What therapeutic strategy is recommended for a child who makes demands through challenging behavior?

The recommended therapeutic strategy for a child who makes demands through challenging behavior is to encourage alternative ways of communicating demands. This approach focuses on teaching the child more appropriate and effective communication methods, which can lead to a reduction in challenging behaviors.

By encouraging the child to express their needs through functional communication, such as using words, gestures, or visual supports, they learn how to communicate their desires in a socially acceptable manner. This strategy not only helps address the immediate behavior but also empowers the child with skills that can lead to more successful interactions in the future.

Additionally, reinforcing these alternative communication methods with positive feedback can further motivate the child to use them, reducing reliance on challenging behaviors to get their needs met. This therapeutic strategy is crucial in fostering positive communication skills while minimizing frustration and conflict, contributing to a more positive learning environment.