How to Address Behavior Problems in Children With Low IQs

As the parent or teacher of a child with a low IQ, you may have to deal with behavior problems. There are many causes of cognitive disability, including genetic, environmental, illness and accident. There also are many ways the disability can affect the child. You have to strike a balance between making allowances for a child who may not always understand the implications of his behavior and being over-indulgent. If you make too many allowances for a child with a learning disability, you won't be doing him any favors in the long run. You need to equip the child for the world, so he can get a job and develop healthy relationships.

Instructions

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      Focus on areas outside of the learning disability. Greg Duncan and Katherine Magnuson identify three things -- achievement, attention and behavior -- as being as important as the child's IQ. If you focus on the child's achievements, for instance, this helps lower her frustration levels and improve self-esteem. This can help her improve behavior. Work closely with other professionals involved with the child and refer to her Individualized Education Program, or IEP.

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      Work with the child on a one-to-one basis. Help him to identify a few key behavioral problems and set small goals. If he is being too noisy in class, teach him not to be noisy while someone else is speaking. Set a date to review his goals and work with him to set more behavior objectives.

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      Use praise to reinforce good behavior. Get to know the child well so that you will understand what motivates her. She may, for instance, like to sing or dance. Reward a period of good behavior with a singing or dancing session. Some children respond well to behavior charts and stars. Give your attention when she behaves well, as this is usually seen as one of the best awards.

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      Develop close relations with others who are involved in the child's life. All those closest to the child, including parents, teachers and grandparents should adopt a consistent, fair and firm approach to the child. Otherwise he may become confused and distressed.

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      Refer persistent and disturbing behavior, such as shouting or hitting, to a specially trained psychologist. Accept that you might need help in developing an effective approach to particular types of behavior.

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      Show the child plenty of love and give her extra attention when she is behaving well. Spend fun time with her and encourage her to pursue favorite hobbies, such as singing or cooking. This helps to reinforce good behavior and will also distract her from some of the negative behavior.

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