Positive reinforcement is the use of social praise, tangible rewards and natural consequences to increase behaviors that you want to see in your child. Positive language is an important part of your child’s learning about what is appropriate behavior and what is not. Telling your child what they cannot do is only one piece of the puzzle. An essential part of teaching your child appropriate behaviors is telling them what they CAN do and what you like to see from them. Depending on your child’s abilities, all levels of functional behaviors can be reinforced– from sitting in a chair appropriately to completing a task such as doing the dishes or doing laundry.
It is important to use positive reinforcement when your child demonstrates appropriate behaviors that you want them to repeat. Some examples of positive reinforcement are:
- Saying “good job!”
- Giving access to a favorite toy
- Giving a high five or fist bump
- Saying “I’m so proud of you!”
- Giving access to a special activity
- Saying “I love when you do/say that”
- Giving access to a favorite treat or snack
Offering social praise or small rewards to your child is a fast and easy way to reinforce appropriate behaviors in order to increase them in the future. For more information and any other inquiries call us at T.E.A.M. 4 Kids.
Becca Lendl, RBT