This manual presents a training methodology for use in changing pivotal behaviors of children with autism or other severe handicaps. Behaviors specifically addressed for their far ranging effects involve motivation and responsivity to multiple cues. Seven instructional points are detailed with both good and poor implementation examples. The manual stresses that the question, instruction, or opportunity to respond should: (1) be clear, uninterrupted, and appropriate to the task; (2) be interspersed with maintenance tasks; (3) be chosen by the child; and (4) include multiple components. Also encouraged are reinforcers that are contingent upon the behavior, administered following any attempts to respond, and related to the desired behavior. A partial workbook format encourages the reader to identify appropriate personal applications of each training technique. Includes 16 references. (DB)