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Running a Behavior Plan with Fidelity: 6 Tips for Teachers

Table of Contents

Introduction to Running a Behavior Plan with Fidelity

A Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) is only as effective as its implementation. Even the best-designed behavior plan can fall short if they aren’t carried out consistently or accurately. This is where fidelity comes in—ensuring that the plan is followed as intended so you can truly see its impact on student behavior.

 

When implemented with fidelity, a BIP provides students with meaningful support and offers clear data on whether the interventions are working. But what does it take to implement a BIP with fidelity? Here’s how teachers can ensure their behavior plans are carried out effectively and troubleshoot common challenges.

What Does It Mean to Implement a BIP with Fidelity?

Fidelity means that every aspect of the BIP is carried out as written. This includes:

 

  • Consistently using the proactive strategies outlined in the plan.
  • Reinforcing replacement behaviors as described.
  • Responding to problem behaviors with the agreed-upon consequences.

 

When a behavior plan is implemented with fidelity, students have the best opportunity to succeed. It also ensures that the data collected reflects the plan’s true effectiveness, making it easier to determine whether adjustments are needed.

definition of fidelity written on a white board

Tips for Running a Behavior Plan with Fidelity

1. Understand the Plan Inside and Out

A key part of fidelity is understanding every component of the BIP. Before implementation, take the time to review the behavior plan thoroughly and ask yourself:

 

  • What are the replacement behaviors? How will you teach and reinforce them?
  • What are the triggers? How can you prevent them?
  • What is the reinforcement system? How will rewards or consequences be delivered?

 

If something in the behavior plan is unclear, collaborate with the team that created it. Everyone involved—teachers, paraprofessionals, and specialists—should be on the same page to ensure consistency.

2. Consistency is Key

Fidelity relies on consistent implementation across all individuals working with the student. This includes teachers, paraprofessionals, support staff, and specialists.

 

To achieve consistency:

 

  • Hold a team meeting to ensure everyone understands the behavior plan.
  • Provide written summaries or checklists for quick reference.
  • Schedule regular check-ins to address questions and troubleshoot issues.

 

When everyone is aligned, students receive the structured support they need to succeed.

consistency is key written on a tablet next to cup of coffee

3. Monitor Progress Regularly

Fidelity doesn’t end with simply following the behavior plan—it also means tracking how well the plan is working. Regular monitoring provides insight into whether the interventions are effective. Use tools like behavior tracking sheets or ABC charts to document:

 

  • Whether triggers are being reduced.
  • Whether replacement behaviors are increasing.
  • Whether reinforcements are delivered consistently.

 

Graphing behavior data over time can help you identify trends and determine whether adjustments to the behavior plan are needed. For more on this, check out From Data to Action: How to Use ABC Behavior Charting Graphs Effectively.

4. Stick to the Reinforcement System

It’s easy to be tempted to adjust reinforcements to the behavior plan on the fly, but doing so can undermine the plan’s effectiveness. Make sure to:

 

  • Deliver reinforcements immediately and as outlined in the plan.
  • Use consistent consequences for problem behaviors.
  • Avoid accidentally reinforcing negative behaviors (e.g., giving attention for disruptions).

 

Consistency in reinforcement ensures that students clearly understand expectations and learn to recognize consequences as the results of their own actions (rather than seeing consequences as something done to them).

adult and child painting cactus, reinforcement reward

5. Use SMART Goals as Your Anchor

Clear, measurable goals make it easier to maintain fidelity. SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-Bound) provide a clear framework for tracking progress and keeping interventions aligned with the student’s needs.

 

For example, instead of a vague goal like “The student will improve behavior,” use a SMART goal such as:

 

  • “The student will raise their hand before speaking in 80% of opportunities during group instruction by the end of the grading period.”

 

SMART goals ensure all staff know exactly what success looks like. For more on creating these goals, see Setting SMART Goals in Behavior Intervention Plans.

smart goals defined

6. Communicate and Collaborate

Challenges with implementation are inevitable, but collaboration can help solve them. Regularly communicate with team members, parents, and specialists to ensure everyone is working together effectively. Collaboration also provides opportunities to refine the plan based on feedback from those working directly with the student.

Troubleshooting Common Challenges

Even with the best intentions, implementing a behaivor plan with fidelity can be challenging. Here are some common obstacles and how to overcome them:

Challenge 1: Inconsistent Implementation

  • Solution: Provide clear training and written guidelines for all staff involved. Conduct regular check-ins to ensure the plan is being followed consistently.

Challenge 2: Lack of Time for Data Collection

  • Solution: Use simple tracking tools like checklists or daily logs. Delegate tracking tasks to support staff or incorporate tracking into existing classroom routines.

Challenge 3: Plan Isn’t Producing Results

  • Solution: Review the FBA data and ensure the BIP addresses the function of the behavior. Adjust reinforcements, strategies, or goals as needed.
reading over a behavior plan

Why Fidelity Matters

When a BIP is implemented with fidelity, students receive consistent and meaningful support. Fidelity ensures the interventions are carried out as designed, providing accurate data to measure their effectiveness. Without fidelity, it’s impossible to know whether a plan’s success—or failure—is due to the behavior plan itself or inconsistent implementation. Additionally, if you are seeking additional support for a student, a lack of fidelity can cause a delay or denial of those services. 

Conclusion

Behavior Intervention Plans are powerful tools for fostering positive change, but their success hinges on fidelity. By understanding the plan, maintaining consistency, monitoring progress, and collaborating with your team, you can ensure your interventions are effective and impactful.

 

Looking for more tips on creating and running behavior plans? Check out my post, Building Effective Behavior Intervention Plans: A Step-by-Step Guide, for additional guidance and strategies.

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