PRIDE skills

To build a relationship with individual students and make them feel more comfortable, connected and increases their confidence, use the PRIDE skills of: Praise, Reflect, Imitate, Describe and Enthusiasm.

Praise appropriate behaviour

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Specifically naming the positive behaviour, ‘I liked how you lined up quietly this morning, well done.’

Reflect appropriate speech

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Use the student’s own words when describing the positive behaviour ‘I am colouring in’, ‘Yes, you are colouring in.’

Imitate appropriate behaviour

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Follow the student’s lead in free play rather than instructing or taking over.

Describe appropriate behaviour

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'You are putting your bag away neatly.’

Enthusiasm

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Use a playful voice, show interest and enjoyment.

Whilst using PRIDE skills:

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  • Begin with praising small steps and gradually reduce the amount of praise or have the student do more to warrant the praise.
  • Offer praise both in front of classmates and individually.
  • Give attention to positive behaviour, which contributes to a student making better future choices.
  • Ignore the student’s inappropriate behaviour, (as long as it is not breaking any class rules or is harmful to others), and provide redirection.
  • Do not ask questions or be critical.
  • Intervene when aggressive or destructive behaviours occur and explain why you are doing so.

If the behaviour persists despite trying a number of interventions, discuss the student’s situation with a supervisor or member of the learning and wellbeing support staff at your school.

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