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Blueprint v1.2

Vocabulary Contract

Leo, Age 9 · Twice-exceptional with PDA profile
This document locks in our shared language so every adult on the team uses the same words.
What this is: A vocabulary contract is a one-page document that defines five canonical terms used throughout Leo's plan. When you sign, you commit to using these definitions consistently in all interactions with Leo and the team. This prevents miscommunication and ensures fidelity to the plan. Every team member signs the same contract, tied to the current Blueprint version. When the Blueprint updates, the contract refreshes and everyone re-signs.
1
FCT Phrase
Leo's primary Functional Communication Training phrase is "I need a break." When Leo uses this phrase, the task or demand pauses immediately. No negotiation. No "but we're almost done." Honor it 100%.
You see: Leo raises his hand and says "I need a break." You do: Say "Got it," and pause what you're doing. Offer a sensory reset (walk, fidget, water, quiet corner). When he's ready, he comes back.
2
Counter-Control
Delivering a task or transition with advance notice (2–3 minutes) + a real choice. Leo's nervous system requires autonomy signals. Unannounced demands trigger anxiety and refusal. Counter-Control gives him control within the structure.
Instead of: "Time to line up for lunch."
Use: "In two minutes, we're lining up for lunch. Do you want to walk first or help me count people in line?" Leo gets 2 minutes' notice + agency over execution.
3
Coupon Economy
Leo earns Coupons (tokens, points, or stickers) when he complies with tasks, attempts challenging work, or recovers from a refusal. Coupons are never taken away as punishment. He redeems them for preferred activities (science table, 10 minutes of design time, etc.).
Earn scenario: Leo transitions to math without refusal → earns 1 Coupon. Redeem: After earning 8 Coupons → Leo chooses 10 minutes at the science table. The system is non-aversive and motivating because it's always earned, never lost.
4
IBRST Level
A 5-level scale of Leo's behavioral regulation at the end of a session or block: 1 = Calm, 2 = Slight, 3 = Moderate, 4 = High, 5 = Critical. Every adult on the team rates their session and logs the entry. Data feeds the cross-setting heatmap so patterns surface.
Rate 1–2: Leo was cooperative, engaged, or self-regulated during the block. Rate 3–4: Leo was moderately dysregulated or showed refusal. Rate 5: Leo escalated to unsafe behavior or complete shutdown. Your ratings + the team's ratings = the pattern the BCBA uses to adjust the plan.
5
Vicious Cycle
The pattern we're trying to prevent: Unannounced demand → Leo's anxiety spikes → refusal → adult insistence → escalation → shutdown. We break this cycle at the front end (advance notice + choice), not the back end (forced compliance + consequences).
Vicious cycle: Teacher says "Time for math." Leo refuses. Teacher insists. Leo escalates to leaving the room. Our approach: Teacher says "In 2 min, we're moving to math. Do you want to bring your pencil or use a classroom one?" Leo gets notice + choice. Anxiety stays low. Cooperation happens automatically.
I understand and commit to these terms.
By signing, I agree to use these five canonical definitions consistently in all interactions with Leo and the team. I understand that this vocabulary contract is tied to Blueprint version 1.2 and will automatically refresh when the Blueprint updates. I commit to re-signing when notified.
✓ You signed on April 25, 2026 at 10:45 AM
Blueprint version: 1.2 · Next recertification: May 25, 2026
This is a sample vocabulary contract for illustrative purposes. All details are fictional. Real vocabulary contracts are generated from each student's Blueprint and signed digitally by every team member. Signatures are timestamped and linked to the Blueprint version so everyone stays aligned.