Some ways to get started with TAGteach:

1) Just Start!

Pick an easy tag point and just start tagging and treating. Some easy tag points are:

Take a step

Say please

Take a breath

Ask a question

2) Let the learner observe

Do some tagging with others with the learner nearby, or specifically watching. Curiosity, a desire to be included or a desire to earn the treats may have them choosing to participate.

3) Do a demonstration with a group

Tell them the tag sound means “yes you did that right!”

Do some practice games for timing with the tagger

Choose an easy tag point relevant to the activity of the group (point toes for example)

Tag yourself while you demonstrate (make a few mistakes so they can see when there is no tag)

Have a learner tag you a few times

You tag a learner a few times

Put them in pairs and let them tag the correct action with their partner

We have found that long explanations are not necessary and can sometimes lead to a discussion of objections. Just start right in. If you are giving a food reinforcer after each tag, the idea becomes very clear very quickly. Usually a minimal explanation to tell them that the tag means “yes, that’s right” is enough and you can just get started. One of the great things about TAGteach is the reduction in the need to talk, so minimize the talk right from the start.