’ limits are firm.
By allowing teens to make more and more important decisions in their own life, parents are training their young adults to be smart and to understand the consequences of their actions. However, some things—like going to school—are too important to leave open to negotiation; things like this parents decide—they are non-negotiable.
Discussing what aspects of plans are negotiable and non-negotiable can help support better communication between teens and parents and clear up misunderstandings about choices.
Try this exercise!
Suggestions for Making Plans Following Brain Injury
- Work with teachers and parents in setting up a plan
- Make the plan as positive as possible. Emphasize rewards and positive reinforcement rather than punishment
- Focus on using coping skills to replace negative behaviors
- Begin with small goals so that you will succeed early on. This will build momentum
- Make the plan clear
- Follow through with the plan consistently
- Make the plan flexible in response to changes in your life