The PBIS World Book

Non-Verbal Cues

Why should I do it:

  • Creates a working relationship with student without calling attention to the student in a negative manner
  • Is discrete and quick
  • Saves class and instruction time
  • Makes students more comfortable and likely to participate and be involved
  • Easy to do and effective
  • Improves and builds student confidence and self-esteem

When should I do it:

  • When a student is losing attention and focus during times of instruction or independent work
  • As a form of redirection from misbehavior, talking, off task behaviors, etc
  • When a student has problems talking in front of the class
  • When a student does not participate or volunteer
  • When a student is not following classroom/school procedures
  • When a student does something good, correct, successfully, etc

How do I do it:

  • Meet with student individually to identify with student how you and they should communicate in a special way
  • Have student, as much as possible, pick the sign to use
  • Practice with the student and explain when you notice they might need some re-focus, you will show them the sign
  • Set up a cue with a student for when they would like to participate, volunteer, or when they will be called on to do so or speak or read in front of the class
  • Use cues like smiles, thumbs up, shaking head “yes”, etc to praise students for correct behaviors, participation, volunteering, etc, or to reassure them and encourage them
  • Use simple cues like shaking head “no”, raising eyebrows, giving a “one minute” finger signal, etc to redirect students, give directives, etc

Resources & Support for technique: