Rewards for Behavior

Under the direction of the classroom teacher:

1. Teach the desired behavior:

  • Specifically and explicitly teach the behavior expectation and have group practice the behavior
  • Give positive feedback and use precision commands to correct undesired behavior

2. Students choose the reinforcer (reward)

  • Give them a list of rewards that are appropriate, use non-monetary rewards

3. Make it visual

  • Chart progress visually (stickers on a chart, marble jar, yes/no cards, marks on board)
puzzle pieces

The student can earn a piece of a puzzle and when the puzzle is completed, they can receive a reward – such as the puzzle glued together and placed in a picture frame.

smiling face drawn with whiteboard marker

Use charts or maps to help students track the many times they do things correctly (especially behavior). Draw a smiley face, or give smiley stickers. Use numbers on the map or chart with very young children to help them as they learn to count.

pair of pliers tool

Give students a 3 x 5 card that has the name of the child on it. Carry a single-hole punch with you and give students a single-punch on the card when they accomplish a task. Students count the holds in the card to earn a reward.

marble jar

Place a large glass jar in a classroom location where it can be easily viewed by the pupils. Drop a marble into the jar when a pupil or pupils perform the requested tasks. This works well for group contingencies. (Group contingencies: a reward that is dependent upon the behavior of the whole group.) With the teacher’s approval, the pupils could earn extra computer time, or extra recess time.