Backward Chaining: A step-by-step guide to teaching new skills

When introducing a new skill, we often begin at the start, which can sometimes be frustrating for children as they may become easily discouraged. To give your child a sense of accomplishment, try using the backward chaining technique. This method is particularly effective for teaching self-care skills like dressing and is also beneficial for younger children or those struggling to learn new skills. 

So, what is backward chaining? It involves breaking down the task into small steps and teaching the child the last step first. You perform all the steps except the final one, then have your child practise the last step. This allows them to experience the success of completing a task. Once they master the last step, you move on to performing all the steps except the last two, teaching your child the second-to-last step and letting them complete the final step on their own. This process continues until you’re teaching the first step and your child can complete all the other steps independently.

How do I use backward chaining?

 

Break the task down into steps

Identify and list all the steps involved in the task. I find it helpful to write out all of the steps involved, for example: step 1: Add soap to hands, step 2: turn on tap, etc. 

Complete all steps except the last one

Now you have all the steps planned out, perform the entire task for your child, stopping just before the last step (e.g. dry hands) 

Teach your child the last step

Guide your child through the final step. You can assist by modelling the skill, providing verbal cues, or giving physical prompts.

Practise until mastery

 

Continue practising this step with your child until they can perform it independently.

Progress to the second last step

Complete the task except for the last two steps, and then teach your child the second last step. Let them complete the final step independently.

Repeat the process

Once your child has mastered the second last step, complete all steps except the last three. Teach the third last step, and allow your child to finish the last two steps on their own.

Continue this process, gradually working backward through the steps until your child can perform the entire task independently.

Practical tips for using backward chaining

  • Grading the steps: For some children who may have more difficulty mastering a new task, you may choose to break the step down further. For example, if the original step was turning on the tap, it could be broken down into smaller steps: move hand towards the tap, grasp the tap, while grasping the tap start to turn it until the water comes on, etc. 
  • Use visual aids or video: Visual aids, such as pictures, diagrams or video modelling, can help children understand the sequence of steps. 
  • Choose a time when the child is well-regulated to practise: If they are not regulated, consider using regulation strategies first.  
  • Consistency: Try to practise the task regularly to reinforce learning. Celebrate each achievement, no matter how small, to boost the child’s confidence and motivation.
  • Adaptability: Adjust the steps and your approach based on the child’s progress and individual needs. Flexibility is key to successful teaching.
  • Some children may need a more individualised approach:  For some children, particularly those with sensory sensitivities, the experience of some self-care tasks such as hair brushing, washing their hands, or teeth brushing can be highly distressing. These children may require an individualised approach tailored to their specific needs. It is important in these situations to work closely with a healthcare practitioner to develop a strategy that accommodates their sensory preferences and helps them gradually become comfortable with the task.    

Task breakdowns 

I’ve done some task breakdowns for you, for common activities kids may want to master. Help the child do all steps together, and then get the child to do the final step independently. 

Teeth Brushing
  1. Put toothpaste on the toothbrush.
  2. Turn on the water and wet the toothbrush.
  3. Brush the outer surfaces of the upper teeth.
  4. Brush the outer surfaces of the lower teeth.
  5. Brush the inner surfaces of the upper teeth.
  6. Brush the inner surfaces of the lower teeth.
  7. Brush the chewing surfaces of all teeth.
  8. Spit out the toothpaste.
  9. Rinse the toothbrush and put it away.
  10. Rinse the mouth with water.
  11. Turn off the water.

Hair Brushing

  1. Get the brush or comb.
  2. Section the hair if needed.
  3. Start brushing from the tips, working upwards.
  4. Brush the middle section of the hair.
  5. Brush from the roots to the tips.
  6. Ensure there are no tangles.
  7. Style the hair as desired.
  8. Put the brush or comb away.

Washing Hands

  1. Turn on the water.
  2. Wet hands.
  3. Apply soap.
  4. Rub hands together to create a lather.
  5. Scrub all parts of the hands (front, back, between fingers, under nails) for at least 20 seconds.
  6. Rinse hands thoroughly under running water.
  7. Turn off the water.
  8. Dry hands with a clean towel or paper towel.
  9. Dispose of the paper towel if used

Backward chaining is a great tool to add to your toolbox for teaching new skills, it works by making more complex tasks more manageable and rewarding for students. I enjoy using backwards chaining with kids because it often fosters a sense of independence and accomplishment in the child. 

Questions

If you have any questions or need further assistance please do not hesitate to get in touch here or at sophia.occupationaltherapy@gmail.com.