Strategies for Teaching Children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

Written by: Victoria Trix • Edited by: Elizabeth Stannard Gromisch
Published Feb 23, 2009

Teaching a child with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) can be difficult, but with these strategies you will find that things in your classroom will go a lot smoother.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

Teaching a child with Oppositional Defiant Disorder can be frustrating, challenging and exhausting. However, it is important to remember that the student is suffering, too. These students have mental deficits that may be a result of negligence, economic disadvantages or neurochemical imbalances. They are not acting this way just to make everyone else miserable – even though it may sometimes seem that way! Though these students can be disruptive or upsetting, there are useful strategies for helping them act appropriately.

Children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder: Focus on Prevention

Dr. Ross Greene, author of “The Explosive Child”, reminds parents and teachers that children with Oppositional Defiance Disorder may have deficits when it comes to dealing with frustration. He therefore counsels teachers to work on identifying the types of activities that are likely to cause frustration in the child and help him or her develop coping mechanisms. "The definition of good parenting and good teaching is being responsive to the hand you've been dealt," Greene says.

Children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder: Establish Expectations

Most students respond well when teachers clearly state their behavioral expectations. This is especially important for students with Oppositional Defiance Disorder. Teachers may start by stating two or three behavioral goals for the student. These goals may include expectations such as “I will accept the word ‘No’ “ or “I will follow directions.” If possible, include these expectations on a behavioral chart and monitor progress throughout the day. Have the student state the expectations at the beginning of the day, and restate it as needed.

Children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder: Praise

Students with Oppositional Defiant Disorder often act as though they don’t care about others. However, using praise whenever appropriate can make teaching these students much more effective. Teachers who use a behavioral chart to monitor expectations should be sure to reward good behavior, too. A smile or word of praise from a teacher can mean a great deal.

Children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder: Consequences

While students with Oppositional Defiant Disorder do respond to praise and should be given some flexibility, they also need to know that their behavior will have consequences. The consequences should be appropriate and meaningful, but they MUST be something the child wishes to avoid. Some children, for example, love doing chores in the classroom, so this would not be an effective consequence for inappropriate behavior. Teachers who know their students can choose consequences that will help their students with Oppositional Defiance Disorder consider the risks very carefully before engaging in disruptive behavior.

Though working with students who have Oppositional Defiant Disorder can involve extra work, it can also be rewarding and enlightening for teachers who take the time to understand the student’s condition and establish clear expectations with predictable positive and negative consequences for their actions.

angelina Sep 19, 2011 8:30 PM

I think my son have o.d.d

I would like to no what to do with a teenager that think's his parent don't love him get angry have temper tandum hit wall brick things screel slam door's and lesson to not uplifting music his parent 's and it is so sirpresing that not at other's he does well at school and his teacher's and his sport's.

Mehwish May 10, 2011 11:18 AM

RE: Strategies for Teaching Children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

hi
Teacher is like our mother we should respect them as werespect our mother

Michelle May 2, 2011 9:22 AM

ODD and diet

My son gave his teachers grief in Grade 2 (aged 8)and was diagnosed with ODD in Grade 3 (aged 9). I put him on a strict elimination diet and I had a changed boy. I have discovered that he gets ODD from "amines", natural chemicals in everyday foods. By eliminating them from his diet I have eliminated all the poor behaviour. When he eats the "wrong" foods he reverts and no amount of coaxing, rewarding or punishing him works. I tried everything and the only relieve came from diet changes. It is hard but worth it. He is now in Grade 6 (nearly 12) and I don't know how I would have coped if I had not tried the diet. I got my info from the book "Fed up" by Sue Dengate.

maydemia Apr 19, 2011 4:55 PM

ODD transitions

Hi, I'm writing a paper for a class I'm taking. I am working on a degree in Early Childhood Education and I need a resource for transition strategies for children with ODD. Can anyone help?

Sue Apr 4, 2011 11:18 PM

To Karen Glenn

I completely understand your frustration but would you be discussing putting him in foster care if you had given birth to him! You do not get to pick and choose when it gets rough. He didn't ask to be this way or be adopted by people who weren't really committed to what it means to be adoptive parents! With that said it sounds like your child should be in an alternative education setting with an adventure based aspect, meaning special support of on location psychologists who also teach the children alternative behaviors through adventures/field trips. I worked with students with many emotional disorders and when we implemented and adventure based educational aspect into their curriculum they responded--it took a little bit of time but was well worth it. I am sure you have tried everything available to you including counseling etc but have you ever tried honesty? Telling him the truth about your thoughts and how his behavior affects the rest of the family letting him know that you are trying to help and be there for him but you can not continue to put the rest of the family in harms way to do that. Tell him how hurtful his behavior is because you love him and do not want to be without him and you know he can do it because you have seen him do the right thing but ask him what you can do to help him do the right thing so you can all be a family and stay together. I dont know but I know tough love is sometimes the only other option. as

Sue Apr 4, 2011 10:56 PM

Strategies for teaching children with ODD

To Teal-I really think you are doing the best that you can and I commend you for that. My husband and I are currently dealing with a situation with our daughter who is also showing signs of ODD but she is 13! She has had problems her entire life and because we are a low income family it seems that no matter how involved we are her behavior is looked at as intentional and "our fault" even though we provide a structured, balanced home. I attend college and I am currently in a class about Inclusive Education and I have the best Professor ever--she has actually helped me write a letter to the school district requesting that she have an evaluation to determine the function of her behaviors. The more I learn the more appaulled I am that this was not done years ago! She has had difficulties throughout her entire school career and nothing has ever been done, no evaluations from them anyway. We have done counseling and had her tested for ADHD when she was in 2nd grade (as recommended by her counselor) This is the first year that we have not been able to get her behavior and academics under control but on the flip side she is much better at home than she has been in previous years-which I am so grateful for there was a time when I really dreaded coming home because I just didn't have it in me anymore-although I know giving up is not the answer. Anyway I know you said you tried everything but I thought of something when reading your post, when my husband was younger he had many destructive, aggressive and hyperactive behaviors and my mother in law said she put him on the 'Fine Gold Diet' I have never heard of this in present day but you may be able to find something on the internet about it. She said it did not resolve all of his issues but it definately helped. Just thought maybe one more thing to try might be helpful.

Carol Calkins Dec 11, 2010 4:07 PM

ODD in Costa Rica

After moving to Costa Rica ten years ago, we eventually adopted a 2-1/2 year old boy. He has always exhibited a strong personality, but we attributed it to the necessity of surviving all that he had been through (neglect, mostly) before. He attended "preparatoria" which is like kindergarten for two years, learning the alphabet in English. He is now finished with first grade, and he cannot read and is still confused about the alphabet sounds. That is to be expected. His overall behavior, however, has steadily become defiant and problematic. Getting him to cooperate with lessons or with anything that isn't his idea is a struggle. We want to do the best we can, so we're doing remedial study every day during his winter vacation in an effort to prepare him for second grade. The second grade teacher is very strict, and he is going to be hitting against a brick wall. I began working as a teacher's aide which helped somewhat last year, and she asked me if I would continue with her and I said yes. At least I can observe him and his behavior. We are trying to find a psychiatrist who is fluent in English, and I hope that will come to pass. I am continuing to scour the Internet for ideas for class materials and suggestions that will help. Input would be appreciated. The school system here isn't comparable to the States, and I don't know of any special provisions for working one on one. Suggestions would be appreciated.

Erica Oct 6, 2010 7:36 PM

Strategies For Teaching Children with ODD

I am a teacher in a school in an impoverished area where I can honestly say 3-4 kids in two of the 3 classes I see on a daily basis. Any advice out there to deal with a situation like mine? Oh to add insult to injury, my administration does little to nothing in regards to dealing with disipline. in fact the biggest culprits are often rewarded with special pizza lunches, special jobs in the building, and special extracurricular activities. I understand we want to give these children something positive, but it upsets the well behaved students who do not reiceive these same treatment....HELP!!! THANKS :)

Teal Sep 22, 2010 11:35 AM

Until You Live it Dont Comment On It!

Technology and knowledge have increased more today than ever before, so comparing Now to any time period is silly. Until a person lives with a child that has ADHD/ODD they will NEVER understand. I am a high school teacher and mother of 3. My 5 year old has been diagnosed with ADHD?ODD and can really be tying on most days. I have a strict schedule and disciple policy. He knows the rules and what consequnces are, although he has a hard time following them. He has already earned the reputation among classmates, teachers and parents as the kid you dont want your kid to play with. When we talk about it there is a definate disconnect from what he did in his outburst and rage, almost as if a blackout. It is very scary because he hurts friends without any notice, or remorse and being only 5 thinking of teenage years scares me to no end. He does have to be closely monitored with others, especially our 1 year old. He has started an herbal treatment that has helped but not fixed any of his problems. Everything happens for a reason, how we deal with it and live with it is up to us. We take one day and one minute at a time in our home and hope and pray for the best. We continue to go to classess to learn new things that we can try. There is not a fix for this disorder, we just have to make it so we can survie. Its not going to be easy but he is worth every minute of the good and bad and I am blessed to have him. Just love your child as much as you possibly can they are gifts from God

karen Glenn Sep 10, 2010 1:01 PM

our last step

we took in a lil boy at 3 1/2 he is now 9. He is diagnosed w/ ADHD, mood swings, ODD, & SRD. He is not the same boy he was 6 yrs ago, he has made much progress though slow. w/ the help of therapists, Impact workers his last school was helpful. A month ago we started seeing changes, & he has since regressed a year. Recently getting out of the hospital. He refuses to listen even if we give 1 step intructions, doesnt like following the rules, absolutely refuses consequences. Trouble in school & at home. when we talk to him it always boils down to.....'I didnt want to' or 'I wanted to'. The hospital staffs words to my husband when he picked him up was, 'he wants what he wants, when he wants it' no matter what happens.
We do the color chart, & have a mini store like many schools have they shop in once a week, if they have enough tickets. Rules are on the wall, he can choose from a list of consequences if available. Nothing works anymore. He seems to control our home & makes everyone unhappy. He doesnt seem to have remorse, & smiles when in trouble sometimes. Cries only when it benefits him. We are on the verge w/ the therapist help returning him to foster care. Not something we want or care to do but feel he is hurting the other children in the home by his disregard for authority, screaming fits etc. he has even had social services come & later said he told lies b/c he didnt want to write. writting is one of our consequences we use. yesturday he was being reprimanded for hitting a child but refused to return to class it took 3 teachers to get him to a time out rm. AT one point pinning him down. I have 2 therapist (1 is a yr fresh out of college)coming to our home tonight to find a way to help us, but are praising what we already do. & and another that will pick him up to have a talk just so we can make it through the weekend. We / he so need help but dont know.

carmen Aug 22, 2010 2:55 PM

stressed out with child of odd

I have a 8 yr. old girl that i took in my home when she was 2 days old, she is my cousins he little one was born in jail. her mom was a crack user and alcoholic, i have full costody, she was diganos with odd, she is very strong, angry, bullie sometimes, she wont repect others, she tryes to domanate me and my girlfriend,my girlfriend, and her fight all the time, she tells me that i dont love her, but she is wrong i love her with all my heart. i raised her all by myself, i dont have any other children, and she is on medication but it seems it dont work. she is hostile ,mean with other children, she wants to be the boss all the time, i set with her i talk to her, and tell her that i love her,i take things away from her. its very hard. her birth mom dont even deal with her, well thats a good thing cuase she still doing her bad things. i just dont know what to do. help but some times she can be so nice, and she will turn around and be very bad.

Martin Jul 15, 2010 8:48 AM

Hi Kate - Is your comment to me? If so - I have often thought that he exhibits the symptoms for it - but he also exhibits symptoms of ADHD. He already has 2 coexisting conditions which were diagnosed over a period of his 5 months stay at a child psychiatric ward in Manchester UK. It is becoming more difficult to define which symptoms go to which disorder becuase a lot of them cross over.

I work in Secondary Education as Inclusion Support Co-Ordinator. I work with many teenagers with many disabilities and various disorders - all show elements of challenging behaviour in some way - some more drastic and violent than others.

I saw this site just looking further into ODD as I am working with a child I believe has it - although I can't diagnose him I can certainly prepare his teachers on techniques for dealing with him instead of them shouting at him and sending him out every 5 minutes. He is dyslexic and struggles with that enough so he needs all the help and support he can get but teachers are starting to dislike him now and he is only just finishing his first year of High School.

Mart

Kate Jul 11, 2010 7:35 PM

catlin 01

Hi i was reading your story, my son is 11 years old and has been diagnosed with ODD . It sounds like you child has the symptoms for it, i am completing a behavioural course at the moment with is full of great ideas. I can understand how you must be feeling as it is very upsetting and frustrating on a day to day basis, good luck i hope you can get the help . kate .

Martin Jul 8, 2010 8:44 AM

To Alan

I must say that although your intentions seem to be meant well - we are living in the 21st century and not under the angry wrathful God and his punished subjects of the old testament.

Treating a child with either a disability or a neurological disorder like a neurotypical child will eventually be met with devastating effects. My step son of 9 has a diagnosis of autism and psychosis. He is prone to very aggressive outbursts, challenging behaviour, toddler type behaviour and needs to follow a strict and clear routine on a daily basis. Shouting and smacking him will never work, he does not have the capacity to transfer rules and regulations from one situation to the next - he may cross a road near our house perfectly but if I take him to a street that he has never seen he cannot apply the rules of crossing THIS particular road in the same way as he does our own road.

If his behaviour becomes difiant or aggressive - shouting and smacking would inevitably lead to a meltdown, during this time I could threaten him with a firing squad and it would make no difference.

These children are not neurotypical - whatever their disorder or condition may be. They are very difficult to live with, often consuming every spare moment of a parents life and needing constant care and attention. Pleae do not visit sites, blog pages etc with opinions that are clearly not informed. If you have never had a child with a condition like this or similar then you will not understand.

Martin

H Jun 30, 2010 5:34 PM

Caitlin01

Caitlin01. I found it very distressing to read about your eight year old daughter being so angry and having toiletting problems. I'm not an expert, but have you considered the possibility that something is going on that she's not telling you about (are ashamed or scared) to talk to you about? You should not ignore the possibility that something could be going on.

Alan Springett May 21, 2010 10:15 AM

Dear greg Jones
Why not 'heed" my advice?... I have no stake in this new age way of controlling a childs behaviour.
Yet the evidence is clear .... are the youth of today better mannered than the youth of 40 or 50 years ago.? I was canned at school, and I am thankful for that. Only selfish poeple would not be.
Is the courtesy shown to a teacher deteriorated since they could not discipline.
I think that the authority of hebrews ( Bible) has greater muscle than a fellow with 4 years experience as a councellor or such.
remember, children are not a newly discovered species ... we know what it is like, we should remember well, but many parents are uncertain because of Left Wing dogma that says smacking is bad... it is yr responsibility as a parent and as a favour to yr child to bring them up with respect. do not caste yr undiciplined kids onto society ... there are already too many such ferals roaming the streets

Wendy Brindley May 17, 2010 11:34 AM

ODD in a large class

I'm a 2nd year teacher at a "rough" High school in South Africa. I teach 5 classes and though I can successfully discipline 4 of those classes using a token economy and a 3-warning punishment system, I have one class that is unmanageable because it has 37 unruly teenagers in it. One of them in particular makes my life a living hell when I try to teach this class! I have tried EVERYTHING! Unfortunately we do not have a very jacked-up evaluation system at our school so there's no way for me to get him diagnosed with ODD but I his behaviour seems to be exactly the same as those mentioned in the article above. I would really appreciate some advice because I'm at my wits end and I'm not the only teacher at the school who feels this way about him. If his behaviour doesn't improve he's not going to pass and will probably slip through the cracks in the edu. system. I would really appreciate any help :)

Jane Apr 27, 2010 11:00 PM

ODD and Down Syndrome

I teach children with special needs at the high school level. One of my down syndrome students (18) is very defiant. Is it possible he could also have ODD?

Greg Jones Apr 10, 2010 2:07 AM

Response to Alan and use of corporal pnishment

Please, please do not heed the advice of Alan. While his intentions may seem sincere, my research over the past 4 years has not shown any documentation where corporal punishment has yielded positive results with young children (ages 4-12). In fact, children with ODD when confronted with force, will respond with force. When you push, they push back. They know no other response. Corporal punishment, the norm decades ago and still used today by family units that do not have access to knowledgeable health care professionals, will usually lead the child to self medication (drugs and alcohol) and potentially criminal behavior. Violence breeds violence. Our overcrowded prisons are filled with inmates that come from violent households.....not from overly loved, and properly praised, children.

Diagnosis of ODD has increased because of awareness, but is probably under-diagnosed, in my humble opinion. ADD and ADHD are usually the fallback diagnosis for oppositional and defiant behavior.

To clarify: Praise is not to be used when it is not deserved. Please refer to the PCIT (Parent Child Interaction Therapy) program (UC Davis and others) in regards to how, and when, praise is to be used.

I'll finish by saying that every parent should be open to medication, natural supplements, cognitive behavioral therapy and parent management training in whatever equation that yields results. Results take on different meanings for different parents, but our goal should always be to optimize the childs potential, possibilities and spiritual happiness at all cost(s). Do not blame yourself, leave your ego (and predispositions) behind, and grasp the reality of your childs mind and seek loving solutions.

Peace be with you, all.

caitlin01 Apr 6, 2010 6:22 PM

Re: Step One

In regards to Greg's comment I thank you. I have been bullied into thinking it's me and what has been going on in the past and the present. I will be looking into seeing a medical professional about her behaviour anhd seeing if there is any parenting courses where I have moved to. I think it has been brought on by the past issues and the present ones. So have been looking up on the internet as well to find some non medical solutions and will be trying those as well.

Thanks again I will keep you informed as to her progress and same for her sister's

Caitlin01

Jeannie Apr 6, 2010 5:12 AM

Am finding some success

Just wanted to share with you all a little success that I am having. My 16-year old with ADD & ODD just started a new medication (intuniv), that is successfully addressing his sleeping problems (which directly affect the mood swings and tirades) and started school at an Alternative High School that is highly regimented; teaching him consequences/applicable rewards, where the students work on Academics only via computer. This new learning environment has completely taken all the pressure off the parent, and focuses on the student's management of his academic career. I know this will not work for younger children, yet the changes in his behavior with weekly therapy, and case managment that is focusing on a more self-managed life style is working miracles! Thank you all for your posts, ideas, and comments...there is hope! PTL

Alan Springett Apr 5, 2010 4:22 AM

ASD OSD .... bad behavior

This problem has increased markedly over the last 3 decades, and i have much experience in the area, being a child for my first say 20 years, followed up with being an observer PLUS a parent for the balance = all my life being part of the human race.
The increase in misbehaviour is in direct proportion with the decrease in corporal punishment . This pattern was observed over thousands of years..
" per Hebrews 12:6 ..now, no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful;nevertheless, afterwards it yeilds the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
So , don't be led by the humanist movement of the last few decades, by praising things not worthy of praise, or by applying drugs , as these ideas are obviously false ( as the outcomes are showing us ).

Greg Jones Mar 25, 2010 2:30 PM

Step One

The best advice I can give you is to find a medical professional that not only acknowledges that ODD is a legitimate childhood behavioral disorder, but is knowledgable in the treatment there of.

I could get into a very long explanation of my son's medical dianosis' but suficce it to say...when it came to getting a second opinion from a neurologist or a psychiatrist (for insurance to cover the cost of medication) it was difficult. Many medical professionals refuse to accept ODD as a diagnosis. They will label your child based on their incomplete training, or because it doesn't fit with their own, personal philosophy.

There seems to be three schools of thought regarding ODD. (1) It's really something else (as I stated above) (2) ODD is caused by the home environment ( poor parenting practices and anxiety due to divorce, finances etc.) and (3) Genetic.

Do not let anybody guilt trip you into feeling it is you fault alone. In my experience of talking with other parents of ODD kids there is usually a genetic thread you can follow. In my case four generations (in varying degrees) of oppositional and defiant behavior can be easily verified on my fathers side of the family. Like my brother, my son was hard-wired from the day he was born. An ODD child doesn't know any other way to act, or be.

I could go on. I do not know your situation, or your childs genetic pre-disposition(s). All I know is that interview as many physicians as you possibly can until you find the one that is open to possibilities and has experience in treating ODD children. You, your child, and your family unit deserve a rightful solution.

All the best to you and your partners family.
Greg

PS; I would look for referrals from your medical school(s) in NZ as well.

caitlin01 Mar 21, 2010 6:26 PM

Defining behaviour

Help! I am a mother of three school aged children one of which is extremely defiant, and angry towards myself my partner and her siblings. I have tried time-outs and removal of priviledges, She is 8yrs old. I have tried almost everything in the book to change her behaviour as it is now reflecting on her sisters and they're copying. They're 5 and 9yrs old. If things are not going her way she will scream and yell and even sometimes hit her siblings or herself. Has anyone got any ideas as to what may or may not be going on here? Also does anyone have any ideas as to how I can change her behaviour? I do use praise when she does something good and have charts for her to follow which have simple chores on them. She also has a toiletting problem. PLEASE HELP. -Frustrated mother from NZ

Greg Jones Mar 17, 2010 6:49 PM

My experience

My 8 year old son was diagnosed with ODD at the age of 4 1/2. We were fortunate (and blessed) to be referred to a top Pediatrician in the area who works closely with the Mind Institute at UC Davis. Treatment was three pronged: Medication (neccesary for the child to become receptive to socially acceptable responses); Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (you must feed the now open mind to positivity and possibility) and finally:Parent Management Training/Therapy (you will need to stop old, bad parenting habits and trade them for new, positive ones....praise, praise, praise.

As for those who may castigate me/us for medicating our child.....he is now in the third grade, third in his class in math, average in Reading and has a really good heart. It's not all roses....he's slightly overweight (main med side effect) has a difficult time with change, and because we have him at a very small fraction of the medication that he could be on, he can be defiant in the late afternoon. All in all, he's a normal third grader. He should be medication free this summer if all goes well.

My brother had ODD and because he was diagnosed with ADD/ADHD he was not treated properly he has had a very difficult life (drugs, alcohol and employment difficulties). While I am not an advocate for medication (I prefer natural remedies) our family was saved by this Pediatrician, his devotion to getting the diagnosis correct and the resulting three step treatment process.

My heart goes out to all of you. All the best.
Greg

Kerry McCrea Mar 17, 2010 12:34 PM

5yr old with ODD

I have a 5yr old child who's defiant behaviour has been evident since he was a toddler. Searched the internet on some answers and came across ODD. The symptoms of this are every characteristic of my son. Have contacted Health Visitor for help, but are a little slow in getting back to you. The final straw came today when I was called to the school because of his defiant behaviour towards the teacher and the sly nipping and hitting of other children. I really need help to get this under control and cannot seem to find any guidelines for parenting a child with ODD. Can anyone help? I know that this must stem from a neurological imbalance from slow development although he has now caught up and excelling well at school educationally. He was 8 weeks premature. I have another 12yr old son who is perfectly well-behaved. I am at my wits end and would love any feedback anyone could give. Also any tips for his teacher on dealing with this would be good also. She is keen to learn more about it too. Many thanks.

Mrs. D. Feb 27, 2010 10:08 PM

Coping with the Middle School ODD Child

I'm not sure how to cope with an ODD kid in my son's M.S. band, and due to volunteer guidelines, can't discuss coping strategies with fellow parents. I can't find any guidelines on the Internet for dealing with ODD kids in volunteer situations. The band director has 300+ students, and, while gifted as a band director, he does not have time to cope with this student's moment-by-moment defiance issues. Director makes promises of "I'm going to call your mom" or "You won't be allowed on the band trip" - if he makes the phone calls, no change in behavior results. And the child is slated to go on the band trip! My issue comes into play when volunteering; for instance, helping the band stay focused when having a guest conductor becomes difficult when the ODD student is misbehaving - other kids get more lax, figuring if it is okay for the ODD kid, then maybe they can get away with misbehaving too. Plus the eternal talking back, mimicry, arguing, "not my fault", "rules don't apply" stuff. Band trip coming up -any suggestions for me, a non-teacher? His parents appear to be nonexistent (have never met them, or seen them volunteer). Please know I've not heard a whisper of a diagnosis (kudos to the band director for not discussing it!), but this is the toughest kid I've volunteered with in a decade of public school and youth volunteerism! Any tips (specific please!) would be appreciated.

Maureen Janssen Feb 17, 2010 12:10 AM

Helping other students cope with ODD student

There is a student in my daughter's Grade 3 class who is ODD and ADHD. I notice that there are a lot of suggestions on how to parent and how to teach a child who has been diagnosed with these, but does anyone have any suggestions on coping strategies for the *other* students in the class? Many of these students have been on the receiving end of this student's behaviours and don't know how to deal with them.

Jeannie Jan 28, 2010 7:53 AM

ODD and High School

Thanks for the post, "I am a mother of a 6-year old ODD child. The source of his life-or-death need for control is based in sensory integration, not economic disadvantage, poor parenting, inconsistency, and all the other parent-blaming reasons for this behavior. (sorry for the resentment -- it's hard to shake because it's so constant....). .." with my 16 year old just finally being diagnosed with something "bigger" than ADD, it helps to read frustrations and stories from other parents. I have already found in my experience that the couselors do imply that the behavior stems from parenting, yet at the same time try to tell me that this is a disorder. I can really appreciate some of the thoughts of parents with younger children, and have "been there, done that," yet when your child is approaching 18 quickly, the consequences of their poor choices are much more serious.

amy Jan 25, 2010 4:22 PM

teaching a child with ASD and ODD

i am teaching a child of primary school age. they like to know what is being said, what is wreitten on every piece of paper, will sit with adults during snack time so they are able to hear exactly what is being said is this controlling behavior or or is there another condition here, does anybody have any strategies that could help me to spot triggers and descalate problems. also does anybody have any teaching methods that i could try.

Michelle Funk Jan 25, 2010 1:48 PM

Parent worries

i am wondering if my 3rd boy has ODD. My 2nd boy was diagnosed with ADHD about 6 years ago. I am exhausted from trying to deal with the 3rd boy at this point. He is now 8 and all the parenting "tricks/ skills" that I used with the first two don't seem to work with him at all. I am now getting pretty "down" as the daily school reports are usuall not good. Any thoughts, anyone?

Katie grade 1 teacher Jan 7, 2010 7:58 PM

reply to Lisa preschool teacher

Lisa I teach first grade (12 yrs now). I have a "quiet tree" in my class for children who need a break to refocus or to keep harm from happening. I have a corner that I placed a rug and large comfy pillows under a large painted tree on the wall. I explain to all students that this is a special quiet spot that they can ask to sit in if at any time they feel frustrated or angry or mad or even sad. Usually 10-15 min. does the trick. It nips negative behaviors before they can escalate, younger child can be encouraged to sit in the "quiet tree" if teacher sees that frustration level is getting out of hand for the child. I have an inclusion class, with 5 special ed kids and 1 with ODD. I hope this helps.

Katie Berry Nov 22, 2009 11:33 AM

Cooperative Problem Solving

I am a mother of a 6-year old ODD child. The source of his life-or-death need for control is based in sensory integration, not economic disadvantage, poor parenting, inconsistency, and all the other parent-blaming reasons for this behavior. (sorry for the resentment -- it's hard to shake because it's so constant....). i realize now that his desperate need for control is his mechanism for trying to lower his anxiety. when we adults try and wrest control from these kids -- no matter how small -- may mean the emotional equivalent of throwing the kid off a cliff. so they cling to control for dear life.

The ONLY thing that has worked for us is Ross Greene's Cooperative Problem Solving model set forth in The Explosive Child, published about 10 years ago. His new book Lost at School is excellent and even better honed for the layperson.

The idea is that attempting to coerce behavior through reward/punishment ignores that the heart of the behavior are the skill deficits these kids lack. These kids simply don't have the skills to "make better choices." When we understand the behavior through the lens of skill deficits, our purpose becomes to teach these skills through the mutually respectful approach of cooperation where we listen to child in a truly empathetic way and seek to come to a mutually satisfactory solution to the problem.

The hope is that over time we develop a relationship in which the child trusts that our sole purpose is to help him, not wrest much-needed control from him. Only in that kind of "helping" relationship, can the child learn to cope.

Remember, because many of these children feel lost, scared, and on the outside of the rest of the world, they may have developed rather bizarre ways of comforting themselves, like utter predictability, for example. I call them "bizarre needs," but needs nonetheless that we've got to respect. As the child develops more confidence and comfort in the world, perhaps they can let go of some of these comfort tools.

Claudia Robinson Nov 21, 2009 8:54 AM

Middle School ODD

Help! I have 16 ODD (mild to severe) students in my 27-student 8th grade mathematics class. I use a written action plan (identification of misbehavior and student-made plan for correction) and/or written apology from student to attempt to manage this unusually large group of ODD students. I am finding that it is a continual cylce of the aforementioned, but there is no permanent behavioral change as a result of these strategies. It was suggested to me to use food as a reward for a week of compliance to my classroom rules, i.e., plzza, cupcakes, cookies, etc.
Has anyone ever tried this? If yes, what is the most economical "food" to use as an extrinsic reward. Trust me...I have used praise, and it only temporarily diminishes the problem. Personal/daily behavior sheets to be signed by parents are not returned. Need food ideas...remember, there are 16!!!!! P.S. I teach in Baltimore City.

Victoria Trix Nov 17, 2009 8:46 PM

Reply to Linda

My suggestion is when he is bad remove him from the classroom. Sometimes all these children need is a chance to regroup and pull it back together. I also suggest praise when his behavior is wonderful, a comment when it is acceptable and of course consequences when it is not. Children need structure and children with ODD are no different.

Also make sure to take the time that the two of you spend working on this you enjoy together to build your relationship. This is also a great time to bring up first a praise at how well he has been for the day/hour/week and then also remind him that his behavior earlier/yesterday was not acceptable. Discuss ways he can change it. Bonding time is a wonderful time to really help him understand how to manage his feelings.

Good luck!

Victoria Trix Nov 17, 2009 8:42 PM

Reply to Lisa

Hi Lisa,

Children at the age of 4 can be hard to deal with during the times when they are not listening and ODD just adds to that. My suggestion would be to remove the child from the situation. Children do not want to miss out on anything so removing him may draw his attention back to you so he can be redirected. This time away from peers will also give him a chance to regroup.

Good luck!

Victoria Trix Nov 17, 2009 8:40 PM

Reply to Mrs. G

Those are excellent suggestions! Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment and include them.

Victoria Trix Nov 17, 2009 8:39 PM

Reply to Maria

Hi Maria,

I'm sure that can be a difficult situation. Does your school district offer any other options for this child such as EI placement or alternative placement or even a placement where classroom are limited in size? This may be the best option for him. My now 15yr old son struggled for several years before being placed into a school that is specificly for EI kids. He is really blossoming and doing much better.

Good Luck to you!

Lisa Nov 17, 2009 6:58 PM

Preschool child with ODD

I just started a full time special ed job in a preschool sped classroom. I started 11/5. The class lost their teacher the first 3 weeks of school and then they had a sub and now I am their third teacher. As you can imagine, everyone is stressed. Things are going well believe it or not, but one little boy w/ ODD really is a challenge. He is 4 and it is great when he is getting his way. Look out when he does not. He will hit, kick, bite adults and children. Suggestions??? I started rewarding him with stickers, but nothing seems to last but only for the moment.

Mrs G Nov 17, 2009 1:43 PM

Strategies From A Mom

Try discussing with the parents if the child has been evaluated for being bi-polar. Another STRONG suggestion is to implement a sensory integration program where where the child has additional breaks and maybe even goes out to the playground to swing so that this child can regroup.

Maria Nov 8, 2009 1:22 PM

I try different strategies throughtout each day just to cope myself. It can definitely be draining! Sometimes they work and sometimes not. One of my frustrations is knowing that there are 24 other students who are also in the room and see the child's inappropriate behavior. I also have to spend time teaching them why I do the things I do.

Linda Oct 27, 2009 5:27 PM

student with aspergers and odd

I have been a special needs assistant for the past two years . I went to college to study in the area of special needs . This year i am working with a twelve year old boy that has both mild Aspergers and odd .
I dont want to give up on him but i feel beaten . The student is defient and he does not seem to respect any adult direction . When he is good everything is good . He likes me ,We chat and we both like art so we colour together . However when he decides not to do his work in class he can become disruptive . No amount of threats or coaxing seems to encourage him to get back to the task at hand . I think now that he sees me as a weak link and i believe that his behaviour is getting worse ,well more frequent anyway. This child has average inteligence ,but doesent like getting anything wrong . He also doesent like either myself or any off his teachers marking his work if its wrong .I am not sure how to disipline him at all .
Thank you
Linda

Fishman Oct 1, 2009 11:31 AM

I would recommend that any parents dealing with an ODD child that they look into a child behavior modification program.

Mrs4444 Aug 2, 2009 9:16 PM

working with ODD students

Expectations, Praise, and Consequences are key. Equally important, however, is Relationship. In my work with such students, I have found that without that piece, the others are inneffective. Get to know the student-interests, goals, strengths, weaknesses. A student who knows you care will crave your praise and accept consequences more willingly.