Case
Working with Reactive Attachment Disorder

Mr. Jones has a RAD (reactive attachment disorder) student who cannot stay in the self contained classroom without hurting others. Instead, this child spends most of the day in a cool down room for safety. A diagnostic assessment for this student's IEP is coming up soon. How can Mr. Jones administer this test safely and encourage the student to move back into the classroom?

Solution #1
As a way to prepare the student to transition back into a self contained classroom for assessment, it would be ideal to allow the student to spend a limited amount of time daily (increasing over time), perhaps with the students that he or she will be tested with, in group settings, possibly preparing for the exam. It may also be helpful to have the time spent with the other students, in the actual room that he or she will test in. On testing day, this will reduce some anxiety, which will allow the student to remain calm.
Solution #2
I would create a plan with the student to increase the amount of time in class. Start with their favorite subject for five to ten minutes, and allow them to choose their seat. If they will be tested in a different room, ensure the student is comfortable with the room and the person responsible for testing. Mr. Jones needs to ensure he builds positive interactions with the student so he is not associated with the meltdowns that occur in the classroom.
Solution #3
I would speak with his parents to gain understanding of some prompts that can help him stay in the classroom. I would discuss his progression of RAD with them to see what may trigger meltdowns and what helps. I would build a relationship with that student and then slowly make progression into the classroom. A contract would work as well. At the end of the day review some points and see if they student made enough points to make it back into the classroom for 5 minutes and then the next day 10 minutes.