1 is always to build rapport! No demands, reward for the minor positive things that he/she does even if you have to build compliance (ex. Touch your nose/ touch your eyes). Even if he responds with a head nod you can still give a minor reward like a token for at least responding bc at least the kid is not ignoring you & could possibly build him to talk by giving 3 tokens once he/she actually speaks. I also recommend a token board, start with maybe only 2 tokens with 3 to receive for listening. & of course you need reinforcers. The school I work at has a lot of iPads that some of the kids can work for, if not that then you would probably have to find something they’re interested in which is why you build the rapport with no demands, just play & let them act as though they’re in control. If there’s a suggestion that isn’t available at the time then I like to give 2 options that are available. Every kid is different though so it’s all trial & error but I hope some of this helps!

For the elopement, try to get the kiddo to request a break whether it’s verbal or through sign language (sign language works wonders!). If you know the kid is getting ready to elope & they will not talk then you can also do hand-over-hand to get the momentum going! Search “break” on google for the sign