When to Ask for a Functional Behavior Assessment

When behavior problems continue despite the school's efforts, it might be time to dig deeper. A Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) is a systematic way to understand why your child is behaving a certain way, so the team can create strategies that actually work.

What Is a Functional Behavior Assessment?

Think of an FBA as detective work. Instead of just reacting to behavior, the school looks for patterns to understand what is driving it.

An FBA Typically Includes:

1. Interviews with you, teachers, and sometimes your child about when behaviors happen and what seems to trigger them.
2. Observations of your child in different settings to see the behavior firsthand.
3. Data collection to track patterns: When does the behavior happen? What happens before and after?
4. Record review looking at grades, attendance, past incidents, and any previous interventions.
5. Analysis to determine the "function" or purpose the behavior serves for your child.

Why "Function" Matters

All behavior serves a purpose. Your child might be trying to get something (attention, a preferred item, sensory input) or avoid something (a difficult task, an overwhelming situation, social interaction). Once we understand the function, we can teach better ways to meet that need.

Signs Your Child Might Need an FBA

Consider requesting an FBA if:

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Behaviors are persistent

The same problems keep happening despite teacher efforts to address them.

●

School is calling frequently

You are getting regular calls or emails about behavior incidents.

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Suspensions are happening

Your child has been suspended or is at risk of suspension.

●

Learning is affected

Behavior is getting in the way of your child's education or others' learning.

●

Safety is a concern

The behavior involves aggression, self-injury, or putting anyone at risk.

●

Current strategies are not working

The school has tried interventions, but nothing seems to help.

How to Request an FBA

You have the right to request an FBA at any time. Here is how to do it effectively.

Step-by-Step Process

Put it in writing

A written request creates a record and triggers timelines. Email is fine.

Be specific

Describe the behaviors you are concerned about and why current approaches are not working.

Send to the right person

Address it to the principal and special education coordinator. Keep a copy for yourself.

Know the timeline

The school must respond within a set timeframe (often 15-30 school days, depending on your state).

Sample Request Letter

Dear [Principal's Name] and [Special Education Coordinator's Name],

I am writing to formally request a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) for my child, [Child's Name], who is in [grade] at [school].

[Child's Name] has been having ongoing difficulties with [briefly describe behaviors]. Despite efforts by the classroom teacher, these challenges continue to affect their learning and [social relationships/safety/etc.].

I believe an FBA would help the team better understand why these behaviors are occurring so we can develop effective strategies together.

Please let me know the next steps and timeline. I look forward to working with you.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Date]

What Happens After You Request

The school has two options when they receive your request.

If They Agree

• You will receive consent forms to sign
• The assessment will begin within the required timeline
• A meeting will be scheduled to discuss results
• If needed, a Behavior Intervention Plan will be developed

If They Decline

• They must provide written notice explaining why
• You can request a meeting to discuss
• You have the right to disagree and pursue next steps
• Consider contacting a parent advocate for guidance

What to Look for in the Results

When the FBA is complete, the team should present findings and recommendations. A good FBA includes:

Clear description of the behavior

Specific, observable terms, not vague labels like "disruptive" or "defiant."

Data showing patterns

When, where, and how often does the behavior occur?

Identified function

A hypothesis about why the behavior is happening, what need it serves.

Specific recommendations

Strategies that address the function, not just consequences for the behavior.

Red Flags

Be concerned if the FBA simply lists punishments, blames your child, or does not include clear next steps. A good FBA focuses on understanding and teaching, not just discipline.

Your Role in the Process

You are a critical part of the FBA process. Here is how you can contribute.

How Parents Can Help

Share what you see at home: Does the behavior happen there too? What triggers it? What helps?
Provide history: Have there been any major changes, stressors, or events that might be relevant?
Describe your child's strengths: What does your child love? What motivates them?
Ask questions: If something is unclear, ask for explanation.
Participate in planning: Help develop strategies that will work across home and school.

Advocacy Is Love in Action

Requesting an FBA is not being a "difficult parent." It is being an advocate for your child. When current approaches are not working, it makes sense to look deeper.

Understanding why your child behaves a certain way is the first step toward finding solutions that actually help.

When to Ask for a Functional Behavior Assessment: A Parent's Advocacy Guide