By: Cristina Martínez
M.B.A, M.S, BCBA, LBA
Coauthor: Ariadna Martin,
MS
Making Grocery Store Trips Easier with Functional Communication Training (FCT)
Grocery shopping with kids can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if they struggle with communication or transitions. Functional Communication Training (FCT) can be a game-changer, helping children express their needs, follow routines, and stay engaged in the shopping experience. In this blog, we’ll explore some practical FCT-based strategies to make grocery store trips smoother and more enjoyable for both parents and children.
1. Teaching Simple Requesting Skills
One of the most effective ways to reduce frustration during shopping trips is to teach children how to ask for what they need. Using FCT, they can be helped to learn to request:
A break – “I need a break.”
Help – “Can you help me?”
Preferred items – “I want an apple.”
Transitions – “Can we go now?”
Depending on the child’s communication abilities, they can use spoken words, picture cards, a communication device, or signs to make these requests.
2. Using Visual Supports to Set Expectations
Children often feel more comfortable when they know what to expect. Useful tools:
A visual schedule – A simple checklist with pictures of the store entrance, shopping cart, aisles, checkout, and car.
First-Then boards – “First shopping, then snack” to help with motivation.
Countdown timers – Allowing them see how much time is left in the trip.
3. Reinforce Functional Phrases
Instead of waiting for frustration to build, proactively teaching phrases can replace problem behaviors, such as:
“I need a turn.”
“Can I hold that?”
“Too loud.”
“All done.”
It is recommendable to practice these at home first and reward their use with praise, high-fives, or small incentives.
4. Bring Preferred Items and Reinforcers
Having a small bag of preferred snacks, toys, or fidget items can make a big difference in keeping children engaged. Offer a reinforcer after they successfully use functional communication or follow the routine.
5. Keep Trips Short and Gradually Increase Time
Start with quick, manageable trips and slowly work up to longer shopping outings. Celebrate small wins and keep the experience as positive as possible.
With FCT strategies in place, grocery store trips can become more manageable and successful for the entire family. Teaching functional requests, using visual supports, and reinforcing communication can help create a smoother and more positive shopping experience. However, these strategies are far from a complete guide—every child has unique needs, and additional support may be necessary to tailor the approach for optimal success. The professional team at American Behavioral Solutions is available to help the families implement these strategies effectively, providing guidance and personalized support to ensure meaningful progress.
References:
Leslie Neely, Elaina Garcia, Brooke Bankston, Andrew Green, Generalization and maintenance of functional communication training for individuals with developmental disabilities: A systematic and quality review, Research in Developmental Disabilities, Volume 79, 2018, Pages 116-129, ISSN 0891-4222,
Stephanie Gerow, Emily Exline, Lindsey Swafford, David Cosottile, Maureen Conroy, Wendy Machalicek, Tonya N. Davis, Qi Wei, Amy James, Addressing Challenging Behavior and Social–Emotional Skills in Home-Based Services: A Systematic Review, Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions, 26, 4, (241-256), (2024)
