The HANDS Model
A shared framework for individualized practice and implementation
The HANDS Model is a comprehensive, data-informed framework for selecting and putting evidence-based behavioral and educational practices into use. It is not defined by one technique, and it is not a one-size-fits-all curriculum.
Individualized by Design
Begin with the person, the setting, and useful data
Teams begin with assessment and data, then select, combine, monitor, and adjust practices based on the person's strengths, goals, culture, setting, team, and response to support.
The HANDS Diamond
What may be selected and combined
The HANDS Diamond represents the range of evidence-based practices that may contribute to an individualized approach
- Positive behavioral interventions and supports
- Communication systems
- Structured teaching
- Naturalistic teaching
- Skills instruction
- Other data-informed behavioral and educational strategies
The HANDS HOUSE
How practices are put into action
| Area | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Assessing | Understand strengths, needs, context, and progress |
| Setting Goals | Define meaningful priorities and use data to guide decisions |
| Teaching | Select, model, practice, and refine effective strategies |
| Generalizing | Support skills and practices across people, routines, and settings |
| Building the Environment | Create structures, tools, schedules, and supports that make success more likely |
Our Philosophy
Learning through practice, not information alone
Knowledge becomes useful when people can apply it in real situations. HANDS combines instruction with demonstration, guided practice, feedback, coaching, and mentoring.
Built for Implementation
Implementation is a process, not an event
New practices meet real-world conditions. HANDS treats implementation as an ongoing process — teams identify barriers, strengthen supports, and build local knowledge and ownership so effective practices can continue.
A Shared Model Across Roles and Settings
Because the framework is shared, people in different roles can use common language while tailoring practice to their responsibilities.
Put the Model Into Practice
Explore learning and resources that connect the HANDS Diamond and HOUSE with day-to-day application.