Tier 2 · Targeted
Individual token or reward system
The student earns tokens or points for a target behavior and trades them for chosen rewards.
How to do it
- Pick one target behavior and define it clearly.
- Choose how tokens are earned (for example, one per work block completed) and how many are needed.
- Build a reward menu with the student, including free and social rewards.
- Deliver tokens immediately with specific praise.
- Let the student trade tokens often at first, then gradually increase the number needed.
- Plan to fade: move to praise and occasional rewards over time.
Why it works
- Gives frequent, concrete feedback
- Bridges the gap until natural rewards take over
- Very flexible for age and setting
When to use it
- With younger students or those who need immediate feedback
- When praise alone isn’t motivating enough
- For building a new replacement behavior
Tips and pitfalls
- Don’t take earned tokens away. Losing them often leads to giving up.
- Social rewards (lunch with the teacher, class job) are powerful and free.
Templates for this strategy
Reward menu
Build a menu of rewards with the student, including free social and activity rewards, with point costs.
Reward menu.docxFrequency tally sheet
Count how often a behavior happens each day and period. Good for behaviors with a clear start and end, like calling out or hitting.
Frequency tally sheet.docxHelps with
Not working after a fair trial?
Check that it’s been used consistently for 4–6 weeks and that your data shows the pattern. If so, look at the next tier of support for this behavior.
Tier 3 · Intensive