Adapting check-in/check-out for specific use in K-12 settings for students with internalizing behavior

Check-in/Check-out (CICO) is commonly used to support externalizing behavior, but with thoughtful adaptations, educators can use the approach to support internalizing behavior. In this paper we provide a comprehensive, nine-step process offering students and families consistent, daily feedback on targeted behaviors. We (a) define internalizing behaviors and describe methods for early detection and support, (b) provide an overview of CICO and its evidence base, and (c) describe the nine steps of CICO, including several adaptations for students with internalizing behaviors (i.e. extremely shy, anxious, and/or withdrawn). Adapting CICO’s components can enhance student outcomes across academic and social domains. Throughout this article, effective implementation strategies within a tiered system of supports, such as the Comprehensive, Integrated, Three-tiered (Ci3T) model of prevention are described, and we provide illustrations of how it is possible to directly support students with internalizing behaviors. © 2025 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.