DON'T:

• Speak in an adult tone of voice

• "Talk down" or more loudly than necessary

• Talk about adult topics

• Refer to student using child-like terms ("kids," diminuitive forms of student's names)

• Model respectful behavior

• Talk about the student in front of the student

• Give lots of choice

• Do things to the student without permission

• Involve OnCampus student in choosing how to be supported

• Decide for the student

• Share ideas about successful activities

• Be rigid, inflexible about student's schedule

• Explain student characteristics in context

• Label students ("he's a runner") or attribute all behavior to student's label ("All Down syndrome kids are happy.")

• Explain unique communication strategies

• Expect SU students to immediately understand how to have a conversation with their partner

• Help students find common interests

• Leave the OnCampus student out of the conversation

• Keep students at the center of the conversation

• Share details about student's label or personal life that aren't directly relevant to the situation

• Respect student's privacy

• Smother the student!

• Keep to the sidelines!

• Make your own rules

• Be consistent with other staff members in support strategies

• Draw attention to yourself as you support your student

• Be as inconspicuous as possible

• Relax, have fun!